Fort Wainwright Winter 2018-19 Outdoor Recreation Adventure Guide

USAG Alaska Outdoor Recreation

Out of the gate and into the state

Equipment Inside: Find a complete list of available equipment and gear available for checkout this winter and spring!

Go

Explore

Don’t let the cold stop you from exploring Alaska, with help from Outdoor Recreation!

Winter 18-19

adventure Guide

Go explore A

laska is a magnificent state­— a giant playground that deserves to be explored and appreciated.

USAG Alaska covers a large expanse of land, with access to adventure all around us. While the roads in Alaska may be few and far between, the experiences are endless.

Wherever you turn in Alaska, an adventure is waiting to be had.

Whether you are stationed here, have decided to make Alaska your forever home, or are just visiting, we here at Fort Wainwright Family and MWR encourage you to get out there and take advantage of your special opportunity. Our Outdoor Recreation programs have equipment and instruction available to help you explore on your own, and knowledgeable guides to assist you on any adventure.

Whatever Alaskan experience you are searching for, USAG Alaska Family and MWR has the right option for you!

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18 Outdoor Recreation Center

Building 4050 Glass Drive Fort Wainwright, Alaska (907) 361-6349

www.wainwright.armymwr.com @WainwrightMWR #WainwrightMWR All prices and details are correct at time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

All advertisement herein are paid advertising. No federal endorsement implied.

Photo courtesy of Bureau of Land Management.

CITY / MILITARY ESTABLISHMENT ROADWAY TOP RECREATION DESTINATION: 1.

Chena River State Recreation Area

2.

Denali National Park & Preserve

3.

Anchorage Area

4.

Kenai Mountains 200 MILES

BOSS Tuesdays

Head outside with B.O.S.S. and the Outdoor Recreation Center for B.O.S.S. Tuesdays and other adventures! Throughout the winter, head out on a free guided adventure and discover what’s in store throughout Alaska.

Beginners and experts welcome, with equipment, transportation, and instruction included on each trip, if applicable.

ADVENTURE

DATE

LOCATION

Indoor Rock Climbing

January 8

Outdoor Recreation

Snowmachine Safety Course

January 12

Outdoor Recreation

Sled Dog Handling Training

January 13

Pounding Paws Kennel

B.O.S.S. Night Out: Ski & Snowboard

January 18

Birch Hill Ski Area

White Mountains Snowmachine Trip

January 18 – 19

White Mountains NRA

Chena Hot Springs Bike & Soak

January 27

Chena Hot Springs

Ice Fishing

February 2

Birch Lake

Sled Dog Handling Training

February 9

Pounding Paws Kennel

Fat Tire Biking to HooDoo Brewery (Must be 21+ years to participate)

March 8

HooDoo Brewery

B.O.S.S. Tuesday: Snowmachine Safety Course

March 12

Outdoor Recreation

Denali Ice Climbing

March 23

Denali National Park

All trips subject to change.

Trips will be canceled if temperature drops lower than -10F degrees prior to departure.

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Out of the gate W

inter’s frozen ground lets you explore places near and far that may be unreachable in the summertime, so get out of the gate and explore the state! Alaska offers boundless opportunities for outdoor adventure— from cross-country skiing to snowmachining, fat tire biking to ice climbing, and everything in between.

We’ve picked out a few of our favorite Outdoor Recreation trips that we think you’re really going to enjoy. Whether you are new to the activity or a seasoned pro, there’s a trip for you! Each trip is lead by one of our expert guides who is there to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable.

Our adventures tend to fill up fast— we highly encourage you to reserve your space by calling the Outdoor Recreation Center at (907) 361-6349 or by stopping by 4050 Glass Drive, near the main gate of Fort Wainwright.

3 “don’t miss” trips this season Paws’ Kennel & Mushing Tours 1Pounding Mush! Have you ever wanted to learn about Alaska’s official sport, dog sledding?

Or how about trying your hand at the reins with commands like “gee” and “haw”?

The Outdoor Recreation Center and Pounding Paws’ Kennel have teamed up to send you on the trail! Run with the pups with tours available every month this winter.

Area Skiing Cabin Expedition 2Anchorage Step onto the porch of a rustic cabin and look up. Watch as the northern lights dazzle across the darkened sky, and relax after a weekend’s worth of skiing and snowboarding at Alyeska and Hilltop Ski Resorts.

