Denali Backcountry Explorer

Named one of 2017’s top ten adventure lodges in Alaska by National Geographic, the remote Denali Backcountry Lodge offers a complete Denali Park vacation experience in surprising comfort. With hearty meals prepared in house on a daily basis, 42 individual and well-appointed cabins and expert natural guides leading daily activities that range from casaul to challenging, the Denali Backcountry Lodge in Kantishna is an overall stunning experience.

Denali Backcountry Lodge Review

AdventureSmith Explorations’ Denali Backcountry Lodge review includes a detailed description and photo gallery. Our adventure travel experts have firsthand knowledge about where to stay in Denali National Park, and can help compare the Denali Backcountry Lodge with other adventure lodging and Alaska land tours.

Choose the Denali Backcountry Lodge for its all-inclusive private cabins, stunning views, warm hospitality and unmatched adventures. Located at the historic settlement of Kantishna, the lodge is a perfect base for exploring the ruggedly wondrous backcountry of Denali National Park. Return each evening to fresh and seasonal cuisine, a cozy fire and a serene sense of wonder.

Getting to Denali Backcountry Lodge

Only the more adventurous visitors to Denali take one of the grandest drives on earth and stay inside the park. Winding through the Alaska Range, deep into the heart of the Denali park, the 95-mile Park Road offers opportunities to see Denali's famed wildlife: grizzlies, caribou, moose, Dall sheep, wolves, eagles and more. Should the weather be fair, get a glimpse of the towering Mt. Denali, the highest point in North America at 20,320 feet. At the very end of the Denali Park Road, past Wonder Lake, is the unique enclave in the park known as Kantishna, home to Denali Backcountry Lodge.

Amenities at Denali Backcountry Lodge

Downstairs in the spacious two-story Main Lodge is the dining room, while upstairs are comfortable sofas, chairs and a full-service bar. After-dinner talks on rotating topics about Denali National Park take place around the indoor and outdoor fireplaces. The Nest Spa & Wellness Center offers onsite therapists to help with relaxation, blending the art of massage with a celebration of the human spirit. The natural history library offers a diverse collection of books and videos. And astounding scenery, hikes and opportunities for self-guided and expert-guided explorations surround the lodge.

Activities at Denali Backcountry Lodge

Activities at Denali Backcountry Lodge include naturalist-led programs; guided and self-guided hikes that range from casual, moderate to challenging; botanical walks; gold panning; fly fishing; evening presentations; mountain biking; photo opportunities; and optional flightseeing tours. When Mt. Denali is visible in good weather, hike or take a shuttle to various spectacular viewing areas, where even novice photographers return with truly stunning shots.

Dining at Denali Backcountry Lodge

In the Main Lodge, chefs and hospitality staff serve delicious meals prepared in-house on a daily basis to include the freshest seasonal ingredients and flavors. Breakfast is buffet style with a variety of fresh fruits, cereals, baked pastries, hot eggs, bacon, sausages, French toasts or waffles, coffee and juices. Lunch is hearty buffet-style with a selection of house-made hot soups, sandwiches and fresh salads, topped off with tasty dessert and juices, or guests can pack a lunch for their day's explorations. In the evening, gourmet appetizers complement a daily recap led by naturalist guides. Dinners are fresh, hearty, wholesome and family style. All meals are made with fresh and seasonal cuisine. The full-service bar features draft and bottled beer, wine and cordials. Juices and sodas are available from the lounge cooler. Dietary considerations, special requests and celebrations can be arranged with advanced notice.

Accommodations at Denali Backcountry Lodge

42 individual, comfortably appointed cedar cabins onsite are heated and appointed with individual private baths, electricity and blackout curtains for a peaceful night's sleep. Each cabin features a king-size pillowtop bed or two full XL pillowtop beds.

Situated against the Alaskan Range in Denali National Park, Kantishna Roadhouse is located in a place of extraordinary beauty and rustic Alaskan-style adventure. Located 90 miles inside Denali National Park, the lodge features 32 full-service cabins set along a meandering creek. The beautiful log main lodge includes a dining area, a library resource room, a hand-crafted bar, a spacious lobby and even Smoky Joe's Saloon.

Wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities abound. Guided hikes leave each morning from the main lodge, mountain bikes are perfect for exploring old mining roads and fly-fishing in nearby Moose Creek is a favorite activity for beginners and experienced fishermen alike. Flightseeing trips can also be arranged. There are a variety of cultural programs at the lodge and guests can even try panning for gold. Kantishna Roadhouse has something for everyone—adventure travelers, wilderness enthusiasts, families or solitude seekers.

