A Bright Night: Mat-Su Ski Club Holiday Tree Tour
Contributed by Marla Jakab
If you missed the second annual Holiday Tree Tour at Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA) on December 26th, then you missed something really special! Hundreds of community friends came to see the holiday lights along the Pioneer Loop. If you have never visited GPRA, it’s located at the end of N. Mountain Trails Drive. Situated at the base of Government Peak, this park offers winter hiking, biking and of course, nordic ski trails in winter. The Mat-Su Ski Club, a non-profit organization mostly run by volunteers, maintains the ski trails year round. In winter, just over 17 kilometers of trails are groomed for classic and skate style cross-country skiing. The pioneer loop is just over one mile in length and the only trail groomed for multi-use in winter. Trail information may be found at www.matsuski.org
On Monday, December 26th, the wind finally calmed and volunteers added the finishing touches just in the nick of time for the second annual Holiday Tree Tour at GPRA. A free event for all! The original date of December 23rd was postponed due to howling winds that forced downed trees and a carpet of twigs. After the storm, volunteer trail elves and groomers worked quickly to magically transform the trails and save the strewn lighting. Amazingly, we got the word out about the date change and hundreds of folks turned out to walk, ski or sled their way around the freshly groomed Pioneer loop. The loop was all aglow with twinkling lights and inflated snow friends from 4 until 7pm. Even a hot chocolate and cookie stand awaited passers by out on the loop. The warm glow of fires both greeted and bid folks farewell at the trailhead. Thanks to everyone that came out to see the main event! Battery operated lighting continues to glow after 4pm daily and will remain until their lights dim. A big shout out to all the volunteers and Elves that brought this event to life. If you, your family, group or business want to be a part of this event next year, we are always looking for new Elves to join the fun! You can reach us at info@matsuski.org
Our Holiday Tree Tour would not have been as grand without the support of MEA. We are so grateful to the MEA Charitable Foundation and the Operation Roundup Program for their support. Consider "opting in" to this amazing community program! We hope this Holiday Tree Tour tradition will become part of yours.
