Alaska Travel Guide: TORDRILLO MOUNTAIN LODGE
Do you want to do something a little different for the annual family vacation this year? Consider an Alaska family vacation—a time when the little ones can explore their connection to nature and the whole family can soak in one of the most beautiful and untouched places in the United States. Tordrillo Mountain Lodge is an excellent retreat for families and children of all ages. Read on for everything families need to know about visiting this one-of-a-kind Alaskan resort.
When to Visit Alaska
The best time to visit Alaska is between June and September. All seasons in Alaska have their own magic, but there’s nothing like summer. While Alaska might get a bad rap for its dark and cold winters, there’s no shortage of sunlight during peak summer months. Fun fact: We can’t claim to be the sunshine state, but we do receive more sunlight in spring and summer than any other state and many other parts of the world.
At Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, the summer months also afford more options for family-friendly activities—from watersports to hiking and so, so much more in between. While it rarely gets balmy here, temperatures generally hover in the 60s (Fahrenheit) throughout the summer months, comfortable for any kind of outdoor adventure, but cool enough to make our wood-fired, outdoor hot tub extra-inviting at the end of a long day.
What to Do in Alaska
A family vacation at Tordrillo Mountain Lodge is like a choose-your-own-adventure book brought to life. No two days are ever alike, and the activities at hand are as endless as the summer days. There are so many things to do in Alaska, even we sometimes lose track.
Watersports
Thanks to our location right on Judd Lake, hitting the water is possible just about any time of day. Choose from stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, eFoil, water skiing—or something more relaxing like jumping in a kayak or canoe. We’ve got it all, and the lake’s not going anywhere.
Via Ferrata
Got some adrenaline junkies in your family? Whether they’re novice or expert level climbers, our new via Ferrata (the first and only of its kind in Alaska) allows all levels of outdoor enthusiasts to experience the thrill and beauty of climbing in Alaska.
Heli Hiking
The best way to see as much of Alaska as you can during your trip? Heli hiking. Hop into a helicopter, and we’ll transport you to unimaginable vistas. Want to hike on a glacier? We can do that. Picnic on top of a mountain? No problem.
Heli Fishing
One of the many perks of on-site helicopters is access to the best fishing holes in Alaska, where you can cast your line in complete solitude. If your kiddos are new anglers, our guides are happy to give them lessons to get them on your level in no time.
Down Time
Is there such a thing? While it’s easy to go-go-go at Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, we make sure to build in some down time to our itineraries so you and the little ones can recharge. Soak in the hot tub or enjoy a meal of locally caught and grown ingredients prepared by some of the best chefs in Alaska.
Sample Summer Itinerary
We tailor the day’s plans to your family’s interests and abilities, so your adventure is always just right. Here’s what a day at Tordrillo Mountain Lodge might look like. Check out more sample itineraries.
7:15 AM: Morning yoga and stretching class
8:00 AM: Plated breakfast and review the day’s plan with your guide
10:00 AM: Meet at the helicopter — it’s time to fly!
10:30 AM: Arrive at the via Ferrata base camp with your guide, put on a harness, helmet and shoes
4:00 PM: Return to lodge
5:00 PM: Flyfish casting lessons on the lawn and the lake
6:00 PM: Head to the dining area for some delicious appetizers and glacier ice margaritas for the parents
7:00 PM: Dinner served
9:00 PM: Campfire and s’mores!
What to Bring to Alaska
Ah, the age-old question of what to pack for an Alaska family vacation. While summer is the warmest season in Alaska, the weather keeps us on our toes. You can expect to be warm, cold, dry, and wet, all in the same day—so our number one rule is to pack layers. We recommend bringing these essentials.
Gear Provided by Tordrillo Mountain Lodge
- Waders
- Wading Boots
- Rods & Reels
- Tackle
*Bring your own if you prefer
Outerwear
- Lightweight Puffy Jacket
- Rain Shell
- Lightweight Gloves
- Lightweight Hat
Base Layers
- Fleece
- Capilene©
- Merino Wool
*Non-cotton items work best
Footwear
- Trail-running Shoes or Hiking Boots
- Sandals
- Slippers
Lodge Life
- Swimsuit for Hot Tub & Sauna
- Comfortable Après Clothes
Other
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Sunscreen
- Lip Balm
Questions about what to pack? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re happy to make sure you stay warm, comfortable and ready for anything during your Alaska vacation.
Getting to Tordrillo Mountain Lodge
Some folks might think Alaska as a family destination is just too far away. From anywhere in the United States, Tordrillo Mountain Lodge is easier and faster to get to than you might think.
Whether you’re coming from the lower 48 or an international destination, you will book your flights in and out of Anchorage. Having Anchorage as our hub makes flight plans easy. From Anchorage, the lodge is a quick 45-minute floatplane flight away. All of our packages include a round trip floatplane flight between Anchorage and Tordrillo Mountain Lodge.
Are you already envisioning your family hopping on a helicopter for a day of Alaskan adventures? Check out our summer packages and rates to make it a reality. We can’t wait to host you in our special corner of the Alaska backcountry.
Book Your Reservation
Are you already envisioning your family hopping on a helicopter for a day of Alaskan adventures? Check out our summer packages and rates to make it a reality. We can’t wait to host you in our special corner of the Alaska backcountry.
