Hi Subscriber First Name,

The trails are still green, the Alaska State Fair is in full swing, and there’s just a little hint of crisp air that reminds us winter is on its way. ❄️

Before we jump into everything coming this fall, we wanted to take a minute to look back at what’s been a pretty awesome summer at GPRA. Our volunteers have spent hundreds of hours clearing, digging, building, shaping, and improving trails, and thanks to the support of our donors, partners, and community, five trail projects took shape this summer!

There’s still a little work to do before the snow flies, but we’ve got a lot to celebrate. So grab your fair food and keep reading for a look at what we built together this summer! 💙🌲

🌲 Look What We Built Together!

It has been an incredible summer on the trails! Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our donors and partners, we’ve made some pretty amazing progress expanding and improving the trail system at Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA).

This summer, we completed the Blueberry Knoll Reroute, Marmot–Arkose Shortcut, Waterfall Connector, and Inner Pioneer Loop, and nearly all of a brand-new winter Nordic ski trail up on the Denali Loop. Record-breaking July rainfall slowed us down a bit, but it certainly didn’t stop us! Together, these projects mean new ski routes, more space for programs, and even more ways to enjoy GPRA year-round.

There are still a few finishing touches to tackle - and some new trail names to reveal - but the new trails are ready to explore as summer turns to fall. Look for the laminated signs at the GPRA trailhead to find the new sections and go check them out!

And while you’re exploring, keep an eye out for the GIANT boulders we unearthed along the way. 🪨 Some are pretty impressive! See if you can find the biggest one and snap a photo while you’re there. 😉

💙 We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our donors, sponsors, and partners, along with hundreds of volunteer hours, donated equipment, engineering expertise, and countless other in-kind contributions over the past two years helped make this summer’s trail expansion a reality.

Every person and organization who gave their time, talents, equipment, or financial support played a part in bringing these new trails to life. We truly couldn’t have done it without you, and we can’t wait to enjoy the results together this winter!💙

🌲 Ready to Dig In?

New trails mean roots to snip, rocks to toss, and plenty of finishing touches before the snow flies! This September, we're launching an Adopt a Trail Segment campaign, giving you, your family, friends, or business a chance to choose a section of our new trails and show it a little love on your own schedule.

More details about Adopt a Trail and Annual Trails day coming in the September Snow News.

And save the date! Our Annual Volunteer Trail Work Day is October 10th at GPRA.

🎟️ Volunteers who complete 8+ hours of trail work and log your donated time with the Mat-Su Ski Club in a season are eligible to receive a MSB parking pass for the following year! Families can work together to meet the required hours. The MSB requires all volunteers agree to MSB Trail Care Volunteer Release and Waiver.

We’re keeping this Snow News edition short and sweet! There’s lots more coming in September, including program updates, events, registration dates, volunteer opportunities, and everything you need to get ready for the season ahead. ❄️

Your membership makes a difference all year long! It gives you access to MSSC programs like Junior Nordics and Mat-Su Nordic while helping support year-round trail access, grooming, programs, and the work that keeps our outdoor community moving.

Want to make that support last? Choose a recurring membership and keep supporting the trails, programs, and community you love for years to come.💙

If you have a business or organization who would like to partner with us, we would love to talk to you! Reply to this email so we can set up a time to chat.

❄️ A Little PFD Reminder Before August Slips Away!

Before we say goodbye to August, here’s one last thing to check off the list! You have until August 31 to add or change your Pick.Click.Give. pledges.

If MSSC is one of the organizations that makes your Mat-Su life a little better, we’d be honored to have your support. 💙 And of course, there are lots of amazing Alaska nonprofits doing great work—Pick.Click.Give. is an easy way to show a little love to the organizations that matter most to you.