The town of Talkeetna Alaska is known for being a base-camp for expeditions in Denali National Park.  One winter weekend, we decided to take the Alaska Railroad from Anchorage to explore the local area.  Being winter, it was very quiet, but fortunately most businesses were open.  We stayed at Talkeetna Cabins and were the only ones there.  The owners were fantastic, and offered to drive us anywhere we needed to go.

Unfortunately I didn't bring my skis - there were groomed trails everywhere and most people used skis to get around.  Restaurants and shops had racks outside for ski storage, and people even skied behind their dogs, a sport known as skijoring.

One of the highlights of the trip was meals at the Roadhouse.  The Roadhouse, built in 1917 is one of the oldest establishments in Talkeetna and was establish to serve as a lodging and dining facility for rail workers, miners, explorers and people passing through.  Their meals were incredible and had the best apple butter I have ever tasted.  They were supposed to start selling it online, but I haven't seen it yet.  I'll be sure to buy at least a case of it if and when it becomes available!

The main room in the Roadhouse is set up for relaxation - you can set up board games, play cards, or read countless books on every conceivable subject while enjoying a bottomless cup of strong coffee.  It's a great place to while a way an afternoon as the mercury drops.

The entire town is part of an historic district.  There's a small airport, access to the Susitna River and lots of great restaurants.  Here are a few images from the trip: