Located in the heart of the Eastern Alaskan Range The Lodge at Black Rapids offers luxury with an Alaskan flare. Built at the site of a historic roadhouse, the lodge is enveloped in rich history and culture while also serving as the basecamp for epic adventures. Catered to your interest, each day will showcase the unique qualities of a remarkably untouched region. Fly over the Eastern Alaska Range, visit an Iditarod dog kennel, and spend the day on Black Rapids Lake canoeing, fishing, or kayaking. Each evening enjoy gourmet meals and a glass of champagne as you watch the sunset over the mountains.
Your Alaskan adventure begins today as you touch down in Fairbanks, gateway to the Arctic. Get familiar with the city during an orientation provided by your private driver/guide. Your hotel will be located along the Chena River and dinner along it’s banks at one of Fairbank’s many delicious restaurants is recommended.
Overnight in Fairbanks.
Your host will meet you at your hotel this morning and you will embark on a visual tour with commentary about the region from your driver as you make your way to The Lodge at Black Rapids. Take a step back in time as you follow the same trail as Gold Rush pioneers. Stops will be made along your route at historic roadhouses and local attractions, giving you the local’s tour of the region. Your drive will give way to the beautiful “Adventure Corridor”, frequently visited by herds of caribou and moose. After you arrive at the lodge, you will be greeted with a glass of champagne and there will be time to get acquainted with the staff and grounds before dinner.
Overnight at The Lodge at Black Rapids the next three nights.
The Lodge at Black Rapids offers classic Alaskan adventures but at a 5-star level. Each day’s activities will be tailored to your interests, the weather and your energy level. You may take off in a private bush plane to Mt. Hayes, queen of the Eastern Alaska Range offering views of landscapses of unimaginable scale. Or you might want to dive into the geology of the region with a hike to Cantwell Glacier followed by warming up in the glow of an Arctic Oven and a delicious gourmet lunch.
The Lodge at Black Rapids boasts an extensive trail system and guests can set out with a wildlife expert and learn all about the identities, behaviors and habitats of the smaller inhabitants of this harsh landscape. In the evening, travel to Black Rapids Lake for sunset kayaking and canoeing, or simply roast marshmallows over an open fire.
Your adventures each day will be intertwined with the luxuriousness of the amenities available to you at the lodge. After a day’s adventure you may choose to take a dip in the wood-fired hot tub to watch the sunset or sit in the timber lined sauna. Daily massages are also included with your stay to get you ready for the next day’s explorations. Meals at the lodge feature fresh seafood and local produce giving you a taste of Alaska with a gourmet touch. If you are out of the lodge for the day, you can expect a flavorful picnic packed for you to enjoy alongside a glacier, on a ridgetop, or perhaps at a historic cabin.
No activities are planned this morning and you are welcome to take the time for self-discovery. Finish up a book around the fireplace or explore one of the nearby nature trails.
One last lunch will be served at the lodge before you depart for your return to Fairbanks. This ‘backroads’ journey will take you to an active dog kennel for a meet and greet, and into the agricultural areas of Delta Junction. Visit the local flour company and meat and sausage factory, it will surprise you to learn what unique products are made in Alaska. Arrive back in Fairbanks in time to meet your departing flight or continue on to a new Alaskan adventure.
The timber-frame lodge was built through the grace and ingenuity of many good friends and family members. The property features panoramic views and two stone fireplaces, perfect for enjoying the magnificent surroundings from the comfort of the indoors. The unique, hand-welded staircase features several Alaskan scenes and provides access to the upper-level belvedere. Surrounded by stain-glass panels and windows, the library is a cozy place to rest, relax, or even take in the late-night auroras.
The Lodge at Black Rapids offers a menu of wellness opportunities. Conclude your daily adventures with a private in-room massage, or enjoy other relaxation amenities such as the wood-fired hot tub and a timber-framed sauna on site.
Guest Rooms
The Lodge at Black Rapids features six guest rooms, all with deluxe private baths you wouldn’t expect to find in this remote place. There are also two other guest rooms on the lower level that together share a full bathroom and living area.
The Lodge at Black Rapids is accessible by lodge vehicle from Fairbanks (about 3-hours). The lodge can also be reached by a chartered bush plane, although it is recommended you travel to the lodge by vehicle to get the full sightseeing experience.
Delicious homestyle meals are included during your stay at the lodge and no two meals will be the same. Head chef Helene Mclean oversees each meal to ensure they are healthy and flavorful. The Lodge uses fresh local produce in season, Alaskan seafood, and local meats to keep your taste buds happy throughout your stay. If you are setting out into the wilderness you can expect a fully catered lunch during your adventure, keeping you energized and warm.
Summer activities at the lodge will be tailored to your party and to the weather conditions. You can enjoy a visit to a dog kennel, visiting glacier caves with a gourmet lunch, photography, flightseeing across the Alaska Range, and extensive hiking opportunities.
In the evening canoeing, fishing, and kayaking are available on nearby Black Rapids Lake, with an open fire for warmth and s’mores.
For those interested in a bit of learning The Lodge at Black Rapids is located at the site of a historic roadhouse and along Alaska’s oldest highway providing a fantastic base to learn about the history of Alaska. Or you may follow the tracks of Alaska’s smaller wildlife with a university wildlife expert. In the evening presentations by professors on the nearby geologic forces make way for in-depth conversation.
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