Introduction
The Taku Lodge Seaplane Base (IATA: TKL) is located in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness and makes for a one-of-a-kind adventure. The coordinates of a remote airstrip serve as the way in to Taku Glacier Lodge, an isolated and picture-perfect historic lodge only reachable by seaplane.
Airlines and Destinations
Scheduled commercial airlines (3) serve Taku Lodge Seaplane Base. Casual seaplane visitors must instead book flights via independent wilderness air services like nearby Juneau International Airport (IATA: JNU) based Wings Airways, which offers sightseeing tours, and are unable to transit through any of the Alaska Airlines-operated partner airlines flying into Angoon.
Passengers and Flights
As it is a private seaplane based in a remote area, there are no public statistics on passengers or flights to and from Taku Lodge Seaplane Base. But the lodge and its seaplane services are a favorite of adventure travelers, confirming that more than just city slickers appreciate Alaska's natural wonders.
How to Get Here
To get to Taku Lodge Seaplane Base, one can only use other seaplanes. Tour operators or seaplane companies like Wings Airways, which run flights that typically depart from Juneau International Airport, offer this experience. During a flight lasting about 25 minutes, with intriguing views of glaciers and natural wilds, is one of the experiences at Taku Lodge.
Parking
Given that Taku Lodge Seaplane Base is an undesignated, isolated airstrip in the wilderness without any type of infrastructure, there are no official parking lots. Since guests arrive by seaplane, most are shuttled straight to the lodge and do not require private vehicles.
Transportation Price
Transportation to the Taku Lodge Seaplane Base is extra and varies with tour operator and package selected. Seaplane flight & lodge experiences will range from $475 - $804.00 per person, depending on the exact itinerary and inclusions.
Terminal Layout
Taku Lodge Seaplane Base is an unscheduled, unimproved seaplane landing area located on the west side of East Taku Inlet near Juneau and 13 km (8 miles) northeast of downtown Juneau (646067N1343441W). No terminal building or other infrastructure exists since visitors arriving by seaplane are directly transported to Taku Glacier Lodge.
Navigate the Airport
Each runway is a waterway only with no terminal or services; hence, there are the minimum of facilities here at Taku Lodge Seaplane Base. Tourists just getting off a seaplane are met by lodge employees or their particular tour operator and guided to the nearby Taku Glacier Lodge.
Getting Between Terminals
There are no crews or passengers to shuffle between terminals as this is a single runway uncontrolled airstrip, and all operations originate and terminate at the same point in space. You will be flown directly from the seaplane to Taku Glacier Lodge.
Services and Amenities
While the Taku Lodge Seaplane Base does not have any services or amenities due to it being a remote and undeveloped airstrip, Taku Glacier Lodge can accommodate up to 80 guests with dining, lodging, and activities.
Restaurants and Shops
Next to the seaplane base is Taku Glacier Lodge, complete with a restaurant offering an incredible salmon barbecue that fills many bellies. There are no additional shops or dining options at the Taku Lodge Seaplane Base, however.
Security and Customs
The Taku Lodge Seaplane Base is no exception, with only informal security and customs procedures enforced at the site. When the seaplane arrives, operators whisk visitors right to the lodge - all of which is arranged with necessary logistics and paperwork.
Accessibility
The Taku Lodge Seaplane Base and the ice fields near it can only be reached by air, so hikers with mobility restrictions or special needs have a place for themselves. Some travelers may struggle with the remote location and scarce infrastructure.
Travel Tips
Plan Far in Advance - Book your transportation to the Taku Lodge Seaplane Base well ahead of time, as this experience is immensely popular and operates nearly around-the-clock (July 1 - August 31). Wear layers and get ready for the cool seaplane ride to behold Alaskan beauty up close. Taku Glacier Lodge is accessible only by plane or boat - discover the authentic wilderness and experience remote regions in true glamour!