Alyeska Resort Nailed by Snowfall

Posted By: Nina Pantic on December 16, 2011 12:24 am

270 muscled inches of snow have pounded Alaska’s Alyeska Resort since October. The last blustery snow storm alone added 40 new inches to the upper mountain and ski patrol teams have opened most of the mountain as well as the notoriously steep and narrow North Face Christmas Chute run (which happens to be the longest double black diamond run in North America).

Located just a scant 40 miles from Anchorage, Alyseka Resort boasts 1,400 skiable acres as well as the steep lines and deep snows associated with the Chugach Mountain range. La Nina has helped push this season into overdrive with cooler temperatures and even heavier precipitation, which is hard to believe with 650 inches of average annual snowfall (over 54 feet!). Average winter temperature ranges from 40 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit so best bring your seriously plush winter gear.

Beginners will also have plenty to do (aside from risking it all on the infamous black diamond run) on two magic carpets and a great high-speed detachable quad. You’re guaranteed non-existant lift lines and ski lift tickets at $60, successfully making the Anchorage International Airport seem a lot closer. Book at night at one of the 303 rooms at The Hotel Alyeska with ski in/out access from a 60-passenger aerial tram or beginner chairlift and beautiful Alaskan wilderness views. Guets can enjoy seven different restaurants and cafes and a visit to The Spa at Alesyka.

Take advantage of all sorts of packages and specials including the “Ski Alaska Package” with four-nights lodging plus breakfast and lift tickets for $399 per person, the “Ski & Spa Package” with one-night lodging plus lift tickets and spa credit for $159 to $199 per person, and the “Ski & Stay Package” with one lodging plus lift ticket and resort credit for $99 to $129 per person. There’s also Alaska Airlines specials and a heli-skiing experience with EpicQuest. Go to www.alyeskaresort.com for more information.