Greenstone Section 3: Hike from Mount Ojibway to Chickenbone Lake
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
There is no reliable water source along the ridge itself. Filter and carry enough from your last campsite — the exposed ridgeline sections can dehydrate you faster than mainland trails, especially on sunny days with lake wind.
Navigation skills are not optional here. Trail markers can be sparse and the path faint in sections, particularly after storms knock debris across the route. Carry a real map and compass — cell service does not exist on Isle Royale.
Moose encounters are a genuine possibility, especially near Chickenbone Lake at dawn and dusk. Give them at least 50 yards and never position yourself between a cow and calf.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Climb the Ojibway Tower early in the day — afternoon haze off Lake Superior can cut visibility dramatically, and morning light makes the inland lakes glow.
This is a one-way section of a longer thru-hike, so coordinate your water taxi or plan your campsite reservations at Chickenbone Lake well in advance. Isle Royale fills its backcountry sites faster than people expect for such a remote park.
The junction near Chickenbone Lake splits to both the east and west ends of the lake — the west campsite is more sheltered from wind and has better sunset views across the water.
Photos
NPS / DERRICK JAEGER
