Chickenbone Lake Loop

Chickenbone Lake Loop is a 6.4-mile circuit from McCargoe Cove Campground, using the Indian Portage, East Chickenbone and Greenstone Ridge trails to circle the lake. Allow about three hours, plus any long stops. It is a moderate walk through forested ridges, wetlands and lakeshore, and it works best if you are already at McCargoe Cove or have planned the boat or foot journey there. You may see the distance rounded to about seven miles; the mapped circuit for this version measures 6.39 miles and includes the short approach twice.

From camp, take Indian Portage about 0.7 mile to the East Chickenbone junction. East Chickenbone swings around the lake’s east end to Greenstone Ridge. Follow Greenstone back west and southwest to Indian Portage, then take it back to McCargoe Cove. That last leg passes the East Chickenbone junction and repeats the opening 0.7 mile. The loop joins three named trails, so keep the junction order in mind and carry a current map.

East Chickenbone crosses forested ridges before rounding the lake’s east end. Indian Portage crosses swampy ground at the lake’s head, follows the shoreline, then follows Chickenbone Creek toward the cove, with small rises and dips along the way. Expect some low, wet footing rather than a steady ridge climb. The marsh opening on the McCargoe approach is a good place to frame the water with reeds and lily pads; the east-side trail gives another look across the lake.

Chickenbone Lake, Chickenbone Creek and McCargoe Cove sit in a depression formed by an ancient fault trench cutting diagonally across Isle Royale. That fault line helps explain why this chain of water lies at a different angle from the island’s usual northeast-to-southwest pattern.

Indian Portage links the cove with inland lakes and may follow an older canoe route; Indigenous use is considered likely, though it is not firmly documented. The hiking trail was completed in 1964. Near the McCargoe Cove junction, look for remains of an old stamp mill and horse stable.

McCargoe Cove has no road access; reach the campground by boat or on foot. Isle Royale closes to visitors from November 1 through April 15. The campground lists food lockers and non-potable water but no store, so bring supplies and treat any water before drinking. Pets are prohibited; service dogs need a park permit arranged in advance.