Kantishna Roadhouse Review

AdventureSmith Explorations’ Kantishna Roadhouse review includes a detailed description and photo gallery. Our adventure travel experts have firsthand knowledge about where to stay in Denali National Park, and can help compare the Kantishna Roadhouse with other adventure lodging and Alaska land tours.

Choose the Kantishna Roadhouse for its exceptional value and historic location in the Kantishna mining district, meaning you experience authentic Alaskan culture in addition to the natural wonders of Denali. Owned and operated by an Alaska native corporation, the Kantishna Roadhouse is our preferred lodge inside Denali National Park and it receives good reviews from our travelers.

Kantisha Roadhouse History

The Kantishna Roadhouse lies deep in the heart of Alaska’s pristine wilderness of Denali National Park and dates back to 1918. The property has evolved over time, with stints as a private residence, community center, post office, gold miner's tent camp and informal hotel. Steeped in history and local flair, guests can still see the old log structure and other remnants of the past throughout the property. Many nights were spent spinning tales of the trail over a hot cup of coffee and a hearty meal. Today, guests still can enjoy sharing tales of Alaskan adventure over coffee and hearty meals. 

Common Areas at Kantishna Roadhouse

The Kantishna Roadhouse main building serves as the central social and meeting area for guests. The beautiful log Roadhouse building is the hub of activities, meals and general relaxation. Sit inside a huge lobby in front of a crackling fire, the front desk, gift shop, activities desk, library, dining rooms and saloon. 

Due to the remote location, there is no radio, television, cell phone service or internet access at the Roadhouse. A satellite pay-phone is available on the property for outgoing calls. Electricity is produced on-site by a 100kw diesel generator, making electricity a precious commodity that must be carefully conserved. As such, electrical appliances such as hair dryers, coffee pots, irons and electric alarm clocks are not provided in the rooms. Battery operated alarm clocks are available at the front desk.

Located upstairs from the Lobby, the Roadhouse Library contains a huge collection of Alaskan books, DVDs, puzzles and games. This area also hosts the afternoon and evening naturalist activities when held indoors. A beautiful second-story screen porch is accessed through the Library. This area boasts large comfortable chairs and seating; a perfect place to relax with friends or a good book and listen to the soothing sounds of Moose Creek just below.

Dining at Kantishna Roadhouse

The main Roadhouse contains two dining rooms with fireplaces in each. The smaller dining area is used for breakfast and lunch and the larger, more formal dining room, for dinner. Large windows provide lovely views of Moose Creek and occasionally, wildlife will wander by—causing quite a stir in the dining room. Meals are a great part of the experience. After a long day of hiking, biking, fishing and fun in Denali National Park, there is nothing better than a fine family-style dinner to bring people closer together.

All Roadhouse meals are prepared with the freshest ingredients possible; in fact, some veggies are grown in the backyard Alaskan-sized greenhouse. Breads and other scrumptious treats are baked fresh daily and the kitchen often features wild salmon, halibut and cod from Alaskan waters. The Roadhouse features complete breakfasts, lunches and dinners. With advance notice, the kitchen staff can accommodate most specialty diets. For guests going on day hikes, the kitchen prepares sack lunches for the trail. A beverage station with coffee and tea is open throughout the day and evening.

To compliment a meal, the Kantishna Roadhouse has the only full-service saloon in the Denali Park backcountry. The Roadhouse Saloon serves a great selection of complimentary fine wines and Alaskan beers, as well as all traditional spirits and libations for purchase. The bar itself and much of the shelving are handmade from Hawaiian koa and Alaskan birch—a striking and beautiful combination and conversation piece that contributes to the comfortable atmosphere. Social hour happens in the Saloon each evening and a guide is in attendance to answer questions about activities and programs for the following day.

Activities at the Kantishna Roadhouse

Kantishna Roadhouse features an abundance of included guided activities to explore the wonders of Denali's wilderness. An activity desk in the main lodge is staffed by naturalist guides and contains maps, schedules and descriptions of the guided hikes and activities available daily. Each evening, meet with a guide to plan activities for the following day. Guides can also assist in planning your own, independent activities. And onsite the lawn offers various games, including volleyball.

