None
The Chugach NF Avalanche Information Center in Girdwood has issued a SPECIAL AVALANCHE STATEMENT for the following areas: South Fork Eagle River, Chugach State Park, Girdwood, Portage, Turnagain Pass, Moose Pass, Summit Lake, and Seward From 6 am Sunday, Jan 11 to 6 am Monday, Jan 12. * WHAT...Unusually dangerous avalanche conditions exist in the backcountry.Avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE. * WHERE...For the Western Chugach and Kenai Mountains in and around Anchorage, Girdwood, Portage, Turnagain Pass, Summit Lake, Moose Pass, Lost Lake, and Seward. * WHEN...In effect from Sunday 6:00 am to Monday 6:00 am AKST. * IMPACTS...Very large human-triggered avalanches are likely. Despite clear skies and nicer weather, the snowpack is very unstable and dangerous avalanches can be easily triggered by people. It is likely avalanches may be triggered remotely from flat terrain below steeper slopes. * PRECAUTIONARY / PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... If deciding to recreate in the backcountry, choose low-angle terrain with nothing steeper above you. Cautious route-finding and conservative decision- making skills will be necessary to identify and avoid slopes that could avalanche. Similar avalanche danger may exist at locations outside the coverage area of this or any avalanche center. For more information visit www.ChugachAvalanche.org.
Hilltop Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 11, 2026
It’s a crisp and clear start to January 11th at Hilltop Ski Area with overnight temperatures settling at 16°F – ideal for preserving the base. Hilltop Ski Area in Anchorage, Alaska is a small resort with a relaxed atmosphere and great beginner terrain.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The snowpack currently sits at 20", which is below average for this time of year, but recent snowmaking improvements and a dusting of 1.3" forecasted over the next 24 hours are helping to keep the slopes in good shape. With an expected 3" of fresh snow over the next five days, skiers can look forward to more forgiving turns and refreshed terrain heading into the weekend.
Excitement is in the air following the unveiling of Hilltop’s new Spirit Lift, celebrated with a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. This upgrade, alongside the resort's doubled snowmaking capacity, is already making a noticeable impact on slope quality despite below-average snowpack levels. The annual solstice celebration recently brought the local community together in a festive display of winter spirit, highlighting Hilltop's role as a cornerstone of Anchorage's outdoor culture. Lifts are turning, the trails are groomed, and the mountain is calling—don’t miss your chance to make tracks this weekend.
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 Hilltop Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Hilltop Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Hilltop Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Hilltop Ski Area is located in Anchorage, Alaska and is surrounded by several mountain ranges and aspects. Some of the pertinent mountain ranges and aspects in the area include:
1. Chugach Mountains: The Hilltop Ski Area is situated at the base of the Chugach Mountains, which offer stunning views and challenging terrain for skiing and snowboarding.
2. Talkeetna Mountains: The Talkeetna Mountains are located to the north of Anchorage and provide a picturesque backdrop for the ski resort.
3. Kenai Mountains: To the south of Anchorage, the Kenai Mountains are another prominent mountain range that can be seen from the Hilltop Ski Area.
4. Alyeska Resort: While not directly adjacent to Hilltop, the larger Alyeska Resort in Girdwood is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in Alaska and is located in the Chugach Mountains.
Overall, the Hilltop Ski Area offers a unique alpine experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges in Alaska.
The best trails are the Bunny Hill and the Muskrat Run which both offer gentle slopes for those new to skiing. An interesting fact is that the ski area was originally a landfill that was transformed into a ski hill in the 1980s. For beginner skiers, a private lesson with one of Hilltop's experienced instructors is highly recommended. The best après ski bar is the Hilltop Pub which offers a cozy atmosphere, good beer selection and a delicious pub menu.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Lift Count | 3 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 1350 per hour |
Base Elevation | 183 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 30 Acres |
Established | 1983 |
Run Count | 10 Trails |
Hilltop Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Hilltop Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Hilltop Ski Area today?
Weather today, snow, mainly before 3pm. high near 14. south wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon. chance of precipitation is 80%. new snow accumulation of around an inch possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Hilltop Ski Area this week?
Hilltop Ski Area is expected to receive up to 3.89" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are some ski resorts near Hilltop Ski Area?
Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails
Campbell Airstrip Cross Country Ski Trails
Russian Jack Trail System
Bartlett High School Cross Country Ski Trails
Arctic Valley
What are ski area conditions in Alaska like right now?
Alaska is currently seeing some of the highest snowfall totals in the southern coastal regions. Notably, Turnagain Pass has received 7" in the past 24 hours and is forecasted for 35" over the next five days, with current snowpack at 58". Nearby Grandview (near Seward) logged 5" with 37" expected, and Mt. Alyeska, home of Alyeska Resort near Girdwood, saw ... Read more