Weekly report 3.14.2024
Alaska Safe Riders here with your weekly Backcountry Trail report thanks to support from the Matanuska-Susitna Borough and this station.
Spring is making an appearance this week with warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours and plenty of sunshine. More snow is in the forecast for the weekend which should keep riding conditions sweet.
The groomers have been out on the trails from Kenai to Denali and north on the Glenn Highway to Eureka and Lake Louise. Off trail you’ll likely find a crusty top layer with sugary, unconsolidated snow underneath. Early morning rides are proving more stable as things are getting mushy in the afternoon. .
Overflow is still a major concern. There have been some close calls recently with riders breaking through rivers and lakes. Good partners are essential in these situations when seconds count. If you go down in a river with a sled on top of you, a strong partner with proper tools is your only chance for survival.
Avalanche concerns have also been high this week due to wind loading and buried weak layers. Travel is not recommended in avalanche terrain. Make sure you check the latest forecasts and observations at Alaska_Snow_dot_org before heading out.
Planning ahead, Saturday, March 23rd is avalanche awareness day in Turnagain Pass. Stop by the motorized parking lot between noon and 4 pm to chat with the forecast team, practice your beacon skills, grab a hotdog, and maybe test ride a snowmobile from local dealers.
Alaska Safe riders are still hosting safety training sessions across the state. Don’t miss out.! Sign your class or school up for a free presentation at Alaska_Safe_Riders_dot_org.
That’s it for this week. Keep it safe out there and tune in next week for more updates and tips!
THIS PROGRAM MADE POSSIBLE THANKS TO SUPPORT FROM THE FOLLOWING
