Isle Royale Info Store

These are items that are available through this site. They include the book this site is based upon, movies, backpacking items, journals and other things. Just scroll down through this page to see what is available. They can be ordered online with a credit card through Paypal (you do not have to have an account). Or you can print out an Order Form, fill it out, and mail it to the address on the bottom, along with a check. All physical orders are typically mailed within 1 to 3 days and all software orders are typically sent on the same day (unless we are on the island!). You will receive an email confirmation when your order is received and another one when it is shipped.

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Isle Royale INFO book - Laminated Trail Mile Chart - Nancy's Lightweight Gear - The Isle Royale Journals - This Small Spot Movie

Isle Royale Info - A Comprehensive Guide to Isle Royale National Park

This is the book this website is designed around. This is a compilation of journals, walking, reading, paddling, notes, photos, memories and video over a period of almost 15 years of planning, hiking, canoeing and untold hours of putting it together. It will be a living document until I die, when my work at least, will be complete. I would appreciate it if you would think about that before sharing it with people for free and at least let them know it is available and someone has given up a good portion of their life to share it with you. I began writing this in the fall of 2001 and it has been an ongoing project since then. Its first complete release was in December, 2010. There was more to add and fine tune, but 9 years of work finally got into the public eye. The second release was March, 2012 and it was re-released with many additional features and all of the major gaps filled. The third release was April, 2013 and includes several improvements along with the addition of a program called "Isle Royale - Base Camp" and a utility called "Isle Royale - Trip Planner". These are detailed in "Program Descriptions" on the Main Menu. I am quite confident this will stand as the most complete guide to the park for many years. I hope you find it useful. Along those lines, the latest revision dates and major updates are available by "Clicking Here".

With the latest release, it is possible to download a "Demo" version of the book and programs. Full details are available by selecting "Download Demo Program" from the menu. It is possible to "upgrade" from one package to another (except the "Basic" package), but it costs a bit more. This is because of the extra time it takes to modify the license to upgrade a package.

The book contains over 190 pages of detailed information on the park with over 300 color photographs and detail maps. It is available in 5 different price packages based on the format selected. It is set up this way to allow you to choose based on your interest in the island and your need for details (maps, etc.).

Basic Package - The complete printable PDF file containing the entire book. All of the pictures and detail maps are included in the book in small form, but the links to full size photographs and larger detail maps are not included. The "Base Camp" and "Trip Planner" programs are NOT included. This package is intended for those just wanting to know about the island. If you are planning a trip to the island, you should look at the "Basic Plus" Package as it gives you planning tools and the option to upgrade to a higher package in the future. The PDF file can be read on a computer, loaded onto an electronic reading device, or printed. When ordered, you will will receive an email with the PDF file attached to it. Sorry, there are no upgrades available with this package after your purchase because it does not include the program to upgrade.

Basic Plus Package - The complete printable PDF file containing the entire book. All of the pictures and detail maps are included in the book in small form, but the links to full size photographs and larger detail maps are not included. It also includes the "Base Camp" and "Trip Planner" programs. The programs are fully functional with the exception of getting chapter updates through the "Base Camp" program. This package is intended for those planning a trip to the island once, but do not need larger detail maps, photos and updates. When ordered, you will be emailed the PDF document, your license number and a link to a page to download the installation program. The installation program will install both programs and the entire book. If this is done, there is no reason to download the PDF file as it is installed as part of the program. The PDF only file is provided for those who do not want to install the program.

Lifetime Package - The same as the "Basic Plus" Package with the inclusion of lifetime updates. This will be a "living" document as long as I am alive and will be continually updated. The "Base Camp" program offers a selection on the menu to "Check for Chapter Updates". The program will then go online to the Isle Royale Info server and check to see if there is an update for any of the chapters. If there is, you can automatically download the latest versions through the program. It does not include the links to larger pictures and the detail maps like the "Ultimate" version. This package is intended for those planning a trip to the island or, have been there and plan on going back and want the latest information as it changes. When ordered, you will be emailed the PDF document, your license number and a link to a page to download the installation program. The installation program will install both programs and the entire book. If this is done, there is no reason to download the PDF file as it is installed as part of the program. The PDF only file is provided for those who do not want to install the program. If you do not install the program, when any major update is completed and released, you will be notified via email and a link will be provided to download the newest version.

