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LAKE ITASCA TOURS | Tour the Mississippi Headwaters by Boat – on beautiful Lake Itasca

Come relax aboard the “Chester Charles II” on beautiful Lake Itasca, the source of the mighty Mississippi River. The tour your group will experience follows the same route taken by Ozawindib in 1832 when he guided Henry Rowe Schoolcraft to the Headwaters of the Mississippi River. Here they recorded the source of the greatest river in the United States as it begins its flow 2,552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico.

The “Chester Charles II” is ready to take you on a tour from the Douglas Lodge Pier located at the Port of Douglas Lodge in Itasca State Park. There’s lots of wildlife… bring your cameras!

  • Drive or walk down from Douglas Lodge
  • Lakeside parking
  • Picnic lunches from Douglas Lodge available on all cruises (Order in advance at 218-699-7223)
  • Must have a MINIMUM of 18 adult passengers or tour is automatically cancelled. Max. capacity 70 due to COVID-19 restrictions this season (no exceptions)

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Coborns Lake Itasca Tours

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Description.

A 2 hr, 10 mi naturalist narrated tour to the Mississippi Headwaters aboard the 141 Pax "Chester Charles II", on Lake Itasca. Tours provide a comprehensive overview of the history, wildlife and points of interest in Itasca State Park. Follow the same route Ozawindib took Schoolcraft in 1832. Our tour provides unique opportunities for viewing and photographing wildlife like the common loon, bald eagles, great blue herons, deer, osprey,and landscapes seen only by boat. Snacks & bev for sale.

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Top Things to Do in Lake Itasca

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lake itasca tours by owner

1. Itasca State Park

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2. Mississippi Headwaters

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3. Wilderness Drive

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4. Lake Itasca

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5. Aiton Heights Fire Tower

meinoly

6. Preacher's Grove

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7. Peace Pipe Vista

LovingNewAdventures

8. Red Pine Trail

27kevink

9. Landmark Interpretive Trail

mplsmomof4

10. Bison Kill Site

GKKrishna

11. Large White Pine

TravelingSoccerLoon

12. Coborn's Lake Itasca Tours

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Sandi V

  • Itasca State Park
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Itasca State Park Headwaters of the Mississippi

Minnesota’s Itasca State Park is an emblem of natural beauty and outdoor exploration, where the grand Mississippi River takes its first humble steps. Here, the Great River is little more than a creek where visitors can literally walk across its headwaters along a collection of stepping stones. And while this young incarnation of the Mississippi may be surprisingly modest, its home offers a grand tour of towering old-growth forests, scenic lakes, and no end of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Geography and Natural Features

Located in northern Minnesota, Itasca State Park stretches over 32,000 acres and encompasses more than 100 lakes. The park’s crown jewel, Lake Itasca, serves as the headwaters of the Mississippi River, a spot that has fascinated us for its symbolic significance in connecting this grand state to the wider world.

Even within the park’s borders, visitors can experience the intersection of three terrestrial biomes: coniferous forest, deciduous forest, and prairie. These varied environments play home to a diverse collection of flora and fauna that draw not only tourists but researchers at the Itasca Biological Station and Labs (IBSL). But you don’t need a degree in Biological Sciences to appreciate what the park has to offer. It’s there to discover however we want.

Brilliant green ferns.

Activities and Recreation

Itasca State Park offers activities and recreation opportunities for visitors of all types. Educational visitor centers, museums, hiking trails, biking trails, scenic roads, boat launches, and points of interest dot the park and can easily be combined for a day full of adventure. Well, many days, of adventure. We can’t do them all, but we can share some of the park’s highlights.

Woman riding a bike on a bridge over a reed lined river.

Scenic drives

Main park drive.

Main Park Drive roughly follows the eastern shoreline of Lake Itasca with brilliant views of the lake and the forest that surrounds it. As the main corridor through the park, connecting the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center and the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center, the road is also the main access point for most of the park’s resources, including picnic areas, campgrounds, lake access, trailheads, and other facilities.

