Alaska Long Trail National Scenic Trail Designation

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The proposed Alaska Long Trail and its potential designation as a National Scenic Trail (NST) raised significant concerns about long-term land management, access, and local control. While the concept of a statewide trail has broad appeal, the NST designation introduces federal involvement that could affect existing uses, access rights, and decision-making processes across a wide range of state, federal, and local lands. The Alaska Outdoor Access Alliance engaged by reviewing proposal materials, educating the public on what an NST designation could mean in practice, and encouraging informed participation in the planning process. AOAA raised concerns about how motorized access, traditional use, private land interests, and community input would be addressed under a federal designation. AOAA continues to monitor developments related to the Alaska Long Trail to ensure that access impacts are fully considered, public processes are transparent, and Alaska-based voices remain central to any future decisions.