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The Alaska Long Trail (AKLT) is an ambitious project aimed at creating a continuous, 500-plus mile multimodal route connecting trail systems from Seward to Fairbanks. This trail is envisioned to traverse some of Alaska's most iconic landscapes, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and other recreational activities. The project not only focuses on constructing new trail segments but also on maintaining and improving existing trails that are well-loved by the communities along the route.

In December 2022, Congress allocated $1 million for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to conduct a feasibility study for designating the Alaska Long Trail as a National Scenic Trail (NST). This allocation was part of the broader Consolidated Appropriations Act and was championed by Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski. This designation, established under the National Trails System Act of 1968, aims to protect and enhance trails of national significance. While the NST designation will bring increased funding and recognition, it also raises concerns about potential restrictions on access and the imposition of federal oversight over local land management decisions. 

Federal oversight is often viewed negatively in Alaska because it can undermine local autonomy and decision-making, impose one-size-fits-all regulations that don't account for local needs. Historical instances, such as the closure of nearly 28 million acres of federal land against local opposition, and restrictions in areas like the Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve, highlight the negative impacts of federal decisions that conflict with local interests. 

The NST designation aims to protect and enhance the natural environment by prioritizing non-motorized use and preserving scenic and primitive qualities of the trail. However, this can lead to overly restrictive measures that may not account for the practical needs of local residents. Balancing conservation efforts with sustainable use is crucial to address both environmental benefits and concerns​ 

Currently, there are 11 National Scenic Trails in the United States, including the famous Pacific Crest Trail and the Continental Divide Trail, both of which have seen significant changes in usage policies following their designation. 

The NST designation often prioritizes non-motorized use, which could lead to restrictions on motorized access. 

The National Trails System Act specifies that the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture is responsible for administering the trail. This involves coordinating with state, federal, and local land managers, overseeing trail maintenance, and ensuring compliance with federal regulations. The Secretary’s role is crucial in managing the trail's development and usage policies​ 

The Public can get involved by attending BLM listening sessions, submitting public comments through the BLM eplanning website, and engaging with local representatives and community leaders. Public participation is crucial to ensure that local voices are heard and considered in the decision-making process 

The NST designation can bring federal funding and increased tourism, potentially benefiting local economies. However, restrictions on motorized access could negatively impact businesses reliant on motorized tourism and recreation, leading to economic hardship for communities that depend on these activities​ 

Historical precedents for federal overreach in Alaska include the BLM’s actions in the Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve, where significant restrictions were imposed on motorized access, and the continued restrictions on nearly 28 million acres of federal land despite local opposition. These instances highlight the potential for federal decisions to conflict with local interests and management practices.