Rock Harbor Lighthouse

After visiting the historic Edisen fishery, we took a quarter-mile walk to the oldest lighthouse (1855) on Isle Royale. We were able to climb the old spiral staircase to the top and enjoy an amazing view!







Trivia:
Isle Royale was designated as a Biosphere Reserve on February 17, 1981. It is part of a program designed to protect examples of the different ecosystems of the world and to encourage research. It was chosen for its unspoiled nature and represents the northern lake forest biome.

Living History

At the Edisen Fishery, resident cultural demonstrator Les Matson talked about his days as a commercial fisherman at Isle Royale.

Hidden Treasure

Our first day of hiking took us from the semi civilized comforts of Rock Harbor to a campsite at Daisy Farm. The trek was about 8 miles, and I was bushed by the time we arrived. After resting for awhile, our folks met up with us via boat to check out our new diggs. We jumped on the boat and motored over to the Edisen Fishery. Coming upon this historic commercial fishery was like dicovering a hidden treasure. It seemed to be untouched by time-no rushing, no hurrying. It's still in operation too.

Artist's Retreat

From Scoville Point, we saw the place where various artists come to do work inspired by the island. Isle Royale National Park hosts an artist-in-residence program based in the former summer cottage of the Dassler family from Leavenworth, Kansas (circa 1905). The cabin, located in Tobin Harbor, is two miles by canoe or trail from the park's development at Rock Harbor. It's pretty remote - no electricity or running water. What we actually see here in the photo is a small guest house, the artist cabin is just behind it. We climbed down the trail and then up again to peek inside. It was so charming, and even had a wood burning stove to fend off those chilly evenings. And What a view! An artist has to be pretty self-sufficient for a place like this though.