Manitou Islands access closures during 2026 construction
North and South Manitou Islands have limited visitor access throughout the 2026 season because a major construction project is relocating both docks to safer, more sheltered locations. - The project addresses damage caused by storms, shifting sand, and high-water levels and includes repairs to historic buildings and replacement of failing infrastructure. The NPS says all facilities, docks, and utilities on both islands remain closed until the work is complete; the closures are necessary for visitor safety, building security, and resource protection during construction. - North Manitou Island: the dock, village, and all potable-water sources are closed. - South Manitou Island: the dock, village, lighthouse, group campsites, Bay Campground, Chicago Road, and all potable-water sources are closed. The only bathrooms available are pit toilets at Popple Campground or Weather Station Campground; in the backcountry, visitors must dig a cathole at least 100 feet from trails, campsites, and buildings, 300 feet from water, and 6–8 inches deep, then cover it. - The docks and villages are expected to reopen in 2027; no firm reopening date is provided. - The Manitou Island Transit Ferry will not operate in 2026 because there is no safe docking location on either island during construction. Personal boats cannot dock; boaters must anchor offshore and use a smaller vessel to reach shore, with no mooring buoys or protected anchoring areas. Charter boats require a Commercial Use Authorization. Check current Manitou Islands access information before planning an island visit.
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