The Other Side of the Alaska Long Trail is a resource for Alaskans and trail users who oppose the Alaska Long Trail (ALT) and its potential National Scenic Trail (NST) designation. While the trail is being promoted as a benefit to the state, there are serious concerns about its impact on landowners, trail users, motorized access, local resources, and the environment.
While the Alaska Long Trail is being marketed as a statewide benefit, many people—including local landowners, motorized users, and conservationists—have serious concerns, including:
Landowner Rights & Trespassing Risks – The trail could cut through or impact private property, leading to trespassing issues, loss of control over land, and potential government land acquisitions.
Loss of Motorized Access – The ALT is being designed with a preference for non-motorized recreation, which could close off motorized routes that have been used for decades.
Increased Strain on Search & Rescue (SAR) – More out-of-state hikers and unprepared recreationists will lead to higher emergency rescue demands, stretching local SAR teams and first responders thin.
Wildfire & Environmental Risks – More people on the trail increase the risk of human-caused wildfires, littering, and wildlife disturbances.
Lack of Transparency – Many rural landowners and residents along the proposed route were never consulted before the trail was pushed forward.
If the Alaska Long Trail is designated as a National Scenic Trail, the federal government gains greater oversight, leading to:
More Land Use Restrictions – NST designation prioritizes hiking and horseback riding, meaning motorized users could lose access to existing trails.
Land Acquisitions & Easements – The government could seek private land easements or outright acquire land to expand the NST corridor.
Less Local Control – Land management decisions would be influenced by federal agencies and environmental groups, not local Alaskans.
Proponents of the trail claim it will boost local economies, but:
The benefits are uncertain. Many communities along the proposed route do not have the infrastructure to handle increased tourism.
Costs of Search & Rescue, emergency response, and land management could outweigh benefits.
Seasonal recreation jobs may not offset the risks of lost land use rights or increased regulations.
Stay informed – Follow updates and spread awareness about the issues.
Contact legislators – Let local and state officials know you oppose the trail and its NST designation.
Engage with local landowners & user groups – Strength in numbers matters.
Support alternative solutions – Push for multiple-use trail policies that allow motorized and non-motorized recreation without federal overreach.
Sign up for updates on this site.
Join discussions in local Facebook groups & community meetings.
Help spread awareness about the risks of the Alaska Long Trail.
The Alaska Long Trail and NST designation are not just about a recreational path—they represent a major shift in land use that could impact Alaskans for generations.