Ultimate Package - The "Ultimate" package is the same as the "Lifetime" Package, with the inclusion of links from the document to the larger photos. All large maps and detail maps are also linked to a larger version of the map. This is truly the package that will give you everything you need to plan and take a trip to the island. Having the full size pictures give you a much better view of the island and the larger detail maps are printable and can be taken with you on the trip. The "Base Camp" program offers a selection on the menu to "Check for Chapter Updates". The program will then go online to the Isle Royale Info server and check to see if there is an update for any of the chapters. If there is, you can automatically download the latest versions through the program. It will also check for updates to the larger pictures and maps and, optionally, download those updates if available. When ordered, you will be emailed the PDF document, your license number and a link to a page to download the installation program. The installation program will install both programs, the entire book and all of the larger pictures and detail maps.

Mailed Hard Copy - I am now offering a printed copy in a limited quantity at this time (April, 2013). This is a living document and to mass produce it at a printer would defeat that purpose. Also, the document is over 190 pages at 8.5" x 11" in size with full color pictures, so the cost is very high for printing unless it is done in large quantities. Even then, it would still be too high in price. The whole idea is to share this information with people and keep it up to date. If you can print at home, order the basic package and print it out yourself if you want a hard copy. If you cannot and want a hard copy, you can order one and I will satisfy orders as long as the limited supply lasts.

Mailed CDR - If you have purchased "Basic Plus", "Lifetime" or "Ultimate" and you wish to have the "Installation Program" and PDF file for your purchased package mailed to you.

Upgrade "Basic Plus" to "Lifetime" package - If you already purchased the "Basic Plus" package, you can upgrade to the "Lifetime" package as listed above. You will be emailed your upgraded license number, a link to a download page and the latest PDF file attached to the email. Once you receive the upgraded license, you can start your program (if you installed it) and select "Upgrade Your License". The program will then go online to verify the license and, once verified, you can get the latest versions of the chapters. If you did not install the program, you can install it with the new version or, if you do not want the program, you can just download the PDF version and you will be notified of major updates when released.

Upgrade "Basic Plus" to "Ultimate" package - If you already purchased the "Basic Plus" package, you can upgrade to the "Ultimate" package as listed above. You will be emailed your upgraded license number, a link to a download page and the latest PDF file attached to the email. Once you receive the upgrade, you can start your program (if you installed it) and select "Upgrade Your License". The program will then go online to verify the license and, once verified, you can get the latest versions of the chapters, pictures and maps. All large pictures and detail maps will then be linked to a larger versions.

Upgrade "Lifetime" to "Ultimate" package - If you already purchased the "Lifetime" package, you can upgrade to the "Ultimate" package as listed above. You will be emailed your upgraded license number, a link to a download page and the latest PDF file attached to the email. Once you receive the upgrade, you can start your program (if you installed it) and select "Upgrade Your License". The program will then go online to verify the license and, once verified, you can get the latest versions of the chapters, pictures and maps. All large pictures and detail maps will then be linked to a larger versions.

Trail Mileage Chart

A laminated chart of Hiking Trail Milelages. Created based on the 1994 Trails Illustrated map data. It was originally released in 2001 and has since been cross referenced and revised in 2012. The mileage chart is the same one available in the "Isle Royale INFO" book, only laminated. Included in this laminated version, on the back side, there is a chart of the campgrounds with details on each one and a schedule of the Voyageurs arrival and departure times at designated stops. This is very handy to carry while on the island for planning routes and changing your itinerary on the fly. The Voyageur routes and times are key if you decide to get picked up somewhere along the way due to a route change or problems.

Nancy's Lightweight Gear

These items are practical and lightweight backpacking items designed by Nancy Tremblay based on items we use on the trail. They are hand-sewn and made of no-see-um mesh with a velcro strip for closing. They each come with a hook to keep them handy by attaching them to the inside of your pack when walking and to clip them onto the inside of your tent when in camp.

"Backpacker's Cupboard"
This is a 3 compartment personal storage container. It was designed to hold toiletries (not included:-) and personal items, but has many uses. It is 8" x 12", easily folds in half to save space and weights less than a half ounce!.

"Backpacker's Drawer"
This is a one compartment storage container. It can hold many things you need to keep handy like first-aid stuff, flashlights, emergency blanket, etc. It is 6" x 6" and weights less than a quarter ounce!.

