Planning Your 2011 Alaskan Vacation - Which Month is Best? (Part 2 - MAY)

Click here for Part 1 (with thoughts on Winter, and April)

May is an astounding month here in the Great North.  Snow may or may not be on the ground this month---and, even with the warmer temperatures, you still never know---snow may (or may not) fall from the sky at any time.  Alaskans, delighted at the return of the long sunny days and the arrival of summer, are all ready to hang flower baskets on their porches, hungry for the green and the happy blooms full of color, but all Alaskans know that baskets hung outside in May are not guaranteed.  A 60-degree day may still dip to below-freezing temperatures at night.

While the flower baskets might need to be brought in for the night, our native Alaskan plant species can handle the temperature dips just fine.  It is astounding, for those who take a walk through the spruce-laden forests during the month of May, to see the many varieties of plants unfurling their way out of the ground, often right next to a slowly-thawing mound of snow! 

The month of May is when the green suddenly explodes, the beginning of the month starting out with a mostly bare-looking earth, but within a short time-span, lawns are green, flowers are blooming and the vibrant richness of summer is fully engaging.  If you were an Alaskan who was tapping your  paper birch trees in April (see picture above), creating delicious syrups and wines from the bounty of birch sap gathered, you understand exactly why May culminates in an explosion of green.  With such a rich Spring-time gathering of water and nutrients from the soil, what plant wouldn't? 

Plants aren't the only things waking up.  Migratory birds are in!  It really is hard to describe with mere words the sense electricity and excitement that sparkles through the air when a huge flock of excited shore birds arrives.  On the estuary that the Diamond M Ranch overlooks, we watch large groups coming in, the neat and tidy flocks exploding with joy as they arrive, circling and dipping and diving through the air, all the once-perfect-V-like arrangements breaking into a thousand happy feathered individual birds, celebratory honks and shrieks and cries of delight filling the air. 

Alaska is the destination hot-spot for all sorts of winged species.  Beginning in April and continuing through the month of May, you may see swans, loons, robins, hummingbirds, and a host of other birds arriving "home" to nest and raise their young. (For an excellent article on this topic here, information on shore birds here, water fowl here, and general info here). 

One of the best things about visiting in May is that it will be friendly on your pocket book.  The tourism and hospitality industry here in Alaska does a fantastic job of helping travelers experience our great state, and in May, since most people plan their trips to Alaska around the salmon run in July, you will have them almost entirely to yourself!  Everyone is getting their cruises, guided tours and hospitality services ramped up and ready to go for the summer rush, but because of the smaller flow of people, May prices tend to be much lower than they will be in just a couple months. 

For those wanting to experience Alaska, but without a lot of spare spending money, a vacation here during the month of May could be just what you are looking for.  For example, here at the Diamond M Ranch, you could spend a week in a beautiful one bedroom apartment suite during the month of May, complete with a full kitchen and including your own private deck overlooking the Kenai River estuary, mountain ranges and more, and do it for about $200 less than you would in July! 

Alaskan-dweller Lynne, who blogs here, had this to say about vacationing in Alaska during the month of May, providing vacationers with some great money-saving tips!

"Sometimes breakup doesn't come until May. Might want to wait until first week of May. That is usually when they open Denali Park for first 30 miles to private vehicles. Just before tour buses start running. And May is great time to go to Homer for Halibut or salmon fishing. But don't rent an RV in May and expect many RV parks to be open. Usually not until Memorial Day. And if you drive north of Anchorage, dress warm. It has snowed and sleeted on us in May pretty often."

Thanks, Lynne!  (FYI, for those who RV, we are one of the few RV Parks that is open in May, and with great rates, too)!  If you live in Alaska, or have visited here during the month of May, please feel welcome to share your thoughts, suggestions and tips in the comments box below.

Planning Your 2011 Alaskan Vacation - Which Month is Best? Thoughts on Winter and April Vacations

Martin Family, Cross-Country Skiing, Alaska

One of the first things to do, when planning your Alaskan vacation on the Kenai Peninsula, is decide what time you will want to be here.  The following is the first post in a series filled with our tips and suggestions for finding the time that best fits your vacation goals.

 October through March - If you are a winter sports enthusiast, or have always wanted to experience Alaska during the snow-covered months, we recommend planning your vacation during this time period.  Snow sports abound, such as skiing (cross-country and downhill), ice skating, snow-mobiling (we call it "snow-machining"), snow-shoeing, ice-fishing and so much more.  The opportunities are endless, and if you're not sure which activity best suits you, talk to the operator of the accommodations you choose and get some advice from a real live Alaskan.  Looking for a romantic getaway in an exotic location?  Trust us.  It doesn't get much better than a warm cozy suite room, candles lit, wine glasses poured, all overlooking a beautiful snow-covered vista!  These words from Jack and Debbie Brown say it all,

"Jack and I spent New Years Eve at the Diamond M Ranch Resort. The scenery was just beautiful! Imagine watching fireworks bursting over the snow covered Kenai River valley ~ Fantastic! The Green Tree room is like a honeymoon suite with beautiful kitchen area, living room, and jaccuzi. Gorgeous furnishings in each room. This resort is as wonderful in December as it is in June. Happy Trails in 2011!"