Wilderness Drive and Bike Route

Wilderness Drive, is a scenic 10-mile single-lane, one-way paved road that offers glimpses of ancient forests and pristine lakes. Along with the views, the drive is interspersed with trailheads and other points of interest. While there is only one lane, it is reasonably wide and shared by motor vehicles and bikes. While we intend to ride this route, we wind up driving it, and you can learn more about it in Wilderness Drive .

Large tree at the end of a forested path.

With only a few roads in the park, much of Itasca is wilderness, only accessible by boat or by foot. As such, Itasca’s over 45 miles of hiking trails offer an exclusive experience of Northern Minnesota nature. Itasca’s rolling terrain makes for reasonably gentle hiking trails. Though, the 100 lakes can also mean marshy conditions in some sections and the flying menaces that come with it. Be sure to wear proper footwear, sun protection, and bug repellant.

Headwaters of the Mississippi Trail

The symbolic start of the mighty Mississippi River, the headwaters at Lake Itasca, offered a poignant moment of reflection – metaphorically and literally. On a calm day, the lake is a mirror, only broken when it spills over the rocky start of the Mississippi. Accessing the Headwaters is a .5 mile trail starting at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Visitor Center and concluding at the headwaters.

How one reaches that end (and returns) is a matter of personal choice. There are two hiking trails, one bike trail, and an aquatic option. The Mississippi is shallow enough that visitors can even wade back for part of the way (given appropriate weather conditions.)

Man standing on a rock next to a lake.

Aiton Fire Tower Trail

Catch an aerial view of Itasca from the Aiton Fire Tower. This 100-foot talk historic viewing platform offers panoramic views of the Itasca wilderness where lush forests blend with sparkling waters. Accessing it is a .5 mile hike along a wide dirt trail from the fire tower parking lot. We describe this hike in depth in Aiton Heights Fire Tower Trail

Man looking down from metal stairs at a forest canopy below.

Itasca State Park offers over 16 miles of paved bike trails, including the scenic Wilderness Drive . With a gently hilly terrain, the trails are accessible for most bikers. Even those without a bike can rent a manual or eBike from a retailer in the park.

We recommend the main bike trail to anyone and everyone interested in going for a ride. For those looking for more of an adventure, Wilderness Drive is a 10-mile commitment biking with vehicular traffic, plus 6-miles on the main bike trail to complete the loop. It’s not a hard ride, but it is a long one. We offer more details in Biking Itasca State Park .

Man on a bike pausing along a small river.

Water Recreation

Lake Itasca and surrounding waters provide endless fishing, boating, paddling, and swimming opportunities. The park includes several designated swimming areas, fishing piers, and boat launches for both trailers and carry-in. Experience the serene timelessness of the water’s clarity and the surrounding natural beauty.

Wildlife Viewing

The park’s diverse ecosystems support various wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and black bears. For your best odds at seeing wildlife, arrive early and escape the crowds by exploring more remote parts of the park such as hiking trails or distant lakefront.

Camping and Lodging

Itasca State Park offers a variety of lodging options, from drive-in campsites to hotel accommodations at the Douglas Lodge and Forest Inn. There are several cabins and campgrounds scattered across the park. But plan ahead. Weekends and holidays are sure the book up in advance.

Visitor Facilities and Services

The park offers well-maintained visitor centers, picnic areas, and other facilities. Most are located off the Main Park Drive.

Man parking a bike in a mountain bike next to the Lakeside Museum.

Our Experience

We roll into Itasca overwhelmed with options but with one clear objective: the Mississippi Headwaters. So, we start at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center and hike down to wade in the waters of the fledgling Mississippi. Once we get our feet wet, we are eager to see as much of the rest of the park as possible. That starts with a bicycle ride where we scout portions of the Wilderness Drive and main Bike Trail. Along the way we also pause to get some history of the park the Lakeside Museum.

Despite only getting a taste of the park, we were about ready to head out and head the siren call of Bemiji and a big blue Ox when Chris spotted a sign for a fire tower. A scenic overlook? What a perfect end to our visit! But it’s hardly the “end” when said fire tower is accessed at the end of Wilderness Drive. Not knowing better, we follow the road and only realize what we are getting ourselves into when the road narrows to a single lane. But we have no regrets after enjoying the scenery and points of interest along the drive, including Aiton Fire Tower.

