Map from the U.S. Forest Service showing winter motorized closure areas across the Chugach National Forest on the Kenai Peninsula, with most over-snow routes closed except designated corridors in Turnagain Pass and Lost Lake.
Low snowpack forces early shutdown of most Kenai snowmachine routes.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | April 30, 2026
Starting May 1st, snowmachine riders will see major seasonal restrictions across much of the Kenai Peninsula as conditions dry out faster than usual.
The U.S. Forest Service has ordered a winter motorized closure across most National Forest System lands in the Chugach National Forest due to low snowpack. Officials say there is not enough snow left to protect the forest floor, and continued use of over-snow vehicles would risk damage to vegetation and terrain.
The closure applies to all national forest lands on the Kenai Peninsula starting Friday, May 1. The only exceptions are Turnagain Pass and Lost Lake accessed from Snug Harbor Road. Those areas will remain open to over-snow vehicle use until May 15.
In practical terms, this means most spring snowmachine riding on public forest land in the region will shut down earlier than some riders may expect. Land managers say the decision is about protecting the ground as winter conditions fade and snow coverage becomes too thin to support continued use.
Certain exemptions apply, including permitted activities and official emergency or firefighting operations.
Forest officials are urging riders to check maps and stay updated before heading out, since conditions and access can change quickly this time of year.
