The Old Log Roadhouse at Talkeetna

After leaving Denali, the skies closed with heavy gray clouds that opened in full force as we headed south toward Anchorage. Nevertheless, we enjoyed Alaska’s vast valleys, rugged peaks, and rolling forests. With billowing clouds hanging on their tops, they were amazingly beautiful. Thanks to The Milepost our curiosity was aroused concerning quaint Talkeetna located 15 miles off the Seward Highway. We decided to have lunch at the Roadhouse, known for its fantastic bakery; it is Talkeetna’s oldest restaurant and lodge. It was built with huge logs around the time of WWI as a billet for railroad workers. Both the lounge, decorated in early Salvation Army, and the dining room had a charming, homey atmosphere filled with happy, chatting customers and appetizing aromas coming from the busy kitchen. There was no individual seating, so we shared our meal with fellow diners, both foreign and domestic. The Cuckoo clock interrupted us every half hour, but of course the time was never right. Everything served came in large sizes and was delicious. We decided to be adventurous and spend the night at the Roadhouse with its boarding house atmosphere. After unpacking, we took a walk in the rain to thoroughly check out the village, a haven for fishermen, mountain climbers, and airplane tours. At dinner time, we were entertained at the Mountain High Pizza Pie by a trio of “good old boy" musicians. When we returned to the Roadhouse, we treated ourselves to mixed berry pie ala mode in the lounge, where extemporaneous music was provided by an overnight guest. After a great night of sleep in our rather primitive room, we enjoyed warm raspberry muffins right out of the oven along with free coffee before leaving for Anchorage.