April - While most people in the United States have this strange season they call, "Spring," we Alaskans have our own special time of year, a season unto itself.  We affectionately call it, "Break-Up," because this is the month where all the snow begins to do exactly that---breaking up, slowly and steadily melting, leaving an abundance of water in it's wake.  Mud abounds, as do puddles both large and small, as the earth begins to show her face again, the promise of green just around the corner. 

There aren't a lot of vacationers here during the month of April, so if you are looking for a real bargain on a room or cabin, this is the month to find it!  Take a walk through the thawing woods and be amazed at the hardy green plants that are poking their little heads through the slowly melting snow.  The sun comes up early and goes to bed late, its rays of light energizing each little Alaskan community.  Moose go ambling around the woods and neighborhoods alike, females all close to giving birth and more than delighted to munch on the willow stems emerging from the receding snow.  Everywhere, during the month of April, life in the Alaskan wilderness is beginning to stir. 

To be continued... 
Click here for Part 2 - MAY

Kenai Restaurants: Thai Town

One of our favorite meal stops in the Kenai/Soldotna area (and there are a lot of them!) is a small ethnic restaurant, quietly nestled off the main road in the City of Kenai.  "Thai Town" is family owned and operated, with a lunch buffet that is out of this world.  If you are a lover of Thai foods, spicy coconut curry dishes, Thai tea, tofu pad thai, and other delights, this is a place not to be missed.  

Located at 106 South Willow Street, Kenai, this is a local spot that asian food enthusiasts will not want to miss.  Enjoy!

Alaska's Winter Beauty - Always a Surprise

Yes, yes, it's cold and it's dark.  That's to be expected, way up here in the North.  What a visitor might not expect is the beauty.

This morning, I opened my door at 8am to a feast of twinkling stars, a crescent moon dangling just above the treeline, it's light just barely outlining the tall giant spruce trees standing sentry.  I was expecting a quick dash out to the driveway to start the car----I wasn't expecting the lusciousness. 

It's like that up here, and no matter how long you live here, it continuously catches you off guard.

Our Quarter Horses, Enjoying the First Snowfall of the Winter, 2010

The Kenai Visitors and Cultural Center

I'm over at the Kenai Visitors and Cultural Center today and wanted to take a minute to recommend it to any visitors to Alaska.

A wealth of information available to both resident and tourist alike!  "The Kenai Visitors and Cultural Center houses the City of Kenai's permanent collection of natural history objects, archeological material, native artifacts and contemporary art."  Click here for more information about this must-see display!

Beautiful Winter in Alaska

The view from my window is always stunning, whether it's the thickly greened carpeting of summer or the gentle frozen covering of snow.  Mid-November finds us waking up to temperatures of 0 degrees F, scraping ice off of vehicles, and donning warm winter coats and hats before heading outside.   

Those who vacation in Alaska in the winter are sure to get an unforgettable experience.  This rugged land offers us much in the way of either winter sports, outdoors activities or snuggling up for some warm and cozy evenings by the fire.

The Snow is Here, the Snow is Here!

The snow is here, and the Diamond M Ranch family didn't waste a minute. 

The beautiful white stuff is covering the ground and we LOVE it! 

Alaska in November and Romantic Winter Getaway Plans!

It's an odd way to start November, this rare snowless week.  Albeit, we did get some snow yesterday, a light flurry that came down in the night and spent most of the next day melting quietly away.

Snow or not, winter is upon us here in the beautiful state of Alaska.  For us, that often means time for lighting candles, putting an extra log in the fireplace, and heading to bed just a little earlier in keeping with the earlier descent of the sun.

Place Setting at our Bed & Breakfast

Here at the Diamond M Ranch Resort, most of our rooms are booked for the winter season, though the romantic Greentree Suite remains available for those wanting a relationship-building sumptuous winter getaway.   Whether you take advantage of a get-away or decide to stay at home, the colder months of this season can provide the perfect opportunity for nestling close and remembering the things that brought you together.

Winter reminds us to remember our blessings, delight in the closeness of loved ones, and to look with hope at things that may look dormant now, but will soon be blossoming once again.

Details about the Greentree Suite can be found here.  Mention this blog post for 15% off a one-night stay, or 20% off your winter stay of 2 or more days when you book!  Ask about our "romantic dinner and wine" add-on options!  Offer good through April of 2010. 

