Jake Weigandt

First, it's hard to say enough good things about Jake. On top of being a highly skilled, deeply experienced guide, he's a fabulous naturalist. Any trail walk with him, you will learn a great deal about the island and its ecology. We were a group of quite experienced kayakers, and we really appreciated the boats Michael supplied. They were all first-class skegged boats, of the quality we paddle at home. Good Werner Shuna paddles as well. For the first days of our trip, we had unusual prevailing NW winds, so we got to explore the south shore of the island as far as Chippewa harbor, which afforded us a good deal of mild rock play, as well as some mild active water on the way back — both highly enjoyable. I would be super-happy to do this trip again. Highly recommended.

By Margot O. on September 13, 2025

Uncommon Adventures’ “Isle Royale Explorer” trip was a delight! The storied location drew friends from the West Coast, their natural history interests well met by the depth and breadth of detail provided by our guide, Jake. We appreciated the quality of the kayaks and gear provided, comparable with our personal vessels. The level of organization, the quality of the provisions, and the variety of experiences on water and on land made for a fantastic experience. We enjoyed exploring islands and channels, catching rides on Lake Superior waves, and hiking trails with abundant flora, fauna, and geological features. Highlights included visiting the Rock Harbor Lighthouse museum, learning about wolf/moose research findings from Rolf and Carolyn Peterson, and dining on fresh-caught Northern pike. Many, many thanks!

By Kimberly P. on September 06, 2025

I had a great time paddling with Uncommon Adventures Isle Royale Explorer trip in early August 2025. Jake was a consummate guide for our trip. Under his wise guidance, we were able to safely paddle the remote Five Fingers area on the north side of the island. Jake’s knowledge of geological, botanical, and ornithological nature is top notch. His paddling skills, backcountry camping and cooking skills as well as his people skills are all exceptional. We had all kinds of paddling weather, met camping fishermen who shared freshly caught Lake Trout with us most nights, and discovered all kinds of hidden gems and remnants of past cultures on this beautiful, wilderness island.

By Terrence (terry) G. on August 12, 2025

As magical as I hoped for. Jake was amazing - knowledgeable. Helpful and an all around nice human.

By Beth D. on August 11, 2025

This was a 1st time trip for me in Isle Royale. As an avid kayaker, I was very excited to be literally the farthest we could go before Canada. It has always been a dream to see this !!! Micheal Gray and assistant, Jake were outstanding in both their safety for all of us on the trip, as well as the fun and the vast beauty of IR! The food was wonderful and coffee: ever coming! We were kept safe and enjoyed our journeys into this vast space of nature that few ever get to see. I would certainly say that it is a trip that cannot be compared closely to anything else I had experienced! I would certainly say that it is for those wanting to go beyond the levels of adventure to all the beauty that lies in IR to be seen and experienced 1st hand . Thank you Uncommon Adventures for this great experience that only few get to see on the beautiful waters and islands of the IR!!!

By Rex O. on August 03, 2025

5+ experience. Starting with magical beauty of Isle Royale, everything about the trip was outstanding. We were fortunate to have not one, but two EXTRAORDINARY guides. Any paddler would be fortunate to have either of them, much less both. They are experienced paddlers who kept us secure and coached us up constantly. Both have wide experience in backcountry camping. Their knowledge of the island, its history, geology, flora, fauna is exceptional. We visited hidden gems (lakes, coves, berry patches, lookouts) that we'd never have found on our own. To top it off, Michael is an amazing cook. No qualifiers -- not an "amazing backcountry cook". An amazing cook under any circumstances, with menus carefully prepared to meet special dietary needs or preferences. Pancakes with freshly picked wild strawberries. Jambalaya. Freshly caught perch and lake trout. My mouth waters as I write this. I think Isle Royale is a special place, and any trip out there is memorable. But going with Michael/Jake/Uncommon Adventures was the trip of a lifetime.

By Kevin M. on July 20, 2025

Overall a very good trip. Lots of variety in activities, nicely balanced with self-directed down time. Jake and his crew were fantastic! Clearly experts in terms of technical skills in the various activities, but I think even more important in a trip like this they were broadly informed in the nature and culture around us. Sharing their local view of the environment around us made every aspect of our travels with them more interesting and inviting.

By Chris R. on May 19, 2025

Such a great set up all the way around! Michael had everything organized to a tee, Jake and his team, from drivers to guides to his office staff, they were all on time, helpful, fun, knowledgeable and just good people. Would recommend this trip, or any other by UA to anyone. And the food selection and presentation were incredible! Made for a memorable vacation for sure!

By Karna H. on May 05, 2025