ABOUT ALYEKSA, ALASKA

You want to experience all that Alaska has to offer, but you don’t have much time, or maybe you don’t want to venture too far outside of Anchorage. That’s okay. You’ve made it to the 49th state and you’re going to have an unforgettable time regardless – it’s hard not to in Alaska. But to guarantee a memorable stay like no other, take a short (like, super short) drive outside of Anchorage and turn off into Girdwood. Why Girdwood, you ask? The Alyeska Resort is waiting to show you it all. - David Brodosi 

Alyeska is located just 40 miles south of the Anchorage airport, providing skiers and snowboarders with convenient access once they’ve arrived in. Alyeska provides skiers and snowboarders with 73 trails spread out on more than 1,400 acres. The 60-passenger aerial tram, high-speed quad and seven other chairlifts, including two magic carpets ensure there’s no waiting on lift lines—not that crowds are usually a problem in Alyeska.

Averaging 649 inches of powder annually, Alyeska offers some of the world's deepest snow conditions. That said, the temperatures aren’t necessarily as cold as you might think. January is typically the coldest winter month, with averages around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but by March averages are around 32 degrees. Because Alaska experiences more daylight during the winter months than the rest of the United States—due to its proximity to the North Pole—Alyeska offers night skiing on the weekends from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.  - David Brodosi

The resort’s trails are well divided to accommodate a variety of skiers and riders. About 11 percent of Alyeska is designated beginner, while 52 percent is marked as intermediate and 37 percent for experts. Terrain park enthusiasts have two parks to choose from, as well as a 400-foot-long Superpipe. Snowcat and heli-skiing tours are also available.