Tonglen Naturalist Walks

Join our naturalist guide to explore the local trails while you learn about the fascinating fauna, flora, geology and history of the surrounding taiga forest and mountains. Approximately 1.5 miles in distance, requiring moderate fitness. Meet in the Artisan Café.

The Aurora Borealis Slideshow

Tom Walker is a talent from the local Denali community who has been in Alaska over 60 years.  He joins us to share a stunning slideshow of his photographs of the Aurora Borealis.

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 knowledge, 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

Jimmie Hendricks spent years working as a wilderness guide, unknowingly building the foundation for his  life accomplishments of homesteading, building cabins and ultimately climbing Denali. Join him on his journey and be inspired by Jimmie’s eloquent, yet down to earth presentation that entertains audiences from all walks of life.

The Alaskan Sled Dog & The Iditarod

Come and listen to Cali Best speak about growing up at Tonglen Lake and her experiences with the sled dogs that once lived right here! She was the youngest person to complete the Iditarod in 2003, at the age of 18.

Campfire Circle & Lawn Games

Every evening at 6:00 pm (weather permitting)

Relax on the swings around the campfire while you roast marshmallows and enjoy the company of fellow guests. This is often a time when Donna will join in to share stories that go back many years about life in Denali.

Meet Donna Gates

Join owner and artist, Donna Gates, to hear first-hand how Tonglen Lake Lodge was created. As a showcase of local artisan talent, Donna will introduce you to the log artistry, metalwork, pottery, stained glass, and mosaics that are all a part of the Tonglen Lake experience. (On Request)

On some nights, you might find Donna in the Artisan Café where working on her original art and sharing the Tonglen story.

Yoga

Yoga is offered several days a week at Tonglen, either in our yoga room or outdoors surrounded by nature.  Please inquire at checkin if you’re interested in participating in a Yoga class.