October in Alaska

Each morning, the air steadily increases the "bite," a crisp edge that promises snow, just around the corner.  Everyone in Alaska is "winterizing," gathering up hoses, putting up bicycles and motercycles, making sure vehicles have tires that can handle ice, etc.  Most of the time, there's a good foot of snow on the ground by the end of the month, and because of that, we don't find it odd that trick-or-treaters go from door to door with costumes underneath warm winter coats or snowsuits! 

The frost each morning is a beautiful sight, as are the glowing stars in the wide expanse of the sky.  Losing our long summer daylight, each evening the sun sets earlier and earlier and comes up later each morning.  The migratory birds are all gone, off to the next stage in their yearly traveling adventures.  Moose are busy fattening up on the open grasses, soon to be covered up with snow, six of them out in the harvested hay field the other day, thoroughly enjoying themselves. 

Winter is coming, as it does every year, weaving the changes so naturally in the beautiful tapestry that makes up life on our planet. 

So Much To Do on the Kenai Peninsula! (Work Camper Adventures at the Diamond M Ranch Resort)

Helping to run the Diamond M Ranch Resort campground is not a job for the faint of heart. Somewhat similar to juggling plates, a good work camper has to be able to multi-task. Here at the Diamond M Ranch, that means the ability to go on dog sled rides with Ididaride Sled Dog Tours...

 

Raft glacier-fed rivers with the Alaska Rivers Company...

Haul in a big catch with Chihuly Charters...

Or go flying with High Adventure Air (awesome!), and even enjoy a glacier cruise with Major Marine Tours, and so much more!

A big thank you to all of the above companies, for offering our work campers these opportunities to experience Alaska. As they say, the best advertisement is a happy customer, and our work campers certainly had a ball with all of you!

We have the most amazing Work Campers, year after year, and words can't express how much we appreciate them. Each one always has a unique skill, whether it's in answering phones, organizing office areas, helping with new construction, landscaping and gardening, building fences, working security, helping with ranch animals, having a friendly smile to greet guests, hosting fish fry socials---and even making beautiful signs* placed all around the resort, named after each one of our family members!

Summer at the Diamond M Ranch Resort flies by quickly, always so much going on---so many things to see and do, as well as so many wonderful guests to help have a wonderful stay. We appreciate our Work Campers so much. Their energy, smiles, and helping hands truly enable us take our business to the next level!

*Thank you, Jim Diggs, for the beautiful signs and for the great pictures above that you shared with us!

Mount Redoubt: Musings on Alaskan Mountains

Depending on the clouds and whatever other mysterious things are involved in making mountains appear and disappear, sometimes Mount Redoubt looms over us here at the Ranch, and yet, every once in a while, you'd never know there was a mountain  here at all. 

Our guests, Ellen and Bill McEwen, snapped this shot of the mountain from our viewing deck here at the Ranch.  Obviously, it was one of those moments where Redoubt was standing, strong and tall, in plain sight for all to see.  Breath-taking. 

Mountains, much like a sky full of stars at night, are good for reflection.  All the little soap operas in our lives, things that often take up so much of our energy, seem to be put in their place when we step back and take in the vastness of nature.  Like falling leaves, the wind of awareness comes in and blows away the petty issues that we were allowing to rob us of our vitality and precious time, allowing us to concentrate on the things that are worth it. 

The towering mountain reminds us of the temporary nature of our days, and as we breathe that in, we remember that very few things really matter.  People matter.  How we spend our time matters.  Who we spend our time with matters.  Learning, growing, developing into who we truly are---that matters.  Most of the other stuff, loud and pesky stuff that can often occupy so much of our energies, doesn't really matter at all... 

Mount Redoubt is good for that, calling us to go inward and reflect on the priorities we have and changes that, perhaps, it's time for us to make.  Seasonally covered in snow or verdant greenery, the mountain stands firm, mysterious, and alive, a treasured part of this Alaskan landscape. 

New Website for Diamond M Ranch Resort!

Party!  Celebration!  Fireworks! 

Nate Estaban of HyperSolutions has given our business website a complete overhaul, and the results are just delightful!  Great job, Nate!  We think this will help us serve our customers even better than before, and we couldn't be more thrilled! 

The Biggest Little Fair in Alaska: Kenai Peninsula State Fair in Ninilchik

The Fair is this coming weekend! 

Stay tuned for some pictures and commentary, but in the meantime, go here for more information, schedules, and more:  Official Fair Website

Alaskan Beaches: Razor Clam Digging and Sand Castle Design

We take all interested guests on a razor clam dig, once a week---always a much lauded experience---but it's fair to say that the play-dough-like consistancy of Alaskan beach mud calls out loudly for tactile engagement of other kinds.  Here, Kaillee Skjold and Josiah Martin take a brief moment off from clam digging to construct a sand castle---with a moat and the decorative value of snail shells thrown in for good measure.

