LONG-TERM DEBT (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt including current and non-current	$ 791,000	$ 704,000
Less current maturities	(18,000)	(18,000)
Total long-term debt	773,000	686,000
ARLP Revolving credit facility
Long-Term Debt
Credit facility	155,000
ARLP Senior notes
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt including current and non-current	36,000	54,000
ARLP Series A Senior Notes
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt including current and non-current	205,000	205,000
ARLP Series B Senior Notes
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt including current and non-current	145,000	145,000
ARLP Term Loan
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt including current and non-current	$ 250,000	$ 300,000