It was half a day’s adventure, but oh, what an adventure. Itasca State Park, with its rich tapestry of landscapes and outdoor activities, has gotten under our skin. Whether exploring the headwaters of the Mississippi, biking through picturesque landscapes, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, at Itasca State Park, we have a feeling we’ll be back sooner than later.

Woman riding a bike on a bridge over a reed lined river.

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Woman holding the hand of Paul Bunyan next to Babe the Blue Ox in Bemidji, Minnesota.

Lexi GoForth

Lexi lives in a truck camper down by the river.

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Itasca State Park Adventure

Outdoor family adventure at the headwaters of the mississippi.

Looking for a family-friendly vacation? Introduce your family to the joy of outdoor adventure at the headwaters of the Mississippi River in Minnesota’s Itasca State Park. Spend adventurous days stepping across the headwaters of the Mississippi and canoeing on Lake Itasca. Climb the 100-foot fire tower, take a refreshing swim, and attend a MN DNR Ranger-led interpretive program. Itasca State Park is a kid-friendly vacation spot with a wealth of features and activities that will keep the whole family happy. Enjoy games and fun throughout the day, and wind down in the evening with s’mores around the campfire and night hikes under the stars.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: welcome to itasca state park set up camp and get to know your trip mates during a short hike..

Your trip starts in the early afternoon at the Elk Lake campsite in Itasca State Park. (Note: Some groups may camp at nearby Camp Courage North.) Learn how to set up camp, go over safety issues, and begin to explore the park. After dinner get to know your trip mates and make s'mores around the campfire.

Day 2: Cross the headwaters of the Mighty Mississippi followed by an afternoon paddle on Elk Lake.

After breakfast, drive to the outlet of Lake Itasca and step across the headwaters of the Mighty Mississippi. Spend some time at extensive visitor center of Minnesota's oldest state park. After lunch, learn about canoeing and go for a paddle on Elk Lake. Take a swim in the lake before dinner. In the evening, attend an entertaining State Park interpretive program on the early explorers.

Day 3: Spend the day paddling, fishing, or hiking through the pines.

Day three is filled with options. Pick between a day-long canoe trip from Elk Lake to Lake Itasca, tour historic Douglas Lodge, visit the 100-foot tall fire tower, spend time fishing, or take a hike through the pines. There are structured activities for the children throughout the day and evening.

Day 4: Enjoy a relaxing morning before breaking camp and saying farewell to your trip mates.

Spend the morning relaxing and enjoying your favorite camp activities. Take one last paddle, hike, or swim. After lunch, pack up for the trip home. Your trip officially ends around lunchtime. Those using WI's van transportation can expect to return to Minneapolis in the evening.

Dates & Fees

WI leads trips to Itasca State Park but currently has no dates scheduled for this itinerary. If you have a group of people interested, we can set up a customized adventure just for you! Please contact us or request a trip quote below if you are interested in a group trip to this destination.

What to Expect

TERRAIN/ROUTE CHOICES: Minnesota’s Itasca State Park is located in a classic Northwoods environment. Enjoy mature forests of old growth pine and birch surrounding clear, pristine lakes. Itasca State Park offers a wide range of day activity options that are perfect for family vacations. Hiking trails vary from very easy to moderately difficult.

TYPE OF TRAVEL/DISTANCE: An average day’s activities consist of hiking, canoeing and exploring the immediate area. You will travel in a 24-foot Voyageur canoe, which holds 6-9 paddlers and 1 boat captain. They are fast and stable boats, designed specifically for big water, and have enough space for young children to sit comfortably with an adult. Canoe outings are typically 1-3 hours long.

WEATHER: Temperatures in the summer range from 40° F to 95° F. Rainfall can vary and you should expect the possibility of rain.

YOUR GROUP: The group size ranges from 15 to 28 participants, plus 3 or more Wilderness Inquiry staff. Each group consists of people of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities, including people with disabilities. Itasca is a kid-friendly vacation that lends itself to quality family outdoor adventures. Our trips are cooperative in nature. WI staff will assist you in whatever areas you need, however, most people pitch in where they can.

