Visit historic McCarthy: lodge and hotel offer fine dining and rustic comfort.

• Author: Ellis-Knapp, Jody
• Position: EXECUTIVE GETAWAY

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Tucked away in Alaska's amazing Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is a treasure that local Alaskans often overlook--the historic town of McCarthy and nearby Kennicott Mine. Once basically abandoned, the town has evolved into a popular tourist destination, thanks to the hard work and dedication of its residents who have restored and renovated this landmark into a fully functional town site once again. Located 300 miles from Anchorage, it's a beautiful day drive via the McCarthy road, one of Alaska's most scenic roadways.

SWEET ACCOMMODATIONS

One of the best historical sites also happens to be one of the best places to dine or stay--the McCarthy Lodge and Ma Johnson's Historic Hotel. They have been owned by Neil Darish since 2001 and operated as a partnership between Darish and co-owner Don Wooten since 2005. Darish has been involved in the restoration of McCarthy for many years, having made his way to Alaska in 1995. The property consists of the McCarthy Lodge, which houses the restaurant, and the Historic Ma Johnson's Historic Hotel, which provides the accommodations. Darish prides himself on creating an environment that exceeds guests expectations on every level. "My managers understand how to sustain a positive, comfortable environment. We live here year-round and this gives us deep connection to both our community and to visitors." he says.

'LIVING MUSEUM'

Ma Johnson's Historic Hotel is often referred to as a "living museum." It was built in 1923 and originally run as a boarding house. It has since been renovated into a historically accurate hotel that offers 20 rooms, all of which sleep at least two people. Two of the rooms are triples and rollaway beds are available if needed. The hotel offers custom bathrobes, handmade soaps, spa slippers, beautiful original brass bed frames with modern new mattresses and high-quality bed linens and bath towels. All of the antiques in the hotel are local artifacts from nearby Kennicott, lovingly restored and put to use. There are no televisions or phones, but the hotel does have wireless Internet service available for a nominal fee.

Nearby are the McCarthy Lodge and the Golden Saloon, where guests can enjoy surprisingly upscale meals in a lovely rustic atmosphere. The building was originally constructed as a cannery in Katalla, off the coast of Cordova. It was dismantled and...