We flew here (only way to get here) on an expensive days excursion from Fairbanks, but it was worth every penny - an oasis in the arctic wilderness. Hazel made us very welcome, and although strangers, we were treated as old friends, especially by Ted (who seems to be the local welcoming 'character'. Got driven around Evanstown and down to lake, lunch at the Lodge (great chowder), and then a trip on the river to see Old Bettles. with Sven.

If you want to get away from it all in Alaska, this is as good as any. For real wilderness, our plane went back by Anatuvik Pass, up in the Brooks Range - stunning.

After a week on the John River (with canoe rentals and float plane drop courtesy of the Bettles Lodge), we spent the night at the lodge before heading south. The staff at the lodge is incredible. Every member is pleasant, professional, and exceptionally competent, from pilot to cook to the front desk clerk. They learned our names immediately and made us feel welcome. Every detail of our trip was well planned and we can't wait to go back, maybe for one of Sven's winter camping/sled dog trips.

Cannot say enough good things about the staff here. Every time we thought we might be getting bored, it seems like one of them came up with something for us to do while we were waiting for the weather to clear. And anything we wanted to do, they made it happen for us. Great bunch of people.

Best place to see northern lights--nothing to block the view; excellent food--and plenty of it; Hazel is a great hostess--loved her husky mix dog, Noah, who was part of the family. Rooms are clean and comfortable; plenty of winter gear available to borrow--coats, bunny boots, hats, gloves, etc. Bonfire one night while watching lights was very memorable and fun. Met a lot of very nice people--locals and guests.