Trips throughout Interior Alaska 3Snowmachine It’s hard to choose which one of the many Outdoor Recreation snowmachine trips is our favorite, so we’re picking all of them! Whether you want an overnight trip into the wilderness with a stay at a public use cabin, or a day trip into the heart of Interior Alaska’s rolling hills, there’s a trip for you. All trips require a Snowmachine Safety Certification card, which can be obtained by attending a Snowmachine Safety Course, held numerous times throughout the winter months.

Check out a complete list of guided Outdoor Recreation trips on the next page!

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Photo courtesy of Markus Trienke.

Stay safe out there T

here’s nothing worse than getting caught out in the cold. If not prepared, the situation could turn very serious, very quickly. At Fort Wainwright Family and MWR, we recommend that you take the following steps listed below to make sure you stay safe while spending time outside this winter.

1. Check the weather Weather conditions in Alaska can change in the blink of an eye. You don’t want to be caught outside without being prepared when the temperature drops drastically within the span of a few minutes. Check with local weather agencies for an updated forecast, and plan for the worst-case scenario.

2. Wear layers Whether you are planning an overnight winter trip or are simply heading outside for a snowball fight, dress in layers. The addition and removal of layers allows you to regulate your body temperature by trapping warm air in between the fabric. The first layer should be a moisture-wicking material, followed by a layer of wool or fleece, and finally, a wind-proof material for the outer layer. The same goes for bottom layers. And don’t forget about a hat and gloves or mittens!

3. Keep yourself hydrated It’s easy to forget to drink water in the winter— the cold temps don’t necessarily beg for a refreshing gulp of water. However, it’s vital to drink warm liquid every so often to ensure that you body’s internal temperature stays level.

4. Be aware of frostbite and hypothermia Frostbite typically occurs in very cold temperatures, in places with high wind, or after long periods of exposure. The best way to prevent frostbite is to stay covered up, and warm up the cold areas of the body as soon as possible.

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Your body begins to function slower, resulting in shivering, slurred speech and slowed movements, confusion, and more. It’s important to stay aware of you and your partner’s behavior, as the symptoms often occur gradually.

The Outdoor Recreation Center offers safety courses that cover winter safety. These courses are offered throughout the winter, and are the perfect way to learn how to stay safe while spending time outside.

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Layers Layers Layers Let the Outdoor Recreation Center teach you how to layer clothing to achieve the maximum warmth and comfort.

Head case Don’t forget that the Outdoor Recreation Center rents snowmachine helmets. Riding safely can mean the difference between life and death.

Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management.

Don’t be a

Time to explore Trips will be canceled if temperature drops lower than -10F degrees prior to departure.

All trips subject to change. *Alaska State Fishing License is required **Must be 21+ years of age to participate. Please drink responsibly.

