One of the top recreation areas in the Mat-Su Valley, Hatcher Pass, just got even better. A new concessionaire has taken over the operations of the Government Peak Chalet, and is now offering fat tire bike rentals, snowshoe rentals and eventually, ski rentals.

Lifetime Adventures took over operations of the Mat-Su Borough facility earlier this month. The chalet will be open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and noon to 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays for rentals. Owner Dan McDonough said rentals will be offered by appointment also.

"We've got fat tire bikes and snowshoes available immediately, and we're looking to have skis eventually," McDonough said. "We've got a few snacks and beverages available at the chalet, and we're looking to expand that in the future."

The chalet is located on Mountain Trails Drive, off Edgerton Parks Road at the base of the Hatcher Pass. The Government Peak Recreation Area is one of the top recreation areas in the Valley, offering 3.5 miles of Nordic ski trails that are lit throughout the winter, and a combined 9 miles of trails for use by fat tire bikers, skiers, snowshoers and skijorers.

While the chalet and rentals are open in the afternoons, the gate to the ski trails is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. The Mat-Su Ski Club grooms trails both at Government Peak Recreation Area and also at Independence Mine. For a complete update on conditions, visit their website at www.matsuski.org. 

To contact Lifetime Adventures, interested people can call (907) 746-4644.