


Gwin’s Lodge and Roadhouse
Property description
4 min readGwin’s Lodge is a prestatehood, pioneer-built log roadhouse opened in 1952 at Mile 52 Sterling Hwy, nestled at the confluence of the Kenai & Russian Rivers. The lodge offers 19 upgraded guest cabins and houses, full-service restaurant/bar, tackle shop/store, package liquor sales and potential year-round operations—a true Alaska icon.
Land
Gwin’s Lodge is ideally situated on a scenic and accessible parcel of wooded land within the Chugach National Forest—one of Alaska’s most sought-after recreational regions. Nestled at Mile 52 on the Sterling Highway in Cooper Landing, the property borders the world-famous Kenai River, a mecca for salmon and trout fishing, and lies less than a mile from the trailheads to Resurrection Pass and Russian Lakes. The terrain is rich with mature spruce and birch forest, offering privacy, natural beauty, and direct immersion in Alaska’s wilderness.
Guests enjoy stunning views of the Kenai Mountains, frequent wildlife sightings, and nearby riverfront access just steps from their cabins. With very well maintained year-round road access and proximity to multiple lakes, mountains, and trails, the land surrounding Gwin’s Lodge is not only picturesque—it’s a turnkey basecamp for outdoor recreation and the Alaskan dream.
Improvements
Lodging: Gwin’s Lodge features a well-developed and charming mix of rustic log cabins and larger guest accommodations, thoughtfully renovated to retain their historic character while offering modern comfort. There are 17 cozy guest cabins that sleep between 4 to 6 people, each uniquely styled with authentic Alaskan touches. Many include kitchenettes or mini-fridges, wood-burning stoves, and private bathrooms. In addition, two spacious family-style cottages can accommodate large groups of 8 to 10 guests, ideal for fishing parties or multi-family getaways.
Amenities: The heart of the property is its iconic full-service log restaurant and bar, open seasonally and known for hearty Alaskan fare, fresh seafood, homemade pies, and local craft beer. The restaurant also offers a popular summer “To-Go” window, catering to early-morning anglers and late-night travelers alike. A well-stocked tackle shop and gift store caters to outdoor enthusiasts with gear, licenses, and souvenirs.
Outdoor picnic areas and BBQ stations allow guests to enjoy meals amid the natural surroundings and provides a relaxing retreat after long days of fishing or hiking. The property also includes ample guest parking, Wi-Fi access in public areas, and on-site laundry facilities. Staff accommodations include 20 employee housing units that can accommodate 40 employees with shared bathrooms, kitchen, and lounge—enabling smooth seasonal operations and staff comfort.
From hospitality to infrastructure, the improvements at Gwin’s Lodge are extensive and well-maintained, offering a turnkey opportunity for a new owner to step into an iconic and fully operational Alaskan business.
Recreation
Gwin’s Lodge is a premier basecamp for sport-fishing and outdoor adventure on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Situated at the confluence of the Kenai and Russian Rivers, it offers direct access to world-class salmon and trout fishing, with guided river trips and saltwater charters available. The lodge also coordinates whitewater rafting, glacier tours, bear viewing, scenic flights, and more. Located near major hiking trailheads and surrounded by the wildlife-rich Chugach National Forest, it’s an ideal hub for guests seeking both relaxation and rugged Alaskan experiences.
General Operations
Gwin’s Lodge operates as a diversified hospitality and adventure tourism business in Cooper Landing, Alaska, targeting outdoor enthusiasts, anglers, and eco-tourists seeking authentic Alaskan experiences on the Kenai Peninsula. Established in 1952, the core revenue streams include lodging (cabins and camping), food and beverage services, guided excursions, and retail sales, with a focus on seasonal peak operations from June to September to cap…
Location
Cooper Landing, AK, United States
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