Kab to Kettle Falls

[Guest]

Hey guys coming up to Kab in a little more then a week, been there only once and was to chicken to visit Namakan because I was just getting used to the rocks on Kab etc...This time would like to daytrip over to Kettle Falls with the kids (we will be staying at a resort by the State Campground on Kab), a few questions: How far is it from the campground area to Kettle Falls? How long in time, I am not in any hurry but how long does it take most? How much gas if I keep the rpm's down (have a 120hp force), do I need to bring an extra gas tank? Anything noteworthy to check out in route? I would like to do some fishing to and fro as well. Also I am assuming there is gas at Kettle Falls? Sorry so long winded, just want some advice from the experienced, when you are used to fishing sand/basin lakes Kab is a totally different animal.

[JAK]

It is aproximatly 21-22 miles one way from the State Campground. It is a neat ride and worth the trip.

The amount of gas depends on how fast and what kind of milage you get with your rig. If you run that 120 at 2/3 throttle, I would think that you should get at least 3 mpg. That would mean 7 gallons each way. Of course if you are heavy and only get 2mpg .....you can do the math. (my best guess would be that you would go through about 6 gallons-but better to have too much, than not enough) Yes they have gas at Kettle Falls.

Sweetnose island has a pair of eagles nesting and the young one is still there. There is almost always one of the adults there also.

The Ash river Visitors center is worth a look if you have time. It is a neat old log cabin/lodge that is very much like it was when it was built in the 20's (Ithink)

Also, you can walk around at kettle falls and look at the dam. You can also ask staff anf then walk upstairs to see some of the neat rooms.

It seems like a very easy trip after you have done it a few times. Just make sure you have a map and pay attention to the markers and your location on the map. If you are at all good with directions and map reading, this will be a piece of cake.

If you have not been to Ellsworth Rock Garden, it is also worth seeing!

[Guest]

The route is well marked with red and green marker bouys and its best to travel these routes when at cruising speed.

A spot the kids may enjoy is Mica Island, there are two old mica mines (pits) there. Mica was used as a heat resistant sustitute for glass in doors of old parlor stoves and as an early electrical insulator. It's right on the channel to Kettle falls, get park map at Ash River Visitor center. You will see old barge tie up as you approach the Island, the mines are straight up the enbankment with mica scattered all the way up.

When on the Canadian side be careful, rocks are not well marked.