When you think of Alaska skiing the first thing that pops up in your mind is more likely than not the death defying lines in ski movies. While that is part of the Alaska skiing experience (if that's what you're in AK for) there's another side to Alaska skiing at Alyeska. Big, open bowls with untracked snow that can last for days and a view that is to die for. The weather is always a concern when skiing in Alaska, which is why when your heli bump is on weather hold you head up the tram to get a few laps in.
What's it like to ski at sea level? To literally make a turn and have Prince William Sound right below as if you're skiing into an infinity pool. Is it the fresh Alaska air or the humbling experience of being surrounded by nothing but big mountains that makes Alyeska feel like a dream? If you're making a trip out to Alaska to ski its safe to assume you're probably at the very worst an intermediate skier. No need to worry about not being an expert skier at Alyeska while there is expert terrain we found Alyeska to be quiet approachable.
Terrian: After all, this is why we pick a place to ski isn't? There are not a lot of things in life that are guaranteed but we can guarantee a view like we have not ever had while skiing. Most mountain ranges involve altitude, at Alyeska the top of Glacial Bowl Express (Alyeska's highest lift) is only at 2,750 ft. To put in simple terms, the average elevation of the state of Colorado is 6,800 ft. While the snow was incredible (granted we did visit during their deepest season ever) you couldn't help just stare in awe. Alyeska does not allow you to ski from the Alyeska Peak (while we wish they would) at the top of Glacial Bowl Express you would look up to these large heli ski AK lines and just let your mind wonder with possibilities.
The lower half of the mountain from Ted's Express upward was mostly open groomers. The snow on the lower half is a bit hit or miss due to the lower elevation things tend to get a bit icy towards the bottom. The majority of the resort rides in big open bowls so intermediate riders feel at ease. You wont find many cliff sets or no go zones like you would at other resorts by accident. For those of you shredders who are more into spicy terrain don't worry you'll find plenty of challenges at Alyeska. The tram and Glacial Bowl Express grant you access to the top which offers you the two options: 1. Go skiers left towards the infamous Christmas Tree Chute and the gates which offer their expert terrain options. 2. Go skiers right towards the high traverse which gets you to Max's and deep, untracked bowl skiing.
The gates are opened once patrol has their chance to ensure its good to ride. Keep in mind that some chutes at Alyeska can be as steep as 55 degree pitch before you follow anyone. Going left allows you to access the tramway, as well as steep and awesome skiing. Different areas have different terrain options from chutes to tree skiing you can find a bit of variety. Something to note, the only way back up the mountain after skiing the Northface area is the back up the Alyeska Tramway.
Vibe (Experience): Its hard to not be stoked when you're in Alaska to ski anything let alone pull up to an awesome small ski town in Girdwood. The vibe at Alyeska is simple its a ski bums mountain with locals that are just like all of us who flock to play in winter but way more tough since after all they are Alaskans. The locals were very helpful and wanting to share their info of their favorite spots with a sense of pride (after all, we cant say we are all as friendly when it comes to our special lines). Friendly and welcoming is what we experienced.
How we would describe Alyeska: Mammoth Mountain meets Snowbird with views that blow your mind. Think Mammoth with their big open bowls and groomers. Then Snowbird for the snow quality (we had at least) and parts of their Cirque Traverse.
Overall Girdwood feels like how ski towns use to be, and how it should be. You know you're in Alaska as soon as you're off the plane and its refreshing. Everyone we encountered want to ensure we had the best time possible. Make sure to spend a few nights in Girdwood. While there is a resort (pricey) more affordable options are available around town.
The town itself takes no more than 10 mins to drive through and around. Be sure to check out the Girdwood Shuttle which is free of charge and navigates through the entire town, FREE OF CHARGE. Which after a few Frizz's you'll be searching for.
Food / Apre's: While we personally think the best food was at the Bore Tide Deli at the top of Alyeska Tramway food prices overall were not what we would call shocking for Alaska or a ski resort. The food at the resort was fine, but great options are also close by around town.
They are home to the Seven Star Glacial Restaurant a unique experience. The worlds only Michillin star restaurant at the top of a ski resort. Make sure to grab a fizz only available on the weekends (two max per person) this is a must. Food options around town are not bad considering you're in the middle of Alaska. Options range from pizza to higher end eateries.
Overall Takeaways: A must ski for any ski bum. If you're in town for a heli trip worth it on a down day to explore and enjoy some soft turns. Don't worry about not being an advanced skier, intermediates will find plenty to ski and gain confidence to explore new terrain. Be sure to check the weather, the day before we got there it was -15 F degrees for layering. Renting a car is not necessary if you are planning on staying in Girdwood only. There is a free shuttle for Girdwood that circles the town every half hour to hour. Staying in the Alyeska resort is not needed. There are plenty of more affordable options around Girdwood.
If you are feeling sore make sure to check out the Nordic Spa at Alyeska Resort for a truly unqiue experince. One of the few nordic spas in the US it truly is a life saver after multiple days of chasing fresh tracks.
As always, make sure to check out the trail map to have a sense of guidance. If you have an IKON pass you shouldn't pass this resort up. Who could miss a chance to catch the Auora dancing above you after a long day of making turns?
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