BITING COLD

When the temperature dips around this time each year, it’s natural to grab a quilt and settle in for a long winter nap. But now is also a great time to get out and enjoy the Mat-Su Valley for winter recreation.

In the next few weeks, the lakes will provide a fresh layer of ice – and foraging fish. Ice fishing isn’t just for die-hard anglers, however. It’s a great way to get your family active during the winter months, and provides for a fun afternoon with kids.

There are a number of easily accessible lakes that are stocked and provide great opportunities to catch fish locally – whether it be land-locked salmon or lake trout. A great resource is the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, which has maps of the lakes, including access points, species to target, and tactics that work.

Other ways to get out and enjoy the early winter months include cross-country skiing on the many trails, whether they be in the upper Susitna Valley or up the Glenn Highway toward the Sheep Mountain area. Many trails, including those in Hatcher Pass, are well maintained and groomed for skiing, and most are very accessible.

You can make it a true weekend getaway by staying in a cozy bed and breakfast, many of which are close to popular lakes. Rates are very reasonable during the winter months, so the getaway won’t break the bank. A great resource is the Mat-Su CVB’s Valley Values Web site — alaskavisit.com/valleyvalues — where local businesses post specials just for Alaska residents.

Many of the innkeepers are very knowledgeable about their surrounding areas, and are quick to point out special trails, conditions and more. They can make your actual stay at their lodge or bed and breakfast quite nice, and their knowledge will make your activity even better. A full list of lodging properties can be found at alaskavisit.com.

For more information about winter recreation ideas, give the Mat-Su CVB a call at 746-5000.

Casey Ressler (casey@alaskavisit.com) is the marketing and communications manager at the Mat-Su CVB.