JD:
Ella Lake was not part of the tour. The tour was to Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords) and was probably the same as the one you were on. This plane was exiting the area and heading back to Ketchikan after the tour was complete. the passage over Ella Lake is one route that can be taken. The topgraphy in the Ella Lake area is quite different from that in Rudyerd bay in that it is not the typical "U" shaped valley. Still rugged though.
And, your point?