Maclaren Lodge, located between the Parks and Richardson Highways, is a hidden gem near the base of the Maclaren Glacier. Situated on the historic Denali Highway, which was once the original route into Denali Park, this lodge offers an exceptional Alaskan experience. The highway is the state's second-highest pass, providing stunning high alpine scenery.
Travelers approaching from Paxson will find the lodge a short 42 miles away, with the first 20 miles on a paved road. From the Parks Highway, it is a 92-mile journey with only the first three miles paved. During winter, the Denali Highway closes to through traffic, and access to the lodge is by snowmobile, dog team, or air transportation.
Maclaren Lodge is a prime destination for hikers, fishermen, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers. In winter, explore the endless trails by snow machine, cross-country skis, or snowshoes, and return to the warmth and comfort of Maclaren Lodge cabins. Enjoy the unique charm and unparalleled adventures offered by this exceptional Alaskan retreat.
Activities
Maclaren River Lodge Tours
Remote Camp
Maintains a base camp about 10 miles upriver from the lodge. This leaves a 5-mile hike to Maclaren Glacier Pond. Waterproof boots are recommended.
Camp facilities include:- 12’ x 12’ wall tents with 3 cots per tent, room to walk around inside. Lots of extra room for bed rolls.
- 16’ x 12’ internal framed tent for storage or eating in adverse weather.
- Cook tent.
- Folding table & plenty of folding camp chairs.
- Fire pit and grill grate.
- Fully stocked outhouse with a grand view.
Lodge provides:
- Transportation in our jet boat, one heck of a ride in itself.
- Choice of canoe return or pick up.
- Firewood/ one bundle per night (additional wood available for sale $7).
- Communication radio will be provided.
Boat Trips
- Scenic Boat Tours
- Glacier Camp
- Canoe Trips
Outdoor Activities:
River Transportation
Scenic jet boat rides to "The Glacier Camp" are available, along with convenient canoe drop-offs and pickups.
Bird Watching
The area is ideal for bird watching, featuring species such as the Arctic Warbler, Smith's Longspur, Long-tailed Jaeger, Whimbrel, Surfbird, Lapland Longspur, Horned Lark, Short-eared Owl, Wandering Tattler, Gyrfalcon, and many more. A walk north along BLM's Maclaren Summit Trail can be very rewarding. Additionally, trumpeter swans and various waterfowl can be spotted in the lakes and ponds along the route.
Fishing
Excellent fishing opportunities for grayling and lake trout are available. The fishing experience in Alaska is truly spectacular.
Alaska Fishing
Try fishing the many rivers and streams teeming with arctic grayling. The lakes are abundant with lake trout and burbot, often referred to as "poor man's lobster" due to its white flesh and taste.
Hunting
Located in Unit 13A, with Unit 13B to the north of the Denali Highway, the area offers a wide variety of hunting opportunities for moose, caribou, grizzly bear, ducks, and ptarmigan. For more details, refer to the Alaska Hunting Regulations book or the Alaska Fish & Game website.
Photography, Hiking, Bicycling, Kayaking & ATV
Spend a day or weekend exploring the many trails by ATV or bicycle, or take a leisurely hike to enjoy the scenic views of Maclaren Glacier and the Alaska Mountain Range, which are perfect for photography. For the more adventurous, canoeing, rafting, or kayaking are great options.
Snowmachining, Cross-Country Skiing & Mushing
Experience the thrill of snowmachining on the groomed trails or venture into the hills for deep powder riding. Cross-country skiing and mushing are also popular activities.
Fly-In Access
For visiting pilots, information and the location of the Maclaren River Lodge are provided.
Inquire
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
