Tolovana Roadhouse

Tolovana Roadhouse is known as a ‘roadhouse’ as it located on a ‘sled road’ on old maps and sled routes. Roadhouses were used by mail-carriers who used dogteams to deliver the mail to remote ‘bush’ communities. It was used by other travelers as well going between villages and communities in the bush. The trail between these communities is also known as the ‘Old Mail Trail’. Tolovana Roadhouse is most famous for being the first stop in the original Serum Run of 1925 – a sled dog relay which brought the diphtheria antitoxin to Nome to save the lives of many children during this historical epidemic.
You’ll find the rustic roadhouse warm and comfortable, as well as pleasingly simple and well-preserved. Come and share in the history, beauty, and solitude it has to offer.
Manley Hot Springs
The small town of Manley Hot Springs is located 150 west of Fairbanks at the end of the Elliott Highway. Paws for Adventure has set up a permanent camp on the trail system the we use to access the Tolovana Roadhouse (located 32 miles from Manley Hot Springs). We transport the dogs and gear over the Elliott Highway (approximately a 4 hour drive over rough road) to meet our guests who will fly in by plane. This is safer and more convenient for all of us than transporting guests by road.
At the time of this writing, the town has a post office, small convenience store with limited hours, airport, the Manley Roadhouse, and the Manley Resort Cabins which has a natural hot springs tub. The town has a small number of year-round residents.
What Our Clients Say
I was greeted immediately upon arrival and since I was dressed in proper winter gear, I was told I could go spend time with the dogs until my ride was ready. Once it was my turn, I was tucked in nicely and off we went. I had a blast with Mike the musher and his very lively team. The ride was a lot of fun and filled with laughter.
Next time, I’ll definitely take the longer tour.
I cannot say near enough good stuff about this whole adventure, even though it was only one hour, it was extremely wonderful! If you are ever in Fairbanks and have a hankering for some adventure definitely check out Paws for Adventure!