Alyeska, Alaska: Almanac

Getting There

Most major airlines fly into Anchorage (about 5 hours from Colorado). From there, rent a car for the 45-minute drive to Alyeska.

When To Go

Mid-February is the best time for abundant snow and mild temperatures (the average is 26 degrees). Early March is warmer, but snow may not be as consistent.

Sleeping In

The Prince is the only hotel option; standard rate for a room is $150 per night. Also try Alyeska Accommodations (907-783-2000) to rent a condominium or home in town.

Dining Out

Seven Glaciers at the top of the tram for casual fine food and panoramic views of the area; the on-premises Katsura Teppanyaki for beautifully prepared, light Japanese fare; the Turnagain House in the town of Indian, 15 miles away, for high-end continental food.

Après-Ski

The Double Musky for meal-sized appetizers; Chair 5 with a Juke Box and pool tables; The Sitzmark Bar, at the base of chair 3.

Kicking Butt

Heli-skiing or snowcat skiing with Chugach Powder Guides (907-783-4354) in Winner Creek.

Kicking Back

Visit the fitness center for a hot tub soak and a massage.

Activities

Dogsledding with Chugach Express; flight seeing (sight-seeing by plane) with Alpine Air, Inc.; ice skating; snowmobiling; weekend night skiing.

Don’t Miss

The drive along Seward Highway, the scenic byway connecting Anchorage and Alyeska. Seeing the view is a once-in-a-lifetime deal.

Vital Stats

Skiable acres: 1,000; number of lifts: 9; base elevation: 250 feet; summit elevation (top of Spirit Quad): 2,750 feet; vertical rise: 2,500 feet; average annual snowfall: 560 inches; lift ticket price: $44, $33 for hotel guests; season pass price: $975 regular. For information call: (800) 775-6656, ext. 2213; website: www.alyeskaresort.com.

Buying In

A new golf course with residential and commercial real estate is in the works. Call local realtor George McCoy at (907) 783-2937 for more information.

Skiers Per Acre

0.9