Hot Springs Await at Arctic Circle.

Most people wanting to escape the cold and darkness of winter do not even consider going north as an option. But hidden in Alaska's Interior is a warm oasis waiting to heat the hearts of anyone ready to make the journey.

Arctic Circle Hot Springs is nestled at the end of the road less traveled--the Steese Highway. An eight- to 11 hour drive (depending on the season) from Anchorage will have the savvy traveler soaking in the outdoor pool, or relaxing in one of the indoor jacuzzis. A lodge, several cabins, a saloon and restaurant offer just the beginning of an exceptional weekend getaway.

Robert and Laverna Miller have owned the resort since 1980. After recently leasing it to others, they are managing the lodge themselves again and improving the property to attract more visitors.

"Robert brings in all our supplies," says Laverna, referring to the work they put into it.

"He figures that in all these years, he has driven that road (the Steese Highway to Fairbanks) more than 800 times."

New floors, cabin repairs and constant maintenance keep the resort comfortable, without losing the rustic feel that makes the venture an Alaska experience.

Greg Smith, the certified pool operator, says: "People come for the pool; it is all clean and in good shape."

Fed directly by the hot springs, the water is filtered and kept at about 104 degrees, a soothing respite no matter what the air temperature is. The water is recycled every 18 hours. The outdoor pool is large enough to swim laps in, but the relaxing atmosphere lends itself more to soaking and star gazing.

The attitude at Arctic Circle Hot Springs could be described as diligent fun.

"We have had water polo games, and one time I cleaned $1,800 from the pool after a guy decided to hide his money in his shorts," laughed Smith.

The restaraunt offers excellent meals at reasonable prices. The saloon has mementos from around the world tacked to the walls and friendly travelers share stories of adventure.

The lodge has a variety of accommodations, from a hostel on the fourth floor to luxurious rooms with jacuzzis. All the water is provided directly from the hot springs.

Cabins provide an alternative for those wishing to spend a few nights.

Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling offer plenty of winter time activities. A short hike to the cemetery complements the ghost stories that hover about the 70-year-old lodge.

Reduced winter rates make viewing the Northern Lights and ice fishing on Medicine Lake a real bargain. You can even go dog sledding if you desire, and flightseeing is popular all year.

Laverna is looking forward to road improvements on the Steese Highway to increase future business.

"Most of our business comes from Anchorage and Fairbanks on the weekends," says Miller. "And the Milepost has always been good for us."

Summer is definitely the busiest time of year.

"I like the fall myself, but you don't get to see the flowers," says Laverna.

No matter when you visit, Arctic Circle Hot Springs is an excellent escape.