Trail Report for 01.08.2026

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Alaska Safe Riders here with your weekly snow and trail report — proudly supported by the Mat-Su Health Foundation and 95.5 The Pass.

Riding conditions across Central Alaska and neighboring riding zones have improved slightly with recent snowfall, but overall snowpack remains light and variable. Wind has moved snow into drifts and created firmer slabs in open terrain, increasing risk in steeper areas. Avalanche danger is rising, and human-triggered avalanches are possible, including from lower-angle terrain near steep slopes. Riders should avoid terrain traps, stick to familiar areas, and make conservative terrain choices throughout the weekend.

The regular snowmachine zones that have been open this season continue to offer the most reliable riding, including Petersville, the Willow trail systems, Summit Lake, Cantwell, and Eureka. Several additional zones opened as of the New Year, including Turnagain Pass, Johnson Pass, Placer River, Skookum Drainage, Carter Lake, Snug Harbor, and Resurrection Pass, which is open this winter for motorized use. Snow coverage has improved in these areas, but early-season hazards remain, including thin snow, rocks, and brush, especially in wind-scoured or low-elevation areas.Some zones remain closed to snowmachine use and should be avoided, including Twentymile, Lost Lake, Primrose Trail, and the South Fork Snow River Corridor. 

In the Hatcher Pass area, many motorized routes remain closed due to insufficient snow, including Gold Mint to Archangel Valley, Gold Mint to Fishhook, and Fishhook to Summit Lake. Riders traveling near Hatcher Pass should expect limited access, early-season conditions, and mixed-use trails, and should always confirm current access before heading out.

Visit AlaskaSafeRiders dot org for full event details and to register as a member for more benefits and resources. From all of us at Alaska Safe Riders — stay safe out there, stay informed.