Ski Turnagain Pass, Kenai

What: Turnagain pass is one of the best places to go backcountry skiing in Alaska thanks to a higher elevation, good parking areas, and plenty of peaks above tree line to explore.

When to go: Ideally accessed in the winter months with good snow cover between late December to late April. You can sometimes find good corn skiing even into late May!

How to get there: https://goo.gl/maps/cVqAFHqL5rUinxsR7
See map of ski runs here: https://www.cnfaic.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/PlaceNamesNonMotorized2015.jpg

Tips:

• Some of the best peaks to ski include Sunburst, Tin Can, Magnum, and Eddies. Depending on the peak you’re looking to ski, you can park at the main lot to the East of the road or find one of the other smaller parking lots along the way. Note that you’ll typically have to skin through the trees for a bit before clearing the tree line – after that you can pick your line (or find a skin track) and explore an endless number of peaks.
• On nice bluebird pow days, it can get crowded out there and can be sometimes tough to find parking. Note that snowmachines ride on the other side of the road in case you’re into sled assisted skiing.
• As usual, be safe by checking conditions, going with a group, carrying all avalanche gear, and being appropriately trained to handle avy conditions at your own risk!