PALMER -- Matanuska-Susitna Borough officials say work is finished on 3.5 miles of new nordic ski trails at Hatcher Pass.

The borough says trail work at Government Peak Recreation Area is the first step in developing a regional ski and recreation area.

Olympic skier Bill Spencer designed the trails. The borough says he intentionally connected trails to spectacular views. One ridge offers views of Government Peak, the Chugach Range and Susitna Mountain.

The trails are designed for recreational skiing and high school races.

The trails are closed now to protect new grass but next summer will include walking routes with bridges that cross 13 creeks.

The borough says workers are completing an access road and parking lot to the site off Edgerton Parks Road.

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Government Peak Recreation Area: http://www.hatcherpass.com