Minong - West to East

[Tightlines01]

Hello all,
I'm planning my second trip to Isle Royale. The three of us have decided to go hike the Minong and we're still deciding on what route to take from McCargoe to Rock. I had a couple of questions in planning.

First, it seems like most books I've read mention to go from McCargoe to Windigo. How is the hiking the other way starting out at Windigo. I fully realize the length of the first day with a fully loaded pack, is there anything else to consider going west to east?

Second, We're taking the float plane in and out so we will not be able to pack in our stove fuel. We all have the butane mix stoves. How readily available (how heavily stocked) are the cans of fuel at Windigo? Should I plan on shipping my own fuel in ahead of time? Does anyone have a phone number for the store?

What is Little Todd Harbor camp ground like? We're debating combining the Desor North => Little Todd leg with the Little Todd => Todd Harbor leg.

Thanks for the ideas, for those who are interested we are three guys in our mid 30's. Two have extensive hiking experience, I have less but am still confident I can handle it. All three of us have been to Isle Royale before and are drawn to coming back.

Thanks all,

[Keweenaw]

Hi TL,

The number for the concessionaire on the Island is 906-337-4993.

Yes, the main drawback of starting from Windigo is that long first day, but if you take an early flight in and pace yourselves it should be OK. The first several miles are swampy so plan on possible wet feet.

I can't give you much more info on the Minong as I haven't been down it for years, so I'll leave that for others.

Bob

[fonixmunkee]

I did the hike east to west in '06. The Todd harbor areas are worth the stop. It's very relaxing and very beautiful with awesome sun sets. You can check out some of the pictures here:

https://picasaweb.google.com/fonixmunke ... leMay2006#

And there is a few of Todd Harbor here:

https://picasaweb.google.com/fonixmunke ... eJune2009#

I will be making the Minong ridge hike the direction you are the first week of June this year. When do you go? Maybe I can get you a trip report before you take off.

I checked the Trip Reports subforum and found some great Trip Reports (TR) that detail the Minong a bit more that might help you, as well.

[Kevinl]

I just got back yesterday from a west to east trip (my first time in that direction), although I went south at the Hatchet lake Junction. I'll provide a trip report soon, but my initial thoughts in response to your post are these: That first day to North Desor felt long, yes, but not overly so. On the other hand, it was a beautiful hike. And it all depends on you how much you want to load that pack. Take your time and enjoy the views. Little Todd is one of my favorite campsites, although this week I had planned to stay there, but when I got to that junction this week I kept going, it was too early and I was having fun hiking.I really like this place, but if it doesn't fit your schedule you won't go wrong by staying at Todd--it's lovely too.

Have a great time. I'll put some pics up when they're done loading.

[Midwest Ed]

I just got back yesterday from a west to east trip ...
I'll put some pics up when they're done loading.

If you have them, I would love to see some pics of some of the more challenging sections of the trail.

~Ed