Feldtmann Lake Trail

The Feldtmann Lake Trail reaches one of Isle Royale's most remote and least-visited destinations on the island's southwestern end, accessed via floatplane or the Windigo ferry terminal. The trail winds through dense boreal forest and open ridgeline, dropping to Feldtmann Lake — a shallow, moose-rich wetland complex that also supports breeding beaver populations. Multiple active beaver dams and lodges are visible from the lakeshore, and the ponded backwaters attract great blue herons, mergansers, and occasionally otters. Because this southwestern sector receives a fraction of the visitors that flock to Rock Harbor, wildlife encounters are frequent and undisturbed. Moose densities in the Feldtmann area are among the highest on the island, and the open lake margins are prime viewing locations. The trail is largely unmaintained and route-finding skills are helpful. Overnight camping is available at Feldtmann Lake campground with a backcountry permit required. The experience of paddling or hiking into this corner of the island with no roads and no cell service is among the most genuinely remote in the lower 48 states.