Winter Activities

There is just as much to do in and around Hatcher Pass in the winter as there is in the summer! Starting around late October through much of April, you can find a variety of activities to get you outside and enjoying the winter sun!

nordic skiing at archangel road in hatcher pass Alaska — Nordic Skiing

The Mat-Su Valley can proudly boast some of the best nordic ski trails in Alaska and the longest nordic ski season in the country! Snow starts falling mid to late October and the Mat-Su Ski Club starts grooming at the Independence Mine in Hatcher Pass. As the season and snow line progresses, groomed nordic trails can be found at Archangel Road, the Moose Range, and Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA). Some of the trails at GPRA are now lighted, so on those short winter days, you can ski under the lights!
Click here for the latest grooming conditions.

Backcountry skiing at Independence Mine in Hatcher Pass Alaska on Microdot — Skiing & Snowboarding

When conditions are right, Hatcher Pass provides some of the best alpine skiing and snowboarding in southcentral Alaska. The climate is slightly more continental than nearby Turnigan Pass’ coastal climate, making for more champagne powder-like conditions. The Bomber Traverse is a multi-day route where riders can enjoy powder on Talkeetna glaciers. Various mountain terrain provides a dramatic backdrop for any rider looking to test their powder riding skills.
Know before you go, get the forecast! Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center (HPAC) provides avalanche information and advisories.

Snowmachining in Hatcher Pass Alaska on the Willow side — Snow Machining (Snow mobiling)

Hatcher Pass is home to some of the best mountain snowmachining in southcentral Alaska. Once the snow pack allows, snowmachines can ride in several designated areas on the Palmer side of Hatcher Pass. All of the Willow side of Hatcher Pass is open to snow machines. As with any recreation in the snow in the mountains, be sure to get the latest weather and avalanche conditions by visiting Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center.
For more information on snowmachine trails in Hatcher Pass visit Alaska State Parks.

Fat biking at the Moose Range near Hatcher Pass Cabins Alaska — Fat Biking

The miles of trails for fat biking within minutes of Hatcher Pass Cabins will keep anyone busy. Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA) has about 9 miles of bike trails that are groomed routinely by Valley Mountain Bikers and Hikers (VMBaH). The Moose Range, just a couple minutes by bike from Hatcher Pass Cabins, has over 30 miles of trails that are routinely groomed by VMBaH and the Mat-Su Ski Club. These trails offer fantastic views across the Mat-Su Valley at the base of Hatcher Pass. Depending on snow conditions, the Gold Mint Trail along the Little-Su River is a great place to explore on bike.
Visit local shop Backcountry Bike and Ski in Palmer for all your biking needs whether it’s a tune-up, rental, or latest intel on biking conditions, these guys have you covered.

Snowshoe in the forest at Goverment Peak Recreation Area Alaska — Snowshoeing

Explore the woods and valleys throughout Hatcher Pass on snow shoes. Break in your own trail or utilize existing trail systems at Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA), the Moose Range, Gold Mint Trail along the Little-Su River, Archangel Road, or Independence Mine in Hatcher Pass. As always, when planning to travel through snowy mountainous terrain, be sure to check the weather and avalanche conditions at Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center.