Description

Mount Franklin is a long day hike from Rock Harbor and sometimes used as "the entry ramp for hikers tackling the [Greenstone Ridge Trail](https://fatmap.com/routeid/2707778/greenstone-ridge-trail)," according to [this source](https://www.michigantrailmaps.com/member-detail/isle-royale-np-mount-franklin-trail/).

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](https://fatmap.com/routeid/2707777/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. 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](https://www.nps.gov/isro/planyourvisit/camping.htm). [Source](https://www.michigantrailmaps.com/member-detail/isle-royale-np-mount-franklin-trail/.)