Winter Adventures: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Cozy Cabins in Alaska
Just a short drive north of Anchorage, Alyeska Resort in Girdwood stands as a premier winter playground for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Nestled below the towering peaks of the Chugach Mountains, this resort offers runs for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black diamonds like the Bowl area. The resort’s tram provides breathtaking panoramic views of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding wilderness, making the ascent as rewarding as the descent. Winter visitors often relish the deep powder and long daylight hours during the peak of the season, typically from late November through April, when the snow is at its best. After a day carving the slopes, cozying up in nearby lodges with large fireplaces and hearty Alaskan fare makes for a perfect end to an invigorating day.
Further north, the town of Fairbanks offers a contrasting winter adventure with its famed Chena Hot Springs, located about 60 miles northeast of the city. While not a skiing destination, the geothermal waters provide an unforgettable experience amid the snowy landscape. Visitors often combine snowmobiling through the surrounding trails with dips in the naturally heated pools, all under the possibility of witnessing the ethereal northern lights. The winter months, especially between December and March, offer the clearest skies for aurora viewing, making this a magical retreat after frosty outdoor excursions.
In the southeast, the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area near Juneau, roughly 12 miles from downtown, transforms into a winter wonderland that rewards snow hikers and cross-country skiers. The Nugget Falls Trail remains accessible in winter, leading adventurers to a stunning 377-foot waterfall framed by ice and snow. The frozen landscape provides a serene setting to observe ice formations and sometimes wildlife tracks against the snow. Early morning visits during the shorter daylight hours often reveal the glacier bathed in soft blue light, creating perfect photo opportunities and a sense of pristine wilderness.
The small town of Talkeetna, situated about 115 miles north of Anchorage, offers a unique blend of winter sport and rustic charm. This gateway to Denali National Park is a hub for backcountry skiing and dog sledding. Visitors can explore snow-packed trails like the Talkeetna Lakes Trail, which winds around frozen lakes and through spruce forests, offering a peaceful but invigorating route for cross-country skiers. Talkeetna’s historic downtown, with its charming log cabins and cozy cafes, invites travelers to warm up with a cup of local coffee or a hearty meal after a day in the crisp mountain air. Winter here stretches from November well into April, with deep snowpack that’s ideal for outdoor pursuits.
On the Kenai Peninsula, the Russian River Trail near Cooper Landing, about 100 miles south of Anchorage, is a favorite for winter hikers and snowshoers seeking solitude among snow-dusted spruce and birch. The trail leads to the Russian River Falls, where wintertime conditions create spectacular ice formations on the cascading water. Wildlife sightings of eagles and moose are common in this region. Snowfall generally begins in October and lasts into April, making the trail a reliable winter destination. The peaceful quiet of the forest blanketed in snow and the dramatic icy waterfall make this a memorable stop on any cold-weather itinerary.
In the heart of downtown Anchorage itself, the Alaska Native Heritage Center offers a warm cultural refuge after outdoor adventures. Located about 10 miles from the airport, it features traditional winter dwellings and exhibits that showcase how indigenous peoples thrived in Alaska’s harsh winters. Visitors can explore life-sized, heated cabins and learn about native survival skills, including winter hunting and clothing techniques. The center’s storytelling sessions and craft demonstrations provide an immersive way to appreciate Alaska’s deep connection to winter, making it a perfect midday stop when the temperatures dip.
Lastly, for those drawn to winter’s solitude, the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve provides some of the most dramatic snowy landscapes in the state. About a six-hour drive east of Anchorage, near the small community of McCarthy, this vast wilderness boasts towering peaks, expansive glaciers, and remote backcountry trails. Winter travel here is for the adventurous, often involving guided snowcat skiing or snowmachining. The unforgettable experience of skiing beneath the rugged massifs and across frozen glacial valleys sets Wrangell-St. Elias apart. Visit during midwinter for the deepest snows and the quietest trails, when the vastness of the park feels almost otherworldly.
From the bustling slopes of Alyeska to the tranquil frozen trails of the Russian River, Alaska’s winter offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Coupled with warm, inviting cabins and cultural stops that honor the state’s indigenous heritage, the season reveals a rugged beauty and warmth that promise adventure and comfort in equal measure.