Last year, my kids and I found three baby sharks caught in a tide pool, waiting for the cold waters of Cook Inlet to come back and give them a chance at life.  My children stood guard as the sea gulls circled hopefully above, the salty sweet smell of kelp filling the air around us.  

There is no such thing as a "casual" walk on the beach, here by the waters of Cook Inlet, no matter which beach you visit.  It is a richly meditative experience, each and every time, and certainly one not to be missed.          

RVing in Alaska: Slow Down and Smell the Spruce Trees!

Roger and Ruthanne Jansen, Work Campers at the Diamond M Ranch this summer,
exemplify the fine art of making the most of every moment!

Not everyone has the time to take a leisurely trip through Alaska, but it's important to remember that a vacation is only a vacation in so much as it is a vacation!  If you maintain a fast pace and a tight schedule, hustling from one stop to the next, concentrating on the map and the milage and the next stop, you may be in Alaska but you're missing almost everything Alaska has to offer. 

Don't let the cities and the roadways fool you.  There's nothing tame about Alaska.  It's still a land of rugged wildness---a place where you can breathe deeply, stretch out stiff limbs and remember what it is like to be alive again.  Many RVer's understand this, so instead of scheduling a whirlwind tour of the state (going a mile wide and an inch deep), they pick one specific part of the state to really "get to know," to richly experience and enjoy.  Make no bones about it---the quality of their Alaskan vacation time is unparalleled.

So if there is one piece of advice we could give you, as you plan for your Alaskan vacation, it is this: make it a priority to fully enjoy the piece of Alaska that you find yourself in.  Walk on the spongy tundra.  Breathe in the salty freshness of the river mouth.  Stay up late for a one-of-a-kind "midnight sun" sunset.  It doesn't have to cost money, because it's not about money.  It's simply about engaging with your surroundings and drinking deeply of the richness all around you. 

As the saying goes, a good motto both for RVer's and for the rest of us,

"Wherever you are, be all there."

Alaskan Homestead Cabin

 

On Beautiful Mount Marathon

Ronna, Darius and Sonora pose on top of Mount Marathon in Seward.  We offer free guided hikes to our guests every summer, some on easy terrain and some on more difficult trails.  We usually feature two or three of difficult hikes on this very mountain, a steep rugged climb that is also the stage for an exciting race every 4th of July. 

The Diamond M Ranch would like to thank all the runners who entered this year's race in Matti's honor and ran in his memory.  We appreciate you!  

D.Anne Martin races wearing an In Memory of Matti t-shirt.

RVing in Alaska: July Dipnetting Season Is Upon Us!

It's the middle of July, and for those of us with lodging accommodations next to the Kenai River, that means only one thing  Lots and lots of motor homes!  It seems like everybody and their brother (and mother and uncles and cousins, for that matter) are down from the Anchorage, hoping to get their nets in the water and load up on a winter freezer's worth of salmon.  We're glad to be of service and enjoy the energy that all these guests bring to our busy campground.   

Schools of salmon are making their last pilgrimage, leaving the cold ocean waters and making for the streams of their birth.  My kids and I were at a beach a couple days ago, young faces squealing with delight as we watched salmon make their way past a well-fed seal and up into the fresh water creek where we stood, slippery scales passing between our bare legs, thrashings tails leaving a brief wake of foaming white water before disappearing around the bend.          

God Bless America! Diamond M Ranch Wins 1st Place for 4th of July Parade Float!

Diamond M Ranch Campground Hosts (Ruthanne and Roger Jansen, and Sherry and Jim Diggs) got together, despite the busy summer, and mamaged to put together a float for the 4th of July parade that ended up winning 1st Place for Commercial/Business Floats! 

We had a lot of fun!  Even "Dolly Parton Varden" was there!

Here, two of our most precious float participants took advantage of a lull in parade activities to catch a few winks!  Doesn't get much cuter than this! 

Thank You, Alaska State HOG Rally Participants! We Had a Blast Hosting You!

(Click on panoramic to enlarge)

Some shots from the Alaska State HOG Rally this past weekend... 

 

By Thursday evening, this place was covered with bikers of all kinds.Many were Alaskan residents but quite a few came in from out-of-state to experience the first-ever Alaska state rally!

The deep purring sound of Harley engines formed a constant backdrop during the three day event.

Diamond M Ranch Resort family member, D.Anne Martin, considers whether or not to spend her college fund on a nice bike, instead...  Speaking of motorcycles, I was told that this particular bike was one of the winners of the 500 mile runs! 

...So, okay.  Maybe it wasn't the quietest event we've ever hosted...but at our weekly staff meeting this morning, the entire Diamond M Ranch Resort staff all agreed that we had a wonderful time working with the event coordinators and members of the Alaska State HOG Rally and hope to have the privilege of doing it again next year.  Thanks for a great time, everyone!

Summer Solstice 2010 and Matti's Farm Fest at the Diamond M Ranch Resort!

