Isle Royale- Bear Canister Required?
Yes, we know there are no bears on Isle Royale so why require bear canisters? Wolves were introduced to Isle Royale in the fall of 2018 and winter of 2019 to help restore the wolf population, which had dwindled to only two severely inbred individuals. The first wave of four wolves arrived from the Grand Portage Indian Reservation in Minnesota in the fall of 2018. In 2019, an additional 15 wolves were relocated from Jostle Lake and Michipicoten Island, Ontario, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. So why the need to “bear proof” campers food?
These measures were prompted by increased incidents of wildlife, particularly wolves, accessing human food and garbage in areas like Rock Harbor and other campgrounds on the east end of the island. The park has also taken additional actions, such as installing electric fencing around dumpsters and increasing hazing efforts to discourage wildlife from approaching populated areas .These comprehensive efforts aim to maintain the natural behaviors of park wildlife and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
As of April 16, 2025, Isle Royale National Park has implemented new food storage regulations requiring all overnight visitors to use approved animal-resistant containers, commonly known as
bear canisters. These regulations aim to protect both wildlife and visitors by minimizing human-wildlife interactions. The term "food storage" encompasses not only food but also trash, scented items, cooking supplies, and fish. The park has provided a list of approved containers, and those not on this list may not comply with the new regulations.
All of the information about the new regulations can be found here.
To support these regulations, park staff are installing food storage lockers at every campground throughout the 2025 season. Campers staying in shelters should keep their containers inside the shelter, while those at tent sites are instructed to place their containers in the provided food
storage lockers. For cross-country campers or those at campgrounds without installed lockers, the park advises hanging containers 12 feet high and 6 feet from the tree trunk or securing them to a boulder, log, or tree at least 200 feet from the campsite. Boaters must secure their items in the boat's cabin or within a secured animal-resistant container or cooler.
To help campers comply with these new rules, Down wind Sports is offering a Bear Canister Rental program - be sure to reserve your canister before heading out to the island. All canisters can be conveniently picked up out of our Houghton location.
