ACTIVITIES
Many guests spend their days saltwater or freshwater
fishing. Sitka is an angler’s paradise, with icefield fed streams
“There’s a place
for everyone to
experience what
they want and
need here."
of thriving steelhead, rainbow trout, cutthroat, pink salmon,
chum salmon, and dolly varden. Knowledgeable guides will
take you to the perfect, secluded locations for some of the
best fly-fishing. For saltwater fishing, head out on the open
waters with an expert captain to reel in massive king salmon,
silver salmon, and halibut. The historically abundant waters
of Sitka offer some of the best fishing in the world, all with
the perfect, wild Alaska backdrop. Talon Lodge staff will also
arrange for your fish to be professionally processed, flash
frozen and boxed for the trip back home.
As a guest, you have the option to spend your days in
tranquility at the on-site spa, including partaking in a variety
LODGE OWNERS PHIL AND GWEN YOUNGER , while also being introduced to the total Alaska theater.”
a husband and wife duo, are eager to show
off the Alaska they love to their guests, one
that’s been a part of their lives for some time.
And like any good Alaskan tale, Phil explains,
“Our story is quite unique.” And what they’ve created is even better in person. Along
with showcasing the natural beauty of the island, Phil and
Gwen have crafted a personalized level of service found at
the top global luxury resorts.
Gwen and Phil commend their team for the expert level of
care they provide to their guests. Phil says, “Our staff are
master memory makers. That’s what our job is—to help
“Gwen and I met in Sitka, in the late 70s,” Phil says. Gwen people make memories that last forever by offering the
grew up in Sitka, with both her parents working as school greatest Alaska experience possible. We anticipate guests'
teachers and her dad commercial fishing in the summers, needs before they even know they need them, and we
but Phil came to the island town for work. “I was a timber deliver that service.”
cruiser for Alaska Lumber and Pulp,” Phil explains. “At the
time, I was putting myself through college and working
in Sitka during the summers.” The couple later moved to
back with a good book and relax on the private sand beach
or spacious deck cozied up to the outdoor fire.
Explore the area in other ways by going out on kayaking
trips. Paddle down the coastline and around small islands
while taking in the marine life. Step into the Tongass National
Forest Alaska’s temperate rainforest—and hike up along
paths and through the lush, ancient forests to mountain
peaks. Head over to Kruzof Island for an ATV excursion, and
take in the views of Mt. Edgecumbe, Sitka’s volcano, from
a whole new perspective. Climb aboard a boat for a whale
watching tour and learn about the humpback whale, among
other marine species calling these rich waters home.
Alaska trip, and that starts with the private, luxury What are you waiting for? Plan your next trip at
and Alaska’s Inside Passage. Though top-of-the-line service
their experiences and started a global database marketing
peaceful meditation and aromatherapy opportunities. Kick
The true Talon Lodge experience means a fully immersive
accommodations that include views of Mt. Edgecumbe
Hawaii, and after Phil's advertising career, they combined
of relaxing massages, rejuvenating yoga sessions, and
talonlodge.com
and breathtaking views can be expected for all, Talon
company focused on the tourism and marketing industry
Lodge aims to make each experience unique, with vacation
for top luxury brand clients.
packages tailored to each guest’s preferences. This kind of
When they returned to Sitka in 2003 to visit Gwen’s sister, personalization, along with impeccable service, is what has
the couple found Apple Island—now the private island helped Talon Lodge set the standard for top-notch quality in
on which Talon Lodge resides. Building the lodge was the lodge industry. “We’re different. We have a staff to guest
the perfect excuse for Gwen to return home. They began ratio that exceeds one to one. We have three professionally
construction in the same year, and by 2004, the lodge was trained chefs, two massage therapists, and two bartenders
already open for its first season. for just 24 people,” says Phil. “Every one of our staff are
With the hope to marry the unbeatable scenery of Sitka committed to providing the best possible Alaska experience
for our guests. It’s what were known for—an extremely high
with their years of resort experience, Phil explains, “Our
level of service.”
mission was to create an Alaska adventure resort that
allowed guests to experience Sitka’s remarkable fishing
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