Winter Sports

Winter recreation is plentiful in Chugach, including Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and more. Remember to always check the forecast before your trip. Prepare for a variety of emergency situations and maintain situational awareness while recreating.

Check the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center website for the most current avalanche forecast.

Snowmobiling

Much of the Forest is open to winter motorized use December 1 to April 30, if snow conditions allow. Some areas have date restrictions or are permanently closed due to wildlife and habitat considerations.
The Forest issues Emergency Closure Orders if an area changes status during the season. Verify the areas you plan to ride in are open to motorized use before you head out by visiting fs.usda.gov/chugach, chugachavalanche.org, or by calling one of our offices. The Forest also posts Closure Orders at trailheads.

AREAS THAT HAVE SPECIAL DATE OR YEAR CONSIDERATIONS: (dates are subject to snow conditions)
• Turnagain Pass is open to winter motorized use the Wednesday before Thanksgiving to April 30.
• Skookum Valley is open to winter motorized use from December 1 to March 31.
• Resurrection Pass is open to winter motorized use every other year from December 1 to April 30.
- Winters that begin on an even year and end on an odd year are closed to winter motorized use.
- Winters that begin on an odd year and end on an even year are open to winter motorized use (this area is OPEN to motorized use winter 2025/2026).

Turnagain Pass Snowmobiling Trailhead - Open Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Placer River Snowmobiling Trailhead - Closed, snowpack as of December 1, 2025 (scheduled open date) is insufficient for overland travel.

Skookum Valley - Closed, snowpack as of December 1, 2025 (scheduled open date) is insufficient for overland travel.

2025 Kenai Peninsula Winter Recreation Maps - Avenza

2025 Kenai Peninsula Winter Recreation Maps - Downloadable pdfs