ACCOMMODATIONS: At night you will sleep in a comfortable 4 person tent with 3-4 people (other arrangements can be made). The campsite has a hand pump for water, toilets, and a screened shelter building.

MEALS: Enjoy preparing meals together using fresh, healthy ingredients for bountiful dishes. Rise to the smell of freshly brewed coffee to enjoy with your breakfast and pack trail lunches with hearty snacks before heading off to explore. In the evening, we’ll prepare our dinner together over stoves and campfires and then finish with s’mores. If you have special dietary restrictions be sure to list them on your registration.

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING: Wilderness Inquiry will provide all group equipment. You will need to provide your personal gear as outlined in the packing list. If you are new to outdoor activities, you do not need to spend a lot of money. Wilderness Inquiry can usually arrange for you to borrow most items.

About the Area

Henry Schoolcraft, the first white explorer to recognize Lake Itasca as the head of the Mississippi, named the lake on his 1832 voyage of exploration guided by Anishinabe (Ojibway) people. Schoolcraft combined parts of two Latin words, veritas (truth) and caput (head), to form the name Itasca, meaning the true head of the Mississippi River.

Itasca State Park today includes over 100 lakes in addition to Lake Itasca. The park contains groves of towering old pines like Preachers Grove, a 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary (designated as a National Natural Landmark), and Native American burial mounds at the Itasca Indian Cemetery. The Bison Kill Site along Wilderness Drive in the park gives visitors more history about this period. Visitors can walk across the Mississippi River on stones as the stream leaves Lake Itasca.

In the late 1800s, Jacob V. Brower, historian, anthropologist and land surveyor, came to the park region to settle the dispute of the actual location of the Mississippi Headwaters. Brower saw this region being quickly transformed by logging, and resolved to protect some of the pine forests for future generations. Brower’s tireless efforts to save the remaining pine forest surrounding Lake Itasca led the state legislature to establish Itasca as Minnesota’s first state park on April 20, 1891, by a margin of only one vote. Through his conservation work and the continuing efforts of others throughout the decades, the splendor of Itasca has been maintained.

Like the rest of northern Minnesota, Itasca’s present landscape resulted from burial under and gouging by glacial ice for thousands of years. Unlike northeastern Minnesota, which lay covered in ice until about 10,000 years ago, Itasca lay under the Wadena Lobe in the last ice age. The Wadena Lobe retreated from the Itasca area about 20,000 years ago, giving it a longer human history and an independent natural and geographical history.

Itasca’s topography remains more subtle than that found to the east or south. In those areas, glaciers gouged out the massive basins that gave form to the Great Lakes, and left records of its melting in the high bluffs along the Mississippi. The lakes and rivers of Itasca State Park formed from ice masses left behind after the glaciers retreated, buried under glacial debris. As the climate changed and temperatures increased, the ice melted, leaving behind a watery chain of lakes, streams, and shallow basins. Many of these lakes and chains slowly dried up over the years, leaving swampy areas scattered throughout the park.

The land itself is a glacial moraine left during the last ice age. A moraine is a mound of sand, gravel and other debris left behind as a glacier melts and recedes. Itasca also has many mounds or ‘knobs,’ deposits of silt left by melting glaciers or by streams flowing under the glacier while it was still active.

Several different habitats mingle within this section of the boreal forest, including bogs, grasslands, hardwood stands, coniferous forest, and a mixed forest. Maples, firs, pines, aspen, and birch dominate the forest within the park. Wildlife includes beaver, woodchucks, snowshoe hares, squirrels (red, gray, and fox), chipmunks, pocket gopher, raccoon, black bear, coyote, red and gray fox, porcupine, bobcat, deer, wolves, and moose. An array of birdlife also inhabits the park, including common loons, bald eagles, wood warblers, hawks, and woodpeckers.

Itasca State Park offers a terrific kid-friendly family camping vacation. Fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding can all be found in Itasca. This destination will give you lasting memories.

