The Mat-Su Ski Club: World-Class Winter Trails, Right Here at Home
Contributed by Marla Jakab
When snow blankets Hatcher Pass and the valley, the Mat-Su Ski Club makes sure you have a place to enjoy it. Whether you’re a Nordic skier, walker, fat biker, or someone who just loves to get outside, our club provides accessible, affordable winter recreation for the whole community.
Grooming You Can Count On
Each winter, our volunteer Snow Crew (trail groomers) puts in hundreds of hours maintaining the trails at Independence Mine, Archangel Road, Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA) and the Moose Range. From crisp classic tracks to smooth skate lanes, they transform fresh snow into ski-ready conditions day after day. Many of these trails are also open for multi-use, offering fat bikers, walkers, and snowshoers the chance to share in the beauty of a well-maintained winter trail system. Grooming is the heartbeat of our club, ensuring everyone has safe, reliable, world-class access to winter recreation right here at home.
Programs for Every Generation
The Mat-Su Ski Club is more than trails—it’s a community. Through Junior Nordics, children ages 5 and up discover the joy of skiing in a fun and supportive environment. Our Mat-Su Nordic (MSN) programs offer year-round training to help ages 8 - 88+ build skills, confidence, and teamwork. For adults, the MSN Masters program opens the door to fitness, camaraderie, and lifelong learning on and off skis. And for those brand new to the sport, our adult ski lessons and free Ski 101 clinics offer an easy, welcoming way to start gliding.
Events that Bring Us Together
From family-focused gatherings to races that attract participants from across Alaska, our events celebrate community and strengthen connections in the Valley and beyond. Every gathering is powered by volunteers and fueled by our strong Nordic ski community.
Building a Healthier, More Connected Valley
The Mat-Su Ski Club isn’t just about skiing—it’s about creating opportunities for everyone to stay active, supporting youth development, and fostering connection through the outdoors. With groomed trails, thriving programs, and welcoming events, we make the Mat-Su a place where world-class winter recreation is available to all.
Visit matsuski.org to learn more and get involved! For trail grooming updates, live trail cameras, upcoming program registration, and events—including beloved community traditions like the Holiday Tree Tour. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram @matsuskiclub for the latest updates and a little winter inspiration.
See you out on the trails!