Alaska Safe Riders: Trail updates throughout Southcentral Alaska

Alaska Safe Riders here with your weekly snow and trail report — proudly supported by the Mat-Su Health Foundation and the Frontiersman.

Extremely strong winds hammered Seward this weekend, creating fresh wind slabs on top of an already weak snowpack. Turnagain Pass showed heavy wind texture across nearly every aspect — clear signs the snow has been heavily moved and loaded. There were zero snowmachines in the parking lot Sunday, a testament to tough conditions and bitter cold.

Upper elevation terrain remains the biggest risk. Wind slabs are sitting on weak layers, and cold temps are keeping everything firm and reactive. Choose conservative lines and avoid steep rollovers and terrain traps. Get the latest forecast at AlaskaSnow.org.

Riders report some softer snow in the trees on the Willow side of Hatcher Pass, but they’re also noting several near misses with stumps and rocks — coverage is still thin in places.

Groomed trails around Big Lake and Willow are holding fair to good where maintained. In Eureka, you may still find softer pockets south of the highway in sheltered trees. Lake Louise Snowmachine Club reports very cold conditions with about three inches of new snow on the trail system. Limited snowfall and cold temps have slowed grooming efforts, and off-trail depths are averaging 16 to 20 inches.

The emPOWDERed Ladies Backcountry Ride is happening March 14 in Eureka, with just 10 spots remaining. Visit AlaskaSafeRiders.org for full event details and to register as a member for more benefits and resources.

Ride smart, ride prepared, and bring everyone home. Check back next week for more updates and tips.