Katmai Lodge, Alaska:An Inspiring Destination For Your Family

by Francine and Roy Brokaw

The Katmai Lodge in Alaska is the ideal place to unwind, commune with nature, enjoy life and bond with your family. Fathers and sons (or daughters) will remember their time together fondly. And yes, they have electricity, indoor plumbing, and fresh water.

Nestled in a remote area an hour and a half plane ride from Anchorage, the Katmai Lodge offers guests a natural experience. Professional fishing guides take you out to the best places on the Alagnak River, where you'll catch salmon, trout and other species of fish. And don't worry about bringing them back. Your catch will be filleted, vacuumed-packed, frozen, and boxed so you can easily transport them back with you when you return home, providing you don't decide to stay permanently, which was something we seriously pondered before stepping onto the plane to return to civilization.

The lodge is only accessible by air, however, for those who want an even more remote location, they offer daily excursions to Katmai National Monument and Brooks Falls, as well as other remote lakes and rivers in the area. Alaska is a true wilderness with a population of about 660,000 on a landmass twice the size of Texas. You'll definitely be able to escape from the rat race while you're there.

The food at the lodge is first rate. Dinner is delicious, and while you're out fishing during the day, a hot lunch is prepared for your enjoyment aboard your boat.

The lodge supplies everything for their guests. Just bring your long johns and a desire to have fun. The staff does the rest. Absolutely nothing is an additional expense except, of course, any souvenirs or clothing you might want to purchase.

The scenery is matched only by the incredible wildlife. Just being in the surroundings was worthwhile, but the fish stories I could tell you are out of this world. And, besides fishing, this place is a nature photographer's paradise. Don't be surprised to see bears and other wildlife. This is, after all, Alaska, and they were here first. From bears catching salmon to falcons eating their own meals to bald eagles flying around, we saw it all. Otters, beavers, osprey, moose, wolves and caribou call Alaska home and have been seen by guests during their visits to the lodge.

For more information call 1-800-330-0326, or go to www.katmai.com home.html. The Katmai Lodge is open for guests from mid-May through mid-September.