Alaska Safe Riders: Be prepared for all types of weather

Alaska Safe Riders here bringing you all-purpose vehicle safety messages thanks to the MEA Charitable Foundation and your hometown newspaper.

Weather in Alaska can change in an instant. Before you head out on your next adventure, make sure you check the latest forecast and be prepared for sudden rain, snow, or fog. If you get caught unprepared, the situation can turn dangerous fast.

For those advanced riders looking to take their skills to the next level, the Chikaloon-Knik-Nelchina trail system near the Matanuska-Valley Glacier offers over 100 miles of interconnected trails. You’ll find remote, rugged terrain with spectacular glacier views. Make sure you ride with others and go well-prepared.

Beginners and those more conservative riders may want to start by riding the Jim Creek trails near the Knik River public use area. Here the trails are well-marked and offer flat sandbars, riverbeds and gravel tracks. You’ll find plenty of room to practice turns and throttle control and still enjoy scenic views of the local mountains and Knik Glacier.

You’ll find online training courses along with a host of other training tips and opportunities at alaskasaferiders.org.

That’s it for this week. Remember, always ride smart. Ride safe. Wear a helmet. And be sure to check back next week for more trail and safety tips right here.