ADVENTURE

DATE

LENGTH

LOCATION

Birch Hill Kids Ski & Snowboard Camp

January 2-4

3 Days

Birch Hill Ski Area

Family 1/2 Day Snowmachine Trip

January 4

2 Sessions

Birch Hill Ski Area

Women in the Wilderness: Ice Fishing*

January 5

Full Day

Birch Lake

Cross-Country Skiing for Beginners

January 5

Half Day

Glass Park

Pounding Paws Dog Mushing Tour

January 6

Half Day

Pounding Paws Kennel

Fat Tire Biking to HooDoo Brewery**

January 11

Half Day

Outdoor Recreation

Snowmachine Safety Course

January 12

Half Day

Outdoor Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing for Beginners

January 18

Half Day

Glass Park

Pounding Paw’s Kennel Dog Mushing Tour

January 26

Full Day

Pounding Paws Kennel

Compeau Trail Snowmachine Trip

January 26

Full Day

Chena River SRA

January

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ADVENTURE

DATE

LENGTH

LOCATION

Chena Hot Springs Bike & Soak

February 3

Full Day

Chena Hot Springs

Pounding Paw’s Kennel Dog Mushing Tour

February 9

Full Day

Pounding Paws Kennel

Snowmachine Safety Course

February 9

2 Sessions

Outdoor Recreation

Denali Exploration

February 10

Full Day

Denali National Park

Maclaren River Lodge Snowmachine Trip

February 15-17

3 Days

Maclaren River Lodge

Anchorage Ski & Snowboard Trip

February 15-18

4 Days

Anchorage area resorts

Women in the Wilderness: Ice Fishing

February 23

Full Day

Birch Lake

Cross-Country Skiing for Beginners

February 23

Half Day

Glass Park

Fat Tire Biking to HooDoo Brewery**

March 1

Half Day

Outdoor Recreation

White Mountains Snowmachine Trip

March 2

Full Day

White Mountains NRA

Pounding Paw’s Kennel Dog Mushing Tour

March 3

Full Day

Pounding Paws Kennel

Denali Exploration

March 10

Full Day

Denali National Park

Birch Hill Kids Ski & Snowboard Camp

March 13-15

3 Days

Birch Hill Ski Area

Women in the Wilderness: Snowmachining

March 16

Full Day

White Mountains NRA

Stiles Creek Snowmachine Trip

March 23

Full Day

Chena River SRA

Pounding Paw’s Kennel Dog Mushing Tour

March 24

Full Day

Pounding Paws Kennel

White Mountains Snowmachine Trip

March 30

Full Day

Chena River SRA

Pounding Paw’s Kennel Dog Mushing Tour

April 6

Full Day

Pounding Paws Kennel

Compeau Trail Snowmachine Trip

April 6

Full Day

Chena River SRA

Pounding Paw’s Kennel Dog Mushing Tour

April 20

Full Day

Pounding Paws Kennel

February

March

April

*Alaska State Fishing License required ** Must be 21+ years old to participate

Equipment

Essentials

Now is the time. Go. Explore. Winter’s frozen ground takes us places we couldn’t explore during the summer. Whether you are looking for a complete ice fishing ensemble, a snowmachine, or snowshoes, we have what you need at very affordable prices.

Daily Price

Addt’l Days

Addt’l Days

OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL EQUIPMENT

TOOLS

Fat tire bike

$35

N/A

Log splitter (need 24-hr notice)

$45

$20

Arctic Oven tent (2 person)

$25

N/A

Generator 2000w

$15

$7

Arctic Oven tent (4 person)

$35

N/A

Cargo sled (for snowmachine)

$15

N/A

XC skis

$10

$5

XC skis weekly rate

$30 (per week)

Birch Lake ice house

$25

N/A

Ice fishing package (includes

$50

N/A

Pop-up ice hut (large)

$30

$15

Pop-up ice hut (small)

$25

$12

Ice auger (gas)

$25

$12

Ice fishing pole

$5

$2

FISHING

Skijouring harness

$5

$3

Snowshoes

$5

$2

Snowmachine helmet

$3

$1

Buddy heater

$8

$4

Dual stove

$5

$2

Camp chairs

$5

$2

Camp table

$5

$2

Santa suit

$30

N/A

Backpacks

$5

$2

Folding table

$7

$3

Sleeping bag

$7

$3

Folding/stacking chair

$2

$1

Sleeping pad

$5

$2

Bounce house

$70

N/A

E1 – E5, NF1 – NF2, GS1 – GS5

E6 – E9, NF3 – NF4, GS6-GS12

poles, auger, pop-up ice house with buddy heater OR ice hut)

MISCELLANEOUS

O1 – Up, NF5 – Up, GS13

E1 – E5, NF1 – NF2, GS1 – GS5

SNOWMACHINES *Requires Safety Card

TRAILERS

Tundra

2-Place trailer

$110

$120

$130

Stay updated Text “ODRAdventureSeeker” to (206) 929-4040 and stay informed on exciting new ways to explore Alaska!

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Daily Price

E6 – E9, NF3 – NF4, GS6-GS12

O1 – Up, NF5 – Up, GS13

**Requires 2 5/16” ball $25

$30

$35

4-Place trailer

$45

$50

$55

Car hauler*

$40

$45

$50

Meat wagon

$25

$30

$35

Cargo trailer*

$50

$55

$60

9K Utility trailer*

$50

$55

$60

3K Utility trailer

$45

$50

$55

looking

ahead Prep for this summer with a complete list of summer equipment rates online at wainwright.armymwr.com

• Equipment check out: 3 – 5 p.m.

• Charges still apply to days that the Outdoor Recreation Center is closed.

