Skeetawk trails phase 1

The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities received a $360,249.75 formula grant award from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) under the Recreational Trails Program (CFDA 20.219) on May 8, 2025. This award funds the preparation and development of 10,600 linear feet of mid-mountain ski trails at Skeetawk to accommodate multiple recreational uses, including skiing and snowboarding access via a covered snow cat, backcountry skiing prior to planned lift installation, and expanded summer recreation trail connectivity on the lower mountain terrain.

The project delivers trail infrastructure improvements that will enhance recreational access and create interface connections with adjacent Government Peak Recreation Area trails. As a formula grant under the Recreational Trails Program, the funding supports trail construction and development activities consistent with FHWA's mandate to develop and maintain recreational trail facilities for both motorized and non-motorized uses. The award represents Alaska's apportionment of federal recreational trails funding and reflects the state's prioritization of trail infrastructure expansion to support year-round recreational opportunities.

Project description

This project will prepare 10,600 of feet of mid-mountain SKI trails for use when second lift is installed, and for skiers and snowboarders who travel uphill on skeetawk's covered snow CAT, as well as for backcountry skiing prior to the lift completion. The prepared area will also expand our summer use trails which are located on the lower part of the mountain, and this newly created access will interface with government peak recreation area trails.