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ADMIRALTY ISLAND NATIONAL MONUMENT
101 Egan Drive
Juneau, AK 99801
(907)586-8751
Nicknamed "the fortress of the bears," this island is rich in wildlife, natural resources, and cross country ski adventures. Situated in the Tongass National Forest, trails are somewhat groomed, and pass through wooded areas. Moderate to advanced skiers should have no trouble. You'll want your camera if you plan to stop here. One of the greatest concentrations of bald eagles in North America nests inside the park. A permit and entrance fee to the park are required for admittance.
ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
Box 5251
Adak, AK 99546
(907)592-2406
The only way to access this refuge area is by plane or boat. Visited heavily by bird watchers, the Aleutian Islands Unit is part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. All island trails are short, but challenging. Beginners and intermediate skiers will do fine.
NOATAK NATIONAL PRESERVE
PO Box 1029
Kotzebue, AK 99752
(907)442-3890
Backcountry skiing through this area is exceptional. Winding around a river basin and tucked under the shadow of the Western Brooks Mountain Range, this is just as scenic as it is fun. Primitive camping is available to skiers, as is fishing and wildlife observation. Trails are fairly well groomed and perfect for any skill level.
NANCY LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA
PO Box 10
Willow, AK 99688
(907)495-6273
This is one of only a handful of flat area in all of Alaska. Lakes, streams and swamps make up the majority of this 22, 685 acre park. Unspoiled forests give way to challenging ski runs, even long term skiers brag about. Trails are somewhat groomed and shared with dog mushers. Campsites on the island are open year round and fully stocked during winter camping season. There are 40 miles of backroad trails that are maintained for winter usage and several multi-use trails.
CHUGACH STATE PARK
HC 52 Box 8999
Indian, AK 99540
(907)345-5014
This is one of the largest state parks in the nation, with 495,000 acres to play on. There are 12 lakeside trails open to X-Country skiers, one valley trail open to snowmobilers and skiers, and literally thousands of miles of backwoods you're more than welcome to roam through. With such a large variety of trails, this park is frequented by beginners and experts alike.
CAPTAIN COOK STATE RECREATION AREA
PO Box 1247
Soldotna, AK 99669
(907)262-5581
This is one of Alaska's less frequented parks. Made of forests, lakes and streams, this is the perfect place to lace up when you're in need of quiet time. A lot of wildlife inhabits this area, including moose, bear, coyotes and wolves. Whales, harbor seals and cranes are also viewable from land. A self-guided short nature trail is open during winter months to beginning skiers, and those with more experience can use any of the 3, 466 acres that make up this park. Note: This park is not staffed in the winter, but public use is permitted.
CHILKAT STATE PARK
Mud Bay Road
Haines, AK 99801
(907)4563
This is a free park, located just south of Haines, Alaska. Spectacular views of the Chilkat Inlet and Rainbow and Davidson glaciers are what draw crowds to this area. An easy, 6 mile, coastal trail offers beginners a chance to explore the backwoods area of Alaska. There's also a 2 mile beach trail that's perfect for new skiers. For those needing more of a rush, the Mount Riley Trail is long and features a vertical ascent. If you make it to the top, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable view of the region.
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