Hilltop Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 4, 2025
It’s shaping up to be a promising early December at Hilltop Ski Area in Anchorage as winter slowly settles in. Hilltop Ski Area in Anchorage, Alaska is a small resort with a relaxed atmosphere and great beginner terrain.
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Summary
After a mild overnight low of 32°F, the snowpack sits at 7 inches—about 50% below seasonal average—but there's reason for optimism. A light dusting of 1" is expected within the next 24 hours, with nearly 5" anticipated through the weekend, followed by another 5" by mid-next week. While conditions remain on the thinner side, snowmaking efforts—recently doubled in capacity—have been crucial in supplementing the base, ensuring the slopes are skiable and steadily improving.
With lifts officially open as of this weekend, early-season riders can expect machine-groomed runs with a mix of packed powder and some icy patches. The area’s enhanced snow production setup is already proving its worth, allowing for a more reliable start to the ski season. Visitors should be aware of recent security concerns, as local authorities arrested armed burglars near the ski area, but operations remain unaffected. As Hilltop continues to ramp up for the peak season, this weekend offers a great opportunity to make your first turns of the year before the snowstorm rolls in early next week.
Hourly Snowfall Totals
Recent & Projected
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 likely, mainly after noon. patchy freezing fog before 9am. mostly cloudy, with a high near 30. calm wind becoming west around 5 mph. chance of precipitation is 60%. new snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Hilltop Ski Area this week?
Hilltop Ski Area is expected to receive up to 5.11" 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?
Heavy snowfall is expected across parts of southern Alaska, especially around the Kenai Peninsula and Prince William Sound. The standout is Grandview, AK, near the Alyeska Resort and Turnagain Pass, which recorded a staggering 267" in the last 24 hours with 14" more forecasted. Alyeska Resort, one of Alaska's premier ski destinations, is also expecting an additional 12" over the ... Read more