Isle Royale Forums

Hi. I will be a first-timer to IR this July. It was going to be last July but we all know what happened with that! I have a very simple itinerary planned as I just want to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the island. I will be camping at WC and plan to hike to MC the next day to catch the Voyageur II to RH. Which is the most interesting trail to get there; Indian Portage Trail or EC Lake Trail? Time or miles are not an issue as either trail will get me to the dock on time. Thank you and I love gathering information from the many posters on this forum.
Fri Day 1= RH to 3M
Sat Day 2= 3M to MB
Sun Day 3= MB to WC
Mon Day 4= WC to MC -Voyageur II to RH -to 3M (because of the 1 night limit at RH)
Tue Day 5= 3M to RH -hike to Scoville point or rent kayak
Wed Day 6- depart

I can't speak for July, but the EC trail is one of the prettiest trails on the island in May in my opinion.

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I haven't done the EC trail, so can't compare, but if at WC I'd take the short route to McCargoe, drop my pack, and do a quick hike up to the mine (1+ miles one-way, I think). Pretty cool with a shaft and tunnel you can crawl through (just don't miss the boat ). I'm sure a lot of folks would say to just stay at MC instead of WC, but that's a personal choice and one you can make on the fly. WC is tent only, some sites right on the shore, may be buggier. MC has shelters, beautiful spot, but may be busier. I like them both.

You trip plan reminds me of our first one to the island (minus the boat pick up). Either trail is nice. You'll enjoy it either way.

You got the 1-night limit thing figured out right! About McCargoe Cove, either path is good. I always like more time rather than less at McCargoe. Visit the mine, relax on the dock, take a nap in a shelter......

Sounds like a great trip plan.

I would do two nights at MB or MC and skip WC. just me.

Base654 wrote: Sun Feb 28, 2021 4:32 am I would do two nights at MB or MC and skip WC. just me.

Agreed

I really like the trail from East Chickenbone to McCargoe too --- it undulates through a variety of habitats and featrues some marvelous beaver handiwork along the way. But I also agree that every single option named here is a splendid one!

Thank you to all! You've given me some things to consider.

we skipped WC on 2 trips in favor of MCC too.

But, don’t reroute and plan to stay at East Chickenbone.....that campground is purely functional, built to put a couple more group sites on the eastern half of the island, and not worth staying at when you have other options. I stayed there once for the sole purpose of ticking it off my list for staying at every campground on the island. Boring, utilitarian.