The scenery is spectacular and the atmosphere very informal, with fast moving lift lines to well groomed trails, professional ski instructors for group and private lessons, comfortable lodging and good restaurants nearby. Alternative activities range from sleigh rides and cross country skiing to snowmobiling and dog sled rides. Members of the National Ski Patrol are on patrol, in cooperation with operators of ski areas. Rental equipment is available, and area shops offer an array of ski clothing and other amenities to choose from. Remember to dress in layers and use hand warmers on cold days, to be comfortable while enjoying the deep powder and long runs that Alaska slopes offer.
Public transportation is available to and from the slopes.
There is also ample parking for private vehicles at the ski areas. North of Anchorage are alpine ski areas at Palmer and Hatcher Pass. The state's second largest ski area, on Douglas Island near downtown Juneau, gets an average of 300 inches of snow annually over 640 skiable acres. The Fairbanks area has several downhill options, including one area which uses heated buses to move skiers from the bottom of the hill back to the top. At Cordova, skiers get a spectacular view of Prince WIlliam Sound on runs ranging from a bunny hill to expert slopes.