For more information about Matti's Farm, please see the website.

Summer Solstice is ALMOST HERE!  It is going to be SO MUCH FUN! 

Saturday, June 19th through Sunday, June 20th, 2010.   For more details, the band schedule, activities and more, click here.

Alaska Fishing Guides - Halibut Guides We Love

We are huge fans of Chihuly Charters.  When we have guests who want to go out and experience the delight of fishing for halibut in the Cook Inlet waters, we always see if Mike Chihuly has any available openings.

 Mike and Mark Chihuly have been residents of Alaska for over 40 years while Marvin Nelson was born in Afognak, Alaska.  Doug Blossom, who also guides with Chihuly Charters, was also born on the Kenai Peninsula and knows his way around the Inlet waters.  No other charter service has more experience, nor has fished longer, in Cook Inlet off the Deep Creek/Ninilchik beaches than Chihuly's Charters. 

Happy fishing!

Delicious Alaskan Salmon Dip Recipe

Here's a great dip idea to be used with the Salmon you just caught in the Kenai River (or anywhere else)! You can use this with sockeye (red) salmon, silver, or king. You can even used canned if you'd rather; it tastes terrific with any salmon. Take it to your next party or serve as an appetizer at your own!



Salmon Dip

From: Diamond M Ranch, B&B, Cabins & RV Park

2 c. Salmon (drained, if from jar)
1 8oz cream cheese
1 T lemon juice
2 t. grated onion
1 t. prepared horse radish
¼ t. liquid smoke, optional*

Chill after mixing with mixer. Jalapeños are a good addition for some.


*If you use smoked salmon, omit this ingredient.

2010 (Updated) List of Free Guided Hikes - We Love Our Alaska Mountain Splendour!

Love hiking Alaska and planning to be in the area this summer?  You are welcome to join us as we take other Alaskan visitors on some wonderful guided mountain hiking experiences.  Please visit www.DiamondMRanch.com or call 907-283-9424 for more details. 

Monday, June 7, 11:45 a.m. Hike Skyline Trail - If it is a beautiful day, this mountain climb provides excellent views of the area. It is a 1 hour drive, 3 hour hike, 1 hour return drive home, the first to sign-up get vehicle transportation ($5). Pack a lunch and water.

Tuesday, June 15, 11:45 a.m. Hike Mt. Marathon - This is the famous July 4th race annually in Seward. We go halfway up this steep mountain climb. 2 hour drive, 2-3 hour hike, 2 hour drive return home; first to sign-up get vehicle transportation ($5). Pack lunch, water, snacks.

Monday, June 21, 11:45 a.m. Hike Mt. Marathon - This is the famous July 4th race annually in Seward. We go halfway up this steep mountain climb. 2 hour drive, 2-3 hour hike, 2 hour drive return home; first to sign-up get vehicle transportation ($5). Pack lunch, water, snacks.

Monday, June 28, 11:45 a.m. Hike Mt. Marathon - This is the famous July 4th race annually in Seward. We go halfway up this steep mountain climb. 2 hour drive, 2-3 hour hike, 2 hour drive return home; first to sign-up get vehicle transportation ($5). Pack lunch, water, snacks.

Monday, July 5, 11:45 a.m. Hike Hideout Lookout – Skilak Lake Road - One hour drive, one hour hike, one hour drive home. This is gradual/easy climb with beautiful views; the first to sign-up get vehicle transportation ($5). Bring snacks and water.

Friday, July 9, 9:30 a.m. Hike Russian River Falls - 1 hour drive, 1-2 hour hike, 1 hour drive return home. This 4 mile roundtrip hike takes you to watch the salmon jump the falls. (Easy stroll) First to sign-up get vehicle transportation.($5) Bring water, snacks.

Monday, August 2, 10 a.m. Hike Skilak Lake Lookout - This beautiful, scenic hike is 4 miles roundtrip. We will depart by vehicle to trailhead. 1 hour drive, 2 hour hike, one hour drive return home; first to sign-up get vehicle transportation ($5). Pack a lunch and water.

Monday, August 9, 10:00 a.m. Hike to Juneau Falls - This beautiful, scenic hike is 8 miles roundtrip. We will depart by vehicle to trailhead. It is a 1 hour drive, 4 hour hike, 1 hour drive return home; the first to sign-up get vehicle transportation. ($5) Pack a lunch and water.

The Alaska HOG Rally is Coming to the Diamond M Ranch Resort!

Motorcyclists in Alaska are a special group.  Not able to ride for much of the snow-covered winter, as soon as the white stuff thaws, everybody with a bike gets on their bike.  One of my children's greatest joys is to be the first to spot a motorcycle zooming down the highway.  We have our fair share of tough looking leather-clad  motorcyclists, but the cool thing about Alaska is that they'll always be sure to give your kids a big smile and a friendly wave, when parked next to you at a stoplight.   

