The Northern Light

Issue date: 11/18/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Ashley Smith [Click to enlarge]

At 8 a.m. on a November morning there are no birds chirping, it is still dark and it is 22 degrees outside: time to go shredding.
Turnagain Pass is an excellent destination for any intermediate to expert backcountry snowboarders and downhill skiers who want to have their day filled with powder and wintery bliss.

Although both sides are accessible to skiers and boarders, the east side of the pass is designated for non-motorized use only, making it a sanctuary for anyone who likes to ride its rolling hills and steep ridgelines without the interruption of snowmachines. Snowshoes or skis with skins are recommended to get through the deep powder, but it is possible to make it up with just boots.

There is no particular name for the trails that riders forge every season, however some runs are used more than others.

The ridgeline to Tincan Peak is great if riders just like to hike and do powder runs, or for anyone who wants to stop and play with the natural drops from trees and rocks covered in snow or small jumps that other riders have created. This ridge also offers nicely spaced trees for backcountry shredders who like to weave in and out of the gorgeous alpine forest on their way down the mountain.

Starting at the pull-off, backcountry enthusiasts are already 1,000 feet above sea level. If riders choose to hike the ridge up to Tincan Peak they will experience elevations from 1,500 feet at the first step-up to 4000 feet at the peak.

Avalanches are always a concern in Turnagain Pass so beacons and poles are highly recommended, as well as extensive knowledge about avalanche safety. There is also limited cell phone service in the pass.

As weather can often be very unpredictable, an easy way to check riding conditions is on the Alaska State Department of Transportation Website. On the site they have active camera locations throughout the state that drivers can choose from depending on where they are going. The home page is http://www.dot.state.ak.us/iways/roadweather/forms/AreaSelectForm.html
The camera for Turnagain Pass is located under the Anchorage to Homer link on this page.

Turnagain Pass is about an hour south of Anchorage on the Seward Highway. After passing a sign that reads "Welcome to the Kenai Peninsula," drivers will ascend about 1,000 feet, and at the top of the ascent will come to the first roadside pull off on the left before the road splits. This is where the rider-made trail that travels up the ridge to Tincan Peak starts.

Turnagain Pass not only has excellent backcountry riding but is also a gorgeous stop for anyone who is travelling on the Seward Highway. The snow-covered trees and often blue-bird skies make for an awe-inspiring drive through this winter wonderland.

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