About High Lake Lodge

Every mapped Alaska site has a story. High Lake Lodge is over 60 years old. Still a small, rustic, and family-owned location, it is a treasure chest full of incredible stories and memories.

Our amazing staff see to the everyday operations of the lodge, equipment, and grounds.
You will truly enjoy their warm, down to earth hospitality.


  • Owner, Operator, and Chef Extraordinaire

    Michelle is a certified food protection manager and is trained in basic life support, first aid, CPR, automated external defibrillator (AED), and is a trained nurse’s aide. She is an Alaska licensed
    Big Game Commercial Services Transporter (license number GUIT1063). Michelle cooks spectacular meals for guests and keeps the cabins clean and well stocked.


  • Head of Maintenance and Chief Wisdom Officer

    Frank is the lodge maintenance chief, responsible for keeping the lights on, the heat going, and the engines running. He has been a part of the High Lake family for the last two decades.

Michelle and her family bought High Lake in 1992. Since then, they have welcomed guests from all over the country—and world.

With over thirty years of experience, the torch will pass to Michelle’s three sons (and grandchildren) to serve as the future caretakers for the historic landmark. 

Zach and McKinley, the 2nd and 3rd generation owner/operators.

Luke, the youngest of the three brothers.

The History of High Lake

High Lake was founded and named by Ken and Mary Oldham in 1959. Excerpts from High Lake Lodge history have been re-printed with permissions. The Oldham’s owned High Lake for 11 years and homeschooled their four children there.

On July 22, 2001, the first of a two-part interview by Sharon Bushell with Mary Oldham was published in the Alaskana Section of the Anchorage Daily News (click to enlarge and read—it’s well worth it). This is how High Lake Lodge got its start.

The Heun Family purchased High Lake Lodge in November 1992. For almost three decades they have seen (and tried) all types of ways to keep a remote lodge in working order. Today, they are proud to share their efforts with guests who arrive as clients and leave as life-long​ friends. Somehow, living in the Alaska bush brings a person back to a simpler lifestyle—no less work, but equally rewarding.

When we meet people we ask for autographs and their story. Former Governor Jay Hammond knew the challenges of bush lodge ownership and appropriately signed one for the lodge!

Bow hunters will recognize Doug Walker, Bob Munger, and Fred Bear in some of the photos. They visited High Lake in the 60’s and artist Charles Denault captured one photo in a beautiful art piece which hangs above the fireplace.

High Lake Lodge’s history continues—come make it a part of your story!