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Talkeetna’s always been a favorite retreat for locals (short drive, lots of activities, great McKinley views, charming town). But it wasn’t until the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge came along that we could enjoy Talkeetna in luxury. This is now one of Alaska’s best vacation destinations, also great for families with kids. You can experience an Alaska pioneer town while staying in an elegant hotel with indoor and outdoor dining, world-class architecture, a front lawn view to die for, and even its own secluded hiking trails.
At the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, it's all about the view. Built atop a high bluff, the lodge overlooks the Susitna River Valley and surveys the entire Alaska Range, with Mt. McKinley right in the middle. On a clear day, all of the common rooms (and 72 of the guest rooms) offer this same stunning panorama of river valleys and rugged peaks.
On sunny summer evenings, linger on the front porch for hours, staring at the impressive Alaska Range which spans the horizon above the lodge’s sprawling front lawn. At the same time, enjoy top-notch cuisine from the lodge's renowned chef, paired with a selection from the award-winning wine list.
The Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge tastefully blends upscale elegance with an authentic Alaskan twist, incorporating local materials. The interior of the main lodge was made from Kenai Peninsula timber, the staircase railing used Mat-Su Valley white spruce, and the centerpiece of the grand lobby, a 56-foot-high stone fireplace, was built from rocks gathered from the bed of Matanuska River.
With seven buildings spread over 35 acres, all located high above the Sustina River Valley, the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge offers a wilderness feel just a few minutes from town.
Most visitors spend one night here en route to Denali (in part because of the high room rates). Consider unwinding here for two nights—and sampling the many fun Talkeetna day tours.
Insider’s Tip: If the lodge is sold out, ask for a mountainside room. They can almost always get you in.
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