For more information, visit these links:

  • Minnesota DNR - Official Itasca State Park Page
  • Bemidji Visitors and Convention Bureau Homepage
  • Mississippi Headwaters Board - About the River
  • Learn about the benefits of taking your children camping

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7 Things to do at Itasca State Park

Headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca State Park in Minnesota

If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of Itasca State Park in Minnesota, this is the perfect chance to do so. Itasca State Park, famous as being where the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River are located, is simply magical. In summertime, there are trails to bike and hike, a fire tower to climb, and acres of majestic pine forest. In mid-September, fall colors are starting to creep in, giving the park a magical autumn glow that simply needs to be seen in person.  By December, the snow will start to fly and we’ll be talking about snowshoeing and cross-country skiing through the park. The park and its visitor centers are open year-round.

‍ Book your getaway to our Resort Bed & Breakfast, and experience magic on the shores of Leech Lake .

Itasca is spectacular, any time of year!

People crossing the headwaters of the Mississippi River  in summertime.

Let us make your visit to Itasca extra special...

Scenic drive through the forest.

We're just a short, scenic 30 mile drive from Itasca State Park, and we have secure storage for your gear at the B&B.

Biking & hiking trail maps in the Leech Lake area.

We’ve got the bikes, maps and recommendations to help you make the most of the amazing trails.

A view of Leech Lake Resort B&B from the lake.

With the best rooms, rates, reviews, and a remarkable breakfast, you know it will be a great visit!

Seven Things to do in Itasca State Park Near Leech Lake, Minnesota

Nature area at Itasca State Park

Itasca State Park in Minnesota was first established in 1891. It’s actually Minnesota’s oldest state park. There are more than 100 lakes within Itasca State Park’s 32,000 acres, but it is most notable for its access to the headwaters of the Mississippi River.

Standing under the majestic, towering pines on these historic grounds is an experience unto itself. Beyond that, here are 7 of our favorite things to do in Itasca State Park:

  • Enjoy a cup of coffee in the historic Douglas Lodge. The lodge dates back to 1904 and is a beautiful place to sit back, relax, and soak up the history and views all around you.
  • Enjoy the wildlife .  Itasca State Park is home to a great variety of wildlife. This includes bird species like loons, grebes, cormorants, herons, ducks, owls, hummingbirds, woodpeckers, chickadees, nuthatches, kinglets, vireos, tanagers, finches, and warblers. Spend enough hours in the park, and you’re likely to see some deer, beaver, porcupine, black bears, and wolves as well.
  • Drive along Wilderness Drive . This scenic drive offers a great tour of the park. Admire the tall north woods trees, keep an eye out for wildlife, and appreciate this incredibly beautiful and untouched part of Minnesota.
  • Take a hike!  There are 49 miles of trails, many of which take you to some of the most scenic parts of the park. A great place to hike to is the old fire tower .  Climb to the top, and enjoy a spectacular birds-eye view of Itasca State Park (especially the vibrant colors in autumn). To get a sense for what northern Minnesota was like before logging drastically changed the landscape, hike the half-mile Bohall Trail. There are more giant pines along the Nicollet Trail.
  • Take a boat tour of Lake Itasca . As you travel along the lake, enjoy narration provided by local naturalists, who will point out local flora and fauna and recount the Native American and logging history of the area. Boat tours close for the season early in October, so don’t miss your opportunity this year!
  • Don’t miss your chance to stand at the Headwaters of the Mighty Mississippi . This is where this incredible river begins its 2,318-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. Feeling brave? You actually can walk across the river on top of rocks.
  • Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, and paddle out onto Lake Itasca on your own, soaking up the incredible beauty ringing the lake.

Best Lodging near Itasca State Park

Leech Lake Bed and Breakfast Resort is located near the town of Walker Minnesota, on the shores of beautiful Leech Lake. We’re approximately 45 minutes from Itasca State Park, but the perfect place to make your home base while you visit this exceptionally beautiful part of Minnesota. This private lakefront getaway is perfect for adventure, romance, and relaxation. No matter the time of year, you’ll find the Leech Lake Bed and Breakfast is the perfect getaway.

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Things to Do in Lake Itasca, MN - Lake Itasca Attractions

Things to do in lake itasca.

