Isle Royale Forums

I've always packed or paddled on the island, but in a couple weeks (May 10) I'm going to visit the island with some friends and our plan is to base camp at Windigo and enjoy some trail running (if we want) everyday. I was just posting our trip itinerary and wrote that I'm looking forward to being able to have comfort items (I'll only be carrying my gear to from the dock to Washington Creek. What's funny is that after thinking of a camp chair and a book or two, I'm drawing blanks for what those comfort items might be, things that I can bring because weight isn't an issue. What would your comfort items be?

I guess the first question is, "What can't you live without vs. what are you wanting to get away from? Sometimes they are same thing."

For me:
1) Extra camera equipment, especially a tripod
2) Small cooler with lots of dry ice to allow for some nice fresh food of choice.
3) Nice pillow.
4) Extra clothes, extra running shoes.
5) And if your'e really feel'in it, a screened in Gazebo canopy big enough to hold a picnic table.

I would have added extra cash but the store won't be open yet.

How about a hammock to relax in? More cooking supplies for more adventurous cooking. Fishing gear.

A lightweight cot, outdoor shower set-up with tarp surround.

Great ideas. I'll definitely bring extra camera stuff, extra running shoes (it's spring and they will soak), possibly a hammock, which then precludes the cot. The shower sounds fun but I will bathe in the big lake.

If using the shelter for base, I would include a tarp for a wind break.

I used my tent as a tarp one night, at Todd Harbor shelter, to negate wind and sideways rain.

Another thing you might want to consider is going FULL luxury by staying at a Windigo Camper Cabin.

AC outlets
Propane grill
Bunk beds with mattresses
Kitchen table with chairs
Futon couch
Reasonable price

Slippers, whiskey, camp chair.

@fonixmunkee You forgot cigars!

This is great.

I've been thinking about that tarp as a windbreak and it might happen. I've used my rainfly that way before.

I didn't think those cabins are available until the store opens. Who knows, we might just sneak into one. Oh who am I fooling? I love the Washington Creek view.

fonix I'm going full blown lawn chair, maybe even something that works like a recliner. Slippers sound right too, maybe even my furry Chewbacca ones. Not sure about the whiskey, though it's a great idea, just not for me. The way I drink I might end up burning the whole island down. No matter how much I practiced at booze I kept getting worse at it. That means more for the rest of you.

Keep the ideas rolling.

Fresh food and a coleman stove to go with the tarp, pillow, cigars, slippers and camp chair. With just the 1/4+ mile hump to Washington Creek, I'd be eating like a wilderness king.

I could see a small backpack cooler for frozen steaks, brats, burgers, etc... in your future.

Last year I took a pair of binoculars (there was a total lunar eclipse super moon), a pair of Crocs to wear around camp and get wet while my boots dried and aired out, and my hammock (in addition to my tent). I've done this for all my trips, and I know lightweighters would ridicule this but I love to have both. Unless it's pouring, I will always set up the hammock for napping, hanging out, reading, and sleeping in if there is no risk of rain. Or hell, if it looks like it might rain, I'll sleep in it anyway and then just get up and go into my already-set-up tent once the rain comes down. Why not? I can use my tent to store my stuff as well if I'm not sleeping there to keep it away from squirrels. If I happen to get a free shelter, I have amazing options.

A cork that will stopper a 1 3/4" hole.

DonNewcomb wrote:A cork that will stopper a 1 3/4" hole.

I give..... Haven't figured out what this would be for.... Care to enlighten?


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The utility sink at the Windigo laundry. (I'm guessing.)