A section of boardwalk on the Chilkoot Indian Association’s new easy-access trail in town.
The Chilkoot Indian Association (CIA) opened an easy-access walking trail connecting East and West Fair drives.
Built by CIA, the flat, forested path provides a scenic and safe alternative to walking or biking on a section of the Haines Highway that doesn’t have a sidewalk.
“We really felt like there weren’t enough easy access trails in our community for elders, for people who may have difficulties using trails that have steep inclines,” said CIA tribal administrator Harriet Brouillette.
Construction began about a year ago, and the trail opened at the end of June. It extends an existing path from Third Avenue to the fairgrounds.
“I want to remind people that the trails are going through private property. We open the trails to the public but request that people stay on the trails and not harvest anything,” Brouillette said. CIA gathers edible plants from that land for its food-security program.
The majority of funding for the trail came from the federal Department of Transportation. CIA provided additional funds.
The trail follows the federal Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility guidelines, Brouillette said. It is open to human-powered bicycles but not motorized vehicles.
CIA is working on plans for another trail – from Tlingit Park to the waterfront – which could be built by the end of the year.