Keep your resolutions outdoors this year

MAT-SU — Two weeks into January and it’s already time to start revisiting those New Year’s resolutions. Are you really getting to the gym as much as you said you would right after Christmas?

The vow to exercise more is one of the most common resolutions people make heading into a new year, and not coincidentally, one of the least kept resolutions. This year, take advantage of where you live to stick to your program, and have some fun along the way.

The Mat-Su Valley abounds with winter recreation opportunities that can get you back on track toward getting healthy. You can take advantage of these and turn them into family getaways at the same time. Head to Petersville for a weekend of skiing and then stay at a local bed and breakfast, for example.

What better way to get your heart pumping than by strapping on the cross-country skis and heading out into the winter? The possibilities are almost limitless in the Valley — many people can step right out their back door and have access to a trail of some sort.

Many schools have groomed trails, and the Crevasse Moraine system is ideal no matter your skill level. There are also numerous trails in Hatcher Pass, the Talkeetna and Petersville areas, and north on the Glenn Highway. With such picturesque views, you’ll forget the fact your heart is pumping and you are exercising.

Downhill skiing and snowboarding are also fun activities that are healthy and provide a workout. Hatcher Pass doesn’t have a lift, but has ample opportunity for snowboarders and downhill skiers. Also, the Mat-Su Borough maintains a sledding hill near Hatcher Pass Lodge, and anyone who has climbed back up a hill after a long sled ride down knows it’s a full-body workout.

Snowshoeing puts a new twist on hiking during the winter. You can snowshoe on any trail you come across, and vary your pace. Add some poles for an increased workout. If you’ve never snowshoed before and would like to try it out without having to buy the gear, head out to Reflections Lake Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Alaskans for Palmer Hay Flats’ annual winter Family Fun Day. The Mat-Su Borough and REI are teaming up to provide skis and snowshoes for the day for families, and experts will be on hand to give you instruction.

Reflections Lake is at the Knik River Access ramp on the Glenn Highway at Mile 30.6. For more information, interested people can visit www.palmerhayflats.org.

With so many opportunities in the Mat-Su outdoors, there simply isn’t a reason why you can’t stick to your resolution, drop a few pounds, get healthy and visit new places in the Valley, all at once.

For more ideas on how to get out and enjoy all the Valley has to offer, request a 2010 Mat-Su Visitor Guide by going to www.alaskavisit.com or by calling 746-5000.

Casey Ressler (casey@alaskavisit.com) is the marketing and communications manager at the Mat-Su Convention & Visitors Bureau.