ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – As skiers hit the slopes around Anchorage, they can expect help from the all-time greats.

East Anchorage High School graduate and 2018 Winter Olympics gold medalist Kikkan Randall was out and about Tuesday helping to clear and groom roadside paths after Anchorage’s first major snowfall of the winter. Anchorage Northern Ski Association (NSAA).

“The great thing about cross-country skiing is that you can get out on just a few inches of snow and enjoy it,” said Randall, who has been NSAA’s executive director for the past three years.

Randall said the NSAA team watched as skiers took on fresh powder at Kincaid and Hillside Park in Anchorage, as well as Beach Lake in Chugiak.

“That’s why our organization does so much trail work throughout the year,” Randall said, “because if we can keep the trails in perfect condition — nice and smooth — then when the first snow comes, it only takes a few inches and we’re like, ‘I’m off and on my way.’

While Kincaid took more than a few inches — NSAA reported 13 inches of snow in the park Tuesday — Randall said skiers need to slow down.

“In these early season conditions you always have to have a little bit of a presence of mind because the base isn’t fully connected to the ground yet,” Randall said.

“Even with a good cover of snow, sometimes the first blow can give way a little bit. It’s always good to be aware that there might be some rocks or various things.”

Randall added that despite all the work he has done, he has not yet been able to attend the course himself.

“There is a lot of action when you work behind the scenes,” he said. “Skiing has been a part of my life since my earliest memories. “I can’t help but feel giddy this time of year, and I’m so proud of our team for quickly rallying, going out and rallying so we can keep this joy going in the city.”

Along with Jessie Diggins, Randall won a historic gold medal in the team sprint at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, Korea. The win marked the United States’ first gold medal in cross-country skiing.

Cross-country ski practices begin Wednesday for many high school programs, according to the Anchorage School District.

The University of Alaska Anchorage also begins its season. The Seawolves’ first game will be the Yukon FIS Series in Whitehorse, Yukon, starting November 16.

Kincaid Park will host the 2025 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships starting January 2.

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