Thrive Outside

I get asked many questions about trail conditions.  I have explored many apps to help make the trail conditions more easily available.  However, the #1 place that I would recommend you exploring if you want to know is the Alaska Outdoor Reports.   It is super easy to put in your own report of the trail conditions.  The groomers for skiing use it exclusively.  It has little icons for skiing, hiking, kayaking, skating, and biking. Since I live in Palmer, I have bookmarked and make the Mat-Su ski club a simple app on my phone by following these simple instructions .  That makes it super easy to see the weather and the trail conditions in one click on an icon on my iphone. Happy winter exploring everyone!

Don't own a cabin in the Woods?  You don't have to.  Why not share one by renting one of these amazing facilities!  I heard about the Manitoba huts on a podcast this summer and thinking this would be a fun way to get outside a different way this winter.   https://www.alaskahuts.org/manitoba-photos/  You could even stay in a YURT! James and I throughly enjoyed our anniversary get-away last December 2015 in a sweet cabin called Dale Clemens  near Seward, AK. The hike in was the bonus for us.  We didn't need to haul any wood because it come completely stocked with propane for the heater!  The silence was special and the heavy snow delightful. Note they Recreation.gov reserves cabins 180 days in advance.  The best time to book for Summer outings is in the winter. The State of Alaska has a variety of cabins for rent. We have enjoyed the Nancy Lake cabins.    http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/cabins/anch#&panel1-1