After a successful adventure chasing the Iditarod, the planes and Thule Crew headed East and home to the Wrangell Mountains. The lodge was a peaceful scene to behold, still blanketed in white despite the official arrival of spring. The term "spring" to those who've lived in Alaska does not conjure images of blooming flowers, rain drops and budding trees. Spring can actually be a cold period still very much in the grip of Old Man Winter. But the thing that draws man and beast out of the daze of hibernation is the sunshine. By the spring equinox, on March 20th, the landscape is bathed in over 12 hours of daylight and the mood is changed by the tangible reality that summer will return!
Our first guests this year were a father and son pair from Northern California. Tod and Taylor timed their spring skiing adventure just right and caught a fantastic weather window. They powered through temps that dropped into the negatives and burned through glorious early season snow, leaving behind the first tracks of the year. We had such fun opening up the lodge and kicking off the season with these two and were honored that Taylor chose to celebrate his 21st birthday here with us! They left us with these great photos (be sure and flip through the photo journal below.) and their thoughtful sentiments.
"Our ski adventures together were such a blast, from beautiful pow to canyon skiing in Goat Creek. While you take it for granted, the plane culture here is incredible. It was a joy to travel in your Super Cub air-force to such great spots."
"It was the trip of a lifetime. The pristine setting, endless mountains, adventuresome plane rides and amazing ski touring made for an incredible trip. I want to point out that it is your spirit that makes it special. It is clear that you care very much for the area and you genuinely enjoy getting out there – that makes a big difference. I have told friends that UTL is the finest wilderness lodge in the world. I am quite confident I am right. You provide a completely unique experience with a friendly personal touch. Thanks."
Every season in Alaska offers something unique and special. The best part of our operation and lifestyle is getting to evolve right along with the environment. There are still many days of spring ahead, enough for us to welcome more skiers, do some ritual cleaning and ease smoothly into the long and busy days of summer.
