Skiing and Snowboarding in Alaska 2025

Alaska, known for its cold climate, vast wilderness, and towering mountains, offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in North America. The state is especially famous for its backcountry and heliskiing. With expansive terrains, heavy snowfall, and diverse options for all levels of expertise, the state's ski resorts attract winter sports enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you're an advanced skier looking for deep powder or a beginner eager to hit the bunny slopes, Alaska has something to offer.

Best Time for Skiing and Snowboarding

Due to Alaska's northern location, the prime skiing season is not during the darkest months of winter. The best time to visit is between February and April, when daylight hours are longer and temperatures are still low enough to maintain excellent snow conditions. Some resorts even open in November for those looking for an early start. For visitors hoping to avoid the crowds, late-season skiing in April can be ideal, as it still offers good snow with fewer people on the slopes.

Alyeska Resort

Located in Girdwood, about 40 miles (64 km) south of Anchorage, Alyeska Resort is Alaska’s largest and most well-known ski destination. Established in 1959, the resort boasts over 1,600 skiable acres and a vertical drop of 2,500 (762 m) feet, making it a top spot for winter sports in the state. The resort is well-equipped with modern amenities, including hotels, restaurants, and a luxury spa. Visitors can access the resort easily from Anchorage via car or shuttle, with Anchorage International Airport serving as the nearest major hub.

Ski Trails and Lifts

Alyeska features 76 named trails, ranging from beginner-friendly runs to advanced slopes with steep, challenging terrain. The resort is famous for its "steep and deep" conditions, receiving an average of 650 inches of snow each year. Lifts include four chairlifts, a 60-passenger aerial tram, and two magic carpets for beginners.

Prices

Alyeska Resort offers a range of ski passes, including full-day (10 am – 5 pm), half-day (2 pm – 5 pm), and night skiing (4 pm – 8 pm). Full-day ski passes are priced at $139 for adults and $109 for youth and seniors, with half-day and night skiing options available at lower rates. For frequent visitors, season passes start at $999, providing unlimited access to all lifts and additional perks, including discounts on rentals, lessons, and resort shops.

Equipment Rentals

Ski and snowboard rentals range from $72 for basic packages to $90 for performance gear, with discounted rates for youth and seniors. Other rental options include snowshoes and Nordic skiing equipment. Rentals are available for both pre-booking and walk-up customers, with helmets provided when available.

Eaglecrest Ski Area

Eaglecrest Ski Area, located on Douglas Island near Juneau, is often described as Alaska’s hidden gem. It is a smaller, community-focused resort with 640 acres of skiable terrain and a vertical drop of 1,620 feet. Eaglecrest is less crowded than many larger resorts, offering a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families and those seeking a quieter ski experience. Juneau International Airport is a 15-minute drive from the resort.

Ski Trails and Lifts

The resort offers 36 marked trails, accessible via four chairlifts. These trails cater to all skill levels, from easy slopes for beginners to open areas for backcountry enthusiasts. Eaglecrest is also praised for its beautiful views of the nearby Gastineau Channel and surrounding mountains.

Prices

At Eaglecrest Ski Area, daily lift tickets vary by age, with prices for adults (19-64) at $75, seniors (65+) at $62, teens (13-18) at $54, youth (7-12) at $36, and children (0-6) at $13. Half-day tickets are also available at reduced rates.

Equipment Rentals

Equipment rentals are available on-site, with all-day packages starting at $46 for adults, $36 for teens, $32 for youth, and $18 for children. The rental packages include skis or snowboards, boots, poles, and helmets. For those looking for more advanced gear, demo skis and snowboards are offered at $50 per day.

Ski Land and Moose Mountain (Fairbanks)

Fairbanks, known for its long winter nights and northern lights, is home to two popular ski areas: Ski Land and Moose Mountain. Both offer an authentic Alaskan skiing experience with smaller crowds and affordable lift tickets. Ski Land is about 30 minutes from downtown Fairbanks and features the northernmost chairlift in North America. Moose Mountain, located 15 minutes from the city, offers 750 acres of terrain with a vertical drop of 1,300 feet (396 m).

Ski Trails

Ski Land offers over 40 trails, while Moose Mountain is known for its unique bus lift system, which transports skiers to the top of the mountain. Both areas have a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs.

Prices and Equipment Rentals

At Ski Land, lift tickets are priced at $55 for adults, with discounted rates of $45 for first responders, military personnel, and seniors (60+). Youth tickets (ages 7-18) are available for $35, while children six and under, as well as super seniors (80+), ski for free. Equipment rentals, offered on a first-come, first-served basis, cost $45 per day for adults and $35 for youth. Rentals include skis or snowboards, boots, poles, and helmets.

At Moose Mountain, adult lift tickets are also priced at $55, with discounts for military personnel, UAF students, and seniors (65+), who pay $45. Teen tickets (ages 13-17) are $35, and children (ages 7-12) ski for $30. Both children under 6 and seniors over 80 ski for free. Moose Mountain offers similar rental packages, with prices starting at $45 for adults and $35 for youth. Single-item rentals are also available for skis or snowboards starting at $30 per day, and helmets can be rented for $5.

Hilltop Ski Area

Situated within Anchorage's Far North Bicentennial Park, Hilltop Ski Area is a small, community-focused resort ideal for beginners and families. Established in 1984, Hilltop caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, but its gentle terrain is particularly suited for those just starting. The resort is just 15 minutes from downtown Anchorage, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike.

Terrain and Lifts

Hilltop Ski Area features 30 acres of skiable terrain and has a vertical drop of 294 feet (90 m), making it a great option for a quick day trip or a first-time skiing experience. The resort is equipped with a triple Riblet chairlift, a rope tow, and a platter lift, providing easy access to its slopes. Hilltop is especially popular for ski lessons and family outings.

Prices

Lift tickets at Hilltop Ski Area are among the most affordable in Alaska, ranging from $30 to $50, with discounts for children and seniors. The resort also offers night skiing during the winter months, providing a unique opportunity for those seeking a quieter skiing experience.

Equipment Rental

Hilltop offers reasonably priced equipment rentals, with daily ski and snowboard packages priced at $25 for seniors/children, $35 for students/military, and $40 for adults. Seasonal rentals are available for $200. Individual gear options include skis or snowboards for $25, poles for $16, helmets for $10, and ski boots (with binding test) for $45.y. Beginner-friendly lessons are also readily accessible, making it a great spot for new skiers and riders.