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DOT&PF / Alaska Trails and Local Access Systems

Alaska Trails and Local Access Systems
A Vital Part of Alaska’s Transportation Network

In Alaska, trails are an integral part of our highway network—connecting families, supporting subsistence and emergency access, and sustaining recreation and tourism.

Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Transition

In Fall 2025, Administrative Order 361 transferred the RTP from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) to strengthen coordination and investment in Alaska's trail network.

DOT&PF issued a formal Request for Information to hear ideas from Alaskans on how the new RTP should be structured and to invite interest in serving on the new Alaska Recreational Trails Advisory Committee (ARTAC). DOT&PF is working closely with DNR to ensure trail work continues uninterrupted this winter while we launch a new, interactive RTP website with expanded public information resources.

RESOURCES:

DOT&PF Tribal Relations
DNR Office of History and Archeology
ANCSA Regional Corporation Maps
Coastal Hazard Assessment and Monitoring
DOT&PF Invasive Plants Information
DNR Invasive Plants Information
DNR Land Use Planning
Administrative Order 361
icon for Snow Trails
icon for Winter Trails
icon for Ice Roads & Seasonal Routes
icon for Multi-Use Trails

Why This Transition Matters

Trails will now be formally recognized as part of Alaska's broader transportation system (alongside highways, airports, and ports).

Benefits of housing RTP with DOT&PF

  • Strengthen coordination across motorized, non-motorized, and mixed-use trail projects.
  • Ensure a balanced, inclusive approach reflecting statewide needs.
  • Improve transparency and accountability in project selection and funding.
  • Integrate trails into long-term statewide transportation planning.

Importance of Trails in Alaska

  • Essential lifelines in rural Alaska—not just for recreation.
  • Connect families to schools, clinics, and airports.
  • Provide safe access for subsistence hunting and fishing.
  • Support search and rescue operations.
  • Serve as vital freight and mail routes.

DOT&PF's Existing Trail & Rural Access Programs

Map of Trails

To view a comprehensive map of Alaska’s trails, please follow this link: Alaska Trails. The map can be filtered to show different types of trails including non-motorized (such as biking, dog sledding, skiing), motorized (such as ATV and snowmachine), ice roads, winter trail marking, and RS2477 Historic Transportation Routes.

Contact Info

Rebecca Garrett
Frontier Roads and Sustainability Program Manager
Phone: 907-223-4664
Email: rebecca.garrett@alaska.gov