Reasons why it’s safe to solo hike Isle Royale National Park

January 27, 2020

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It’s a question I hear a lot:

Is Isle Royale safe?

There are many people who think it isn’t safe for women to hike alone anywhere, but I think Isle Royale is one of the safest places to be a female solo hiker. I spent two weeks solo hiking on Isle Royale National Park, and not once did I feel unsafe.

Isle Royale is a national park on an island in Lake Superior. It’s part of Michigan, though closer to Minnesota. I spent two weeks on the island, doing an end-to-end loop hike, alone.

Top 3 reasons why it’s safe to solo hike Isle Royale:

1. Remote

It is an island, so the only access is by boat or seaplane. There are no random people passing by in cars. So to get there, you have to be pretty motivated.

2. National Park

As a National Park, Isle Royale has park rangers. If something happens to you, they will come get you. So the island is remote but help is there, if needed. Keep in mind that the more remote you are on the island, the longer it will take help to arrive – but they will come!

3. Wildlife

There are no bears on Isle Royale. There are wolves, but even a sighting is very rare. There are moose, but keep your distance and you will be fine.

Isle Royale end-to-end solo loop hike

In my two weeks hiking alone on Isle Royale I met some great people, and also had plenty of alone time. I never once felt unsafe. It’s great place to hike and backpack whether you’re a solo hiker or going in a group!