Come snow, it's a winter wonderland

Two sure signs that winter is nearly here include the brisk air and the fresh snow dusted on Pioneer Peak.

During this time of year we reluctantly retire our boats, flower boxes and shorts for the season as we anticipate winter's first snowfall. In the past I used to dread this time of year -- however this year is different. In fact, I'm actually looking forward to the winter and especially the snow. So, get your skis waxed, snowmachines tuned up and parkas out of the closet for excellent winter fun in the valley.

Nordic Skiing

If you are a Nordic ski enthusiast, the Mat-Su Valley is the place for you. With hundreds of ski trails throughout the area, it is hard to pick just one. For example, an easily accessible groomed trail system is the Crevasse Moraine Trail System just off the Palmer-Wasilla Highway. This trail system consists of 13 loops, each bordering on the previous loop.

If you are an experienced skier, consider exploring the Lazy Mountain ski trails which are known to be rated most difficult due to the steep terrain and sharp turns along the system. For trail maps for these and other Mat-Su Borough managed parks, contact the Recreational Services Division of the Mat-Su Borough at 745-9631.

If you would like to rent Nordic skis or snowshoes, Talkeetna Outdoor Center in Talkeetna provides rental opportunities, trail maps and guided ski tours.

Snowmachining

There are wonderful areas in the Mat-Su accessible for those who prefer to snowmachine. However, for those who are not familiar with these areas, a map is a very useful tool in getting to those hot spots. Three areas with designated snowmachine trails include Hatcher Pass, Nancy Lakes and Big Lake.

The Alaska Division of Natural Resources and Alaska State Parks have created maps which indicate snowmobile trail systems for Hatcher Pass and Nancy Lakes. Contact the Mat-Su Area Office at 745-3975 for specific information about these areas and how you can obtain a trail map for free.

For those who'd rather travel around a little more off the beaten path but prefer a guided snowmachine ride, there are several companies that offer fully guided services including Alaska Backcountry Adventure Tours, Alaska Winter Excursions, Easy Ride Rentals, Extreme Alaska Adventures, Gate Creek Cabins and Northern Lights Adventure. Before venturing out on any trail system, riders should be familiar with Alaska's snowmobile laws and take the necessary precautions by having adequate supplies including fuel, gas and wearing proper clothing and a helmet.

Dog Sled Rides/Mushing

If you've never experienced the thrill of a dog sled ride or driving your own team, this winter would be a great time to try it for yourself.

There's a wide range of experiences available locally in the valley. Susitna Dog Tours Bed & Breakfast offers quality overnight accommodations as well as dog sled tours ranging from a couple of hours to multi-day seminars. Owners Bill and Rhodi Davidson have both competed in the Iditarod Sled Dog Race.

In Talkeetna you can also learn about the sport of mushing and have an opportunity to take a sled ride with Jerry Sousa and Kathleen Holden who operate Talkeetna Sundog Kennels. Both are well experienced mushers as well.

There's a good deal of activities in the Valley to keep you busy this winter. Contact the Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau at 746-5000 or visit www.alaskavisit.com for additional information about offer winter activities /events and to request a Mat-Su Winter Guide.