Ski Resorts in Alaska
Welcome to the land of towering mountains, pristine wilderness, and unforgettable ski adventures at Alaska vacation resorts. While Alaska may be renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, it’s also a hidden gem of skiing and snowboarding. In this blog, we’ll take you through Alaska’s top ski resorts, focusing on two standout destinations: Alyeska Resort and Valdez.
Alyeska Resort
Alyeska Resort, in the quaint town of Girdwood, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Alaskan skiing. This renowned destination has long been a favorite among winter sports enthusiasts, drawing visitors from near and far for its stunning mountain vistas, world-class skiing, and luxurious amenities.
Location and Overview
Alyeska Resort enjoys a privileged location just 40 miles south of Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city. Its accessibility makes it convenient for locals and tourists seeking a taste of Alaskan skiing excellence. Perched at the base of the towering Chugach Mountains, the resort offers visitors access to pristine slopes and breathtaking views of glaciers and the Cook Inlet.
Established in 1959, Alyeska Resort has become an iconic destination, becoming the largest ski area in the state. Its reputation extends beyond Alaska’s borders, attracting winter sports enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience in the Last Frontier.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Alyeska Resort’s allure lies in its diverse ski terrain, which caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With a vertical drop of 2,500 feet and an average annual snowfall of 669 inches, this resort guarantees a thrilling ride down its slopes. The ski area features 76 named runs spread across 1,610 skiable acres, ensuring that there’s always a new trail to explore.
Beginners will appreciate the gentle slopes and expert instruction offered at the Alyeska Snowsports School, where they can gain confidence and skills. Intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders can challenge themselves on steeper runs, including the renowned North Face, which offers some of North America’s most challenging in-bounds terrain.
Night Skiing
For those who love the thrill of night skiing, Alyeska Resort is one of the few places in Alaska where you can hit the slopes under the starry night sky. The resort also provides snowcat skiing and heli-skiing adventures for those exploring the pristine backcountry terrain.
Accommodations and Amenities
After a day of exhilarating skiing or snowboarding, Alyeska Resort offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences. The elegant Hotel Alyeska, nestled at the base of the slopes, provides luxurious rooms and suites, many with mountain views. Additionally, vacation rentals and condos are available for those seeking a more homey atmosphere.
Alyeska Resort doesn’t just excel in skiing; it’s also renowned for its dining options. Enjoy a gourmet meal at Seven Glaciers, a mountaintop restaurant accessible by an aerial tram with panoramic views that will leave you breathless. The resort also features multiple dining establishments, bars, and lounges to cater to every culinary desire.
In Girdwood, visitors can explore the charming town’s shops, galleries, and cultural attractions, adding a touch of local flavor to their Alyeska experience.
Valdez
When it comes to skiing and snowboarding in Alaska, there’s no place quite like Valdez. This hidden gem of a town, nestled on the shores of Prince William Sound, offers a unique and exhilarating experience for adventurers seeking to escape the beaten path and carve their way through the untouched wilderness.
Location and Overview
Valdez, often called “Little Switzerland,” is a picturesque town on the eastern edge of Prince William Sound, surrounded by rugged peaks and dramatic coastal landscapes. While it’s not as easily accessible as other Alaskan destinations, its remote location adds to its allure, attracting those who crave pristine backcountry terrain.
Valdez stands out in Alaska’s ski scene for one significant reason: its abundance of untouched powder. Thanks to the region’s maritime climate, Valdez boasts deep, consistent snowfall, creating ideal conditions for backcountry skiing and snowboarding.
Backcountry Skiing
Valdez is a mecca for backcountry enthusiasts, offering some of North America’s most thrilling and untouched skiing experiences. The crown jewel of Valdez’s skiing scene is Thompson Pass, a mountain pass known for its legendary snowfall and stunning scenery. Here, adventurers can access vast terrain, from wide-open powder fields to steep chutes and tree glades.
One of the unique features of Valdez is its heli-skiing opportunities. With numerous operators in town, you can access the most remote and pristine skiing areas via helicopter, where you’ll find untouched powder and thrilling descents. These guided adventures cater to experts and those new to backcountry skiing, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.
