Alaska Backcountry Adventures Snowmachine Tours

Owners Matti and Dan cannot think of a better way to appreciate Alaska than sharing it with others. Matti was born and raised in Palmer, Alaska and has been on snowmachines most of her life. Alaska Backcountry Adventures offers “mild to wild” experiences and prides itself on providing a customized experience for all levels of ability. It offers the widest variety of expeditions on the latest and greatest equipment.

Whether you’re already a powder fan or have never played in snow before, Matti, Dan, and their crew of knowledgeable and friendly guides will help you explore some of that backcountry. Choose from day trips or extended outings, all tailored to your preference and ability. Each mile takes you further from civilization and closer to amazing views and adventure.

Young or Old, Snowmachine Enthusiasts or Newbies

For families exploring Alaska together, a snowmachine tour can easily accommodate toddlers through grandparents. Youngsters can sit with mom or dad to help navigate (or can drive on their own once they are age 16). Novice snowmachiners are often content to learn the basics and enjoy just getting out to play in winter.

If you’re an advanced rider, you won’t be disappointed either. Alaska Backcountry Adventures designs its expeditions outside the park system, so you don’t have to stick to the trail. You’ll likely learn some new tips and techniques, as you head off-trail, carving powder and perfecting tight spins in deep, fluffy snow. Powder fans will experience quite a rush as they take hard leans around corners and flip-flop like they’re riding on air.

Out for the Day

You can see and do a lot in just a few hours with a day-trip out of Palmer, offered Monday through Saturday. Gear up at the Alaska Backcountry Adventures office and then get out to the trailhead for safety orientation and equipment check. Day trips include stops for wildlife watching, scenic views and a warm-up at a remote Alaskan roadhouse:

Hatcher Pass Adventure (3 hours)

Spend a few hours riding through beautiful Hatcher Pass on groomed trails, taking in breathtaking mountain scenery.

Arctic Adventure (8 hours)

This full-day journey takes you on the Yentna River, part of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race Trail. Includes a hearty warm meal for lunch.

Nelchina Glacier Adventure (9 - 11 hours)

Meet at Alaska Backcountry Adventure's shop in Palmer at 9am before departing for the Eureka Lodge, further up the Glenn Highway. From the lodge you'll ride 20 miles by snowmobile to Nelchina Glacier. Once you reach the glacier you'll have some time to ride around the area and stop for a few snacks before heading back to the lodge. At the lodge, you'll be greeted with a delicious meal before heading back to Palmer (arriving between 6 and 8pm).

Multi-day Adventures

Be sure to ask about Alaska Backcountry Adventures’ extended trips – ranging from 2 to 5 days in some of the most amazing backcountry you’ll ever experience. Pricing and availability vary, but if you have a dream trip, they can help you make it a reality with one of their set itineraries or through a customized expedition.

Eureka Multi-Day

This multi-day trip is tailored to you! Each day you can explore different types of terrain from trails, to mountains, to swamps. Food and lodging is included, and you pick the number of nights.

Aurora Expedition

Seek the northern lights on this snowmobile trip following the Yentna River. Each night you'll stay at different lodges. Food and lodging is included, and you pick the number of nights.