• Cancellations must be made 7 days in advance for a refund.

• Trailers require a 2” ball, unless stated otherwise.

• Camper trailers may require a load-bearing hitch; provided by Outdoor Recreation.

• Snowmachine use requires a Safety Card issued by Outdoor Recreation. Find the Snowmachine Safety Classes on the Outdoor Recreation Calendar on the previous page.

Explore around you W

hen winter rolls around, it becomes a completely different world out there! The rivers and lakes freeze over; snow blankets the landscape; and the aurora comes out of hiding and covers the night sky.

Even though the temperature has dropped, and more logistical planning is needed, it’s no excuse not to have a fun and safe adventure in the great outdoors. There’s no reason why you can’t go explore Alaska on your own! From a short afternoon hike, to a weekend outing, the Outdoor Recreation Center can help you prepare for a trip of a lifetime by supplying you with gear, knowledge, and know-how.

3 do-it-yourself winter season activities:

1Fat tire biking

You’ve likely seen them on trails or bike paths. Equipped with wide tires between 4” and 5”, fat bikes certainly make an impression.

Able to float on top of the snow pack, these revolutionary bikes can take you practically anywhere. Use them as a means to get to a backcountry cabin, or to reach far off places.

2Aurora Watching

You don’t have to go far in order to be bedazzled by the lights in the sky. On a clear night, head away from Fort Wainwright’s well-lit areas and look up. If the Aurora is active, you can see colors of green, red, and pink shimmering across the northern skies.

Photo courtesy of DenaliNPS.

3Snowshoeing

Check out a pair of snowshoes from the Outdoor Recreation Center and head out on the trails! Fort Wainwright offers multiple paths and trails within its bounds —including the trails at Chena Bend Clubhouse— for you to explore. This is a great activity to do with the entire family, as snowshoeing is a lowimpact, get-you-anywhere type of recreation.

SALUTES ALL MILITARY PERSONNEL & FAMILIES, FOR YOUR GREAT CONTRIBUTION TO THIS GREAT NATION!!

Call Sourdough Fuel for all Heating and Furnace inquires 456-7798 www.sourdoughfuel.com

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Spend a day on the ice and tell us you won’t get hooked! Ice fishing is a perfect pastime for young and old, marrying leisure with periods of intense action.

Fish on!

Sure, catching fish in the winter months is a thrill — just wondering what will come up through that hole you dug while you reel is like unwrapping a gift — but the thought of parking yourself exposed on a 5-gallon bucket with a rod in your hands while getting hammered by snow, sleet and wind? That leaves something to be desired.

When you feel the rod bouncing, and small nibbles on the other end of the line, you know you’re ready to get that fish! And when you reel up a lunker that barely fits through the hole in the ice, that’s when you know you’re hooked! So if you’re a novice to the sport — or even an experienced seasonal fisherman who’s curious about getting outside when everyone else is hibernating — here are some basic items you’ll need to help make sure your time in the deep freeze is productive and fun.

Shelter: Unless you enjoy sitting on a cold bucket during winter’s harsh grip, we recommend stepping it up a notch and staying toasty inside of a portable, easy-toassemble ice shelter. These shelters, available through the Outdoor Recreation Center, house 1 to 8 people and are almost as essential for fishing as the fishing rod itself.

Equipment: Unless you enjoy doing major cardio with a pick ax or a shovel, it’s

2”

4”

6”

advisable to bring in an ice auger. These screw-action tools come in handy for any ice thickness, cutting through the frozen layers with ease. (Stay safe on the ice! Refer to the graphic for safe ice thicknesses.)

Tipping Points: Once your shelter is up and your holes are drilled, it’s time to gear up.

Ice fishing rods are shorter, and more flexible than a traditional fishing rod. Generally, cold temperatures mean fish bite more subtly so be attentive and watch that rod tip for any movement. You can use a rod holder, but double-check that drag and always be ready to put that cup of coffee down and set the hook. Be sure to follow all local fishing regulations when out on the ice. Different hook sizes styles, baits, and limits vary upon location. For a complete list of rules and regulations, find the State of Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations, available through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

8-12”

12-15”

Go flying 14

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irch Hill Ski & Snowboard Area is one of only three alpine ski areas in the Army system. The mountain boasts day and night skiing, a thrilling tubing hill, as well as a phenomenal terrain park— by far the best one around!

