Sara Burda

That’s not clickbait. That’s an actual quote from the Avalanche Safety event TrailMates just hosted and honestly? It felt true. This wasn’t your typical "sit quietly and nod" kind of presentation. It was one of those events where you leave feeling more confident, a little more humbled, and way more aware of what’s actually happening under your feet when you’re out hiking in the winter. Every single person in the room learned something . And that includes experienced hikers and hike leaders...

A Fresh Snowy Adventure on Mount Baldy On a crisp, clear morning in early November, a small group of TrailMates set out to conquer Mount Baldy in Eagle River. With the first substantial snowfall of the season covering the trails and the sun shining down on us, it was a day that reminded us why we love hiking—and why we love sharing these experiences with our Alaska hiking community. The hike itself offered just the right amount of challenge: a moderate trail of approximately 3 miles miles...

TrailMates community gathered for an autumn adventure along Winner Creek in Girdwood, one of Southcentral Alaska’s most scenic and approachable hikes. Under the guidance of longtime TrailMates leader Adolph, all set out for a day full of fresh air, forest sights, and good company. The morning began with patches of sun filtering through the spruce and hemlock, casting golden highlights on the trail. As the group moved deeper into the valley, the clouds rolled in and the signature Girdwood mist...