• Fresh Air Fridays Registration Open!SIGN UP
about

KMTA’s Trail Towns Program recognizes and celebrates the amazing trail
network found within the National Heritage Area and the communities
which these trails pass through. Trail Towns communities support trail users
with services, promote the trails to its citizens, and embraces the trail as a
resource to be protected and celebrated.

about
about

Hiking along Crow Pass Trail. Source: Iditarod National Historic Trail, Jacob Torres

TRAIL TOWNS AREAS OF FOCUS

about
about

A continuous trail connecting Anchorage and Seward that fosters healthy communities and economic development through world-class recreational opportunities.

Source: NPS, Crow Pass

about
about

about
about

PROJECT SUMMARY

The 120+ mile route from Anchorage to Seward goes through awe-inspiring terrain ranging from coast to alpine, along the same routes traveled by people for thousands of years, and connects several communities. People of all abilities and interests enjoy existing trail segments year-round. The area is rich in history and culture: nearly the entire route is part of the IDITAROD NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL. Much of it is already in place. Ranging from paved paths to primitive backcountry trail. Additional key investments and continuing partner ships will make the vision a reality by connecting the existing trail segments together.

PROJECT BENEFITS

Improving trails infrastructure is a smart way to invest in our state’s future. Easy access to trails enhances tourism opportunities, improves real estate values, builds communities, and provides numerous ways for Alaskan and visitors to enjoy a healthy way of life. By completing the Anchorage to Seward trail, every community along the route will enjoy the benefits of having a destination trail in their backyard.

What if we could convince visitors to stay for just “one more day”? IN 2017, visitors spent approximately $2.8 billion in Alaska, which comes around to $275 million/day. If even just half of visitors added “one more day” to their itineraries, their actions could contribute an extra $137 million in spending to Alaska’s economy.

PROJECT PARTNERS

Land Managers:

Municipality of Anchorage

State of Alaska

USDA Forest Service

Kenai Peninsula Borough

 

Non-Profit Partners:

KMTA

Iditarod Historic Trail Alliance

Alaska Trails

Seward Trailblazers

Girdwood Trails Committee

 

Business Sponsors:

Girdwood Brewing Co.

Trail Lake Lodge

Spoons Catering

Alaska Wildland Adventures

The Ice Cream Shop

Girdwood Picnic Club

The Bake Shop

about