NPS: Battle Creek backpacker dies on Isle Royale

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — A backpacker from Battle Creek has died while hiking at Isle Royale National Park, authorities say.

According to a Wednesday release from the National Park Service at Isle Royale, it happened late Monday afternoon.

Officials say the backpacker, a 37-year-old woman, was hiking near Lake LeSage with her partner when she experienced sudden medical complications.

“As her condition deteriorated, she was eventually unable to walk, lost consciousness and stopped breathing,” the NPS said. “CPR was provided but attempts to resuscitate her were unsuccessful.”

Other backpackers were able to reach Michigan State Police through a 911 text and were eventually connected with NPS dispatchers. Park rangers found the group in a remote area Monday evening and stayed the night with them there. They were picked up by a crew Tuesday morning.

“The Isle Royale community extends their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased,” the NPS said.

The woman’s name was not released Wednesday. Authorities are investigating.

Isle Royale is one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the country. The giant island sits in Lake Superior, approximately 55 miles northwest of Copper Harbor at the northern tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula. It is only accessible by ferry or seaplane.

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