NSAA’s Season Begins Oct. 1

(Press release)

NSAA’s season begins October 1 with improved Junior Nordic and Ski Train programs

A new and exciting season of events, activities and healthy outdoor opportunities for Southcentral Alaska residents of all ages begins Sunday, October 1, when the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage (NSAA) kicks off its 2017-18 season programming. NSAA opens the season by introducing new leadership and details for two of its most popular community programs: Junior Nordic and Ski Train.

NSAA Junior Nordic is a longtime and beloved community program committed to instilling active lifestyles and a love for skiing, trails and the outdoors in hundreds of Anchorage-area kids every winter. NSAA recently named Shannon Donley as the program’s new director. Junior Nordic skiers and coaches will also have a fresh look this season thanks to ConocoPhillips and UBS Financial Services, which have generously provided the program with new jackets.

The first of two eight-week Junior Nordic sessions starts November 13, but registration begins on October 1. Sessions are offered at Kincaid Park, Hillside and Russian Jack Springs Park. To ensure effective coach-to-skier ratios and meet the various needs of families and young skiers across Anchorage, NSAA has added afterschool sessions at Hillside and Kincaid Park to complement the traditional evening slots. Session prices are $185. Learn more and register at www.anchoragenordicski.com/junior-nordic.

Another NSAA institution is getting an upgrade this season: Ski Train! The basics remain the same for the wildly popular annual event: a scenic, unforgettably fun 200-mile ride aboard the Alaska Railroad will deliver skiers, snowshoers and winter recreationists of all ages and skill levels to an awesome location for outdoor adventures. New this season: Ski Train will exclusively offer table seating dome cars to guarantee great views and comfort for every passenger.

Ski Train 2018 arrives March 24 but tickets go on sale October 1. Family pricing and extra perks are added values this season thanks to Trek Store of Anchorage, REI, Matanuska Brewing Company, Glacier Brewhouse Brewery, Alaskan Brewing Company, Wild Scoops, and Conrad Houston Insurance. Tickets start at $140 for adults and $115 for 11 and under, and are available at www.anchoragenordicski.com/events/ski-train. Buy soon; they sell out fast.

For 53 years, NSAA has maintained more than 150 trails and provided Nordic skiing programs that encourage healthy activities and lifestyles for all Alaskans. Community support and proceeds from programs and events help fund these efforts. Learn more about NSAA Junior Nordic, Ski Train and other NSAA programs and events at www.anchoragenordicski.com.