Isle Royale Forums

Hi All,

I'm planning a canoe trip in a few weeks. I see that there are new food storage requirements. Let me say that I fully understand and support this decision, but the guidance so far is ambiguous at best. The park website gives a list of approved containers, but then says "Containers not on this list are not guaranteed to be in food storage compliance". That leaves a lot of room for interpretation. In fact, the BearVault pictured on the NPS website appears nowhere on the approved list.

Anyway, by far the cheapest option on the approved list is a steel ammunition can - modified to lock with a bolt & nut. That would be too bulky for backpacking, but just fine for canoeing. Has anyone else used this option? Did you tun into any issues?

50 Caliber Ammo Box is on the list under "Missoula Technical Development Center". But I wouldn't want to portage very far.
It's curious that the BearVault doesn't appear on the IGBC list, as it has been for years. Wonder if something recently changed, or it's an error in document (not NPS and has a date of 5/27/2025).

I’m hoping to head over to the island mid September, so I have been researching the new regulations. The version of the IGBC I opened had 4 versions of the Bear Vault listed (dated 07/09/2025). I’m guessing the earlier version was just an oversight.

A friend had a wolf encounter near Siskawit this spring. Sniffing around their tent and stole some trekking poles. It sounds like his travel partner was less than diligent with his food prep at lunch.

I understand the need for all the regulations. I just wish people would have a little more common sense when heading into the wilderness.

Snufkin wrote: Wed Aug 06, 2025 7:18 am
A friend had a wolf encounter near Siskawit this spring. Sniffing around their tent and stole some trekking poles. It sounds like his travel partner was less than diligent with his food prep at

Good information. Thanks. It is really concerning when a wolf is so comfortable round humans that it goes right up to a tent. I am not sure what, but i suspect NPS is going to have to do something pretty proactive about these wolves.

How many "problem" wolves are there? Do they even know?

I can remember when it was originally thought it was just one wolf? But then how long would it take before others learn the techniques?

If a steel .50 cal ammo can is the best alternative solution for food storage you can think of; it's possible that this is outside your wheelhouse bro.

Harsh. The goal here is to offer helpful advice, not tear other people down.