North Manitou Island
An uninhabited island paradise in Lake Michigan, offering pristine wilderness, easy hiking, and a step back in time with historic ruins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant temps
North Manitou Island
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An uninhabited island paradise in Lake Michigan, offering pristine wilderness, easy hiking, and a step back in time with historic ruins.
"Quite possibly the greatest, least spoilt place in the Great Lakes."
Book Ferry Early
Ferry tickets to North Manitou Island sell out fast! Book months in advance, especially for summer trips. :admission_tickets:
Pack Water Filter
Only one potable water station exists. Bring a reliable water filter or purification tablets for Lake Michigan water. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Village Ruins
Near the dock
Step back in time exploring preserved cottages and the remnants of a once-thriving community.
Lake Manitou
Interior of the island
A serene inland lake offering a different aquatic landscape from Lake Michigan's shores.
Southern Cemetery
Southern end of the island
A poignant historical site offering a glimpse into the island's past inhabitants.
Donner Point
West side of the island
Experience breathtaking views and private beach camping for a truly secluded stay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Island Escape
Embrace the Wilderness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sleeping Bear Dunes trip - recs and advice?
Book Ferry Early
Ferry tickets to North Manitou Island sell out fast! Book months in advance, especially for summer trips. :admission_tickets:
Pack Water Filter
Only one potable water station exists. Bring a reliable water filter or purification tablets for Lake Michigan water. :droplet:
Sleep Bear Dunes Recommendations?
Sleeping Bear Dunes Trip Suggestions - Late 20s group
Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitos and other biting insects can be prevalent, especially in the northern, more wooded areas. :bug:
Leave No Trace
This is a pristine wilderness. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on trails, and respect the environment. :evergreen_tree:
A shot from the top of Pyramid Point near Sleeping Bear Dunes last summer
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferry Early
Ferry tickets to North Manitou Island sell out fast! Book months in advance, especially for summer trips. :admission_tickets:
Pack Water Filter
Only one potable water station exists. Bring a reliable water filter or purification tablets for Lake Michigan water. :droplet:
Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitos and other biting insects can be prevalent, especially in the northern, more wooded areas. :bug:
Leave No Trace
This is a pristine wilderness. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on trails, and respect the environment. :evergreen_tree:
Map & Compass Recommended
While trails are marked, a map and compass (or GPS) are wise for exploring the interior and backcountry. :compass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise North Manitou Island as a pristine, unspoiled paradise, often comparing it favorably to other remote Great Lakes destinations. The easy hiking trails, historical ruins, and secluded camping spots are major draws. Some note the prevalence of bugs, particularly in the north, and the absolute necessity of being self-sufficient.
"Quite possibly the greatest, least spoilt place in the Great Lakes. And I've been to Isle Royale a number of times. Staying on Donner Point and having a private beach was heaven on earth. Slightly buggy but we had no tick issues. June was a great time to go. Crescent was our second night and then we stayed in the village campground our last night. Looking at the old hotel being restored and the cottages that are preserved was like stepping back in time."
Jason Holmes
"Awesome! Went for a short 3 day trip. Hiked to the west side of the island and setup camp. Beautiful scenery. Trails were on the easier side without any steep hills to climb. Very manageable for a family to come here and explore. Bring a water filter and food and your in for a great relaxing adventure."
Justin Allers
"I just got done with a four-day trip to North Manitou. It is the perfect place to go if you want to do some easy back country hiking and camping. I hiked the entire 24-mile perimeter and also hiked into the interior lake, Lake Manitou. Almost all the trails are easy - flat, well maintained, well marked, no steep hills, and only a few tricky sections. Much easier than Porcupine Mountain or Pictures Rocks. There is only one “campground”, which is just north of the village/dock area. But there are beautiful backcountry camp sites sprinkled all over the island. I especially recommend the southern area, near the cemetery. Crescent City also has some great spots for camping. The northern end is more densely wooded and has more mosquitos, so I just hiked through there and did not camp. There is only one potable water station on the entire island. I used the standard gravity filtration device and drank Lake Michigan water. There are some cool ruins all over the island, from when it was thriving with lumber and farming business. I brought my fishing pole and tried to fish Lake Manitou from the shore. It is very shallow for a long way out and I could not cast far enough to get into the deeper waters. I walked the entire eastern shore looking for a good place to fish, to no avail. I have nothing negative to say about this place. The five-star rating is well earned!"
Nathan Miller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to North Manitou Island is exclusively via the Manitou Island Transit ferry service from Leland, Michigan. It's crucial to book your ferry tickets well in advance, as they are limited and popular, especially during peak season. The ferry ride itself offers scenic views of Lake Michigan.
The ferry schedule can vary by season and is subject to weather conditions. It's best to check the official Manitou Island Transit website for the most up-to-date information and to make reservations. Plan your trip around the ferry's departure and return times.
No, North Manitou Island is a car-free destination. Visitors must leave their vehicles in Leland. This contributes to the island's preserved, natural state and requires visitors to carry all their gear.
