STILL TIME

MAT-SU — The tour buses have taken their last trip through the Valley, the seasonal operations have closed and there are a lot fewer RV’s on the road. That can only mean one thing, and it isn’t that winter is on the way — it’s “shoulder season,” a perfect time for Valley residents to take advantage of deals to explore their own back yard.

“Shoulder season” typically refers to the time around the busiest part of the tourism season in Alaska — usually June through late August. Shoulder season is a time when many tourism businesses discount their product, hoping to draw early or late-season visitors into their business.

After mid-September, many businesses revert to their winter rates, and this a perfect time to get out and enjoy the “pre-winter” season, while still saving money.

“This is a great time for locals to get out and have fun before the snow hits and save a few dollars doing it,” said Bonnie Quill, executive director of the Mat-Su CVB. “There is still wonderful hiking, ATVing and other outdoor activities available.”

The Hatcher Pass area is a good one to explore during the fall, although you’ll have to pack for the weather — typically, snow hits this area earlier than any other area in the Valley. Other opportunities include the Sheep Mountain area — what’s better than lunch at Sheep Mountain Lodge after a long fall hike? — and the Trapper Creek area.

Fishing enthusiasts tell you nothing is better than fall rainbow fishing and lake fishing right until the weather turns the lakes to ice skating rinks. As the thermometer dips, you don’t have to worry about warming up in a tent — stop by a Mat-Su bed and breakfast for an affordable way to get warm, enjoy great company and get ready for a second day on the water.

No matter how you enjoy the fall, winter is inevitable. Just because the snow falls doesn’t mean your activities should fall as well — there are plenty of things to keep you busy in the Valley this winter.

Those interested in planning their winter activities can get a jump on it at the Oxygen and Octane Expo in Anchorage on Oct. 8, at the Dena’ina Center in Anchorage. Several Mat-Su businesses and organizations will be on hand to talk with show attendees.

“The Mat-Su CVB will have a booth at the Oxygen and Octane show, distributing trail maps for snowmachining, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the Valley,” Quill said. “When the shoulder season turns into the winter season, we still have a lot to offer.”

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