Summer (June through August) is peak season, drawing visitors for hiking, fishing, glacier tours, wildlife viewing, and Alaska’s famously long daylight. Winter is a major season in its own right, built around skiing and snowboarding at Alyeska, backcountry adventures, and northern lights viewing. Fall and spring are quieter, with stunning scenery and far fewer crowds for travelers who prefer a slower pace.

Girdwood is about 40 miles south of Anchorage, a roughly 45-minute drive down the Seward Highway. The route is a National Forest Scenic Byway and one of the country’s designated All-American Roads, so the drive in is part of the trip.

Alyeska is a serious mountain — about 52% of its 1,610 acres lean toward intermediate and advanced terrain — but there’s good beginner terrain as well, and the Snow Sport School helps skiers and riders of every age and level get the most out of the day.

Yes, during the winter months and when aurora activity is strong, typically in the early-morning hours.

• Girdwood Forest Fair (July) — the town’s beloved arts, music, and community festival in the woods, and one of Alaska’s most distinctive summer events.
• Alyeska Slush Cup (April) — a spring tradition of live music, costumes, and pond-skimming on skis.
• Iditarod Ceremonial Start in Anchorage (first Saturday of March).
• Summer Solstice celebrations.
• Winter ski and snowboard events at Alyeska Resort.