"Backpacker's Pocket"

This is a mini pocket for those small things you perpetually use during the trip. I use mine to keep chapstick, a lighter, some gum and a toothpick. I have attached a loop to the inside of my front right pocket on my pants and I hook this to it. That way I can pull it out, open it and take out what I need, then just drop it so it dangles there. Then I use what I took, put it back in, then put it back in my pocket. Then I do not have to worry about dropping stuff or putting it back in. When going into the tent in the evening, I unhook it and hook it to the tent so it is handy during the night and in the morning. It is 4" x 3" and weights less than a quarter ounce!.

"Backpacker's Kitchen Package"
All of the above items together for one price! A cupboard, drawer and pocket. Total weight for all three is 0.7 ounces!.

"Through My Eyes" - The Isle Royale Journals

The Isle Royale Journals are the notes taken while visiting the park, along with the stories of the trips. They are taken directly from the journals maintained while on the island. As part of my journals, I record details on the trails or water routes, campsites and other details. These for the most part, are not included in these journals. They are used in my document, "A Comprehensive Guide to Isle Royale National Park". For complete detailed descriptions of trails, campsites, places and basically everything you need to know about the park, that is the document you need to get.
They are available in two forms:
Downloadable PDF - You will receive an Email with the PDF file attached. This is the complete document with printable text and color pictures in thumbnail form, but without workable links to the full size pictures.
Mailed CDR - In addition to being emailed the PDF file, You will be mailed a CDR with the PDF file and all of the hi-resolution photographs. The photographs are linked from the document and, when clicked on, the full size picture will load. It is packaged in a DVD case with a full color jacket, as shown in the photos below.

The Isle Royale Journals - Spring, 2010
This journal covers a trip made walking the Feldtmann Ridge Trail to the Island Mine Trail then, the Greenstone Ridge Trail back to Windigo. We came from Grand Portage, Minnesota on the first boat of the year aboard the Voyaguer II on May 2nd and returned on May 16th. On the trip was Myself and my girlfriend Nancy Hudson. This is actually two journals in one, as it combines both of our independent journals into one document. It provides two unique perspectives on the same trip.
It is 66 pages with 142 color pictures. Click here for a Sample

"When I began reading your I.R. journals I expected to hear a lot about rocks, moose, wolves, wind and water. What I did not expect was to be riveted to your stories with tears in my eyes over your proposal and acceptance and the rest of your adventures. I feel blessed that you shared it with us." Jim F.

The Isle Royale Journals - Fall, 2008
This journal covers a trip made canoeing the Duncan Bay area staying at Duncan Bay, Duncan Narrows, Rock Harbor and an overnight hike to Lookout Louise. We came from Copper Harbor aboard the Isle Royale Queen IV on September 22nd and returned on September 29th. On the trip was Myself, Roger Kuras, Aaron Kuras, Michael J. Tremblay and Bob Kuras.
It is 24 pages with 56 color pictures.

The Isle Royale Journals - Fall, 2007
This journal covers a trip made canoeing the Rock Harbor area staying at Tooker's Island, Caribou Island, Rock Harbor and a day hike to Lane Cove. We came from Copper Harbor aboard the Isle Royale Queen IV on September 21st and returned on September 28th. On the trip was Roger Kuras, Bob Kuras, Michael J. Tremblay and myself.
It is 23 pages with 61 color pictures.

The 2007, 2008 and 2010 journals are available as a package at a discounted price when purchased together. They come in the same packaging as when purchased individually and will be mailed together.

"This Small Spot" The Feldtmann Ridge Trail

This video documents a backpacking trip on Isle Royale National Park, in September, 2000. It starts on the boat to Isle Royale from Grand Portage, Minnesota, getting dropped off at Windigo, then hiking the Feldtmann ridge trail to Siskiwit Bay, Island Mine and up to the Greenstone Ridge, back to Washington Harbor near Windigo. It includes a day hike to Huginnin Cove from Washington Harbor. It covers the trip on a personal level, while at the same time, capturing the trail, sites, and feelings along the way. If you have ever been on this trail, I know you will enjoy it. If you've ever been to Isle Royale, I'm pretty sure you'll like it. If you've never been there, but like backpacking, it will hopefully, make you want to go. For a more detailed description of the trip and pictures taken from the movie go to my Isle Royale 2000 page.
It is available on one VHS stereo videotpape recorded at SP speed or one DVD-R disk recorded at SP speed and runs approximately 140 minutes. You will receive the tape or DVD and a plastic case with a custom label.