Gusty winds, little to no snow cover, and ongoing dry conditions will allow for increased fire weather concerns extending along the Knik Arm and Glenn Highway to the Anchorage Bowl and Hillside, and along the western Kenai Peninsula. Fire weather concerns will be highest from Saturday evening through Sunday morning. Please be mindful of outdoor fire use as any spark could spread quickly into nearby trees, bushes, and exposed grasses.
Bundle up and bring your holiday spirit—Arctic Valley is open and ready for winter adventure this December 21, 2025. Arctic Valley ski resort is located in Alaska, United States, and offers 25 runs spread over 320 acres of skiable terrain.
Wind
Humidity
Overnight temperatures dipped to a crisp -5°F, preserving the current snowpack depth at 8 inches. While this is 57% below the seasonal average, crews are working diligently to groom trails and maximize rideable terrain. With 2.4 inches of snow water equivalent, conditions remain dry but manageable for early-season turns. No significant new snowfall is forecasted this week, but clear skies and cold temps should keep the existing base firm and fast.
Exciting news for travelers: Alaska Airlines passengers can ski for free by simply showing their boarding pass—perfect for those flying in for the holidays. Arctic Valley has also joined the Indy Pass network, making it more accessible than ever to explore this hidden gem nestled in the Chugach Mountains. Anticipation builds for the tubing park, set to open next week, offering fun for the whole family. A new alpine access trail is also in the works, though it's drawing mixed reactions from local residents. Despite the thin snowpack, Arctic Valley continues to serve the community one powder day at a time—just don’t forget your layers and a sense of adventure.
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, sunny, with a high near 0. northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
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Alaska’s snow report shows moderate activity overall, with the heaviest snow forecasted in the western and central interior regions. Rocky Point near Nome is expecting the highest 5-day total at 8", with nearby Coop Nome KNOM also projecting 11", making this area the standout for upcoming snowfall. Pilgrim Hot Springs, also near Nome, has already received 2" and anticipates 5" ... Read more