Things to do / Travel Guide
Alaska conjures up mental images of snow and ice for miles around, deep in the heart of nature. Winter is also seasonably long, running from September to late May with temperatures that are frigid, yet surprisingly, and pleasantly, it's not as bad as visitors tend to expect. While it is cold (around 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit), the snow melts somewhat rapidly due to the heavy precipitation that frequents the Panhandle area. However, when its not heavy rain, that means it's heavy snow; perfect for skiers.
Skiing in and around Prince of Wales Island
Located at the southern end of the Panhandle, the Tongass National Forest, which actually encompasses over 80% of the Panhandle itself, is full of winding and varying trails suitable for telemark and cross-country skiing. “Stump Skiing” is a local creation which takes advantage of the sawed off tree stumps from the extensive logging in the area, and provides a “ramp” or “jumping off point” for a thrilling start to what would otherwise have just been an ordinary run down the hill.
Since this area is an island, most of the lodging has beautiful waterfront views available from right outside your door. You can choose from among rental apartments at places such as the Bayview Lodge in the Thorne Bay, or the unique “Floatel,” which is a two story log floating cabin moored 200 feet off shore which also offers land based cabins. The towns of Whale Pass, Thorne Bay, and Craig have the largest concentration of lodging options with over 14 from which to choose.
Hailed as “The Place to Meet on Prince Wales Island” by the Chamber of Commerce, Ruth Anne's Restaurant, Hotel, and Cocktail bar was established in 1976, and features delicious seafood and drink specials. There is also Annie Betties, which is famous on the island for their fresh cinnamon rolls and other delectable pastries. If fresh seafood is what you want, Alaska is definitely the place to be,and you'll find it being served up in almost any way someone could think possible making it impossible for a seafood lover to leave Prince Wales Island hungry.
Skiing in and around Ketchikan
Cross country enthusiasts should pay a visit to the Klowak Mountains, which has multiple trails such as “One Duck Trail” and the “Twenty Mile Spur Trail” which are popular during skiing season. “One Duck” is located at the Hydaburgroad trailhead and climbs 1400 feet in the air for 1 ¼ miles, making it seem as though you're climbing into the air and can take flight with the ducks. “Twenty Mile Spur” is a misnomer, being only 1.3 miles long, and it is disputed as to where the name actually originated. The most popular belief is that a long time ago the trail ran for twenty miles along the Harris River and, though it eroded over the years, the name stuck.
Ketchikan is a tourist destination for visitors to Alaska for its quaint seaside atmosphere, fresh seafood, and thriving historical and modern Native American culture. There are also many nature and fishing trips available for an interesting twist on après ski. Check out the restaurants and bars with their stunning views of the bay. Lodging varies from small and affordable privately owned hotels to much pricier lodges. Ketchikan is a port of call for cruise ships in the area so, no matter what your budget, you're sure to find somewhere suitable to stay. The Best Western Hotel not only offers over 100 plus rooms, but also doubles as the Jeremiah's Pub and Landing Restaurant. Visit ors never lack for lodging what with four inns, three hotels, three rustic lodges with that high priced resort feeling, and one bed and breakfast, all offering guests a perfect landing place at the end of the day.
Skiing in and around Juneau
Home to silver Olympic medalist Hillary Lindh, Juneau is not only Alaska's official capital city, but also its winter sports capital. With over 37 glaciers, Juneau has been named 1 of the top 5 boundless skiing places by Powder Magazine. It has even played home to an IMAX movie about extreme skiing.
The Panhandle's only ski resort, EagleCrest, is located on Douglas Island, just 12 miles from downtown Juneau. From groomed slopes to deep bowls, visitors looking for a contained skiing experience need look no further than EagleCrest. Known as the best kept secret in Alaska, visitors will find few, if any, lift lines to the top. Scenic beginner trails wind their way through the Alaskan wilderness, while thrill seekers push up fresh powder in the bowls scattered about the mountain.
If you're looking for a unique experience, give heli-skiing or boarding a try. While jumping out of a small airplane or helicopter may not sound so great at first, the adrenaline rush and boundless ski and snowboarding areas take riders above and beyond the ordinary. Participants are accompanied by knowledgeable guides, and will reach heights the most modern of ski resorts can't offer. Various outdoor outfitters can provide information on this exciting way to experience no lift lines, higher peaks, and deeper powder.
Juneau is home to Heritage Coffee, one of America's most decorated pubs, at the Alaska Brewing Company. Have a little taste of history, along with your brew of choice, at the Historic Imperial Saloon. The Imperial has been in operation since 1891, making it the oldest bar in Juneau still pouring them strong and frothy. There is also a selection of fresh seafood, of course, but, if you're up for a different cuisine, Mexican, Asian, and American cuisine is always available as well.
An astounding variety of lodging is available in Alaska's capital. Fifteen lodges, twelve hotels and motels, and a staggering twenty-seven inns and bed & breakfasts, are all available to welcome guests at all times. Douglas Island, of course, offers incredible ocean views and is close to EagleCrest ski resort. Other options worth mentioning are the Alaskan Hotel, built in 1913, or the even older Bergmann Hotel, which first held miners as its guests in the 1890's, making it the oldest continually operating hotel in the city. All downtown hotels, of course, are located near the many art galleries, and various historic or adventurous attractions. Check with the staff on duty at your hotel for guidance on activities in Juneau.
With temperate marine climates and stunning natural views of nature in its original setting, including glaciers that can't be found elsewhere in the United States, the Alaskan Panhandle is a haven for tourists and winter sports enthusiasts alike.
Ski Resorts in Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway, and the Alaska Panhandle
Skiing
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