Scoville Point via Stoll Loop Trail - IRNP, MI

The loop hike to Scoville Point on Isle Royale National Park, using the longer version of the Stoll Trail, is a 4.75-mile journey through some of the park’s most beautiful landscapes. This trail starts at the Rock Harbor Visitor Center and offers stunning views of Lake Superior, dense forests, and a bit of Isle Royale's history.


As you begin the hike, the trail winds through a boreal forest, a type of forest found in northern regions. You’ll see tall spruce, fir, and birch trees along the way. Keep an eye out for wildlife like moose, foxes, wolves, red squirrels, and bald eagles☺. We saw a nest, with a mamma bald eagle with some chirping young ones right off the trail.The Stoll Trail is named after Edisen Stoll, a former lighthouse keeper’s wife who lived on the island in the early 1900s. She was known for her knowledge of the island’s plants and animals, and the trail honors her connection to Isle Royale.

As you hike toward Scoville Point, the trail opens up to rocky outcrops where you can see sweeping views of Lake Superior. The lake is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, and its deep blue waters are a striking contrast to the green of the trees.

The area around Scoville Point is a mix of rugged cliffs and serene shorelines. Wildflowers like wild roses and asters bloom in the warmer months, adding color to the landscape. In the summer Sourtop blueberries, strawberries, and especially Thimbleberries are abundant. Scoville Point itself offers one of the best panoramic views on the island, making it a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery. a great spot to have lunch and jump off the cliffs into lake Superior.

This hike is a great way to experience the diverse beauty of Isle Royale, from its rich forests to its breathtaking shorelines. Whether you’re interested in the island’s history or simply want to enjoy nature, the loop to Scoville Point is a must-do adventure. It's the perfect short hike to take if you are waiting for your room to be ready after being dropped off by the Isle Royale Queen IV.

2024-08-23 The_Eagle