Turnagain Pass Winter Recreation Area

The feel

Turnagain Pass is the highway's high point, and in winter snowmachiners, skiers and snowshoers pack the pullouts on both sides of the road. The west side is open to motorized use and is a popular spot for snowmachiners, and its lots are often crowded with vehicles and trailers.

The east side is made up of trailheads for hiking, skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and fat tire biking. Cornbiscuit and Sunburst pullouts serve popular backcountry ski destinations above the road. The area south of the Seward Highway is dedicated to nonmotorized winter recreation.

What to expect

What it is

The high point of the Seward Highway, with motorized use on the west side and trailheads for skiing, snowshoeing and other nonmotorized travel on the east side.

Crowds and best time

Parking lots along the pass are at capacity in winter, and the motorized-area lot is often crowded with vehicles and trailers.

Parking

Large Center Ridge parking lot and rest area at Mile 68.5 on the east side of the Seward Highway, with additional parking at Mile 64 and Mile 66. Cornbiscuit pullout is at MP 65.1 and Sunburst pullout at MP 65.9 and 66.

Season and access

Snowmachines and helicopter drop-offs for winter recreation are prohibited south of the Seward Highway from the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through April 30. Turnagain Pass is open to winter motorized use from the Wednesday before Thanksgiving to April 30, if snow conditions allow.

Mingo says

Go once the winter season opens, and plan to finish by April 30. Expect full lots all winter, so pick the east or west side to match how you travel.

Before you go

• Check Closure Orders posted at trailheads before you ride.
• Note that Turnagain Pass Trail is 6 miles in either direction from Center Ridge Trailhead and is not open for over-the-snow motorized use.
• Use the Center Ridge lot at Mile 68.5, or the pullouts at Mile 64 and Mile 66.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.