Bundle up and wax those skis—Arctic Valley, Alaska is calling! Arctic Valley ski resort is located in Alaska, United States, and offers 25 runs spread over 320 acres of skiable terrain.
Wind
Humidity
As of January 2, 2026, the air is crisp at -4°F with a modest 8" snowpack, sitting well below the seasonal average by over 70%. While conditions are lean, there’s good news ahead: 2" of fresh snow is forecasted over the next 120 hours. The current snow water equivalent (SWE) is 2.3", offering enough moisture to keep the trails skiable, if a bit firm. Expect early-season hardpack with occasional wind-buffed stashes at higher elevations, ideal for those seeking a challenge and a true Alaskan winter experience.
In exciting news, Arctic Valley is among the latest additions to the Indy Pass, making it more accessible than ever for adventure-seekers nationwide. Alaska Airlines is also fueling the stoke with its “Ski Free” promotion—just show your boarding pass and hit the slopes. Recent trail expansions promise greater access to alpine terrain, though they’ve sparked debate among local residents. Still, the spirit is strong: Arctic Valley continues to serve the community one powder day at a time. While Mother Nature's been frugal so far, the vibe is high and the mountains are open—powder hounds, don’t miss this uniquely Alaskan ski escape.
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Anchorage Hillside.
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Arctic Valley.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Arctic Valley impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Arctic Valley Ski Resort in Alaska is located in the Chugach Mountains, which is a subrange of the larger Pacific Coast Ranges. The resort offers skiers and snowboarders stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the steep slopes and rugged terrain that are characteristic of the area. Some of the prominent peaks in the Chugach Mountains near Arctic Valley include Mount Gordon Lyon, Mount Gordon Lyon, Mount Yukla, and Mount Rumble.
The terrain at Arctic Valley Ski Resort is known for its challenging runs, deep powder snow, and varied terrain. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy a mix of groomed trails, open bowls, and tree runs, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort also offers backcountry skiing opportunities for those looking to explore the untouched wilderness of the Chugach Mountains.
The resort has a total vertical drop of 1,400 feet and is known for its challenging backcountry terrain. The best trails at Arctic Valley are the black diamond runs, such as the Chugach trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. An interesting fact is that the resort was originally built as a military training site during World War II. For beginners, the Bunny Hill trail is recommended, which offers a gentle slope for learning. The Sourdough Mining Company is a great apres ski bar to visit, with a cozy atmosphere and excellent food and drinks.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 4 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 3200 per hour |
Base Elevation | 762 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 320 Acres |
Established | 1937 |
Run Count | 25 Trails |
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 8. north wind around 5 mph.
Arctic Valley is expected to receive up to 2.31" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
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Alaska’s heaviest snow in the coming days is focused around Southeast Alaska. Juneau’s Eaglecrest Ski Area is leading the forecast with 12 inches expected and 7 inches already received in the last 24 hours. Nearby Long Lake and Davies Creek are also primed for deep powder with 18" and 17" forecasts respectively. These totals indicate strong storm activity in the ... Read more