There is no public transportation on North Manitou Island. The island is meant for hiking and exploring on foot. You'll need to be prepared to carry all your supplies for your entire stay.
The ferry ride from Leland to North Manitou Island typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on conditions. Once on the island, travel times between different points of interest will depend on your hiking pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The primary cost is the ferry ticket from Leland to the island. Camping fees are also applicable if you plan to stay overnight. There are no entrance fees for the island itself, but you must be self-sufficient.
Yes, while there isn't a formal reservation system for specific backcountry sites, it's highly recommended to plan your camping locations and inform the ferry service of your intentions. The main village campground can fill up.
North Manitou Island is accessible year-round, but ferry service is seasonal and weather-dependent. The island itself is open 24/7 for those who can access it, but visitor services are limited to ferry operations.
No specific permits are required to visit or camp on North Manitou Island beyond your ferry ticket and adherence to park regulations. However, you must practice Leave No Trace principles.
It is strongly advised to book your North Manitou Island ferry tickets online in advance. While there might be last-minute availability, relying on this is risky as tickets often sell out, especially during peak travel times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
North Manitou Island offers a network of generally easy, well-maintained, and well-marked trails. Most are flat with few steep hills, making them manageable for families. You can hike the 24-mile perimeter or explore the interior.
There is one main 'campground' area just north of the village/dock. However, numerous beautiful backcountry campsites are scattered throughout the island, particularly in the southern areas and near Crescent City.
The island is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, various bird species, and potentially smaller mammals. While ticks are mentioned as a possibility, some visitors report no issues.
There is only one potable water station on the entire island, located near the dock. Visitors are advised to bring a water filter or purification method to safely drink water from Lake Michigan or Lake Manitou.
Many visitors recommend the southern area near the cemetery and Crescent City for great camping spots. The northern end is more densely wooded and can have more mosquitos, so some prefer to hike through rather than camp there.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, North Manitou Island is uninhabited and has no services. You must bring all your own food, snacks, and drinks for the duration of your stay. Plan your meals carefully.
Pack non-perishable food items that are easy to prepare. Consider dehydrated meals, trail mix, energy bars, and plenty of water or water purification supplies. Remember to pack out all food waste.
Fishing is possible on North Manitou Island, particularly in Lake Manitou. However, some visitors have found shore fishing in Lake Michigan challenging due to shallow waters and casting limitations.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic village ruins, the serene Lake Manitou, dramatic Lake Michigan shoreline views, and the island's lush forests. Sunrises and sunsets over Lake Michigan can be spectacular.
Absolutely. The island offers diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches and bluffs to dense forests and inland lakes, providing ample opportunities for stunning landscape photography.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the best light for photography, especially along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details of ruins or forests.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and easy-to-prepare meals, as there are no food services. Bring insect repellent and sunscreen. Ensure children understand and practice Leave No Trace principles. The historical ruins can also be a fascinating element for kids to discover, sparking their imagination about the island's past.
🎒 Budget Travelers
To save money: Pack all your own food and water to avoid any on-island purchases. Consider borrowing or renting camping equipment if you don't own it. Focus on day hikes or shorter camping trips to minimize ferry costs. The lack of commercialization means your money goes directly towards the experience, not overpriced amenities.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Solo traveler advice: Prioritize safety by informing someone of your itinerary and expected return time. Carry a reliable communication device (though service is limited). Be extra diligent with navigation and water purification. The island's manageable trails and dispersed camping options allow for a personalized and introspective adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating North Manitou Island Trails
While the trails are manageable, it's always wise to carry a map and compass or a GPS device, especially when venturing off the main routes or into more remote areas. Some sections, particularly in the northern part of the island, can be more densely wooded and may present slightly trickier terrain or increased insect activity. Planning your route based on your fitness level and desired experience is key to enjoying the hiking here.
Many visitors find the trails significantly easier than other popular Michigan hiking destinations like Porcupine Mountains or Pictured Rocks. This accessibility makes North Manitou Island a great choice for families or those new to multi-day hiking and camping. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for varying conditions.
Camping and Self-Sufficiency
Popular camping areas include the southern end near the historic cemetery and the shores of Crescent City. While the northern end is more heavily wooded and can be buggier, it still offers opportunities for secluded camping. It's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles rigorously: pack out everything you pack in, minimize campfire impacts (if allowed and safe), and respect wildlife.
Water is a critical consideration. The island has only one potable water station. Therefore, carrying a reliable water filter or purification tablets to treat water from Lake Michigan or Lake Manitou is non-negotiable. Planning your water sources and purification strategy is a vital part of preparing for your trip.
A Glimpse into the Past: Island History
Visitors can imagine life on the island when it was thriving, a stark contrast to its current uninhabited state. The preservation of these historical sites allows for a tangible link to the past, making a trip to North Manitou Island not just a nature escape, but also an educational journey. Taking the time to explore these ruins adds a significant layer of depth to the island experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit