Isle Royale Forums

After reviewing zebra mussel problems in Wisconsin waters I have changed my plans and plan to launch my boat at Grand Portage or Grand Marais MN. ( 26 foot Paceship sailboat) Does anyone know where I will be able to park my truck and trailer for apx 20 days I want to be at Isle Royal? If I can't find a place to keep them there I do know of parking at Copper harbor or Houghton but would like to splash at MN because I can get to the Island Quicker from there. Any Ideas would be acceppted with great thanks. Richard Also if you have any water accessible Don't miss spots keep the Ideas coming.

Call the Grand Portage Marina and ask them. Might want to ask about issues launching given your draft.
They could answer questions about water sights also.
If you have the time, w/o your boat and trailer, there is a nice pullout North of GP on the way to Rydens. If it is clear you get a nice view of the Suzies and Isle Royale.
Have a great trip, I would love to sail IR some day!!

GP Marina 1-218-475-2476.

If it was me making the trip I would look at stopping at "The Hole in the Wall" just north of the Suzy's for a night and then to Thompson Island in Canada. Thompson is a great little harbor with a fantastic sauna you may use. You would need a CANPASS remote area border crossing permit. but it's easy to apply for and only costs 30 bucks. The crossing from Thompson to McCargoe is also shorter than from GP.

I've been there three times.

There is a large gravel parking lot right at the ramp. You can pretty-much park wherever you want; there's plenty of room, even for the longest of rigs. I've left my truck and trailer there for 10 days on each visit with no security problems.

There is an attendant on duty during the day. The GP reservation has a full-time Sheriffs deputy on duty now. Because of how long you will be gone, I would call the Cook County S.O. (218-387-3030) and ask them to check your vehicle occasionally.

Take a look at the marina in Google Earth and GE Streetview. That will give you a good idea of what you will encounter.

Thanks for the help. The plans are now being made and I will be launching from Grand Portage for the trip to the Island. I am looking at late Aug.or early Sept. for the trip this fall with a longer return trip next May/June. Thanks again for all your posts. Richard

That can be an "interesting" time to go, as it is the start of the gale season. Pay very close attention to the marine forecasts (including the open lake forecast) prior to your departure and monitor them while you are on the island.