SKIING & SNOWBOARDING IN PALMER

Majestic Slopes Await

The mountain trails just north of Palmer are perfect sites for skiing & snowboarding.  Hatcher Pass and Government Peak offer a contrast of natural terrain and groomed trails, and Skeetawk is in the process of constructing a true ski resort in the area.  These areas are enhanced by the surrounding, snow-capped peaks.

Popular Skiing & Snowboarding Areas

Eska Creek Falls

Eska Creek Falls
Name
Eska Creek Falls
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/eska
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , , ,
Description

This 4+ mile trail takes you up Eska Peak to spectacular views of the Chugach Range.  The trek crosses through woodland and lush alpine growth before reaching the falls and peak respectively.

For directions and additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Community Development Department or click on the website link above.

Gold Mint Trail

Gold Mint Trail
Name
Gold Mint Trail
Website
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/hatcherpass/hatcherpass.htm
Category
, , , , , , , , ,
Description

This 16 mile (round trip) trail follows the Little Susitna river up to it's headwaters.  One of four major trails in Hatcher Pass, north of Palmer, it has a gradual incline for the first few miles before becoming much steeper.  It is open to hiking, biking, and skiing, and you can even do a little gold panning along the way.

For directions and additional information, please click on the website link above or alaska.org/detail/gold-mint-trail.

Government Peak Winter Trails

Government Peak Winter Trails
Name
Government Peak Winter Trails
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/gpra-winter
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , , , ,
Description

In the peak winter months Government Peak features 9 miles of combines trails for skiing, skijoring, sledding, snowshoeing and more.  Take in the sights as you adventure along the Chugach mountains just north of Palmer.  Note that the parking area is open from 8 AM to 8 PM, so don't get locked in.

For more information, please contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Community Development Department or click on the website link above.

Reed Lakes Trail

Reed Lakes Trail
Name
Reed Lakes Trail
Website
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/hatcherpass/hatcherpass.htm
Category
, , , , , , ,
Description

This trail, approximately 9 miles round trip, follows an old mining road in Hatcher Pass.  You will hike over 2,000 feet of elevation gain and witness the tarn that feeds Reed Lake, gorgeous waterfalls, the lake itself, and Reed Creek flowing down the mountain.

For directions and additional information click on the website link above or alaska.org/detail/reed-lakes-trail.

 

Skeetawk Alpine Ski Area

Skeetawk Alpine Ski Area
Name
Skeetawk Alpine Ski Area
Website
https://www.skeetawk.com/
Phone
907-746-PASS (7277)
Category
Description

Nestled into the gorgeous mountains of Hatcher Pass, Skeetawk is a groomed, maintained ski area opening in December of 2020.  The site currently hosts a beautiful warming hit, a patrol / first-aid station, and a freshly installed chair lift.  The project is managed by HAX, a local non-profit dedicated to bringing the dream of a real ski resort to the Valley.