Alaska’s rugged landscapes, untouched wilderness, and serene ambiance make it the ideal destination for executive retreats. By escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life, this state offers unique adventures that are unlike any other. Whether you are looking for inspiration sourced from the tranquility of nature or adventurous bucket list experiences, Alaska has something to offer for everyone.
As a team of Alaskans that have sampled all this state has to offer, we have tapped into that wonderlust to compile a list of some of the best regions and lodges for people planning their next executive retreat. This list offers locations where you and your hard working teams can unwind, recharge, and foster meaningful connections amidst breathtaking surroundings.
– REGIONS –
Anchorage
As Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage serves as a convenient and accessible region for corporate retreats. Anchorage combines urban comforts with stunning natural surroundings.
Juneau
The capital city of Alaska, Juneau, offers a perfect blend of Alaskan rainforest and cultural exploration with a small town feel. Retreats held here can include whale-watching excursions, glacier hikes, and a charming downtown area that provides opportunities for guests to experience Alaska’s rich history.
Fairbanks
Known for its winter activities and captivating Northern Lights displays, Fairbanks is an ideal region for unique corporate retreats. Participants can enjoy dog sledding, ice fishing, a visit to the Ice Museum, and visiting the renowned Chena Hot Springs.
Denali National Park
For those who are looking for a top shelf experience in the rugged outdoors. There Is no place higher than Denali National Park. Home to the majestic Denali (previously Mount McKinley), the highest peak in North America, this region offers breathtaking landscapes, wildlife encounters, and ample opportunities for team bonding. Denali is hands down our most popular location for retreats.
Kenai Peninsula
The Kenai Peninsula is a picturesque region known for its coastal beauty, abundant wildlife, and outdoor adventures. For those of you who are wanting to do some fresh water fishing, Kenai Peninsula is the way to go. People travel from all over to catch the salmon in their waters.
Girdwood
Located in the Chugach Mountains, Girdwood is an excellent region for corporate retreats that are looking for an intimate or high end experience in the heart of the forest. Retreats can include skiing in winter, mountain biking in summer, and bonding over activities like helicopter tours or glacier viewing.
Sitka
Sitka, nestled on Baranof Island, is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The scenic beauty of Sitka, with its lush forests and coastal vistas, provides a serene backdrop for retreat participants who are looking for a small town with colorful buildings and a little character.
Talkeetna
Talkeetna is a small quirky town near Denali National Park that offers a peaceful respite from the sometimes bustling Denali park experience. With breathtaking mountain views and options for adventure tours closeby, Talkeetna offers a small town vibe with charming atmosphere and rustic charm.
– LODGES –
The Tordrillo Mountain Lodge
www.tordrillomountainlodge.com
At just a short 40 minute plane ride away from Anchorage proper, the Tordrillo Mountain Lodge is worlds away. This ultra luxury and remote lakeside lodge sits at the foot of the Tordrillo mountain range, which runs into Denali National Park, and offers access to an abundant amount of unspoilt adventures. As the lone accommodation anywhere in the area this means you and your team can truly relax, unwind and enjoy the wilderness.
Alaska Glacier Lodge
www.akglacierlodge.com
Located in Palmer, the Alaska Glacier Lodge is a wonderful balance of unique adventure and first class amenities. With 22 cabins that include a mix of bedding options, the lodge can accommodate medium size groups looking for a nice mix of work and play. Strong wifi and plenty of additional onsite amenities to feel comfortable and productive, with access to the outdoors and incredible adventures for when it’s time to break away and unwind.
Meier Lake Lodge
www.meierlake.com
Picture remote. Picture quiet. Picture disconnected. Envision serene natural settings. …And that is Meier Lake. With just 12 rooms that do not have phones, t.v., wifi, AC’s, or other electronic distractions, Meier Lake offers a truly disconnected experience, so you and your team can truly reconnect with each other and the natural environment they will be immersed in. A private lake perfect for floating and paddling. A wood burning sauna perfect for relaxing and detoxing. Onsite chef who makes all gourmet meals from scratch each day. Meier Lake is our go to for smaller groups looking to truly break away for a spite.
Orca Island Cabins
https://orcaislandcabins.com
Orca Island Cabins, located just outside Seward, and a short drive from Anchorage, offers comfortable access and just a fun experience of the Alaskan Coastal lifestyle. Well appointed and sustainability focused yurts are where you will rest your head at night. Or for larger parties cabins are also available. But you will be outside and on the water most of the time, exploring the nooks and crannies of the coastline by kayak, by stand up paddle, by boat or just by hiking along the water’s edge. Orca Island is a wonderful option for the more adventurous and outdoorsy team looking to enjoy the Alaskan sunshine.
Ultima Thule Lodge
www.ultimathulelodge.com
Where to start with the Ultima Thule Lodge? We could start by saying that the lodge has been recognized and featured in dozens of notable travel publications for many years. Outside Magazine, Travel & Leisure, National Geographic, to name a few. We could mention that getting to Ultima Thule is an adventure in itself, that consists of off road travel and multiple plane rides, to get to this truly remote backcountry location. We would also tell you that when you get this far out into the wilderness, you will certainly not be ‘roughing it’. The Ultima Thule Lodge is as luxurious as one would want in this area of the wild Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Gourmet meals prepared daily from the fresh organic produce grown onsite, taking farm to table to a whole other level. Lots of wellness activities offered onsite daily, such as yoga, sauna, flower gardens and meditation spaces. But despite all of the comfortable and high end amenities, it is the proprietors – the Claus Family – who host this wonderful retreat, and welcome guests from around the world into their little Alaskan sanctuary, that makes this place so special. When you visit Ultima Thule you are welcomed and treated like family, making this a special place for bonding and creating lifelong memories with your travel partners.
Looking for more suggestions or itineraries for your next group tour in Alaska?
Contact our expert DMC staff at Toast of the Town for customized travel plans
to match your group needs and budgets.
