This one’s not for weekend warriors. Located 140 miles southeast of Fairbanks, in the middle of the Alaska Range, the three-year-old Lodge at Black Rapids is perfectly situated for long cross-country and backcountry ski expeditions. Built on a bluff overlooking the ruins of a gold-rush roadhouse, the timber-frame lodge has six rooms plus hostel-like accommodations on the ground floor. But that’s not why you come. This season, owners Mike and Annie Hopper opened three miles of rugged, hand-cut cross-country ski trails, which lead to towering waterfalls, offer views of the mighty Hayes Range, and connect to a local 5K track. But if you’re more of a fat-ski person, you’ll definitely want to bring your powder boards and avy gear. Mike lets experienced guests tag along on his forays up drainages and down steep chutes. After dark, meals like local halibut, salmon, and bison are served family style, and guests gather in the enclosed top-floor deck to watch the northern lights. Doubles from $145.
The Lodge at Black Rapids Photographer: Courtesy of The Lodge at Black Rapids
Comments
What an amazing place! Going to Alaska soon!
Flag ThisI highly recommend this beautiful lodge. Besides all the scenery, great food, beautiful rooms with awesome beds, you might also get to hear Annie play music. The hardest part of going there is that eventually you do have to leave.
Flag ThisI have stayed at the Lodge last September. Spectacular. Modern. Comfort. Tasteful. Delicious. The serenity and snow conditions should make this a special winter destination. I can not wait to return.
Flag ThisWell, Outside got one part wrong -- Black Rapids Lodge is definitely for the weekend warrior -- if you live in Fairbanks! I go there often, sometimes even for the day. Like the article says, the food and companionship are unsurpassed. Mike and Annie will make you feel at home, and the skiing and hiking are fantastic. This is a mostly undiscovered treasure!
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