Search continues for missing hiker on Isle Royale

ISLE ROYALE, MI – The search continues for a man who went missing while solo hiking on Isle Royale last weekend.

Craig Berg, 70, of Berkley, was scheduled to come home from a hike at the remote national park on Saturday, Sept. 5, but did not return home as planned.

On Friday, Sept. 11, the National Park Service said it continues searching for the missing man, with operations including repeated foot patrols, aviation overflights, and drone use. Drones are typically prohibited at the park, but park officials said they grant special approvals during emergencies.

The National Park Service has been assisted in the search by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources; Michigan State Police; U.S. Coast Guard Station Portage, Michigan; No One Left Behind Canine Search & Rescue from Wisconsin; and Minnesota State Patrol Aviation Resources.

Park officials thanked everyone who has provided information to help with the search.

Berg is 5 feet 10 inches tall and about 210-220 pounds. He could be wearing jeans, brown hiking boots and a light-blue backpack. He could be walking slowly and using trekking poles.

Berg was scheduled to leave the island by ferry on Saturday. On Sunday, his family told authorities the hiker had not returned home as planned.

Berg’s family last heard from him on Wednesday, Sept. 2.  The island has limited cell phone service.

Searchers initially focused on Rock Harbor, where Berg’s trip was supposed to end on Saturday, but the search later expanded to the interior of the island. Park staff also posted Berg’s photo at all campsites and have been notifying hikers as they enter and exit the island.