Getting to Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park sits in MI, United States, with Hancock the closest mapped town — about 67.3 mi (108 km) away, not a drive.
Reached by ferry or seaplane from Michigan or Minnesota, with no road onto the island.
Drive times from Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park sits close enough to Pukaskwa National Park and Voyageurs National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Pukaskwa National Park | 123 mi (199 km) | 3 hr 22 min |
| Voyageurs National Park | 201 mi (323 km) | 5 hr 12 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Hancock | 67.3 mi (108 km) | Not a drive |
| Houghton | 67.6 mi (109 km) | Not a drive |
| Baraga | 91.3 mi (147 km) | Not a drive |
| Ontonagon | 92.1 mi (148 km) | Not a drive |
| L'Anse | 92.9 mi (150 km) | Not a drive |
| Marquette | 120 mi (194 km) | Not a drive |
| Wakefield | 130 mi (209 km) | Not a drive |
| Bessemer | 132 mi (213 km) | Not a drive |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Isle Royale National Park?
Hancock, about 67.3 mi (108 km) away on the map. Reached by ferry or seaplane from Michigan or Minnesota, with no road onto the island. That distance is not a drive.
Where should I stay when visiting Isle Royale National Park?
The practical mainland bases are Hancock, Houghton, and Baraga. Reached by ferry or seaplane from Michigan or Minnesota, with no road onto the island.