Isle Royale: The Great Escape (or Not So Great, Depending on Your Love for Bugs)
So, you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the Windy City and find yourself on a secluded island? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because getting to Isle Royale is no walk in the park (or should I say, island?).
The Great Isle Royale Odyssey
Let's be honest, getting to Isle Royale is not for the faint of heart. It's like planning a military operation, but with less explosions and more mosquitoes. First, you gotta decide if you want to fly or drive. Flying is quicker, but it's also more expensive. Driving is cheaper, but it's a heck of a lot longer.
If you choose the flying route, you’ll likely end up in one of two places: Houghton or Copper Harbor. From there, you'll need to hop on a ferry. Think of it as a floating bus, but with a much better view (unless you get seasick, then it's more like a floating torture chamber).
The driving option is a true test of endurance. You'll be crossing the beautiful Upper Peninsula of Michigan, but it's a long drive. You'll have plenty of time to ponder life's big questions like, "Why did I choose this route?" and "Is that a moose or a really big dog?"
What to Expect on Isle Royale
Once you finally make it to Isle Royale, you'll be rewarded with stunning scenery, solitude, and a chance to reconnect with nature. But be warned: nature on Isle Royale is not messing around. The mosquitoes are legendary. They're not just bugs, they're tiny, blood-sucking ninjas. And if you think you can outsmart them with bug spray, think again. They're like the Spartans of the insect world.
But don't let that deter you. Isle Royale is a magical place with incredible hiking trails, pristine lakes, and a chance to see wildlife like moose and wolves. Just remember to pack enough bug spray. And maybe a hazmat suit.
How to Survive Isle Royale
- How to avoid getting eaten alive by mosquitoes: This is the million-dollar question. There's no guaranteed solution, but a combination of long sleeves, pants, bug spray, and praying to the mosquito gods might help.
- How to pack light but bring everything you need: It's a delicate balance. Remember, you're carrying everything on your back. So leave the hairdryer at home.
- How to find solitude on a crowded island: This one might seem counterintuitive, but Isle Royale is actually pretty big. There are plenty of remote areas to explore.
- How to deal with unexpected weather: Layer up! The weather on Isle Royale can change in a heartbeat.
- How to make friends with the locals: The locals are the wildlife. And they're not big on small talk. Just enjoy their company from a safe distance.
So, are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Isle Royale is waiting for you, but it's not going to make it easy.