The Best Ski Areas In Alaska

The wildest state in the US is known for its dramatic and varied terrain of wide-open spaces, mountains and forests. Alaska is, simply put, home to some of the most scenic ski spots in the world. Here is a list of the best places to ski in Alaska, including some incredible landscapes.

1. Girdwood

Resort

A cozy mountain town in the heart of Alaska surrounded by forest and the peaks of the Chugach mountain range, Girdwood boasts beautiful vistas and rich history. With perfect weather conditions and a large average annual snowfall, this popular ski resort creates the ideal environment for outdoor sports. Described as a majestic town, Girdwood aims to maintain a sense of community and belonging. With nearby accommodation and an impressive range of cafés, bars and restaurants, Girdwood provides tourists with the perfect holiday whilst it’s also close to some great Alaska fishing lodge options.

2. Alyeska Resort

Resort, Hotel

Situated near three national parks, the Chugach Mountains and the Kenai Peninsula, Alyeska Resort is a magnificent place for skiing and boasts a large range of other activities and facilities. With the longest continuous double black diamond ski run in North America, Alyeska Resort is the ultimate skiing establishment. Described as a premier year-round resort destination, Alyeska Resort proudly displays modern décor with rich Native influences.

3. Eaglecrest

Resort, Lodge

Eaglecrest ski area on a sunny day with blanket of snow and pine trees on a ridge

Located in the high desert of Central Oregon, this scenic skiing resort is nearby to the Cascade Mountains and a beautiful park, giving it an impressive location. With a newly renovated spa and a luxury lodge, Eaglecrest has a great climate for skiing with minimum rainfall and over 300 days of sunshine per year. Offering a range of cafés, a golf course, horseback riding and a stunning outdoor pool, Eaglecrest provides the ultimate sporting experience.

4. Hilltop Ski Area

Resort

Hilltop Ski Area ski lift with pine trees and thick snow on a grey day

Offering excellent skiing lessons, this small yet cozy skiing resort is also situated in Anchorage near the Chugach Mountains, and offers tourists an exhilarating outdoors experience. Also offering a variety of trails and a golf course, Hilltop Ski Area hosts several tournaments throughout the year, and boasts magnificent views of the scenic state of Alaska. Described as a cozy skiing establishment, Hilltop Ski Area is perfect for tourists hoping to have a quieter outdoors experience.

5. Mendenhall Glacier

Natural Feature

Mendenhall Glacier | © Joseph/FlickrA huge glacier around 13.6 miles long in the heart of the glacier of Mendenhall, this skiing area offers an impressive 38 major glaciers and magnificent blue icebergs, as well as a forest and a range of mountains, creating an admirable landscape. With several trails, waterfalls and salmon streams, Mendenhall Glacier is also home to varied wildlife including black bears, bald eagles and porcupines, making it the ideal place to visit for skiing enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of Alaska’s incredible mammals.

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