Alyeska

About Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort, located just 40 miles from Anchorage, is Alaska's premier year-round destination that seamlessly combines luxury and adventure. Spanning 1,610 skiable acres with 76 named trails, it transforms into a winter playground dominated by deep powder and breathtaking vistas. The resort receives an impressive average of 650 inches of snowfall each year, creating a haven for powder enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike, eager to conquer its challenging terrain.

The Lodge at Alyeska seamlessly combines comfort and style, offering over 300 elegantly appointed rooms, seven diverse dining options, a saltwater pool, and the rejuvenating Alyeska Nordic Spa. Guests can enjoy ski-in/ski-out access, explore the stunning landscape via the scenic aerial tram, or relish breathtaking views from the Veilbreaker Skybridges, which connect peaks and provide an exhilarating perspective of the surrounding wilderness. With its exceptional amenities, Alyeska ensures that relaxation is always within reach after a day of adventure.

Alyeska provides an unparalleled escape into nature, blending the comforts of a world-class resort with stunning surroundings. Whether you're indulging in fresh, locally-sourced cuisine at one of the resort's exquisite restaurants, relaxing in the luxurious spa, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of Turnagain Arm and the majestic glaciers, every moment is designed for your enjoyment.

How to get to Alyeska Resort

Getting to Alyeska

Alyeska Resort is located just 40 miles south of Anchorage, Alaska, in the town of Girdwood. Fly into the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and rent a car. To reach the resort, take the scenic Seward Highway south, a route renowned for its stunning views of Turnagain Arm, where you might spot beluga whales or Dall sheep. Follow the highway to Girdwood, turn onto Alyeska Highway, and continue for three miles to arrive at the resort.

Getting around

In Alyeska Resort, you can enjoy unlimited access to local buses and ski bus services, allowing you to explore the area without needing a car. The region's efficient ski lifts and cable cars make hopping from one slope to another effortless, ensuring a stress-free and eco-friendly winter holiday.

Skiing in Alyeska Resort

The resort boasts a 60-passenger aerial tram, two high-speed quad lifts, two fixed-grip quad lifts, and two magic carpets, ensuring minimal waiting time for lifts—though crowds are typically not an issue at Alyeska.

Alyeska, known for averaging over 600 inches of snow each year, boasts some of the deepest snow conditions in the world. Surprisingly, the temperatures aren’t as frigid as you might expect. January is usually the coldest month, with average temperatures around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but by March, this warms up to about 32 degrees. Due to Alaska's proximity to the North Pole, there is less daylight during winter than in the rest of the United States. Alyeska to offer night skiing on weekends from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m allowing extended access to the runs.

Beginner Skiing in Alyeska

Alyeska Resort may not be ideal for beginners, as there are no beginner runs accessible from the mountain's summit, and only three routes classified as beginner are serviced by chair lifts. Two of these runs are relatively short, lasting just 3-5 minutes, while the third extends all the way back to the hotel. The resort is more suited for intermediate and advanced skiers, featuring steeper sections on some blue runs that, while challenging, remain manageable for those with a bit of experience.

Alyeska is a fantastic destination for intermediate skiers, offering a diverse range of terrain that perfectly balances challenge and enjoyment. Over 52% of the resort is designated for intermediate levels, allowing skiers to explore meticulously groomed trails, thrilling tree runs, and exciting terrain parks—each providing ample opportunities to hone their skills and discover new areas of the mountain. While there are some beginner-friendly slopes, the true allure of Alyeska lies in its more demanding runs and the extraordinary experiences available through backcountry access. For those seeking an exhilarating skiing adventure surrounded by the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness, heli-skiing and cat-skiing with Chugach Powder Guides add an extra layer of excitement, making Alyeska a premier choice for serious snow enthusiasts.

Expert Skiing in Alyeska

The resort boasts a meticulously organized network of trails tailored to skiers and riders of all skill levels. About 11 percent of Alyeska is designated for beginners, while 52 percent caters to intermediate skiers, and 37 percent is reserved for experts. Terrain park enthusiasts can enjoy two parks to explore, and for those seeking adventure, snowcat and heli-skiing tours provide exhilarating options.

Alyeska's challenging slopes, including the renowned North Face and hike-to terrain above the lifts, provide advanced skiers and riders with the perfect opportunity to elevate their skills. With steep chutes, expansive alpine bowls, and lengthy runs from top to bottom, the resort is a prime destination for adrenaline seekers. Its reputation as “steep and deep” is well-deserved, making it a must-visit for serious skiers.

Family vacations in Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort in Alaska is the ultimate family getaway, offering a wealth of activities for all ages and interests. The resort’s ski school programs are ideal for families, featuring sessions designed for children as young as four. The Mountain Explorers program, for ages 8-10, promotes enjoyment and collaborative learning, allowing young skiers to discover the mountain while enhancing their skills. For younger children, the Big Cub and Little Cub sessions provide a safe and nurturing environment to embark on their skiing journeys, ensuring they gain confidence on the slopes.

Beyond skiing, Alyeska Resort provides a wide array of activities for the entire family to enjoy. From night skiing and serene snowshoeing to breathtaking tram rides, there’s truly something for everyone. Adventurous families can embark on thrilling dog sledding and snowmobiling experiences, while those in search of relaxation can rejuvenate at the Alyeska Nordic Spa or explore the stunning Chugach National Forest nearby.