Mat-Su Valley Blog

If you get a chance to stand on top of the Butte (a fairly easy, short hike just outside of Palmer), try to imagine how different your vantage point would have been way back when it was surrounded by glacier ice. Glaciers carved out the Mat-Su Valley long ago. Though they've obviously receded quite...

Many of us have already seen and photographed them this season. That's right, they're back! With the return of starry night skies comes a new season - aurora watching. Every fall and winter, eager aurora chasers are able to find this celestial wonder dancing across the sky in the Mat-Su Valley. As...

There is no shortage of scenic drives in the Mat-Su Valley. Hatcher Pass promises rushing water and rich history. The highway north to Denali State Park has some of the best views of North America's tallest peak. The Glenn Highway, with epic glacier views, is even a national scenic byway! There's a...

Outside there are clear signs of warmer days ahead, but there is still plenty of snow and the lakes remain quite frozen. Those with a passion for Alaska's scenic water bodies and peaceful streams can find this time of year just a tad frustrating. The days may be warming up, but the raft is still...

No doubt, I'm writing this a bit late. I'm sure we've all noticed already that the days are shortening and the temperatures have been slowly dropping lately. Perhaps there are few more obvious reminders that Alaska's preparing for another glorious winter, but there are still other indicators that...

For many, the journey is just as important as the destination, and RVing to Alaska is a bucket list trip that can seem imposing to plan at first. Thanks to an online company founded by a Mat-Su husband and wife team, however, planning has never been easier. Stacey and Gary Quimby founded RVing to...

There is a crispness in the air, as summer slowly says good-bye to the Valley. Now is a great time to explore the Valley and take a scenic drive that bursts with color. One of our favorite drives is the Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway, from Palmer north all the way to Lake Louise. It truly lives...

Right beside one of the busiest highways in Alaska, the Glenn Highway, you'll find peace and serenity at Reflections Lake, which is one of the Mat-Su Valley's hidden gems. The lake is located at the Knik River Access ramp just north of Palmer on the Glenn Highway. Despite it being right beside the...

Can't visit the Mat-Su Valley because you are stuck at home? No problem! We'll come to you, and give you something to do to break up the monotony! The Mat-Su Convention & Visitors Bureau has created eight virtual jigsaws featuring noteworthy scenes, attractions and activities from around the Valley....

The Mat-Su Valley is a recreational boater's paradise, with opportunities to paddle a kayak or canoe around almost every bend in the road. A fast-growing national trend, stand-up paddleboarding, is also a great way to enjoy the lakes of the Mat-Su Valley. There are several state recreational areas...