Raspberry Island

Raspberry Island is a small island across Rock Harbor channel on Isle Royale’s east end. You come by boat for a roughly one-mile loop through wooded ground, a fragile bog, and rocky Lake Superior shore. I’d save it for a half-day when you want the bog and shoreline, rather than squeeze it in as a quick stop; the crossing is part of the outing.

The loop starts at Raspberry Island Dock. It’s an unpaved path with planked bridges and boardwalk sections, plus rocks and roots underfoot. The boardwalk is narrow—about 18 inches across—and can be slippery when wet, so take your time and stay on it to protect the fragile bog.

The acidic bog supports insect-eating sundews and pitcher plants, two of the island’s most distinctive details. Interpretive signs explain how the plants fit this wet habitat and how geology shaped the rugged shore. The walk shifts from forest to bog and then to exposed Lake Superior shoreline, so the short loop has more variety than its mileage suggests.

Reach the island by private boat, rented canoe or kayak from Rock Harbor, or a guided Lodge trip. The activity is seasonal, generally spring through fall. Pets aren’t allowed. Food, drinking water, and restrooms aren’t identified on the island, so bring what you need and plan around Rock Harbor for services.