What an exciting and fun-filled day we had at Winter Discovery Day this year! The sun was shining and some fresh snow sure made for a spectacular time for all!
This year’s event was the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation’s second annual hosting of Winter Discovery Day, held at Government Peak Recreation Area on March 8th from 11am-4pm.
Scores of community members came out to try out winter gear and equipment, learn about winter resources from local clubs and organizations, and explore the incredible trail system at GPRA.
We are so grateful to all who came out to enjoy the festivities and learn something new!
Check out some of the great photos captured at the event by Megan with Velvet Peak Photography.
We estimate between 250-300 residents attended the festivities which included free gear demos, booth activities, warming barrels, and more! The event served as a platform for residents to connect and learn more about winter recreation opportunities such as snowmachine safety and avalanche classes, youth and adult ski lessons, trail and park recommendations, guided outdoor excursions for various user groups including veterans, equestrian users, seniors and so much more.
In addition to providing information and resources to locals, another important goal of Winter Discovery Day is to connect community by bringing together the many incredible people and organizations who care about outdoor access. It is vital for these individuals and organizations to have the time and space to connect with one another to seek out opportunities for collaboration, to celebrate each other’s successes, identify challenges, and problem-solve.
Events like Winter Discovery Day serve as opportunity to cultivate lasting partnerships and healthy relationships amongst those in our community working to help improve the lives of Mat-Su residents.
You can read more about the event’s success in an article published by The Frontiersman. Thank you to The People’s Paper and the Mat-Su Sentinel for publishing articles leading up to the event as well!
This event was a truly collaborative effort. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for all the attendees as well as the nearly 20 local businesses and organizations who participated as vendors. Thank you to the Mat-Su Borough, who graciously co-hosted the event with us, and to Revel Treks and Tours for coordinating the event.
Thank you to the Palmer Curling Club for providing delicious hot soup and bread, Kuuk water for donating refreshing canned water, and Lekker Coffee for keeping us all caffeinated. Thank you so much for supporting this event!
We could not put on this event without the generous support of community sponsors and individual donors.
Thank you Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union and the Mat-Su Health Foundation, and to community supporters like YOU! Your contributions made this event free to the public and for our participating organizations.
Thank you for your support!!!
Enjoy some more photos from the event!
EASIEST WAY TO DONATE For Alaskans
While applying for their PFD online, Alaskans can choose to Pick.Click.Give. in increments of $25. All donations are tax deductible and donors will receive tax documentation from the State once their donations have been processed. Permanent Fund Dividend applications are available from January 1 to March 31, though Alaskans may choose to add or adjust their pledges online through August 31.
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The Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation partners with organizations and local governments on projects and efforts that expand and enhance the valley’s network of trails and parks. Find out how we can help fund your next trail, park, or recreation project!