Wildlife Viewing (When Arriving/Departing by Small Aircraft)

During your travel to and from the Kantishna Roadhouse you will have excellent opportunities to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The experienced pilots are expert wildlife spotters and will let you know when an animal or view of Denali comes into range. Binoculars and cameras will be put to great use as you enjoy the amazing landscapes and animals of Denali. The flight is 35-55 minutes, depending on weather and the ability to fly along the Alaska Range and Mt. Denali.

Wildlife Viewing (When Arriving/Departing by Bus)

During your travel to and from the Kantishna Roadhouse you will have excellent opportunities to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The height of the bus and its large sliding windows provide the perfect viewing platform as you meander through the Park. Very experienced Driver/Guides are expert wildlife spotters and will stop the bus whenever an animal or view of Denali comes into range. Binoculars and cameras will be put to great use as you enjoy the amazing landscapes and animals of Denali.

Hiking

Guided hiking is the premier activity at the Roadhouse. Join daily walking and hiking excursions, either directly from the Roadhouse or a nearby trailhead. Guided hikes leave the Roadhouse each morning—you can choose a 2-hour walk or take a bag lunch and hike for up to 6 hours. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced trekker, the Roadhouse offers an opportunity for you to explore the Park on foot and learn about the wildlife and flora of the Kantishna Hills from an experienced naturalist guide.

Mountain Biking & E-Biking

If mountain biking or electric biking is a favorite outdoor activity, then spend some time exploring the countryside by mountain bike. Pedal to Wonder Lake or investigate the old mining roads in the area, via a standard bike or e-bike. Ask a guide to assist with bike and helmet selection. Daypacks and water bottles are also available.

Fly Fishing

Moose Creek flows through the property and arctic grayling (a member of the trout family) are abundant in its crystal clear waters; so whether you’ve always wanted to try your hand at fly fishing or you’re an experienced fishing enthusiast, this is the activity for you. Hip boots and both fly and spinning rods are available for guest use and your first lure or fly is complimentary. A selection of tackle is available for purchase at the front desk and fishing licenses are not required in the park. A solitary morning or evening spent casting in the ripples is a unique and wonderful way to connect with nature. Practice catch and release fishing at the Roadhouse.

Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

At nearby Wonder Lake, grab a paddle and hit the water in a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy one of the park's largest bodies of water (2.5 miles long and 0.5 miles wide). A short bike ride or 10-minute shuttle ride bring guests to and from this not-to-be-missed lake. Roughly 30% of guests see Mt. Denali from the water when the weather is fair.

Gold Panning

The Kantishna district was the sight of a gold rush in the early 1900s. Every afternoon provides a chance to slip on a pair of rubber boots, grab a pan and head for Moose Creek with a guide to learn the history and methods of the old-time prospectors and try your hand at panning for a little "color." Any gold you find is yours to keep and onsite staff are happy to create a complimentary “Gold Card” for you at the front desk—your gold flakes will shimmer and shine when they are laminated onto the black card. Kids of all ages—9 to 90—thoroughly enjoy this activity and are astounded to learn about the legendary lives and times of the early prospectors.

Fannie Quigley Cabin Tour

Within a short hike or shuttle ride from Kantishna Roadhouse lies the cabin of Fannie Quigley, a frontierswoman who stood out among her fellow miners. Enjoy a guided tour of Fannie's cabin and hear tales of her efforts to survive in the backcountry and find gold.

Nightly Lectures

Each evening, relax in a cozy setting as the naturalist guides provide a lecture from a variety of possible topics. Through these nightly lectures, learn fascinating details about native Alaskan culture, Kantishna, Denali and its surrounding wilds.

Accommodations at Kantishna Roadhouse

The guest cabins at Kantishna Roadhouse are the epitome of Alaskan charm and style. They are delightfully scenic, quiet and cozy. Built from Alaskan White spruce logs, these cabins are cozy and comfortable – each furnished with two beds, either full-size or queen-size. Down comforters and quilts will keep you warm and cozy on chilly Alaskan summer nights. All cabins are part of a duplex or four-plex, and each cabin has its own private bathroom and scenic front porch. All cabins are just minutes away from the Roadhouse main lodge, dining room and saloon.

For guests with special mobility needs, Kantishna Roadhouse has two fully accessible cabins outfitted with ramps for easy entry. One of these cabins has a king-size bed and the other features a queen-size bed plus a twin. Both feature accessible showers and a larger floor plan than the other cabins to make them easy to navigate for guests traveling with a wheelchair or scooter. These cabins are located very near to the main lodge building and are a good choice for guests with limited mobility.

The Denali cabins sit 8 miles south of the Denali National Park entrance, on a quiet property tucked just off the Parks Highway. Arrive by car, bus or the Alaska Railroad and settle into a classic Alaskan property with rustic charm.

