The summer fun is heating up in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, where parks and trails spread across an area the size of West Virginia offer plenty of space for recreation.

So what’s exciting in Mat-Su for 2026, what should you know before you head out, and what new trails and recreation spots should you try?

On this episode of Outdoor Explorer, we’ll dive into the summer ahead on parks and trails in Mat-Su as we catch up with leaders at the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation,, recreation officials with the Matanuska Susitna Borough and officials up at Skeetawk, an area usually known for its winter skiing but also home to some fun and growing summer options

Host: Amy Bushatz

Guests: Taylor Rafftery, Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation

Allan McClain, Matanuska-Susitna Borough trails specialist

Hugh Leslie, Matanuska-Susitna Borough outdoor recreation manager

Menga Justus, Skeetawk General Manager