Taku Glacier Lodge, built in 1923, is listed in the National Historic Register. It is idyllically set amid snowcapped mountain peaks and awesome glaciers in a valley abundant with wildlife. In its secluded setting 30 miles north of Juneau, it is only accessible by floatplane or small river boat.

Peer into centuries-old blue ice crevasses as you listen to a narrated tape aboard your aircraft while soaring past five of the valley's spectacular glaciers. Your plane will alight between the Hole in the Wall Glacier and Taku Lodge.

The aroma of salmon baking over an outdoor alderwood fire greets you. In addition to the delectable salmon feast that awaits, the lodge's staff will have soft drinks or glacier-chilled beer or wine. While enjoying your homemade meal, listen to the story of Mary Joyce and her famous dog sled trip. The lodge's cozy interior is decorated with old dog sleds, hunting and trapping gear, furs and skins. A crackling fire and hot Russian tea complete the setting.

Before rejoining your aircraft, take a stroll through the virgin rain forest to see the eagles' nest along the river. Quite often the aroma of salmon attracts a black bear who'll scour the barbecue pit in search of tasty morsels. All too soon it's time to return to the Crystal Symphony after a memorable journey to an area scarcely touched by time.

Approximately 3 hours (flight time is 50 minutes).