Complimentary shuttles regularly stop at the bus depot, rail depot/visitor center and the Denali boardwalk. Return each evening to a warm fire, onsite hot tubs, a friendly pub featuring a menu of comfort foods, and your cozy private Denali cabin for some respite between outdoor explorations.

Amenities & Activities

The Denali Cabins property offers two outdoor hot tubs, open daily from 4:00pm to 10:00pm. Souvenirs are available from the onsite gift shop. From the Denali Cabins, adventure is at your doorstep, with easy access to explorations that Denali National Park and the surrounding area is known for: hiking, biking, historical tours, jet boat tours, dog sledding, whitewater rafting, flightseeing, ziplining, panning for gold, visiting Wonder Lake and wildlife tours.

Dining

Receive a warm welcome at the onsite Prey Pub & Eatery. This charming and rustic restaurant and bar offers breakfast, (pre-ordered) boxed lunches and hearty dinners, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Breakfast is made to order with options such as pancakes, local meats, eggs, avocado toast, granola and yogurt.

For dinner, enjoy an Alaskan twist on dishes including mac n' cheese, fish n' chips, burgers, soups, salads and sandwiches. Then sit by the stone fireplace and make new friends over a cold Alaskan beer, glass of wine or specialty cocktail. Also at Denali Cabins is the Mount Hunter Coffee Co, offering healthy grab-and-go snacks, light meals, tea and coffee drinks.

Accommodations

The Denali Cabins property offers 46 private cedar cabins with options for two, four and six guests, as well as accessible cabins. Each cabin is equipped with heat, a private bathroom with shower, one or more extra-long full-sized beds (or one king-sized bed for accessible cabins), blackout curtains, complimentary WiFi, telephone and a TV.

Set on the shore of Lake Spenard, The Lakefront Anchorage offers modern décor accented with classical hints of Alaska. Nearby is Lake Hood, the largest and busiest base for seaplanes on the planet with roughly 250 floatplanes arriving and departing daily.

Amenities at The Lakefront Anchorage

With a free 24-hour shuttle from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport just a mile away, and downtown Anchorage four miles out, The Lakefront Anchorage ensures convenience at every level. Additional features like the Ask Alfred Children Program and daily flightseeing and fishing pickups from the hotel dock add to its upscale amenities.

Dining at The Lakefront Anchorage

The onsite Flying Machine Restaurant and Fancy Moose Lounge enhances this Last Frontier experience with delicious meals, rich wood and wildlife trophies. Classic American fare with an Alaskan twist is served, with options like a bison burger or jumbo king crab legs.

Dining is accompanied by the unique experience of viewing the floatplanes coming and going off the hotel’s dock every day, as well as the serenity of Lake Spenard with the majestic Chugach Mountains behind. Step outside the restaurant and lounge to enjoy a front row seat to the floatplane action on the Deck at Lake Hood.

Accommodations at The Lakefront Anchorage

Every clean and modern room features a high-end Alaskan lodge feel with natural earth tones and classic wood accents. A private bathroom with tub, plus smart TV, WiFi, coffee- and tea-making facilities and in-room safe are available in every room.

Deluxe Room / Deluxe Lake View Room

A thoughtfully furnished 350-square-foot room available with either one king bed or two queen beds. Lake View rooms offer stunning views of Lake Spenard.

ADA Deluxe Room (Bath or Roll-In Shower)

A 350-square-foot room with modern ADA features to accommodate guests with accessibility needs. This room features an oversized bedroom and specialized bathroom facilities, plus a separate living area. Available with two queen beds.

Anchorage Suite / Mt. McKinley Suite

A 740-square-foot room featuring separate living and dining areas, refrigerator, gas fireplace and lakeside views. Available with one king bed and couch or two queen beds.

ADA St. Elias Suite

A 740-square-foot, spacious room with modern ADA features, such as an oversized bedroom and specialized bathroom facilities. This room features separate living and dining areas, refrigerator, gas fireplace and lakeside view. Available with one king bed and couch.

Set on the shore of Lake Spenard, The Lakefront Anchorage offers modern décor accented with classical hints of Alaska. Nearby is Lake Hood, the largest and busiest base for seaplanes on the planet with roughly 250 floatplanes arriving and departing daily.

Amenities at The Lakefront Anchorage

With a free 24-hour shuttle from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport just a mile away, and downtown Anchorage four miles out, The Lakefront Anchorage ensures convenience at every level. Additional features like the Ask Alfred Children Program and daily flightseeing and fishing pickups from the hotel dock add to its upscale amenities.

