Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 22, 2025
It’s a brisk start to December 22 at Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails, where overnight temperatures dipped to a biting -12°F. 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
The snowpack sits at just 8 inches—over 56% below average for this time of year—presenting thin but navigable conditions on groomed trails. Despite the minimal base, skiers can enjoy early morning crust cruising and some firm track skiing in shaded areas. Only 1 inch of snow is forecasted over the next five days, offering little relief to the shallow coverage, so caution is advised near exposed roots and trail edges.
Local news paints a broader picture of Anchorage’s unusual winter, with reports highlighting an unseasonably dry December. While this has left many downhill skiers waiting, cross-country enthusiasts at Hillside can still find opportunities to glide—especially in cooler pockets where the snow has held. With snowplows idle and ice skaters relishing the freeze, the backcountry crowd may have to temper expectations. Wax up for cold, dry snow and check trail updates before heading out. Conditions remain usable, but nature hasn’t yet delivered the deep powder Alaska is known for.
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 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Hillside Cross Country Ski Trails today?
Weather today, sunny, with a high near -2. northeast wind around 5 mph.
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 1.01" 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?
Ski enthusiasts in the nation are gearing up for some fresh powder, with recent snowfall and forecasts indicating that several areas will experience ideal conditions for hitting the slopes. In Washington State, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge has seen a modest snow accumulation of 2 inches over the last 24 hours, and while the base depth remains a generous 170 inches, visitors ... Read more