Today is not the day to push yourself outside unless you're built for the arctic and properly equipped.
- It's savagely cold out there, hitting nearly -19°C. Your lungs will hate you, and exposed skin will suffer frostbite faster than you can say "hypothermia."
- That moderate AQI (69) with ozone as the dominant pollutant isn't helping your airways when you're sucking in air that cold.
- While trails like those at Kincaid Park are groomed, the extreme cold means they're hard-packed, potentially "cobby" in places, and unforgiving on your joints if you take a spill.
Let's be real, Anchorage. It's February 25th, and Mother Nature is reminding us exactly who's boss with these brutal temperatures. At nearly -19°C, this isn't "crisp" or "refreshing." This is "stay inside unless absolutely necessary" weather for most folks. Forget that corporate wellness blog telling you to "embrace the chill." Embrace a warm mug and your living room, for goodness sake.
I know some of you hardy souls are still eyeing the trails. The Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage reported that spots like the Lighted Loops at Kincaid Park and Hillside were groomed today. But they also noted it's "noticeably colder" and to "bundle up, manage expectations, and enjoy your time on the snow." Manage expectations indeed – expect your snot to freeze and your muscles to be extra stiff. The snow is "hard and well packed," and Beach Lake Trails even had some "cobby" patches. That means more impact on your knees and a higher risk of a painful slip if you're not careful.
Then there's the air quality. An AQI of 69 with ozone as the main pollutant isn't terrible on its own, but combine it with deep sub-zero temperatures, and your lungs are in for a rough ride. It's an irritant, and cold air constricts your airways. Not exactly the recipe for a comfortable or beneficial outdoor workout.
If you absolutely must get outside, and I'm judging you a little, make it short, stay hyper-aware, and dress like you're about to summit Everest.
Extreme Cold Warning: Frostbite Risk!
With temperatures this low, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in minutes. We're talking digits, ears, nose – all the fun bits. Pay attention to any numbness or tingling. This isn't a joke; it's a medical emergency waiting to happen if you're not careful.
Slippery & Hard Trails
The groomed trails are firm due to the cold. Expect icy patches and hard landings if you fall. Take it easy, wear appropriate traction, and accept that your pace is going to be slower than usual. That weak 2.2 magnitude earthquake yesterday near Fire Island probably didn't wreck the trails, but always be aware of your surroundings.
Gear Up or Stay In
Layers are non-negotiable. Think wool, fleece, windproof outer shells. Cover all exposed skin, including your face and neck. Hydrate constantly, even if you don't feel thirsty, because the cold dehydrates you. And honestly, if you have access to an indoor track or gym, today might be the day to use it.
Data grounded with National Weather Service, Anchorage Nordic Skiing Association, and Alaska Public Media from February 23-25, 2026.