The Diamond M Ranch Resort is happy to be hosting this year's state HOG Rally, June 10-12, 2010.  We are bursting at the seams during the days of the Rally, and looking forward to helping our guests have a wonderful time! 

Cow Chip Triathalon - Matti's Farm Fundraiser at the Diamond M Ranch

Matti’s Farm Fest Solstice Music Festival-------Cowchip Triathlon June 19th!

I would like to introduce you to a unique competition, Matti’s Cowchip Triathlon. This three phase event will be held on June 19 (Solstice) at the Martin Ranch on KBeach Road in Kenai.

It is named in memory of Matti Martin who was tragically killed last year at the Ninilchik Fair. Matti participated in the Triathlon in 2009, posting the fastest time. True to Matti’s farm-boy toughness, he ran the entire race barefoot.

This year’s Triathlon will be held in conjunction with the Solstice Music Festival held each year at the Martin’s Diamond M Ranch. The three segments of the Triathlon will all be held within the Ranch boundaries and will not be using any paved surface. There is a Children Triathlon, Triathlon for Youth and Adult Triathlon. Triathlons for the entire family - come join the fun!

Swimming/Water Leg:

Course will be on an above ground pool, measuring 40’ by 80’

Contestants will use inner tubes in a seated or prone position while completing this leg of the race. Some tubes will be provided, though, it is recommended to bring your own. Size of the tubes need to be appropriate to the athlete’s weight and height.

Length of the course will vary depending on age: 10 and under: four lengths Start time: 1pm

11 to 16: six lengths Start time: Approx. 2pm

17 and up: eight lengths Start time: to follow

Biking Leg:
The course will be marked around the inside of the Martin’s cow pasture.
Each lap will be approximately ½ mile.
10 and under: 3 laps
11 to 16: 5 laps
17 and up: 7 laps

Running Leg:
The same course will be marked around the cow pasture.
10 and under: 2 laps
11 to 16: 4 laps
17 and up: 6 laps

The pool will hold several tubers for a group start. Depending upon number of entries, heats will be seated before each race. Transition areas will be clearly marked. Parent assistance during transition is allowable for the younger age group.

Entry Fee: Cost for having too much fun at this Triathlon will be $20 per entry. Family teams will receive a discount of $5 dollars off for each entry in the “under 10” event, provided another “member” competes in an older age group.
Relays: Groups of individuals can enter as a relay, with each doing one leg of the Triathlon. Cost of a relay team will be $45 per team.
Proceeds for this event and the entire Solstice Festival will be split between the Kenai Peninsula Bed And Breakfast Association, Matti’s Farm fund, and 4H.

Information: Contact John Steckel 398-4398 283-0836

Just Another Day at the Diamond M Ranch Resort (Baby Llama's and Step Mama's)

I was sitting at the computer in the Main Office, typing away, when what do you think walked in?  A newborn llama, that's who.  It's mother didn't make it through the birth, a uterine artery sliced in such a way that there was nothing that could be done to save her.  So, now, the Ranch owners are mothering a little male llama who, might I add, is unbelievably cute.  He padded around the wood floor of the Ranch Office while we were step-mothering him, taking a few moments here and there to perform sprightly little kicks and twists, and then drank his bottle with gusto.

  Here I am, with the llama and a young man who was in the Office as well.  Let me just say that it may be many things, here at the Diamond M Ranch Resort, but the one thing that can never be said is that it's boring. 

Our Two Bald Eagle Mascots for the Year

Sitting in the field.  Guest Michael Scott, hailing from New Mexico, snapped these pictures for us.  Everyone is enjoying the wonderful nest-building show that this pair of eagles is putting on for us, and when the eggs hatch, it's only going to get better. 

Spring is Here: Alaskan Bald Eagles Building Nest

A pair of eagles are working hard on a nest beside the barn, here at the Diamond M Ranch Resort. 

They fly back and forth, laden with sticks for putting their masterpiece together.  We are all enjoying the site, though I'm not sure the free-range chickens are feeling quite as awed as the rest of us...   

The Birds Are Back! Migratory Flocks Landing on Kenai Flats

I wish I had brought my camera with me the other day.  As I drove through the Kenai Flats (our local name for the river and ocean fed estuary wetland, nestled right below the Diamond M Ranch Resort), I happened to come upon a great reunion party.  Huge flocks of Canadian geese, ducks and other migratory birds were all coming in from their various Southern destinations, all at the same time.  The air was filled with the sense of rejoicing as the birds flew in and around and among each other, calling out, excited and anticapatory.  I'm not sure that a camera would have been able to do it justice.  It was absolutely beautiful. 

The 2010 Free Authentic Alaskan Summer Activities List is Up!

This summer is going to be FULL of fun stuff to do on the Ranch!  Check out the extensive (and ever-popular) list here, especially if you want to plan your trip around one or more of these authentic Alaskan experiences. 

