Isle Royale Forums

I need some advice about the safety of a group splitting up during a visit in August. My husband will only go to IR if he can do the complete Greenstone trail...from Rock Harbor to Windigo. My sons and I (they are college age)...cannot be gone that long because I have to get my son off to college.

My husband has backpacked before...my sons and I have never backpacked. I am 51 years old and in good shape, as are my boys.

He has no problem with us splitting up at Daisy Farm...(that would be day one)...and for us to do the next 4 days on our own. He will then go off to Windigo. We would be taking separate cars from NY in order to accomplish this.

Your thoughts about the safety of all of this??? I am a bit concerned myself,,,

Define safety.

I think it's highly unlikely you will be eaten by wolves (the island's apex predator).

You will be harassed by foxes and tormented by red squirells

Do you need to worry? No, I don't think so.

If your concern is for your own health and abilities, I'd say you'll still be fine. August is a busier time on the Isle, so you're very likely to be seeing others along the trails and in camps. If you and your family stick to the East side, the trails are shorter with plenty of options to get help. The Greenstone (for your husband) will also likely be well travelled that time of year. The humans on Isle Royale are among some of the friendliest, most helpful you will find.

Thank you...the comments have given me the reassurance that I was looking for. I appreciate it!

As Tom and Tampico have indicated you shouldn't have anything to worry about. Usually, I go by myself (and I'm way older then you) and never have been concerned for my safety.

I would never recommend solo hiking. Having said that, what everyone else has said is also true.