Winter getaways: some hibernate in Alaska, some flock to warmer climates, but Alaskans enjoy winter either way.

• Author: Pardes, Joan

For most of the Northern Hemisphere, vacations occur in the summer. People head for the beach, hit the national parks, visit family and--as Alaskans know all too well--travel north to The Last Frontier to revel at (and in) one of the the truly wild places on the planet. Unlike southern neighbors, summer--for many Alaskans--is a time of intense work, whether it be in the tourism, fishing, construction, and/or other service-trade related industries that comprise a healthy portion of the state's economy. Now that doesn't mean Alaskans don't play in the summer. What's the point of living here if you're not off on some adventure from time to time? But most Alaskans are hard-pressed to leave the state during the summer months. But, when the days get short and the temperatures drop, some Alaskans take their cues from the natural world by either hibernating like the bears, migrating south like the birds, or leaving their local hunting grounds to go a little further afoot to find winter fun and adventure.

IN-STATE WINTER FUN

With more than 1,000 acres of terrain, plenty of snow, and the reputation of being one of the top 2,5 ski resorts in North America (according to Skiing Magazine), Alyeska Ski Resort is the state's very own heavyweight when it comes to instate winter getaways.

"Whether you're looking for a full-blown vacation, an extended weekend, or a night away--there's nothing like Alyeska," said the resort's Ski and Golf General Manager Larry Daniels. "From Thanksgiving on, our weekends are basically booked. And a lot of those bookings are coming from Alaskans. You can call on Wednesday and there will be some rooms left and by Friday, we're full up-that's definitely in-state business. The resort attracts Alaskans from all corners of the state."

Along with the world-class lodgings and restaurants, a new spa, and a wide array of ski trails that cater to anyone's ability from beginners to experts, the Alyeska Resort hosts dozens of events throughout the winter months.

"We have a big New Year's bash every year comprised of several party options," Daniels said. "We have our Sitzmark party that is quite informal, highly sought after, and always sells out. And then there's the party at the Seventh Glacier on top of the tram that only has space for 12,5 people, and the big gala event-dinner and dancing--at the hotel.

"New Year's Eve is special here," he added. "It starts with a big fireworks show, then a torchlight parade where our ski-racing...