Speaking of an authentic Alaskan vacation, a new article from the Ranch, featuring advice on how to make the most of your Alaskan stay, is now up at Trailer Life.  Enjoy!  

America on Wheels: Great Review for the Ranch

What a nice review this is about the Diamond M Ranch Resort.  Thanks so much, Janet!   

"Great place to stay!


If you have the opportunity to stop, this is a good central location for lots of activity. The WiFi works well and the bathhouse is very clean. The laundry facilities are good. The sites are good size and the office has recommendations for places to fish, eat, hike and sight see. They even have activities such as the clam chowder social and pot luck dinners. This is a quiet park where you can feel at home. Instead of moving the RV around the Kenai, we stayed here and traveled to Homer and Seward (Seward was a little far for a day trip)."

Why Alaska is Still the "Last Frontier," Plus, 10 Things to do in Alaska NOT Found in a Typical Tourist Guide)

Don't miss these two articles about the Diamond M Ranch Resort on  the RVWest website:

Still the Last Frontier

Ten Things on the Kenai Peninsula... 

Have more tips of fun and interesting things to do on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, things that aren't found in the typical vacationer's guidebook?  Share them below in the comments section!

Free Stay in Historic Alaskan Goldrush Suite! FB Friends March Winner Is...

The original Greentree Hotel and Bar was built in Dawson City, Yukon Territory in 1898 to house those hoping to strike it rich in the rush for gold. Like the dreams of many miners of the era, Greentree went up in smoke during one of the frequent fires that devastated the towns along the gold rush trail.

We have a love for historic Alaska, and that includes researching and re-creating rooms from those exciting times.  So, at the east end of our Mainstreet, you'll find our Greentree Suite. The private deck begins under the roof of the covered carport and wraps around the full 32 feet accessed by sliding doors from the living room and bed room. A couple entering the magnolia decorated Southern Victorian suite will feel peaceful and pampered by the cozy electric fire place, the double sized jetted bath tub with two shower heads, full kitchen TV/VCR/DVD and telephone.

Every month we do a drawing from the pool of names on the Diamond M Ranch's facebook group members.  This month's winner?  Clark Fair!  One free night in our Greentree Suite, to be used in the month of April, is all yours, Clark!  We hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed researching and re-creating it.

A "Truly Alaskan" Clam Chowder Recipe

This is the clam chowder that we cook up on certain Saturday's in the summer for our guests here at the Ranch for our Potluck Socials. When the tides are right, we take a group of guests down and teach them how to dig clams before bringing them back to the ranch to show them how to clean them. Then those clams are used to make this delicious clam chowder on the following Saturday. It doesn't get any fresher than that!!

 

Diamond M Ranch - "Truly Alaskan" Clam Chowder

5 lbs peeled, diced potatoes

1-2 cups celery (optional)

1-2 cups carrots (optional)

½ - 1 lb bacon

1 onion

flour (½ - 1 cup)

½ gallon heavy whipping cream

½ gallon (or more) of clams

Combine potatoes, celery, and carrots together in large pot. Just cover with water and bring to a boil.
In skillet, cook bacon and then add onion and sauté together. Add just enough flour to absorb grease making roué. When potatoes are finished, add some of broth from potatoes to roué, and then dump all together with potatoes.

Add whipping cream. Bring to hot (not boil, but close). Add clams. I use blender to blend necks because they are tough; just chop the rest of clam parts with knife. Stir 2 minutes and serve. Do not cook longer; the clams turn rubbery and tough.

Other Option:
Fry bacon and onions in bottom of large pot. Add potatoes, carrots, celery and just cover with water and bring to boil. When potatoes cooked, mix ½ cup plus of flour with 1 cup or more of cream. Pour this mixture and rest of cream into pot (make sure water is not boiling when pouring in cream, because it could curdle the cream). Bring it to hot (not boil, but close), then add clams, stir 2 minutes and serve.

Feel free to share this recipe with friends or reprint in a print article or on your website, but please remember to give credit:
Diamond M Ranch Resort Recipe from http://www.diamondmranch.com/

Diamond M Ranch Resort Wins Award

We were rated in the top 300 Trailer Life Parks in the Nation for 2010!

Who said hard work never pays off? 

Locks of Love and Children's Cancer Research

Yes, this was Blair Martin of the Diamond M Ranch...before the St. Baldricks event last year.  This was Blair after:

Blair Martin raised over $1400 for cancer research, and his son's, Matti and Darias, each raised over $100!  You can learn more about the great things St. Baldricks does, sign up or make a contribution, by clicking here. 

Blair's curly mop of hair was long enough to donate to Locks of Love.  It's really cool how such a simple thing like hair (well, I'm not sure if Blair's hair could be called, "simple," but...) can do so much good! 