Dining at The Lakefront Anchorage

The onsite Flying Machine Restaurant and Fancy Moose Lounge enhances this Last Frontier experience with delicious meals, rich wood and wildlife trophies. Classic American fare with an Alaskan twist is served, with options like a bison burger or jumbo king crab legs.

Dining is accompanied by the unique experience of viewing the floatplanes coming and going off the hotel’s dock every day, as well as the serenity of Lake Spenard with the majestic Chugach Mountains behind. Step outside the restaurant and lounge to enjoy a front row seat to the floatplane action on the Deck at Lake Hood.

Accommodations at The Lakefront Anchorage

Every clean and modern room features a high-end Alaskan lodge feel with natural earth tones and classic wood accents. A private bathroom with tub, plus smart TV, WiFi, coffee- and tea-making facilities and in-room safe are available in every room.

Deluxe Room / Deluxe Lake View Room

A thoughtfully furnished 350-square-foot room available with either one king bed or two queen beds. Lake View rooms offer stunning views of Lake Spenard.

ADA Deluxe Room (Bath or Roll-In Shower)

A 350-square-foot room with modern ADA features to accommodate guests with accessibility needs. This room features an oversized bedroom and specialized bathroom facilities, plus a separate living area. Available with two queen beds.

Anchorage Suite / Mt. McKinley Suite

A 740-square-foot room featuring separate living and dining areas, refrigerator, gas fireplace and lakeside views. Available with one king bed and couch or two queen beds.

ADA St. Elias Suite

A 740-square-foot, spacious room with modern ADA features, such as an oversized bedroom and specialized bathroom facilities. This room features separate living and dining areas, refrigerator, gas fireplace and lakeside view. Available with one king bed and couch.

Beautifully renovated in 2019, this downtown Anchorage hotel is a convenient 10-minute drive from Ted Stevens International Airport and within walking distance of the Alaska Railroad Depot and Anchorage Convention District. The hotel features mountain views, an on-site restaurant and bar and a modern fitness center with indoor pool and steam room. Enjoy a comfortable stay in a stylish guest room featuring thoughtful amenities at one of Alaska's longest standing hotels. Get the best views of the city from the tallest hotel in Anchorage, plus views of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains with the waterfront just a short walk away.

Common Areas at Hilton Downtown Anchorage

The lobby of the Hilton Downtown Anchorage features an extensive collection of Alaskan art and is also offered as part of a short walking tour, if time allows. Take advantage of the 24-hour business center and free WiFi in all public areas. Stay active with an energizing workout in the fitness center or refreshing swim in the indoor pool before unwinding in the steam room. The fitness center, also recently renovated, includes free weights, Precor fitness machines, steam rooms and a sauna.

Dining at Hilton Downtown Anchorage

The Hooper Bay Cafe, in-house restaurant at the Hilton Downtown Anchorage, serves authentic Alaskan and American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dine in this inviting and casual dining area for the breakfast buffet, and ask for Alaska crab or salmon to be added to your omelette. The hotel also features Bruin's Bar, an open-air, nonsmoking lounge where you can unwind and catch the news or the latest sports games and highlights. Take a seat at this welcoming hotel bar and sample an Alaska microbrew or specialty cocktail. For a pick-me-up look no further than the Kaladi Brothers Coffee kiosk; an Alaska owned and operated coffee company.

Nearby Attractions to Hilton Downtown Anchorage

Located in the heart of downtown Anchorage, the hotel is a quick 10-minute ride from the airport and a short walk to the Alaska Railroad Depot for your departure or arrival from Denali National Park. Within three blocks are the Egan and Dena'ina convention centers, 5th Avenue Mall, Anchorage Market and the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. From the Hilton Downtown Anchorage explore popular attractions like the Alaska Museum of History and Art, the Ulu Factory, as well as other city shopping, restaurants and bars.

Accommodations at Hilton Downtown Anchorage

Wake up to the spectacular views from rooms designed to make you feel at home. The 600 rooms at the Hilton Downtown Anchorage are spacious and newly renovated with pillow top beds, granite counter tops and tables, and elegant bathrooms. Rooms offer WiFi, flat-screen TVs with cable channels and other added amenities like an alarm clock, MP3 docking station, coffee maker and designer bath products. Rooms offer views of the Chugach Mountain Range, Cook Inlet or city of Anchorage.