STILLWATER BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Private Passage on the Namakan: Voyageurs ‘Best Of’ Boat Tour to Ellsworth and Kettle Falls
A private, 5-hour boat tour from Kabetogama across Voyageurs National Park’s Namakan Basin visiting Ellsworth Rock Gardens, Hoist Bay, Stevens Island and Kettle Falls—this guide lays out what to expect and how to plan.
Private Passage on the Namakan: Voyageurs ‘Best Of’ Boat Tour to Ellsworth and Kettle Falls.
Voyageurs National Park is a water-based park best experienced from a boat; this private "Best Of" tour runs out on the Namakan Basin from Kabetogama and visits islands, waterfalls and the iconic Ellsworth Rock Gardens. The family-run operator has worked these waters for generations and offers an intimate, private-boat option (boat seats five) that combines local history with on-water access to the park’s highlights.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Ellsworth Rock Gardens
A signature stop on the route, the Ellsworth Rock Gardens are one of the named sites the tour visits as it moves through the Namakan Basin.
Kettle Falls and Historic Sites
Kettle Falls—among other historic stops the operator points out—is a frequent highlight of the itinerary and part of the tour’s emphasis on named waterways and sites.
Stevens Island & Hoist Bay
The tour threads between islands such as Stevens Island and through bays like Hoist Bay, making short stop-views of these typical Voyageurs destinations.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Expect an intimate, private-boat outing across the Namakan Basin: the operator pilots a craft that seats five, guides the route to Ellsworth Rock Gardens, Hoist Bay, Stevens Island, Kettle Falls and other favorite points, and blends on-water navigation with local history rooted in a family presence on Kabetogama since 1916.
THE LANDMARKS
Ellsworth Rock Gardens
A signature stop on the route, the Ellsworth Rock Gardens are one of the named sites the tour visits as it moves through the Namakan Basin.
THE WATERWAYS
Kettle Falls and Historic Sites
Kettle Falls—among other historic stops the operator points out—is a frequent highlight of the itinerary and part of the tour’s emphasis on named waterways and sites.
THE ISLANDS
Stevens Island & Hoist Bay
The tour threads between islands such as Stevens Island and through bays like Hoist Bay, making short stop-views of these typical Voyageurs destinations.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip works for—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a 5-hour private-boat tour.
Bring layered clothing suitable for on-water conditions; the operator can provide fishing equipment for casual anglers as needed.
Meetings and pickups can be arranged at the Kabetogama or Ash River visitor centers, resorts, houseboats, campsites or private cabins on these waters; travel distances can affect price because gas and bait are extra fees.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Can I go back to the resort during our trip?
Yes. The day is yours—if you want to trade people or someone would like to fish only part of the day, the operator can design the day to fit your vacation.
We have more than four people and want a guided fishing trip—what can we do?
The operator commonly coordinates with other local guides to accommodate larger groups; with advance notice multiple guides or a follow boat can be arranged so the group can be accommodated.
I don't fish very often—is that a problem?
No. The operator is happy to provide equipment, local knowledge, and instruction to help ensure a fun day on the water.
Can you pick us up at the Visitor Center, houseboat, campsite, or private cabin?
Yes. The operator will meet you at any of those locations and often uses the Ash River or Kabetogama Visitor Centers; remember that gas and bait are additional fees and greater distances can increase price.
Can people trade off or fish only part of the day?
Yes. The day is flexible—trading people on and off or designing a mixed fishing/boat-tour day is permitted and can be arranged.