COAST-X 2026

In spring 2026, COAST-X brought a simple idea into motion: travel the length of Alaska’s western and northern coasts not just to observe change, but to connect with people, places, and processes shaping the Arctic today. What began as a concept evolved into a 1,986-mile (3,196 km) snowmachine traverse from the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta to Utqiaġvik, linking 15 communities along Alaska’s vast and dynamic coastline. Along the way, we met with tribal councils, Native corporation leadership, educators, school students, and community members. We also connected in less formal ways, on the tundra, inside general stores, and beside fuel pumps, where some of the most memorable conversations happened. These moments reinforced that meaningful engagement does not always happen in scheduled meetings. Often, it happens in passing, in shared conditions, and through mutual experience. At its core, COAST-X was about listening to concerns and building relationships. Across every stop, from Bethel to Nome, N...

COAST-X 2026 wrapped up in Utqiagvik this weekend hanging out with our friends from Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation at Piuraagiaqta (the spring festival) roasting marshmallows and having s’mores on the frozen lagoon. We also squeezed in an interview at Kbrw Radio, met with Mayor Toovak, and also visited with some other wonderful friends in town!  Here's the radio interview!  

Our last day of the COAST-X Traverse. It feels incredible to be in Utqiagvik, but I am already missing the rhythm of waking up and heading to the next community. Having our families here to greet us meant so much. This journey truly takes a family, a village, and many more communities to make it possible. We will share a full wrap up next week. Thanks for following along and keeping an eye on us over the past few weeks! In the meantime, here's a story from KNOM:  https://knom.org/2026/04/10/snowmachine-expedition-studies-how-climate-change-is-reshaping-alaska-villages/

I  crossed over 20,000 cumulative miles on skidoos today over the course of 25 years, which feels like a pretty incredible milestone. It was amazing traveling this terrain, guided by knowledge shared from the Point Lay Tribal Council president. We came across more than half a dozen caribou wolf kills, but not a single wolf in sight. Stunning country. Before heading toward Wainwright, we had an awesome day in Point Lay, spending time with great students, teachers, and friends. And tonight, beautiful auroras overhead. It feels like a good sign as we make the run to Utqiagvik tomorrow.

Super excited about everything we accomplished today! We bopped into Kivalina this morning to fuel up, then packed camp and pushed 202.5 miles to Kali (Point Lay). Every mile after camp was fresh route, laying down some seriously impressive tracks in the snow. Wildlife highlights made it even better: Arctic foxes (finally, felt like being back at Teshekpuk), red foxes, tons of caribou, our now-familiar pair of ravens that have been with us since the YK Delta, a stunning wolverine, and even tracks from a mama polar bear and her cub. Between the constant shifts in topography and the transitions from land to ocean, it felt more like a 400-mile day. 1,750+ miles on the COAST-X odometer and counting!