Summer ‘26 Trail Expansion at GPRA

Last summer, our community helped raise over $12,000 to get this project started. This year, we’re aiming to raise $20,000 to bring the full vision to life!

  • Reroute the lower part of the Blueberry Knoll trail to higher, drier ground.

  • Build a new Nordic Winter trail within the Denali Loop system

  • Build a new multi-use family and dog friendly trail within the Pioneer Loop that will benefit from existing trail lighting.

  • Build a connector trail between the start of the Denali Loop and the end of the Denali Loop.

  • Build a shortcut between the Marmot Loop and the Arkose Loop.

🔥 Thanks to our incredible supporters, we've raised $8,800 so far!

Only $11,200 remains to reach our $20,000 goal and complete the planned trail expansion projects this summer.

GPRA Trail Expansion Progress:

Here’s What’s Planned:

‘26 Trail Expansion Map:

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Blueberry Knoll Reroute (Hiking Trail) will be the first work undertaken. Endorsed by the Mat-Su Borough (MSB), the lower portion of the Blueberry Knoll (BBK) will be rerouted to a ridge line. (shown in orange on the map). This will eliminate a very wet portion of the BBK, provide great views and a better experience for hikers. In turn this opens more suitable terrain to accommodate the Bold Downhill (shown in light blue on map). The lower BBK trail access also will be improved.  Once the new BBK route is complete work will shift to the new section of the ski trail.  Summer access to BBK will not be disrupted while this work is completed.

Inner Pioneer (Year Round Multi-Use Trail), shown in dark blue on the map, expands the multi-use trail for skijorers, walkers, bikers, as well as skiers. This new loop will benefit from the existing trail lighting.  Future expansion east of the Pioneer Loop multi-use trails is dependent on a future crossing of the ravine adjacent to the lower parking lot.  The Mat-Su Borough (MSB) is taking the lead on this major project and is pursuing a grant for 2027 construction.

New Winter Nordic Ski Trail adjacent to Bold (Winter Nordic/Summer Multi-use Trail) shown in light blue on the map. This trail will create a new downhill section and loop that will offer a variety of new links to mix and match skiing opportunities on the Denali Loop.

Arkose and Marmot Shortcut(Winter Nordic/Summer Multi-use Trail) shown in pink on the map. If adequate funding is raised, the lower portions of the Arkose and Marmot Loops will be connected providing an additional option for skiers.

Waterfall Connector (Winter Nordic/Summer Multi-use Trail) shown in red on the map. A short section of Nordic trail that will provide for far more efficient race day operations. The added benefit is a much more gradual alternative to the Waterfall Downhill. This work will begin after MSB acceptance of an engineered grading plan.

Inside the Trail Plan:

We’re ready to get started—MSSC has secured funding to begin dirt work on June 8, 2026. Volunteers have already donated over 22 hours clearing trees and laying groundwork. Now we’re working to close the remaining funding gap and complete all five trail sections by September.

Ways You Can Help:

AMOUNT

$12,400

$8,400

$11,600

CATEGORY

Raised in 2025

Raised so far in 2026

Remaining 2026 Goal

💛 Make a Donation
Support the trail expansion directly by contributing to the project. Every dollar moves us closer to completing all five sections.

🛠 Volunteer Your Time
Join us for trail work days this summer—no experience needed. It’s a great way to be part of the build and connect with the community.
👉 Dates will be shared on Facebook, our website calendar, and through member and volunteer emails.

🚜 Donate Equipment or Materials
Have access to equipment, materials, or services that could support trail building (like culverts or machinery)? We’d love to connect.
👉 Reach out to us at info@matsuski.org

This is just the start of expansion of ski and multi-use trails at GPRA! 

Click below to check out:

What’s Next?

With Gratitude to Those Who Make This Possible

2025 Supporters

  • David McPherson

  • Anjanette and Zack Steer

  • Rebekah Robinson

  • Bradley Sworts

  • Nathan Kasukonis

  • Rebecca Moore

  • Edward Grazulis

  • Holly Stephens

  • Amber Lee

  • David McArther

  • Gavin Kentch

  • Jerry Hupp

  • Julia Plotnik

  • Bryan Fredrichs

  • Strabel Racing Services

  • Amber Lee

  • Anonymous Supporters

  • Stepper’s Construction

  • Andrea Everett

  • Warren Petrasek

  • Lin Mitchell

  • Samantha Berg

  • Ernest Hetrick

  • Kristi Holta

  • Teri Slaven

  • Jason Copp

  • Laura McNamara

  • Sara Rodewald

  • Lydia Lester

  • Dave Musgrave

  • Amanda Carver

  • Tae Freeman

2026 Supporters

  • CRW Engineering Group Inc.

  • Mat-Su Ski Club Earmarked Funds

  • Anonymous Supporters

  • Kristi Holta

  • Mary Ann Cochran

  • Marty Raney

  • Mark Masteller

  • Aubrey Spangler

  • Chris Jones

  • Gavin Kentch

  • Dulce Ben-East

  • Carl Oswald

  • Edward Godnig

  • Dave Musgrave

  • Holly Stephens

Ways To Give

The Mat-Su Ski Club is a 501©3 Non-profit and all donations are tax-deductible. EIN Tax Id Number 26-1217414

We would love to partner with you or your business today! To learn more

Contact Marla Jakab at

marla.jakab@matsuski.org

Become a Sponsor

Send a check via direct mail to:

Mat-Su Ski Club

c/o Trail Expansion 2026

PO Box 364

Palmer AK 99654

Check Donations:

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Invest in Trail expansion today