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Mount Franklin

A rugged day hike or overnight trip to a spectacular overlook on Greenstone Ridge.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
15 km
Ascent
249 m
Descent
249 m
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
180 m
High Point
326 m
Gradient
Mount Franklin Map

Mount Franklin is a long day hike from Rock Harbor and sometimes used as "the entry ramp for hikers tackling the Greenstone Ridge Trail," according to this source. Less of a defined summit and more of an exposed bluff, the vista towers above Lake Superior and awards views as far as Canada on a clear day. Suzy's Cave is also along this hike and worth the brief detour to view the inland sea arch carved by the lake's waves.

Description

The Mount Franklin Trail can be accessed from the rugged Rock Harbor Trail or the easier Tobin Harbor Trail. A popular option (seen here) is to follow one trail out and the other back. No matter which you take, when you arrive at the Mount Franklin Trail, follow it inland heading west. The main overlook and destination for your hike is a high point on the ridge, slightly west after the junction on Greenstone Ridge Trail.

An alternative to hiking from Rock Harbor, you could paddle to Three Mile Island then camp at one of the shelters or primitive sites. Located slightly southwest of the campground and dock, the Mount Franklin Trail leads directly from the lake to Greenstone Ridge. More information, including required permits and fees can be found here.

Source

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area