Musk ox calves frolic in Portage's fresh snow

ExpandAutoplay

Image 1 of 3

Face-to-face with a musk ox calf on Sunday at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

While some Anchorage residents are lamenting the lack of snow so far this winter, down the Seward Highway at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, nearly 20 inches of snow fall on Sunday, giving a few lucky kids the chance to play in the snow with with musk ox calves.

Two calves were born at the center this spring. Known as Wally and Hamm to the staff, they were officially named Walter and Hammond, after Alaska statesmen and former governors Wally Hickel and Jay Hammond.

Although Portage saw significant snowfall, no snow was reported Sunday just down the road at Mount Alyeska, Alaska's most popular ski resort. As of Monday morning, Alyeska reports the average snow depth at the base is 13 inches, with only 21 inches at the top of Chair Six. Alyeska's snow-making guns are pumping out snow in preparation for opening day Wednesday. Season pass holders can head to the resort a day early, on Tuesday, to ski.

National Weather Service forecasters say Western Prince William Sound, including Girdwood and Portage, should see isolated snow showers on Monday and Wednesday.

Meanwhile in Anchorage, no snow is forecast through Sunday.