Guest Activities

Tonglen Lake Lodge has morning and evening options to round out your full day of exploring Denali's vast landscape.

Regularly at Tonglen, you will have the opportunity to sip gourmet coffee or an Alaskan craft beer in our Artisan Café with owner, Donna Gates, as she shares her stories of her nealy 40 years of life in Alaska.

Be sure to check our Happenings page for musical performances, presentations, art exhibits, classes and workshops scheduled during your stay at Tonglen Lake.

TONGLEN NATURALIST WALKS:

Join a naturalist on local trails. Our Naturalist Guide will meet you in the Artisan Cafe.  Learn about the floral and fauna, geology and history of the area while taking in the views of the surrounding taiga forest, mountains and beauty of Alaska. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and moderate activity level.

YOGA CLASSES:

Upon your arrival at Tonglen Lake, be sure to check out our classroom for your yoga routine. The stage is also a perfect outdoor space for yoga under the midnight sun. Breathe in deeply the clean mountain air and let your soul relax.

A CULTURAL HISTORY:

Kianna Carlson speaks about the Athabascan Village of Cantwell, only 20 miles south of Denali, and the history of the Athabascan culture in our area.  Her local knowlege, accompanied by her long family history in Cantwell, makes her an excellent resource for our guests to learn about the history of our area.

CLIMB DENALI PRESENTATION:                                               

Join Jimmie Hendricks as he takes you through his homesteading experience here in Denali, and all the way to the summit! You are certain to leave in awe of the experiences he shares.

THE ALASKAN SLED DOG & THE IDITAROD:

Come listen to Cali Best speak about growing up right here on the Tonglen Property and her experiences with the sled dogs that once lived right here! She was the youngest person to complete the Iditarod in 2003 when she finished at 18 years old.

CAMPFIRE CIRCLE & LAWN GAMES:

Every evening at 6:00 pm (weather permitting)

Relax on the swings around the campfire, roast mashmellows and enjoy the company of fellow guests.  Donna often joins in to share stories of life in Denali. For those wanting a more active option, we will get out lawn games for your party to enjoy - the midnight sun allows for outdoor activities all evening long!

TONGLEN ART & HISTORY TOUR:

Join owner and artist, Donna Gates, for a tour of Tonglen on Tuesday nights and hear first hand how this artisan lodge was created.  Built by local artists and artisans, Tonglen Lake Lodge is a showcase of talent. Learn about log artistry, metal work, pottery, stained glass, and the mosaics that are all a part of the Tonglen Lake experience. Donna will spend Wednesday evenings in the Cafe working on original work and sharing the Tonglen story.