Isle Royale Forums

August 21, 2011 3 of us will be hiking from Daisey Farm to Rock Harbor on the Rock Harbor Trail.
When we get to the Suzy's Cave area is it better to switch to the Tobin Harbor side, stay on the Rock Harbor Trail or are they both about the same.

The Tobin side is much smoother and you will make better time. If you are looking for an easier trail or are pressed for time I'd take that one.

The Rock Harbor trail is rougher, rockier, and more picturesque. If you have the time and energy, the views are better.

In spring the Rock Harbor trail has more breeze, so there seem to be fewer bugs (not an issue for you in August hopefully!)

Thank you. That helps me a lot.

I wouldn't wait 'til Suzy's Cave - I cut over at Threemile. The Tobin Harbor trail is SO much nicer and quieter. Rock Harbor is full of boat traffic and the trail is so rocky/rooty you will have to stop in order to enjoy the view anyway.

If it's raining, then I would definitely suggest cutting over to the Tobin Harbor trail.

Thank you all for your reply's and help.
Our trip is a 3 generation trip and all of us are 1st timers. 61, 35 and 13 years old.
This trip was originaly planned to happen in 2008.
I have read a lot in these posts from people the love the Tobin side of this hike. I am looking forward to enjoying it.
When we get to 3 mile we will check the terrain, and if the old guys (me) legs are up to it we will cross over there.
Or we will camp at 3 mile and cross over in the morning then hike to Rock Harbor.

When people use words like "rocky" to describe the Rock Harbor trail, I don't think it emphasizes the point enough. Don't get me wrong - it is a fun, beautiful hike. But the rocks come in all shapes and sizes, on up to boulders that are literally part of the trail. It's hard on your feet and, as someone else mentioned, you're constantly looking down for tripping hazards. I like this route because it's unique, but if you're not looking to intentionally challenge yourself I would pick the Tobin Harbor side. Especially if others say it's so nice.

Matt

If you are coming from Daisey Farm along the RH trail, the Tobin Harbor/Greenstone Ridge trail junction is prior to Three Mile camp; one has to backtrack to get to the Tobin Harbor trail if you do go into Three Mile camp, unless you continue on the RH trail and cut over at Suzys Cave after 1.5 miles or so more of the RH trail.

Do you have a Trails Illustrated map by Nat. Geo? Study it to view what I described.

If, I were a 61 y/o hiker I would much prefer the quiet, shady, relatively smooth traveling of the Tobin Harbor side of that portion of the journey. At the Suzys Cave junction, on the Tobin Harbor trail, you can still go see the cave, and then return to the solitude afforded on the Tobin Harbor side. JMHO

Yes I have the Trails Illustrated Map and some TOPO and NEXRAD views available.

http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=47.955800385 ... 8&z=15&t=T

But none of those show the detail good enough to point out trail structure.

Our plan now is to cross to the Tobin Harbor trail just before Three Mile.
Our last day we want to hike the Stoll Trail to Scoville and for those that have the amition, when we get back we can check out the rest of the Rock Harbor Trail.

I would like to than all of those that responded. You have been a big help.
10 more days and we will be there.

LarryEngel wrote:Our last day we want to hike the Stoll Trail to Scoville

Great, beautiful hike Probably more scenic than the R.H. trail.