Huginnin Cove Loop

From the Windigo area, cross the bridge over Washington Creek and follow the junction signs. The West Huginnin branch is the shorter way to the Cove; the East branch loops back toward Minong Ridge and Windigo. I’d go out on the West side and return on the East: you reach the water first, then pass the Wendigo exploration remains and get more of the rough, rocky shoreline on the way back. Both trails reach Huginnin Cove Campground, so you can reverse the direction if it suits your day. The full mileage includes the shared approach from Windigo and back, not just the two branches beyond the fork.

This isn’t a stroll along the lake. Expect rocks and roots, rolling ridges, damp cedar swamps, small wetlands and ponds, and sections where you’ll need to watch each step. The East side is especially rocky, with less forgiving footing near the north shore. Wet boardwalks can be slick. Trail conditions can change, so bring a map and compass and be comfortable navigating without relying on a phone. The park’s spring-to-fall season also shapes the trip: plan your island travel and the hike together, since reaching Windigo takes a boat or plane.

The East branch passes remains from the Wendigo copper exploration. The search began in 1890 and ended in 1892 without a producing mine; The company sank 16 deep drill holes and cut trenches, but found no copper. You’re walking through the leftovers of an ambitious search that never paid off, not a preserved working mine. Keep to the trail and leave the cabin fragments and metalwork where they are.

The route crosses ridges and low, wet ground in quick succession. Small ponds, swamp and wetland pockets are the best places to slow down and look for moose. You may also see signs of wildlife along Washington Creek and the shoreline, but there’s no guaranteed sighting. The contrast is part of the hike: one stretch feels enclosed by forest, the next opens across a boggy basin or along exposed rock.

Huginnin Cove is the payoff: a rocky Lake Superior shore with a broad view north toward Canada on a clear day. Give yourself time to sit by the water, then look back at the line of forested shore before you leave. The campground has five walk-in tent sites, seasonal composting toilets and non-potable water; there’s no dock at the cove. Day hikers do not need a camping permit, but an overnight stay requires a backcountry permit. Treat this as a remote stop, not a resupply point.

There’s no road parking at the trailhead. Start at the Windigo Visitor Center and walk to the Washington Creek crossing; visitors reach Windigo by passenger ferry, seaplane or private boat. The Washington Harbor Store is at the start, but don’t count on food or other services once you’ve left Windigo. Pack for a full day and check island transportation before you commit to the hike. Pets aren’t allowed on Isle Royale trails.