Feldtmann Loop Section 2 - 10.3mi Strenuous Ridge Hike

Q: Can I do this as a day hike?

Possible if you're ultra-fit and start at dawn. Most backpackers split it across two days (camp at Feldtmann Lake the night before, push to Siskiwit Bay, camp there). A single 10.3-mile day with 1,200+ feet gain and no water is survivable but punishing.

Q: Is the steep climbing as bad as they say?

Yes. The ascent to Feldtmann Ridge is relentless and exposed. Rocky terrain, no shade. Expect 3-4 miles of sustained climbing. Trekking poles and quad strength essential.

Q: Do I need special gear or experience?

Backcountry camping experience required. Trekking poles strongly recommended. Gaiters protect your shins from roots and vegetation. A waterproof map and compass (or GPS) are essential—trail markers exist but dense growth can obscure the way.

Q: Are there bears or wildlife hazards?

No bears on Isle Royale. Moose, wolves, and foxes exist but avoid humans. Maintain 100-yard distance if spotted. More realistic hazard: hypothermia from exposure on the ridge in bad weather, and disorientation in dense vegetation.

Feldtmann Loop Section 2: Hike from Feldtmann Lake to Siskiwit Bay

Distance

10.3 mi

Elevation Gain

1,200 ft

Est. Time

7-10 hours depending on pace and breaks; most backpackers split across two days.

Route Type

Linear (Loop component)

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Late May through September

Overview

About This Trail

Feldtmann Loop Section 2 is a brutal 10.3-mile ridge traverse with zero water sources and dense overgrown vegetation that feels like swimming through tall grass. You'll climb steeply to Feldtmann Ridge for views of Feldtmann Lake, Grace Harbor, and Rock of Ages Lighthouse, pass the halfway-point Feldtmann Fire Tower, then descend to Siskiwit Bay Campground. This is backpacker grit—relentless, remote, and rewarding for those who earn it.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous

Trail Highlights

Feldtmann Ridge offers panoramic views of the western wilderness. The fire tower marks the halfway point with 360-degree vistas. Descend through old logging road overgrown with tall grass to reach Siskiwit Bay Campground with dock access.

Insider Tips

• The fire tower at the halfway point is a demoralizing false summit—it marks progress, not the end. Keep mental pace up. • The descent through overgrown logging road is disorienting and slow. Expect to move 1-2 mph through dense grass. • Camp at Feldtmann Lake Campground the night before, arrive early, and start climbing by 6 AM to summit ridge before afternoon exposure peaks. • Pair this section with other Feldtmann Loop sections for a multi-day epic (Sections 1, 3, 4 available). • Clear day views of Rock of Ages Lighthouse are gold—if clouds roll in, the ridge payoff vanishes.

Best Season to Hike

Late May through September

Hiking Tips

Bring more water than you think—there is NO accessible water source. Carry 3+ liters minimum.
Tighten your boots and wear gaiters—roots and rocks everywhere.
Start early to avoid afternoon exposure and heat on the ridge.
The dense vegetation near trail is real—long sleeves and pants protect from scrape.
Feldtmann Fire Tower at the halfway point is a legitimate rest stop with views.

Family Info

Not suitable for young children due to steep climbing, rocky terrain, and no water sources. Teenagers (14+) with backcountry experience and strong fitness can manage with adult supervision. The dense vegetation and lack of water make this a commitment, not a casual family stroll.

What Hikers Say

Backpackers respect this trail for its remoteness and ridge payoff, but they don't sugarcoat the pain: the steep climb is relentless, water is a critical planning issue, and the overgrown descent feels longer than it is. Those who prepare (plenty of water, early start, map) and embrace the grit leave with the views and solitude they earned.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 10.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft

Duration: 7-10 hours depending on pace and breaks; most backpackers split across two days.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Route Type: Linear (Loop component)

Surface: 18 inches wide, covered in rocks and roots; later section follows old logging road now filled with dense vegetation.

Getting There

Trailhead: Feldtmann Lake Campground (from Windigo trailhead) or Rock Harbor via Greenstone Ridge Trail

Parking: N/A - Access via ferry (Ranger III, Isle Royale Queen IV, or seaplanes)

Fills Up: N/A - Ferry-based access

Requirements

Permit Required

No permit required for day hikers. Backcountry campers must register at arrival (included in park entry fee).

Fees: $7 per person per day entrance fee; children 15 and under exempt. America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entry.

Shuttle Required

Ferry or seaplane required to reach Isle Royale. Ranger III and Isle Royale Queen IV operate May-September. Seaplane service (Isle Royale Seaplanes) available same season. Ferry dock at Windigo or Rock Harbor.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Maintained trail with visible markings, but dense vegetation and overgrowth can obscure the path in sections. Bring a map.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: NONE easily accessible from this trail. The NPS explicitly warns: 'There is no water source easily accessible from this trail.' Carry all water needed (minimum 3 liters). Siskiwit Bay Campground has water access at the end.

Shade: Mixed; forest patches, then exposed ridge, then tall grass sections. Ridge exposure is significant—wear sunscreen and a hat.

Cell Service: Unreliable to unavailable on Isle Royale. Plan for no communication.

Hazards:

Steep climbing to ridge entrance creates exposure risk. Rocky and rooted terrain causes ankle twist risk. Dense overgrown vegetation near trail limits visibility and pace. The critical hazard: zero water sources means dehydration is a real threat on a 10.3-mile day. Ridge sections are exposed to wind and afternoon heat.

Emergency: Isle Royale National Park Ranger Station (Rock Harbor or Windigo). In emergency, signal aircraft or use emergency supplies. Dial 911 if cell signal available.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to light (backcountry; fewer crowds than popular harbor trails)

Peak Times: Weekends in July-August

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

The trail is 18 inches wide and covered in rocks and roots. Not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Requires solid footing and mobility.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Feldtmann Lake Campground (start point, shelter, dock). Siskiwit Bay Campground (end point, two shelters, dock). Rainbow Cove (0.8 miles from Feldtmann Lake Campground—short detour for sunset views and lighthouse sighting). Windigo Marina (western hub, supply stop).

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is the water situation really that bad?

Yes. NPS explicitly states: 'There is no water source easily accessible from this trail.' Plan to carry 3+ liters. If you run out, reach Siskiwit Bay Campground at mile 10.3 (no earlier rescue option).

Can I do this as a day hike?

Is the steep climbing as bad as they say?

Do I need special gear or experience?

Are there bears or wildlife hazards?