About This Experience
This iconic high-mountain haven was born from a remarkable story of vision and resilience. It all began in the late 1930s, when a young aviator moved to Alaska with dreams of exploring its vast and untamed wilderness. After serving in World War II—where he survived multiple crashes and earned honors for bravery—he returned to pioneer one of Alaska’s most celebrated bush pilot operations.
His exploration of Denali’s dramatic terrain led him to a solitary ridge unlike any other, where he envisioned building a sanctuary for adventurers. In 1966, a modest 200-square-foot mountain shelter was erected with his wife—a tiny basecamp that would later inspire something far greater. Built using materials flown in and strapped to the sides of their aircraft, the original structure remains a feat of wilderness innovation.
Decades later, the visionary’s descendants uncovered his original plans for a larger alpine dwelling. Between 2015 and 2018, the dream was finally realized by three generations of the same family. Today, this exclusive-use retreat is run by those who continue to honour that original dream, curating each guest’s experience with genuine care and an intimate knowledge of the land.
The Retreat
Designed to mirror the resilient hexagonal shape of its predecessor, this five-bedroom wilderness refuge hosts just ten guests at a time. It’s a masterclass in sustainable engineering: solar energy, super-capacitor storage systems, a high-efficiency turbine generator, and a wood-fired masonry heater work in harmony to provide warmth and comfort in the Arctic wild.
Every aspect of the structure was crafted with both beauty and purpose. Vast panoramic windows reveal uninterrupted views of jagged peaks and sweeping glaciers. A central wood-burning stove anchors the living space, while a private sauna tucked beneath the helipad offers a peaceful place to unwind after the day’s adventures.
There’s no Wi-Fi here, and that’s very much the point. With no signal or screen distractions, guests are invited to truly disconnect—from the world below and from the noise of modern life—and reconnect with something timeless, still, and magnificent.
The Experience
The journey begins with a scenic helicopter flight over the Denali wilderness, offering an unforgettable aerial view of ancient glaciers, alpine ridges, and roaming wildlife below—moose, caribou, grizzlies, and more. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with Champagne and a chef-prepared Alaskan seafood feast.
Each day begins with a gourmet breakfast crafted by one of the retreat’s private chefs, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The experience is entirely bespoke: menus are tailored to your preferences, and every adventure is designed to match your energy, curiosity, and comfort level.
Guests receive glacier training upon arrival, preparing them for the day’s guided exploration. From March through June, the region becomes a paradise for alpine skiing and snow-based adventures. Activities include:
Backcountry skiing across untouched powder
Guided glacier trekking and mountaineering
Ice climbing and summit expeditions
Full-moon glacier hikes under starlit skies
Private gourmet picnics with glacier views
Meteor shower watching from the snowy deck
One of the most breathtaking experiences comes at night, when the skies above ignite with the Northern Lights. With little light pollution and just four hours of daylight in the winter months, this location offers one of the most reliable vantage points in the world for witnessing the aurora borealis.
Highlights
Exclusive helicopter access to a remote alpine hideaway in the heart of Denali National Park
Five-bedroom, all-inclusive accommodation on the only private land within the park
Panoramic mountain views from every room
Chef-curated meals featuring premium Alaskan ingredients
Glacier and mountaineering adventures led by expert guides
Sauna, wood-fired stove, and luxury comforts at 6,000 feet
Exceptional opportunities to view the Northern Lights
A true digital detox with no Wi-Fi, only wilderness
Best Times to Go
March to June: Peak conditions for skiing, mountaineering, and extended daylight
September to March: Best for aurora borealis sightings and a dramatic winter experience
Who This is For
This retreat is ideal for bold travellers, private groups, and wilderness lovers seeking something truly rare: a luxurious stay in the most remote, unspoiled corner of Alaska. Whether you’re marking a milestone, planning a once-in-a-lifetime journey, or simply craving an escape into silence and snow, this is your chance to live in a place few ever will.
Why We Chose This Experience for You
"This is one of the world’s most extraordinary luxury experiences—a place where history, isolation, and human ingenuity come together in spectacular form. For guests who want to unplug, explore, and be awed by nature at its most epic, there is simply nothing else like it." – Sybarite Team
Example Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome Feast
Depart Talkeetna by private helicopter for a scenic flight into Denali National Park. On arrival, enjoy Champagne and a welcome seafood spread before settling into your alpine retreat. Spend the evening stargazing by the fire.
Day 2 – Glacier Training & Backcountry Adventure
Start the day with glacier safety training, followed by a guided ski or glacier trek through the vast amphitheatre. Enjoy a hot lunch prepared by your private chef, then unwind with a sauna session and hearty mountain dinner.
Day 3 – Climbing, Ice, & Glacial Dining
Challenge yourself with an ice climbing session or summit expedition. Later, indulge in a gourmet picnic on the glacier, paired with fine wine. As night falls, prepare for potential aurora sightings from the comfort of your private deck.
Day 4 – Exploration & Reflection
Spend the day at your pace—whether it’s a snow science session, a solo snowshoe hike, or simply soaking in the silence. In the evening, enjoy a specially prepared farewell meal and toast to your unforgettable journey.
Day 5 – Departure
After a final breakfast with views of Denali’s majestic peaks, board your helicopter for the return flight, carrying with you memories of an experience few others will ever know.
