Mat-Su Valley Blog

After years of planning, fund-raising and hard work from volunteers, Skeetawk, the Mat-Su Valley's first-ever triple chair lift downhill ski area, is set to open Saturday, December 5. Last Saturday, Skeetawk hosted a surprise soft opening for its season pass holders and members and it went well,...

This Thanksgiving, ditch Black Friday and opt for Small Business Saturday, a national movement to support small businesses by holiday shoppers. In 2020, many small businesses have had devastating losses from the economic impact from the pandemic, and Small Business Saturday is a great way to support...

What’s old is new again, just in time for the holiday season. When the Matanuska Colony was formed in the 1930s the federal government distributed Bingles to residents, and they could only be used in the Alaska Rural Rehabilitation Corporation commissary and store. After two years, the government...

On November 26, the Alaska State Fair gets lit up with holiday cheer. The Bright Up the Night event at the fair consists of more than 70 holiday light displays across the fairgrounds. From the warmth and safety of your own car, you can proceed about a mile through the fairgrounds from the Purple...

The Nordic ski season is well under way at Hatcher Pass and Government Peak, where groomers have already been out, creating great early-season conditions. Last week's snow has stuck around at the higher elevations, giving skiers an early opportunity to enjoy the backcountry. According to trail...

Last weekend, snow appeared for the first time this winter, and with it comes anticipation of winter activities such as skiing, aurora viewing and ice fishing. As Alaskans, when the season changes, we don't just stay inside, we get out and embrace winter. This winter is particularly exciting, with...

With the end of summer comes a new season - aurora watching. Northern lights viewing is a fun thing to do during Covid-19 times when social distancing is a priority. Grab your "bubble" and head out on clear, cold evenings and watch the magical displays. The northern lights are a natural phenomenon...

The beautiful grounds of Meier Lake Resort got even more impressive this summer, as Alaska's first Professional Disc Golf Association Championship course was unveiled, The Reserve at Meier Lake. The disc golf course sits on the resort's 120-acres and winds it way through the forest, with amazing...

We all need something to look forward to again. And nothing is more exciting than planning that next perfect getaway. The one that can’t get here soon enough. Because the journey begins the moment we decide to go somewhere. Anywhere. It’s time to feel that feeling once again. Let’s get inspired. And...

It's Christmas in September this weekend at the Alaska State Fairgrounds, as the Alaska Chicks Vintage Market holiday event takes place Friday through Sunday. Some of Alaska's trendiest small businesses, including upcyclers, artists, designers, apparel companies and vintage collectors attend the...