Enjoy Snowmachining

In Alaska, winter is not a time for hibernating but rather for enjoying a multitude of outdoor activities, and snowmachining is high on the list. There are a number of accessible areas along the Glenn Highway.

At Eklutna Lake Valley, which is found inside Chugach State Park, you will find breathtaking views of steep canyon walls, waterfalls and the Eklutna Lake Glacier. And some visitors have been lucky enough to view Dall sheep and mountain goats here.

The area open to snowmachining is the bottom of the valley from the Eklutna Lake trailhead to the toe of Eklutna Glacier. You will find this area by taking the Eklutna Lake exit at Mile 26 of the Glenn then following the signs 10 miles to the trailhead. (Snowmachines are not allowed at Twin Peaks Trail, Bold Ridge Trail or East Fork drainage.) Visitors are urged to use caution when crossing the lake ice, and the use of Lakeside Trail is not recommended due to unstable lake ice. Before leaving home, be sure to call (907) 269-8400 for a 24-hour recorded message regarding the status of all snowmachining areas within the park. Snowmachining routes are closed when the park superintendent determines there is inadequate snow pack.

Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge is a popular recreation area all year long and is accessible by taking the Knik River Access exit at Mile 30.6 of the Glenn. Snowmachiners are allowed in this area from November 9 through March 31 if there is adequate snow pack (1 inch of snow and 12 inches of frozen ground).

Other areas that attract snowmachiners along the Glenn Highway include Kings River Trailhead at Mile 66.3, Purinton Creek Trailhead at Mile 90.8, Sheep Mountain Lodge at Mile 113, the Eureka Roadhouse at Mile 128, and the Lake Louise Recreation Area at Mile 159.