If you live on the Kenai Peninsula, the next St. Baldrick's event is this March 20th, 2010, at 6pm, the Soldotna Sports Center.  See you there!      

Daylight in Alaska and the Ever-Changing View

The viewing deck here at the Diamond M Ranch is always changing.  A few days ago, mist gently moved across the wetlands, completely obscuring the mountains and almost everything else.  The way the sun played across the wisps of fog was gorgeous.  I hear that Blair has been told to move his Nordic Trak out of the main office room, but he loves the view there so much that he hasn't been able to do it yet.  Nothing beats working out in the morning to the ever-changing Alaskan scenery... 

Speaking of scenery, here's a sunset picture taken from one of our Main Street Suite rooms.

One of the interesting things about being an Alaskan is the way the sun moves across the sky.  In the dead of winter, the sun seems like it peeps over the edge of the mountains, just long enough to decide that it's way too cold to stay long, and then dips back down to warmer regions.  In the summer, though, the sun stays...and stays...and stays, coming up early in the morning and not going all the way down until after midnight.  (This means that the ideal windows for my houseplants in the winter are not at all ideal in the summer.  Ha.  No matter.  We just play "musical plants" every six months, and it all works out okay).  

We all get accustomed to the rhythms of the light, so it rarely bothers Alaskans, but newcomers to the state often take a year or so to adjust.  "How do you sleep in the summer time, with all that energizing light?"   Sleep?  We've got a gorgeous Alaskan summer in front of us---salmon to catch, berries to pick, clams to dig, gardens to plant, beaches to walk, barbeques to enjoy---and we want to enjoy every last minute of it!  We'll catch up on sleep come winter...    

Iceburgs on Alaska's Kenai River

This last week has been full of unexpected rain and above-freezing temperatures, somewhat odd for an Alaskan February.  The sun is starting to climb back out of the sky, much to everyone's delight, and the promise of warmer days is in the air. 

Close to the mouth of the river, the Cook Inlet tide affects how high the river will be at any given time period.  When the tide is out, we get to see the underside of the iceburgs---always a treat, though with all of this below-freezing weather, the river silt is sticking to the icebergs and so they all have the distinct color of mud!   

Break-up in Alaska, which is our affectionate term for "Spring," tends to be a very wet and muddy affair, but it has certain beautiful aspects to it, as this picture above demonstrates.  I snapped this photograph just below the Diamond M Ranch, catching the glacier-fed river in a moment of cool stillness.   

How the Diamond M Ranch Began - An Alaskan Family Business

Free Activities for Your Alaskan Vacation

"We and our friends stayed with you last July (2008). While keying in my journal entry from our stay there, I was reminded of your wonderful hospitality and family atmosphere. Thank you for going beyond just providing a camping space. We enjoyed a BBQ of 5 kinds of salmon, steak, potatoes and salad our first night there - what a welcome! After driving 7000 miles, I can say that camping at the Diamond M Ranch stands out in my mind as one of the best in our 7 weeks of travel. Thank you." 

--Lynda & Tralve Hathorn

The Diamond M Ranch is an experience in camping that few can parallel! A family owned campground run by three generations of the Martin Family, we are a warm and friendly group eager to help in any matter, whether it be repairs, fishing charters, or advice on sightseeing. Each day has an organized activity you are invited to participate in - clamming to suppers to courses on fish preparation and canning.
 
See what's on the schedule for 2010 Summer Activities here, and come join in the fun!

Setting Up Your Alaskan Fishing Adventure on the Kenai

Fishing the world famous Kenai River is a highlight for most everyone's trip to the Kenai Peninsula. Rated as the #1 Fishing Hotspot in North America by Field & Stream Magazine in May of 2004, the Kenai River holds the world record for the largest Chinook (King) Salmon caught on a pole, weighing in at 97 pounds 4 ounces in 1988 by Les Anderson.

For best success at catching one of these record breaking King Salmon, we can outfit you with our favorite professional local fishing guides, who will take you on a 1/2 day King Salmon charter that will surely live long in your memory! Plan well ahead as the prime dates for the season will surely be booked well in advance.  

 

If you prefer to do-it-alone and catch salmon from the shore, we can point you in the direction of excellent local tackle shops and public access points on the Kenai River. 

There, you can have great success at catching the smaller, but also delicious and plentiful Sockeye (Red), Coho (Silver), and Pink Salmon which run throughout the summer and fall from June-September. Rainbow Trout and Dolly Varden are also caught in record sizes in the Kenai River, and the best fishing for them coincides with the salmon fishery, running from May-September.

Soldotna is a great place to launch your fly for fishing adventures too! Whether you prefer fishing the remote lakes of the Kenai Peninsula for trout or the bountiful streams across Cook Inlet for Salmon, we can help you arrange a fly out trip with a safe, reputable local air charter service.

Give us a call soon to help set up your Alaskan Fishing Adventure!