  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for Kids
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Hidden Gems
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Adventurous
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

lake itasca tours by owner

1. Itasca State Park

malloryw246

2. Mississippi Headwaters

Cassbella

3. Wilderness Drive

Redleg93

4. Lake Itasca

curtp933

5. Aiton Heights Fire Tower

meinoly

6. Preacher's Grove

Tayadog1

7. Peace Pipe Vista

LovingNewAdventures

8. Red Pine Trail

27kevink

9. Landmark Interpretive Trail

mplsmomof4

10. Bison Kill Site

GKKrishna

11. Large White Pine

TravelingSoccerLoon

12. Coborn's Lake Itasca Tours

897stephr

What travelers are saying

Sandi V

  • Itasca State Park
  • Mississippi Headwaters
  • Aiton Heights Fire Tower
  • Wilderness Drive
  • Lake Itasca
  • Preacher's Grove
  • Red Pine Trail
  • Landmark Interpretive Trail

Lake Itasca Tours Inc. (SOLD)

  • MNRS #1960397
  • Location: Lake Itasca

Cash flowing, seasonal, turn key operation ready for the 2019 summer season!

Have you always wanted to be called "Captain"? Now is your chance! The Chester Charles II located on Lake Itasca, the source of the mighty Mississippi river, is ready for new operators. Established in 1985, this Itasca State Park cruise boat takes pride in it's ride. Available for hourly public tours and private events, this is a boat you cannot miss!

lake itasca tours by owner

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Lake Itasca 

218-266-3660       [email protected]

Live Music Cruise w/Debbie Center

August 30, 2023 5pm - 7pm

  • 30 US dollars $30

Service Description

Join us as Debbie Center comes aboard the Chester Charles II and entertains us on the piano as you enjoy the beautiful scenery on Lake Itasca! Debbie puts on an amazing show! Feel free to bring your own food and beverages of choice on board.

Upcoming Sessions

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  1. Home

    Come relax aboard the "Chester Charles II" on beautiful Lake Itasca, the source of the mighty Mississippi River. The tour follows the same route taken by Ozawindib in 1832 when he guided Henry Rowe Schoolcraft to the Headwaters of the Mississippi River where they recorded the source of the greatest river in the United States as it begins its flow 2,552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico.

  2. Lake Itasca Tours Inc

    A 1 3/4 hr, 10 mi naturalist narrated history/ wildlife tour to the Mississippi Headwaters aboard the 141 Pax "Chester Charles II", on Lake Itasca. Located in Itasca State Park. Our tours provide a comprehensive overview of the history, wildlife and points of interest in Itasca State Park. Follow the same route Ozawindib took Schoolcraft in 1832. Our tour provides unique opportunities for ...

  3. Coborn's Lake Itasca Tours

    Parking is available right next to the pier. Tickets are sold 15 minutes before tour departure, and tour times vary depending on the season. During the summer tours are at 11 and 2, and on Sundays there is only one tour at 1:00. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for kids. Free for 3 and under.

  4. LAKE ITASCA TOURS

    The "Chester Charles II" is ready to take you on a tour from the Douglas Lodge Pier located at the Port of Douglas Lodge in Itasca State Park. There's lots of wildlife… bring your cameras! Drive or walk down from Douglas Lodge. Lakeside parking. Picnic lunches from Douglas Lodge available on all cruises (Order in advance at 218-699-7223)

  5. Coborns Lake Itasca Tours

    A 2 hr, 10 mi naturalist narrated tour to the Mississippi Headwaters aboard the 141 Pax "Chester Charles II", on Lake Itasca. Tours provide a comprehensive overview of the history, wildlife and points of interest in Itasca State Park. Follow the same route Ozawindib took Schoolcraft in 1832.

  6. THE BEST Lake Itasca Tours & Excursions

    1. Coborn's Lake Itasca Tours. 29. Sightseeing Tours. By T7776RNcraigh. We biked around the lake so a nice relaxing boat tour was good way to end our trip to Itasca. Top Lake Itasca Tours: See reviews and photos of tours in Lake Itasca, Minnesota on Tripadvisor.

  7. Lake Itasca

    Scenic Northern Minnesota Lake. Sep 2022. There are many ways to explore Lake Itasca. Kayaks and canoes can be rented. There is also a boat tour on the lake every day. There are numerous trails around the lake with my favorite being the Brower Trail. Also don't miss seeing the Headwaters of the Mississippi. Read more.

