2026-01-11T09:00:00-09:00
* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations 4 to 8 inches with localized amounts up to 12 inches possible. * WHERE...Anchorage and Lower Matanuska Valley. * WHEN...Until 9 AM AKST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...As of early this afternoon, a band of heavier snowfall is just west of Anchorage and is expected to drift eastward this afternoon across Anchorage and Eagle River. It will then spread northeast into the Matanuska Valley through this evening. The heaviest snow will likely be this evening through the overnight hours. Snow will then gradually end through Sunday morning.
Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 10, 2026
Fresh flakes graced Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails overnight with a light 1-inch snowfall, bringing a welcome refresh to a snowpack that currently sits at 17 inches. Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails is a popular ski resort in Anchorage, Alaska, offering over 50 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Summary
While that's 37% below average for this time of year, trail conditions remain skiable and groomed, thanks to consistent maintenance and cool overnight temperatures holding steady at 13°F. The Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) clocks in at 3.6 inches, signaling a moderately dense base that should hold up well under traffic. With an additional 2.24 inches of snow expected in the next 24 hours and nearly 6 inches forecast over the next five days, skiers can look forward to improving conditions as the weekend nears.
Despite these recent flurries, Anchorage’s winter has been unusually dry, earning headlines like “Anchorage’s low-snow December makes for idle plows and happy skaters.” The region is still catching up after a snow-starved start to the season, leading some locals to quip that “the groundhog was wrong”—but winter seems to be making its comeback. For now, skiers should plan for variable coverage in open areas, but core trails remain passable and enjoyable. Layer up, check grooming updates, and enjoy the slow but steady return of a true Alaskan winter.
Weather Forecast
Seasonal Comparison
Year over year snow water equivalent
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.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured 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 Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Hillside-Cross-Country-Ski-Trails ski resort in Alaska is located in the Chugach Mountains, which are part of the Pacific Coast Ranges. The resort's ski trails are situated on the slopes of the Chugach Mountains, offering skiers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Some of the pertinent mountain aspects of the resort include:
1. The Chugach Mountains: The Chugach Mountains are known for their rugged terrain, deep snow, and stunning scenery. Skiers at Hillside-Cross-Country-Ski-Trails can enjoy skiing on the slopes of these majestic mountains.
2. The Turnagain Arm: The resort overlooks the stunning Turnagain Arm, a waterway in the Cook Inlet that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
3. Flattop Mountain: Flattop Mountain is a prominent peak in the Chugach Mountains, visible from the ski trails at Hillside-Cross-Country-Ski-Trails. Skiers can enjoy skiing with views of this iconic mountain in the background.
4. Hatcher Pass: Hatcher Pass is located nearby and offers additional skiing opportunities for visitors to the resort. Skiers can explore the backcountry trails and pristine snowfields of Hatcher Pass, taking in the beauty of the Talkeetna Mountains.
Overall, the mountain ranges and aspects surrounding Hillside-Cross-Country-Ski-Trails ski resort in Alaska provide skiers with a unique and unforgettable skiing experience in a stunning natural setting.
The best trails for beginners are the Blue Loop and Pink Loop, while the more experienced skiers can enjoy the challenging Black Loop. An interesting fact about Hillside is that it was originally a communication station for the US Army during World War II. For beginners, it's suggested to take lessons from the experienced instructors at the ski school. After a long day of skiing, the best place to unwind and relax is the Sourdough Mining Company restaurant and bar, which offers delicious food and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Run Count | 18 Trails |
Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails FAQ
How much snow did Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails receive over the past day?
The ski area received 1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails today?
Weather today, snow. areas of blowing snow before 9am. high near 31. southeast wind 20 to 30 mph decreasing to 10 to 20 mph in the afternoon. winds could gust as high as 45 mph. chance of precipitation is 90%. new snow accumulation of 4 to 6 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails this week?
Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails is expected to receive up to 6.37" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are some ski resorts near Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails?
Campbell Airstrip Cross Country Ski Trails
Hilltop Ski Area
Russian Jack Trail System
Bartlett High School Cross Country Ski Trails
Kincaid Park Cross Country Ski Trails
What are ski area conditions in Alaska like right now?
Heavy snowfall is expected this week across much of Southcentral and Southeast Alaska. The heaviest accumulations are forecast near the Chugach and Kenai Mountains. Grandview is leading the pack with 27 inches expected over the next five days, followed closely by Turnagain Pass (22"), Mt. Alyeska (24"), and Grouse Creek Divide (25"). These areas are directly adjacent to or part ... Read more