January 23 '06: Alyeska Resort, AK

Yes, it was very cold (approx 0F to -14F); however, it was clear and sunny!!! The views were spectacular and the snow was even better. Alyeska was hit with a nice storm on Sat & Sun, closing much of the upper mtn. Mid-day on Monday the High Traverse opened and untracked, thigh-high (in some spots), feather-light, face-shot powder was had. The rest of the mtn was skier tracked, LIGHT powder about boot-high. Ice in some places-not a problem, though. But would you believe we had NO WIND?<br><br>Not a bad way to end a quick visit with family in Anchorage...Alyeska's terrain is overwhelming (though there's only a few lifts). After chatting with some locals, apparently the end of March-May is the best and can be a madhouse. He said sometimes the lifts aren't very bad-only 30 min waits or so. AHHHH! Yuck. No waits in winter, great powder, but dress warmly!<br><br>~Lara

feather-light, face-shot powder was had.

Nice to have such quality snow nearly down at sea level! (oh yeah, far northern latitude can help I guess  )...I've only been by Alyeska in the summer, but the terrain sure looked quite appealing for a return trip to ski it sometime; but probably not in late March-to-May...<br>