Alaska’s ski enthusiasts can expect exciting snowfall updates, with some regions like Nuka Glacier receiving significant new snow (16 inches in the past 24 hours) and a robust 5-day forecast of 51 inches. Meanwhile, Esther Island leads the forecast with an impressive 53 inches expected over the next five days, making nearby resorts like Alyeska and Turnagain Pass strong contenders for excellent conditions. Middle Fork Bradley is another standout with 50 inches forecasted, while McNeil River Sgs is expected to see 35 inches, promising fresh powder for backcountry enthusiasts in these areas. Resorts near Turnagain Pass, such as Alyeska Resort, will benefit from a substantial 18-inch forecast, adding to its existing snowpack of 78 inches.
For those near Anchorage, conditions are steadier, with Anchorage Hillside and Independence Mine showing little to no new snow activity. However, Alyeska at Girdwood, just south of Anchorage, is gearing up for 13 inches of fresh snow in the coming days. Farther south, areas like Grandview and McNeil Canyon have 27 and 23 inches forecasted, respectively, offering appealing options for skiers. In the north, Coldfoot and Bettles Field received 3 and 1 inch of fresh snow respectively over the last 24 hours, with light forecasts ahead. Overall, south-central Alaska and the Kenai Peninsula are the zones to watch, with resorts like Alyeska and nearby backcountry locations set to offer excellent conditions for the week ahead.
Ski Area | Air Temp (F) | Snowfall | Snowpack | vs Avg | SWE | 24hr Forecast | 72hr Forecast | 120hr Forecast |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
29 | 0 | 24 | +60% | 6 | 2 | 3 | 13 | |
40 | 0 | 0 | +8% | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
27 | 0 | 24 | -17% | 7 | 0 | 0 | 3 | |
0 | 5 | -22% | 1 | 6 | 8 | 8 | ||
30 | -1 | 17 | -33% | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
30 | -1 | 17 | -33% | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
30 | -1 | 17 | -33% | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
30 | -1 | 17 | -33% | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
30 | -1 | 17 | -33% | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
30 | -1 | 17 | -33% | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
30 | -1 | 17 | -33% | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
31 | -1 | 12 | -70% | 4 | 1 | 1 | 7 | |
% | 0 | 0 | ||||||
% | 0 | 1 | ||||||
% | 1 | 1 | ||||||
% | 0 | 0 | ||||||
% | 0 | 0 | ||||||
% | 0 | 0 | ||||||
% | 0 | 0 | ||||||
% | 0 | 1 | ||||||
% | 0 | 0 |
Alaska is known for its wild and remote terrain, making it a bucket list destination for every skier and snowboarder. With an average snowfall of 350 inches per season, Alaska offers a world-class skiing experience that’s unmatched anywhere else in the world. Here’s a guide to some of the popular ski resorts in Alaska:
1. Alyeska Resort: Located in Girdwood, Alyeska Resort is Alaska’s largest ski resort. With 1,610 skiable acres and an average snowfall of 669 inches, Alyeska is a dream destination for powder hounds. The best month to visit Alyeska is February, when the snowpack is at its peak.
2. Eaglecrest Ski Area: Located on Douglas Island, Eaglecrest Ski Area is Juneau’s local ski hill. With an average snowfall of 300 inches, Eaglecrest offers 640 skiable acres and is perfect for families and beginners. The best month to visit Eaglecrest is March, when the weather is mild and the snow is plentiful.
3. Arctic Valley Ski Area: Located in Anchorage, Arctic Valley Ski Area is a community-based ski hill that offers 500 skiable acres and an average snowfall of 200 inches. The best month to visit Arctic Valley is April, when the days are long and the skiing is excellent.