While March in much of North America means slushy roads and gloomy gray skies, Alaska is still in the midst of pristine winter, with breathtaking views and adventure around every corner.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Talkeetna, a small Alaska town south of Denali National Park that comes alive each March. Picture festivals, natural wonders and incredibly vibrant living. The air is crisp and clear, with sights of the towering Denali visible in the distance and the northern lights illuminating the night sky.
Wondering what makes winter in Alaska so magical? Here are seven reasons to visit Talkeetna in March.
Locals know the big mountain just looks better in winter. You can generally see Denali (also known as Mount McKinley) 70 percent of the time in the winter months because the air is so clear — in summer that number drops to 30 percent. Looking to catch a glimpse of North America's tallest peak? Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge's back deck offers unobstructed horizon views of Denali and the surrounding Alaska Range.
Guests at Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge can request a northern lights wake-up call to ensure they don’t miss the aurora borealis. If someone reports a sighting, staff call through the list, and guests can come out to the back viewing deck. Some ignore the call, roll over and go back to sleep. But plenty of guests hop out of bed and head outside to catch a bucket-list worthy light show in the night sky.
Perhaps no event is as synonymous with Alaska as the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race — a nearly 1,000-mile mush through the 49th state’s toughest terrain. And it all happens in March! You can catch the official “restart” on the first Sunday of March in Willow, following the ceremonial start in Anchorage the day prior.
TIP: Extra adventurous Iditarod spectators can chase the race from above with Talkeetna Air Taxi.
Fat biking is a winter sport that’s gaining traction across the North. The annual Trio Fatbike World Championships has turned into a festival for lovers of mountain bikes with studded-tires in Talkeetna. If you don’t want to haul your own bike to Alaska or you’re looking to try it for the first time, hotel guests can rent fat bikes directly from Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge.
March conditions in Talkeetna remain perfect for exploration on a “snowmachine,” as the locals call it. Whether you're a first timer or a seasoned rider, signing up for a backcountry snowmobile tour with Alaska Wild Guides is a great way to see the best winter sights Talkeetna has to offer. Plus, all the gear is provided, so the only thing you need to bring is your sense of adventure.
TIP: Book a two-in-one adventure with Alaska Wild Guides' Snowmobiling & Dog Sledding Tour.
Cross country skiers rejoice! The snow is fantastic on the world-class groomed ski trails in Talkeetna Lakes Park, and the Denali Nordic Ski Club's route maps and reports make enjoying the great outdoors simple and accessible in the winter. The Nordic season culminates in the annual Oosik Ski Race and Tour. Up to 750 skiers from across the state head to Talkeetna in mid-March for the occasion, with events and parties happening throughout the race weekend.
Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge wastes no time waking from its hibernation. During March, guests can expect dining events, outdoor activities and more fun just steps from their room. Plus, the Denali Arts Council keeps Talkeetna's cultural scene bustling with live music, film screenings, art exhibits and more at the Sheldon Community Arts Hangar.
Tip: Visiting into April? Book a stay and save bundle for the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour, stopping in Talkeetna on April 10 and 11, 2026.
Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge reopens on February 27, 2026. Book your getaway today.
Insider tips, inspiration and deals — delivered straight to your inbox.
