coborn's lake itasca tours

The Chester Charles II was a fine boat to see the sites of Lake Itasca. We had a Naturalist Narrated History/Wildlife tour, and were able to see many loons and a nesting bald eagle. Bring along your sweater or sweatshirt--it can be a cool ride!

Itasca State Park is a great spot and cruising the lake is a wonderful way to see the park from a different perspective (vs hiking or biking). Coborn's offer several different cruises on their neat old riverboat - from natural history to music & nibbles to Supper cruises. Be clear on what you want. If you want to find out about the area - go for the daytime Naturalist History cruises. We did the "show boat" cruise thinking we would get some narration about the park/lake as well as the music. Nada. While we enjoyed the cruise - seeing the loons and the scenery - and the music, we would not recommend the show boat cruise as the nibbles were not that good and the beer/wine selection was very limited (we did not find any beer or wine that we enjoyed) and expensive. The crew are friendly and helpful, the boat is comfortable, and neither parking or bugs were a problem. We agree that the top deck offers the best views.

This was a relaxing and informative afternoon. We got good information on the history of Lake Itasca and they went out of their way to get us near the Bald Eagles and Loons. Friendly and very knowledgeable. Well worth the trip.

It was very nice and relaxing. Even the kids had fun watching for the birds (The Loon's were everywhere). It's informative as well so it was good to do before heading the headwaters and other trails.

Very enjoyable and informative 2 hour tour of Lake Itasca. The covered excursion boat leaves from the pier near Douglas Lodge. 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. If you pick up a small coupon book at the visitor center in Park Rapids (on your way to the park if coming from the south) there is a coupon for $2 off this tour. Pick up enough booklets for everyone in your party - each person needs a coupon for the discount. A snack bar is on board; you are not allowed to bring your own food. The boat traverses Lake Itasca all the way to the Headwaters and back. The onboard naturalist gives you a history of the area and points of interest. Pick a seat on the top deck for the best views. It was a very enjoyable an relaxing tour.