Situated at the foot of tall mountains and a sparkling lake, Summit Lake Lodge is truly blessed with ambiance. This tired old lodge built in the 1950s was purchased by Marty and June Arnoldy in 1985. After extensive renovations, the lodge opened under their ownership on July 1, 1985. Perfectly positioned between Anchorage and Homer, Alaska this lodge is a good place to spend several nights exploring the area.
Seward, Soldotna, Hope, and the Famous Kenai River are all within an hour or less drive from the lodge. Staying here provides guests a central location on the Kenai Peninsula.
Room choices include historic main lodge rooms, lakefront cabins, Inn the Woods cabins, and mountain view cabins. All lodging choices include a full breakfast at no additional cost. For short stays, the historic main lodge cabins will fit most guests’ desires. These small and cozy rooms have a queen size log bed, writing desk, small private bathroom, and sorry, no TV. This is the entry level room and rates run around 149 USD per night for a maximum of two guests.
Lodging choices
Inn the Woods cabins are newly constructed cedar bungalows nestled in the woods. Custom furniture and flooring invite guests to be immersed in the surrounding mountain and forest environment in luxurious comfort. Some of the creature comforts are a full 512 sq ft/47.5 m sq of space, writing desk, microwave, mini-fridge, walk-in closet, fireplace, and large sitting room. The rate for this cabin is 255 USD per night plus 30 USD for up to two additional people.
Mountain view cabins are a good value for multi-night stays. Spacious bathrooms, tiled showers, in-room coffee, tea, and mountain views make this a popular choice. Choose from a cabin with two queen beds or one king size bed in this option.
Lakefront Cabins are the top-of-the-line at Summit Lake Lodge. Decorated in classic wood and tile in a rustic fashion, these cabins are some of the nicest in Alaska! A plush hand-carved spruce wood king-size bed and luxury linens ensure a great night’s rest. Even though the Sterling Highway is nearby, not a hint of it is heard through the walls of these cabins.
Two recliner chairs face the log-hearthstone fireplace and a large picture window frames the towering mountains and Summit Lake perfectly. A mini-bar holds beer, soda, and wine for guests to enjoy while sitting on the front porch overlooking the lake. These rooms have TVs, but with so much at your doorstep it would be unconscionable to watch it when you could be watching the lake and mountains.
Activities near and far
Activities are too numerous to mention. A few of the best would be fishing for trout on Summit Lake, canoeing on the lake, hiking one of several world-class trails nearby, fishing the world famous Kenai River, scenic float plane flights, and whitewater rafting. The lodge has 2 canoes, 2 kayaks, and 2 paddleboards for your use. Just sign a waiver and go enjoy the lake.
Wildlife viewing is popular in Alaska and Summit Lake Lodge provides several options. Spawning salmon can be seen in the area and the lodge staff can provide directions if requested. Bear and moose are commonly seen also. Don’t worry about bear attacks, they are very rare and if you make noise while hiking, chances are slim they will bother you. Starting in 2018, the lodge expects to acquire a floatplane to take guests on scenic flights. An additional fee will be required for this service.
Onsite dining choices
No doubt these activities will leave you famished upon returning to your room. Summit Lake Lodge has you covered with three venues for food and drink. The Shoppe serves handmade pizzas, coffee, tea, and 16 flavors of ice cream. You’ll also find specialty gifts here to take home with you.
In the main lodge, find The Bar. Pull up a chair and order up a micro-brew, cocktail, or glass of wine. Also in The Lodge is their full service restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dine on Alaskan halibut, salmon, chicken, steaks, and burgers with a view of Summit Lake. This rustic log dining room brings the experience into full focus and leaves the city far behind.
A family affair
Most guests will find Summit Lake Lodge a gorgeous and relaxing lodging choice. Being a family run business makes for great customer service. With reasonable rates and high level of comfort, the Summit Lake Lodge is a winner in my book.
History
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