National parks in America are synonymous with majesty and splendor. You don't walk away from a visit without taking along grand memories of the wildlife, mountain vistas, and spectacular old lodges - many of which were built from logs. It was, in fact, these very lodges that conspired with America's subconscious, convincing her to give log home living a second chance. As such, these national masterpieces are frequently remembered in contemporary log home architecture. That was true of this robust retreat handcrafted by Alpine Log Homes.

This second-floor balcony fringes the great room below. It is, in effect, suspended from the impressive, double-cord log trusses supporting the roof. Brawney metal brackets are structural and their presence suggests strength and power. Upstairs, three bedrooms and a bunk room open off the balcony like guest rooms in an old western lodge.

The owners call this grand estate Elkhead Lodge after the impressive creature that, for them, has come to symbolize the mountain lifestyle. Inside, elk are remembered nearly everywhere you look, from the mount above the mantel to the fireplace screen, antler floor lamp, and custom-designed light fixtures throughout the house.

(Photos by Dann Coffey)