Healy, Alaska, with a population of around 1,000 people, has two claims to fame: its coal mines and its proximity to Denali National Park. On account of the latter, you'll find a host of hotels offering adventure-seeking visitors a place to hang their hat. Because of the impact that the cold weather has on tourism, hotels in the area typically charge much lower rates from September to May.
Perhaps the most elegant hotel accommodations in the area are at the Lakeview Inn, on Otto Lake one mile north of Healy. All rooms have large windows for viewing the spectacular scenery, and some have access to lakeside patios or the common deck, with views of the surrounding peaks of Mount Dora and Mount Healy. Several rooms provide a Jacuzzi tub, and all rooms have a microwave oven, refrigerator and wireless internet. Guests receive breakfast delivered to their room each morning.
Surf the Internet in a train car when you stay at the Denali Park Hotel. The hotel's retired troop hauling train car now serves as lobby and a free Internet lounge for guests. Rooms at the hotel offer basic accommodations with either two full beds or one king bed, satellite television, and a fridge, microwave and coffeemaker. If you're riding the Alaska Railroad, the hotel offers a package deal that includes train tickets and room rates at a reduced cost.
With a chain saw-cut wooden bear at the door and a log cabin construction, you'll get a bit of the Wild West feeling when you stay at the Totem Inn. Small but tidy rooms come with one or two full beds, microwave, refrigerator and flat-screen television. Free wireless Internet is available throughout the hotel. The hotel also offers a laundry facility and a fitness center with a treadmill, punching bag and weight equipment. The on-site restaurant and lounge offers a salad bar, pizza, burgers and other basic meals as well as beer on tap.
Another small hotel offering basic accommodations is the White Moose Lodge. The hotel provides a homey feel with flowers and ample views of the surrounding mountains. All rooms come with two double beds and mountain views. Amenities are bit more slim than at other hotels in town; rooms come with televisions but no microwaves or other kitchen additions. A light breakfast is included each morning, including coffee, danish and orange juice.
