At Milepost S90 off Highway 1, Girdwood is an old gold mining village that survived the 1964 earthquake in fair shape. There are a lot of ski condos (don't think Vail, this is Alaska) and some curious and very good restaurants. Less expensive than the Colorado resorts. Trails are narrow and can be busy on weekends.
It is possible to ski from nearly the top of the mountains to sea level. The view from the top is fastastic, if not heart stopping. Wonderful hiking and walking in the warmer months. Obvious winter sports. Skiing is for the serious minded! I won the record for being the worst skier in Alaska! Years ago, the old hotel was torn down and the fancy new Alyeska Ski Resort opened. The hotel at Alyeska is now called the Westin Alyeska Prince Hotel & Resort. The best of everything, rooms & dining. The 60 passengers per car aerial tramway means that you can go up for the view in the summer without having to ride the ski lift! Click here for Alyeska Resort.