Some Random Trip Advice

Here is some random advice for people planning an Isle Royale trip ...especially their first Isle Royale Trip:

1. Don't try to see (or do) too much in one trip. Slow down. Travel shorter distances. Relax more. Keep your eyes, ears, and other senses open and alert to noticing things. People are often so interested in covering long distances and rushing to get to the next camp (or talking to their companions)--that they often walk or paddle past many interesting things.

2. Intentionally build flexibility, options, (and a day of two with low--or no--mileage) into your plans and itinerary (even on a short trip). I have seen so many people leave almost no room in their plans for things like transportation delays in getting to the Island, or things like bad weather, poor trail conditions, illness, or injury slowing their pace. Then, when such challenges do arise (such as getting to the Island a day late or twisting an ankle), they find themselves in a very difficult situation because they allowed no room in their schedule for transportation delays or for something that might slow down their travel pace.

3. Take time to do planning and research LONG BEFORE coming to the Island. Closely read and examine the official Isle Royale National Park Service website. Read the Park newspaper ("The Greenstone") which is available online. Read some of the books and printed guides which are available. Visit online sources like this Facebook group, the official NPS Isle Royale Facebook page, the online Isle Royale Forums. I am constantly amazed at the number of people whose questions could have been answered (and/or their challenges on the Island avoided) if they had done just 30-60 minutes of solid research. (Don't forget to use the "search" function on online forums and Facebook groups. Most questions have already been answered countless times).