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,...

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...

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...

In conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Alaska State Parks, a special event is being planned for families at Independence Mine State Historical Park on Saturday, September 5. The Families to Parks program is designed to get families into state parks to enjoy the outdoors, learn about the...

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...

Visitors to Independence Mine can explore more than ever before thanks to new private and customizable tours being offered by Salmon Berry Tours, the park's concessionaire this summer. Salmon Berry Tours currently has three buildings open to the public - there is no cost (other than parking) to...

Nordic skiers looking for groomed trails and spectacular views don't have to venture further than Hatcher Pass. Each year, Hatcher Pass receives the first snow of the year in Southcentral Alaska, which opens up many winter recreation opportunities. Nordic skiing enthusiasts flock to the area each...

At this time of year, we often get asked, "Is Hatcher Pass open, even though there's no 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 over the pass...

People travel for a variety of reasons - to learn about other cultures, to enjoy new foods, to take adventures and even for medical tourism. A growing trend that is having a positive impact on local communities, however, is "voluntourism," the act of volunteering for a cause while traveling. Often,...

Some of Alaska's best Nordic ski trails can be found just minutes away from Wasilla and Palmer, as the Government Peak Recreation Area boasts miles of groomed trails, many of which are lighted. The ski trails are essentially a series of loops, ranging in distance and difficulty, ensuring there is a...