Mat-Su Valley Blog

At this time of year, we often get asked, "Is Hatcher Pass open, even though there's not much snow in Wasilla?" The answer is YES! And to be honest, it's a great time to visit one of Alaska's most scenic places. Hatcher Pass remains open year-round, although with a few caveats. The road that leads...

Every year ski enthusiasts purchase their season passes to the Skeetawk downhill ski area. It's that much fun! One of Skeetawk's challenges, as with any resort, has been occasional insufficient snow conditions. Even in a region like The Mat-Su, where great snow is a defining feature, sometimes a...

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, chances are Anchorage is on your radar. But just an hour north of the city lies one of Alaska’s best-kept secrets: The Mat-Su—a massive, wild playground packed with glaciers, alpine passes, charming towns, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Here are 7...

Summer is officially here, and everyone is looking to get out and enjoy the sun. The Mat-Su Valley has countless ways to enjoy the great outdoors, but here are seven of our all-time favorites. 1. Head to Hatcher Pass. There may not be a more beautiful - and accessible - spot in Alaska! Whether you...

Don't have a weekend to devote to hiking? That's not a problem in the Wasilla and Palmer area, as there are several great hiking opportunities just minutes from town. Here are our five favorites: 1. Hatcher Pass This is an easy choice! There are countless ways to explore Hatcher Pass, and there are...

Independence Mine State Historical Park is nestled in the Talkeetna Mountains, in a breathtakingly beautiful place called Hatcher Pass. Today, visitors and residents can travel the paved road to the historic site and immerse themselves in the bygone gold mining era of the Mat-Su region. Here's a...

The sun is returning and the temperatures may be easing, but there is still time to get some sweet runs in at the Valley's favorite recreational ski areas! Skeetawk, the first triple-chair lift ski area in the Mat-Su Valley, is open through April 20 for the season, giving skiers and snowboarders two...

If you thought the snow on the mountains meant an end to those sunny visits to Independence Mine, think again. This photo was taken yesterday and I've just been told by Salmon Berry Travel & Tours, who operate tours up at the mine, that the weather in Hatcher Pass is glorious this week. Independence...

With summer here, it's time to dust off those hiking boots and map out a summer of adventure. Hatcher Pass is an ideal location for families to enjoy a day of hiking and exploring the great outdoors. With its scenic views of the Talkeetna Mountains, alpine meadows, glaciers, and crystal-clear...

When Skeetawk Alpine Ski Area opens next month, it will be introducing new experiences and enhanced services for skiers and snowboarders. The biggest news for Skeetawk is night skiing will be offered for the first time ever. The lights have been ordered and Skeetawk has received shipping...