Isle Royale is one of the least visited national parks in the United States. It’s no wonder, given the fact that it is extremely difficult to get to. A seaplane would have taken me directly to this island in the middle of Lake Superior, but would have cost a pretty penny. I opted for a ferry ride – a drawn-out excursion that lasted over 3 hours.

While I gazed out on the horizon of the largest fresh water lake in the world, I mulled over the fact that my water journey was longer than any of the island parks I had visited in the ocean. Dry Tortugas and Channel Islands were two other water-bound destinations that seemed much more accessible than this isolated piece of land.

As the Island came into view, I finished guzzling my coffee, eager to get out there and explore. This was wilderness in all of its glory – a pristine, nearly untouched piece of land.

And it was mine to discover for the rest of the day.

I took a hike out to Scoville Point, stopping every couple minutes to just stand and marvel at the world around me. I caught glimpses of the Lake as I wandered along, avoiding Moose poop along the trail. I enjoyed scrambling along the rocks on the shore, viewing the small surrounding islands and circling birds.

I felt alone, out in a big, wide world full of possibility.

I felt detached from the cares and responsibilities of being an adult, just for a moment.

I reluctantly boarded the ferry when it was time to return, regretful that I couldn’t remain in this isolated piece of paradise for a couple more days.