Wise Old Man Offers Guide Services

On Wednesday, March 9, 2022, Wise Old Man of Isle Royale received its Commercial Use Authorization from Isle Royale National Park to be able to offer guide services to backpackers.

Our plans start with pre-trip planning with Zoom meeting and telephone consultations as you assemble your gear and supplies followed by a pre-departure safety briefing and pack weigh-in and shake-down on the eve of departure. We continue with daily briefings on the trail and ongoing support as we make on-the-spot decisions regarding safety and navigation through the adventure, ending with our return hike to our point of origin where you can take the opportunity to visit the gift shop at the Rock Harbor Lodge prior to departure.

Duane and I are mature hikers who have logged hundreds of miles on Isle Royale, having traversed every trail multiple times. We love Isle Royale and all it has to offer, the spectacular vistas from the ridges, to the glass calm waters of the bays and inland lakes, to the rugged forests along the Greenstone Ridge; the wildlife and rugged landscape, the flowers and berries.

We are really excited to be able to offer these services. Packages are available for experienced hikers who are new to Isle Royale, first-timers who want help to have a fun and safe adventure, and those who simply prefer to contract the services of an experienced guide to assist with particulars and provide support on the trail.

Excursions include four days and three nights, six days and five nights, eight days and seven nights, and custom plans for occupancies from one to two people in parties of up to five. The occupancy is determined by the number of people sharing the pre-departure hotel accommodation.

Our point of departure is from Copper Harbor via the Isle Royale Queen IV, and we use the Voyageur II for Island hops on custom excursions to access places that we might not otherwise be able to see given a particular hiking ability or available time.

Click the Guide Services page to view the general plans, and reach out to discuss the possibilities for customizing a plan for your particular needs. Prior to booking, you should reach out to determine the itinerary and confirm availability of services, lodging and transportation.