For those who prefer human-powered adventure, Valdez also offers excellent options for ski touring and splitboarding. The terrain around Thompson Pass provides a variety of routes for touring, and the views of glaciers and coastal fjords make every climb worthwhile.
Accommodations and Amenities
Valdez may be a haven for backcountry skiing, but that doesn’t mean you’ll have to sacrifice comfort and convenience. The town offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cabins to modern hotels, providing a warm and welcoming retreat after a day of exhilarating skiing.
When it comes to dining, Valdez doesn’t disappoint. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood, hearty Alaskan fare, and international cuisine to satisfy every palate. After a day of exploration, you can relax with fellow adventurers at one of Valdez’s friendly pubs and recount your exciting backcountry tales.
While Valdez’s primary attraction is undoubtedly its backcountry skiing, the town also offers other winter activities such as ice climbing, snowmobiling, and even ice fishing. The Valdez Avalanche Center provides valuable information on current snow conditions and avalanche safety, ensuring you can enjoy the area’s terrain responsibly.
Other Notable Alaska Ski Resorts
While Alyeska Resort and Valdez may be the shining stars of Alaska’s ski scene, the Last Frontier has plenty more ski resorts waiting to be explored. Each destination offers a distinctive mix of natural beauty, diverse terrain, and authentic Alaskan charm. Let’s look at some of these lesser-known gems that deserve your attention.
Hilltop Ski Area (Anchorage)
Hilltop Ski Area is Anchorage’s local ski destination, making it readily accessible for residents and visitors. Situated on the city’s outskirts, it offers panoramic views of Anchorage, the Chugach Mountains, and the Cook Inlet. While it may be smaller in scale than other resorts, Hilltop provides a fantastic opportunity for family skiing and snowboarding, night skiing, and even tubing. Its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location make it an excellent choice for those looking to squeeze in some turns during their stay in Anchorage.
Arctic Valley (Anchorage)
Arctic Valley, a non-profit ski resort near Anchorage, offers a unique and affordable skiing experience. With a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere, it’s a favorite among locals. While it may not have the flashy amenities of larger resorts, its low-cost lift tickets, family-friendly slopes, and incredible views of the Anchorage Bowl make it an appealing choice for those seeking an authentic Alaskan skiing experience.
Eaglecrest Ski Area (Juneau)
Eaglecrest Ski Area is tucked away in Alaska’s capital city of Juneau and is known for its stunning coastal setting. Here, you can experience the thrill of skiing while gazing at the Pacific Ocean and surrounding islands. The community-owned and operated Eaglecrest offers a range of terrain for all skill levels, from beginner slopes to challenging runs. Its unique blend of wilderness and winter sports makes it an ideal destination for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with cultural exploration in the charming city of Juneau.
Moose Mountain (Fairbanks)
Moose Mountain, located near Fairbanks, is a winter wonderland with a reputation for being one of the best places to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights at Alaska vacation resorts. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy beautiful views of the aurora borealis while navigating its slopes. Although it may not have the extensive infrastructure of some other resorts, the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights while skiing or snowboarding makes Moose Mountain a truly magical destination for winter enthusiasts.
Mt. Eyak Ski Area (Cordova)
If you’re looking for a throwback ski resort, Mt. Eyak Ski Area in Cordova stands out for its uniqueness. It features a single-chair lift, which is a rarity in the skiing world. This small ski area offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. With stunning views of Prince William Sound and access to pristine terrain, it’s a hidden gem that adventurous skiers and snowboarders shouldn’t overlook.
How to Save at Alaska Ski Resorts
But before you set out on your Alaska ski trip, here’s a valuable tip to make your adventure more enjoyable and budget friendly. You can save on your Alaska ski vacation by visiting Skier Deals, the original ski deals website. Since 1998, we have been a trusted source for discounts explicitly tailored for skiers and snowboarders at Alaska’s best resorts.
Before you pack your ski gear and hit the slopes, visit Skier Deals to unlock exclusive savings to enhance your visit to Alaska vacation resorts offering skiing or snowboarding adventure. By taking advantage of our discounts, you can make the most of your trip to the breathtaking winter wonderland of the Last Frontier.