My Alaska: Girdwood/Anchorage
By Rosey Fletcher

I've traveled the world snowboarding and am happy to call both Girdwood and Anchorage home. Here are some of my favorite places and things to do in both!

1.) Alyeska Resort
Alyeska Resort (1000 Arlberg Ave., 907-754-1111) is located 35 miles south of Anchorage in the town of Girdwood. Despite not having many lifts, the ski area provides many steep runs, groomers and the most beautiful view of the valley and ocean. One can enjoy the skiing well into May - with great snow and long hours of daylight. I have skied all over the world and am always excited to come home to Alyeska.

2.) Flattop
Flattop stands just on the southeast side of Anchorage. I love this hike because it is easy to get to, can be very challenging and provides solitude just outside the city. The views from flattop are also worth the trip!

3.) The Double Musky
The Double Musky (Mile .3 Crow Creek Rd., 907-783-2822) restaurant, in Girdwood, is famous for its Cajun-style food and incredible desserts. Walking through the front door, you are immediately sent to the deep south of Louisiana, as the décor is highlighted with Mardi Gras beads and collectors items from around the world. My personal favorite is the Coconut Salmon. If I could only eat one thing for the rest of my life, it would be this dish - it's that good.

4.) Java Haus
The Java Haus (Olympic Circle, Alyeska Boardwalk, 907-783-2827) is the local's coffee shop in Girdwood. Coffee supersedes anything else in my life, so a good cup is very important. I love going to the Java Haus to catch up on all the local news, see the colorful personalities and meet my sisters for coffee talk.

Rosey Fletcher is a lifelong Alaskan and Olympic snowboarder. She recently won the bronze medal in the women's Parallel Giant Slalom event at the 2006 Olympics in Turin, Italy.

To learn more about what to see and do in Anchorage, Girdwoord and Southcentral Alaska, visit the Southcentral section of TravelAlaska.com.

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