Mount Franklin

Overview

Mount Franklin is a rocky bluff on the east end of Greenstone Ridge, named for Benjamin Franklin. It’s all about the view: sweeping sightlines over Isle Royale’s interior forests and out to Lake Superior and the distant Canadian shore.

Getting There

Reach it on foot from Rock Harbor via the Rock Harbor or Tobin Harbor Trails, then up to the Greenstone Ridge. Most visitors treat it as a roughly 10‑mile round‑trip day hike from Rock Harbor. There’s no road access—this is pure backcountry.

What You’ll See

From the open, lichen-crusted rock, you get unobstructed vistas of the island’s ridges and the rugged north shore, with Superior glinting beyond. The area includes jack pine and other hardy ridge-top vegetation, adding to that wind-swept, high-island feel.

Trail Feel and Why It’s Worth It

It’s a classic Isle Royale objective: a steady climb, big payoff, and a real sense of the island’s scale. The overlook sits on a key stretch of Greenstone Ridge with links used by day hikers and backpackers alike, making it easy to fold into longer itineraries.

Wildlife

Hikers have reported spotting moose, rabbits, and red squirrels along the way. Birdlife is common, and the open vantage makes it a nice spot to linger and scan the forests below.

Practical Notes

There are no facilities at the overlook—no restrooms, water, or tables—so plan accordingly. Weather can swing quickly on the ridge; the top is exposed to wind and sun. Bring plenty of water, snacks, layers, and solid footwear.

Best Time to Visit

Start early for clearer views, cooler temps, and fewer people on the ridge. Aim for calm, blue-sky days to maximize that long look toward Canada; harsh midday light is fine for the panorama but can feel hot on the exposed rock.

Nearby

Handy reference points on the network include Lane Cove (about 2.7 miles), Three Mile (about 2.3 miles), Ojibway Tower (about 2.5 miles), and Rock Harbor (about 4.5 miles). They’re useful anchors if you’re stitching together a bigger day or a backpack.