Adventure and History for the Family at Cape Fox Lodge

Deep in southeast Alaska on the fringe of Tongass National Forest in Ketchikan, Cape Fox Lodge is the ideal launching point for an edgy, sophisticated adventure. Shared spaces and private accommodations at the stunning lodge reflect the surrounding wilderness, from the beamed pine ceiling and river rock fireplace in the lobby, to local touches such as native art in each of the guestrooms, suites and detached lodges.

Wifi is complimentary, parking is free and rooms — unlike most in the area — are air-conditioned. Guestrooms also feature mini-fridges and microwave ovens, blackout drapes, room service and cable/satellite television.

Cape Fox Hill Lodge red tram car ascending rail track at top of ride. Photo: Illuminaphoto | Dreamstime.com

The lodge even has its own funicular railroad, taking guests between the main building and Creek Street in town. The bright red Cape Fox Tram station is conveniently located in the main lodge’s lobby on the first floor. There’s also an on-site museum spread across two floors that explores the history and art of the local Tlingit culture. The exhibition features the Council of the Clans, commanding carved totems that stand sentinel at the front entrance of the lodge.

The wild outdoors can be enjoyed via hiking, helicopter or while on an organized fishing expedition led by Baranof Fishing Excursions. Day tours from the lodge include the Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer, off-road Adventure Kart Expeditions; Flight Seeing Tours to Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary and the Misty Fjords; the Wildlife Safari & Beach Bonfire; and Taste of Alaska scenic cruise and wildlife viewing. Cultural tours include the Saxman Native Village Tour and Cape Fox Tour Dancers; and the Alaska Lumberjack Show, where real-life lumberjacks show off their skills.

For dining, the Heen Kahidi Dining Room offers menus created by Chef Eddie Lopez and Chef Chris Lemerond, utilizing locally sourced fare such as Alaska King Crab, halibut, salmon, reindeer and bison. Blueberry Halibut Salad, Reindeer Chili and Banana Cream Dream (a deep-fried banana cheesecake with rum caramel sauce) are just a few of the dishes to savor at the end of a long day of hiking and fishing. Guests can also relax in the Heen Kahidi Lounge, where a range of Alaskan beers are available to sip. For a caffeine fix, the Sweet Mermaids kiosk in the lobby serves Raven’s Brew coffee and fresh-baked sweet treats.

If you can’t plan a trip right away, you can get a taste of what’s on offer at the Cape Fox Lodge website, which includes a video showing Tlingit artist Kenneth White in the midst of creation; descriptions of lodge activities; menus; and an overview of the Tlingit people that includes information about their culture and history.