Denali National Park

Designed as a casual country inn, North Face Lodge is situated on five acres of land homesteaded in the 1950s. The original log cabin remains on the property which boasts fine views of Mount McKinley’s crest and other peaks of the Alaska Range. The small lodge was developed in the mid-70s.  When the park was expanded in 1980, the Cole family, who owned Camp Denali just a mile away, became concerned about unbridled development in the new wilderness core of Denali National Park.  Protecting their investment and the integrity of surrounding park land, they purchased and extensively renovated North Face Lodge in the mid-80s. The Coles’ son-in-law and daughter, Simon and Jenna Hamm, who have assumed the reins of North Face Lodge and Camp Denali, are now writing the next chapter in the family’s legacy of learning adventures, camaraderie, and stewardship.

While its view of Mount McKinley is less spectacular (it’s lower in elevation than Camp Denali), North Face Lodge shares the same commitment to in-depth learning experiences and living lightly on the land. It is purposefully small.  About 36 guests enjoy its camaraderie and multi-day stays that feature natural and cultural history education through naturalist-guided hikes, field trips and evening programs.

Guest rooms are small and well-appointed with private baths and central heating.  Down duvets with coverlets and curtains, handcrafted by staff, and complemented by carefully selected work of Alaskan artists, demonstrate an abiding attention to detail that is notable throughout the facility.  Connected by a covered porch to a spacious patio, living room and dining room areas of the rambling structure, North Face Lodge is most fitting for those who may walk with less confidence over uneven ground or need/want the convenience of a private bath instead of Camp Denali’s private paths. 

Good food, artfully prepared with quality ingredients is fundamental to the North Face Lodge experience.  Despite challenging logistics, fresh halibut, antibiotic-free meats, and locally grown, organic produce, including that raised in an on-site greenhouse, contribute to the lodge’s artisan cuisine.