  8. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Lake Itasca (Updated 2024)

    Things to Do in Lake Itasca, Minnesota: See Tripadvisor's 1,237 traveller reviews and photos of Lake Itasca attractions. Skip to main content. Discover. Trips. ... Coborn's Lake Itasca Tours. 29. Sightseeing Tours. By Enfield1853. The tour was relaxing and well narrated. What travellers are saying. Sandi V.

  9. Itasca State Park

    Geography and Natural Features. Located in northern Minnesota, Itasca State Park stretches over 32,000 acres and encompasses more than 100 lakes. The park's crown jewel, Lake Itasca, serves as the headwaters of the Mississippi River, a spot that has fascinated us for its symbolic significance in connecting this grand state to the wider world.

  10. Itasca State Park

    Introduce your family to the joy of outdoor adventure at the headwaters of the Mississippi River in Minnesota's Itasca State Park. Spend adventurous days stepping across the headwaters of the Mississippi and canoeing on Lake Itasca. Climb the 100-foot fire tower, take a refreshing swim, and attend a MN DNR Ranger-led interpretive program.

  11. Itasca State Park

    Bike Trail. A 16-mile paved trail winds through Itasca State Park. Approximately six miles of this trail is an off-road, paved trail that extends from Douglas Lodge to the Headwaters area. From the Headwaters area, you may continue on the one-way Wilderness Drive Loop that is shared with automobiles. Take a break at one of the trailside benches ...

  12. 7 Things to do at Itasca State Park

    Beyond that, here are 7 of our favorite things to do in Itasca State Park: Enjoy a cup of coffee in the historic Douglas Lodge. The lodge dates back to 1904 and is a beautiful place to sit back, relax, and soak up the history and views all around you. Enjoy the wildlife. Itasca State Park is home to a great variety of wildlife.

  13. 23 Lake Itasca Cabin Rentals By Owner

    Find the best cabins in Lake Itasca - We found 23 exact matches. Pristine Log Cabin on 600' of Lake Shore. Secluded Lookout Cabin- Fishing, ATV Trails, Canoe, Kayak & Campfires. Cozy cabin getaway in northern Minnesota! Beds for 8. NEW! 2 NIGHT MINIMUM FOR FALL - after Labor Day until middle of October!

  14. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Lake Itasca

    Things to Do in Lake Itasca, Minnesota: See Tripadvisor's 1,237 traveler reviews and photos of Lake Itasca tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in April. ... There are many ways to explore Lake Itasca. Kayaks and canoes can be rented. There is also a boat tour on the lake every day. There are numerous trails around the ...

  15. Lake Itasca Tours Inc. (SOLD)

    Lake Itasca Tours Inc. (SOLD) Back To Listings MNRS #1960397. $275,000. Location: Lake Itasca. Cash flowing, seasonal, turn key operation ready for the 2019 summer season! ... Owner's Statement. Follow Us . Get Listing Updates . Sign up to receive email news on new and current resort listings. Member Of: Minnesota Office of Tourism;

  16. Itasca Adventures "Your 'Up North' Outdoor Rental Source"

    Lake George, MN. Itasca Adventures is your "Up North" Rental Source! We are family owned and operated small business located near the East Entrance of beautiful Itasca State Park in Northern Minnesota. Whether you need a rig for some extra sleeping space at the cabin, want to camp at Itasca or La Salle Rec Area, or you want to do a two week ...

  17. Lake Itasca Vacation Rentals

    You can find vacation rentals by owner (RBOs), and other popular Airbnb-style properties in Lake Itasca. Places to stay near Lake Itasca are 1102.97 ft² on average, with prices averaging $229 a night. RentByOwner makes it easy and safe to find and compare vacation rentals in Lake Itasca with prices often at a 30-40% discount versus the price ...

  18. Live Music Cruise w/Debbie Center

    Live Music Cruise w/Debbie Center | Lakeitasca. Join us as Debbie Center comes aboard the Chester Charles II and entertains us on the piano as you enjoy the beautiful scenery on Lake Itasca! Debbie puts on an amazing show! Feel free to bring your own food and beverages of choice on board.