C'mon ride the train

A train filled with food, fun and beer.

That may be enough to coax most people on board. Throw in a scenic tour and the promise of some quality cross-country sking and you've got yourself an event.

The Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage is hosting their annual ski train. A pair of trips are set with the train departing Feb. 22 and March 8.

For the first time in recent memory the train will be heading north and making a stop in Wasilla.

Organizers estimate that 700 guests will take a ride on the ski train.

The train will arrive in Wasilla at approximately 9 a.m. on Feb. 22 and March 8 and it is about a two hour ride to Curry. The train will depart Curry at about 4 p.m.

Normally the ski train heads south to the Moose Pass area along the Seward Highway, but this year's destination is Curry. For all those who arn't familair with Curry, you won't find it on many maps.

Twenty-two miles north of Talkeetna, Curry was the original destintation of the ski train. The train stopped heading north after a massive fire viturally burned the ski town to the ground. Curry still remains a large part of Alaska history, as it was the site of the state's first ski lift and ski jump. Curry was also once home to a large resort and schoolhouse.

Ski train director Donald Smith stresses that there is more to the trip than just skiing.

"It is not all about sking, it is about a party," Smith said.

The Anchorage Krausenspieler Blaskapelle Band will be on board to entertain patrons with polka music.

"We convert one car for dancing and have a lot of beer and food," Smith said.

According to Smith, Moose's Tooth Brewery is providing the liquid entertainment, and various exotic food plates are brought aboard.

"People just walk up and down and sample," Smith said.

Though skiing is the main attraction, Smith said that there are plenty of people who take the ride simply of the food, fun, entertainment and scenery.

'There is a contingent that never gets off the train," Smith said. "We also attract snoeshoers and site seers."

Smith also noted that Curry is only available by train.

This year, every car will be an observation car on the train, providing scenic view for all.

"The views are going to be incredible," Smith said.

The cost of the event is $55 for members of the Nordic Ski Association of Anchroage.

For an additional $20, non-members can join the club.

Each guest will recieve a specially designed T-shirt.

According to Smith, tickets are selling fast.

For reservation information contact the Ski Train organizers at 907-272-1505.