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Snowmobiling
Most of the Chugach National Forest is seasonally open for over-the-snow motorized use. There is a Winter Motorized Vehicle Forest Order, Forest Order 10-04-00-17-09, with detailed maps and descriptions of the areas that are closed to or have restrictions for over-the-snow motorized vehicle (OSV) use.
Summary of the dates those areas are open to OSV use.
- Turnagain Pass is open to Over the Snow Motorized Vehicle use on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through April 30th.
- Skookum Valley is open to Over the Snow Motorized Vehicle use on December 1st through March 31st.
- Resurrection Pass is open to Over the Snow Motorized Vehicle use every other year.
- Winters that begin on an even year and end on an odd year (like the winter of 2020/2021) are closed.
- Winters that begin on an odd year and end on an even year (like the winter of 2021/2022) are open
- On years when Resurrection Pass is open to Over-the-Snow Motorized Vehicle Use, it is open December 1st through April 30th.
- All other Winter Motorized areas of the Chugach National Forest are open to Over-the-Snow Motorized Vehicle Use December 1st through April 30th.
Forest Orders
Based on the variability of snow conditions from year to year and throughout the winters, the above Over-the-Snow Motorized vehicle opening and closing dates are subject to change through the use of an Emergency Forest Order. When planning your trip, please verify that the area you plan to use is open to OSV use by checking either the link to current Forest Orders or by calling one of our offices. Those orders may be found here.
Related Information
The Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center (CNFAIC)
- CNFAIC provides daily forecast for avalanche danger. CNFAIC also has avalanche workshops, discussions and training. If you are an avid winter enthusiast, arm yourself with the appropriate backcountry skills.
- Check the CNFAIC website for terrain and avalanche updates and area closures before you go.
Road Conditions/Closures
- Road conditions and road closures may be found at the Alaska 511 website
- After a heavy snow, road and parking lots may not be plowed yet. Do NOT park alongside the road or in other areas where you will create a safety hazard or impede plows.