Whether you are an avid downhill enthusiast or are new to the sport, the crew at Birch Hill Ski & Snowboard Area has you covered.

We offer complete rental packages, ski and snowboard lessons for any skill level, and a mixture of runs catered to different abilities.

At the end of the day, unwind in the rustic lodge and enjoy a meal or drink by the fire.

Kids Ski & Snowboard Camps Mark your calendar: March 13 – 15, 2019 Register through the Outdoor Recreation Center Kids can now learn how to ski or snowboard in just three days! Birch Hill Ski & Snowboard Area is hosting 3-Day Ski and Snowboard Camp for youth ages 5-17 during school breaks.

During the camp, kids will learn the fundamentals of skiing or snowboarding from certified instructors, and by the end of the camp will be able to safely navigate the slopes like a pro!

End of Season Celebration Mark your calendar: March 23 – 24, 2019 Let the madness begin! As winter draws to a close, we start to get a bit wild! Get out and enjoy the spring snow conditions during the annual March Madness event. Don’t miss out on a weekend full of crazy competitions and events like the snow painting and races, as well as the infamous Pond Skip and Polar Plunge!

Stay updated Text “WainwrightSki” to (206) 929-4040 and stay informed on Birch Hill updates including weather delays, special opening days, and more!

A winter playground Tour & Explore

Seward Military Resort offers a variety of activities for both newcomers and avid outdoorsman.

Visit www.SewardResort.com for a complete list of exciting excursions and discounted tickets to local attractions.

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iscover a different side of Alaska at the Seward Military Resort.

This historic setting is a place where you, your friends, and your family can unwind, begin an adventure, and immerse yourself in the Alaskan lifestyle.

In a world of continuous digital technology, you won’t be able to keep your eyes off of the magnificent 360-degree views that surround the Resort.

Just a short drive south of Anchorage, the Seward Military Resort is nestled between the jutting Kenai Mountains and Resurrection Bay. Located a 5-minute car or shuttle ride from downtown Seward, the Resort is tucked away in seclusion, providing our guests with privacy and relaxation. Along with a main lodge, grill, and bar, the Resort offers guest rooms, town-homes, and log cabins, as well as an RV park, campsites, and yurts for those who want to take their adventure outdoors.

Looking to get out and experience Alaska?

Seward Military Resort offers memorable tours and guided adventures for all ages.

During the winter months, explore the hidden valleys that surround the Resort.

Glide on top of the snow, through the winding cross-country ski trails, or take a snowmachine expedition to mountains and glaciers, right outside the Resort’s back door! The opportunities for outdoor recreation are endless— let us help you make your trip unforgettable.

Seward Military Resort is a year-round resort and is open to Active Duty Military, Veterans, DoD Civilians, and their Family Members. To make your reservation, visit www.SewardResort.com or call the resort at 800-770-1858.

www.SewardResort.com @SewardMilitaryResort #SewardMilitaryResort

Outdoor Playground Fort Wainwright sits in central Alaska and is comprised of approximately 1.6 million acres of cantonment and training areas; making it the fourth largest Army training area in the United States. Recreational activities are permitted on Fort Wainwright training lands providing those activities do not conflict with training or the military mission.

Fort Wainwright manages and facilitates recreational access to its training lands through a Recreational Access Permit (RAP) via iSportsman. This system is designed to keep the user informed of active training area closures and to help the user check-in to open training areas. All areas that are determined open for recreational use may be closed temporarily during periods of military use. Recreational areas are areas that are open to all types of recreation, including off-road vehicles (ORVs). Off-Limit and Impact Areas are restricted to public access and use year round.

of the National

https://usartrak.isportsman.net

Photo courtesy

For more information about recreating and to learn how to recreate safely and responsibly on Fort Wainwright training lands; please visit http:/usartrak.isportsman.net or contact the Fort Wainwright Directorate of Public Works Environmental Division.

Park Service.

All recreational users on Fort Wainwright 16 years of age or older must register for an account with iSportsman at https://usartrak.isportsman. net to acquire a RAP and also check-in to the training area before recreating. The RAP is free and good for 2 years. You can check in the day of or the day before your outing for up to 14 days and no check-out is required.

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