Outdoor Activities and Guided Tours
Alaska Backcountry Access. This outfitter takes people out of town for jet-boat rides up Twentymile River, summertime snowmobiling near Godwin Glacier, and much more. Families with kids six and older might enjoy their slightly adventurous, naturalist-led day trip that includes a hike, panning for gold, and a cable hand-tram trip across Glacier Creek. Winter excursions includes snowmobile outings across Southcentral Alaska. Girdwood, Alaska, 99587. 907/783–3600; www.akback.com.
Alyeska Resort. Alaska's largest and best-known downhill ski resort encompasses more than 1,600 skiable acres of terrain for all skill levels, where snowfall averages nearly 670 inches annually. Alyeska features a day lodge, hotel, restaurants, six lifts, a tram, a vertical drop of 2,500 feet, and 76 named trails for all abilities–-including North America’s longest continuous double black run. The tram is also open in summer ($29), providing access to Seven Glaciers restaurant and ridgeline hiking trails. Brave the stout hike up the mountain, and you can ride the tram down for free. Ski and snowboard rentals are available, and local guides teach classes on the mountain.
1000 Arlberg Ave., Girdwood, Alaska, 99587. 907/754–2111; 800/880–3880; www.alyeskaresort.com.
Chugach Powder Guides. This helicopter and Sno-Cat skiing operation focuses on backcountry skiing and snowboarding in the interior Chugach Range, the Seward area, and the Talkeetna Mountains. Set itineraries and private charters are both available. Girdwood, Alaska. 907/783–4354; www.chugachpowderguides.com.
