Just over two hours south of Anchorage is one of the more unique national parks, Kenai Fjords. Combining protected areas in the water and on land, formed by the 700 square mile Harding Icefield, Kenai Fjords National Park includes opportunities to see both tidewater and alpine glaciers. There is so much to explore!
Our experts have put together a list of top reasons why this area is so special.
Epic Drive from Anchorage to Kenai Fjords
Shortly after departing Anchorage, you will drive along the shores of Turnagain Arm with multiple areas to stop along the way to enjoy the epic views. One of the most popular is Beluga Point where depending on time of year, you may be able to spot a whale or other marine wildlife. As you make your way south, a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center offers a great opportunity to learn about the diversity of wildlife in the state.
Leaving the shores of Turnagain Arm keep your eyes peeled for one of the many waterfalls along this scenic highway. Mountain views and small creeks will continue all around you and we recommend making a stop at Canyon Creek Rest Area to stretch your legs and enjoy the views. As you get closer to the town of Seward you will drive by a number of lakes with the largest being Kenai Lake before arriving at the entrance to Kenai Fjords National Park at Resurrection Bay.
Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
One of the best ways to see the water side of the park is a narrated cruise through Resurrection Bay and into the multiple islands and peninsulas that form this part of Kenai Fjords National Park. Our favorite is the six-hour cruise that visits an active tidewater glacier where the boat will pull up as close as it can to watch for calving, where pieces of ice break off and crash into the water. Also, the cruise offers lots of opportunities to see wildlife. Common animals (based on the season) include orca whales, humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, and eagles.
Exit Glacier & Harding Icefield
Driving towards the Exit Glacier Nature Center, you will follow a river created from the melting of the glacier. Once you pass the Kenai Fjords National Park entrance sign you will see markers along the road showing where the glacier was at various points in the past. At the nature center you have three great options to explore this land portion of the park. Firstly, the Glacier View Loop Trail which is a mile long and takes you by a number of historical markers and along the outwash plain coming from the toe of the glacier. You can also take an additional one-mile round-trip trail to the Exit Glacier Overlook getting you even closer to the glacier.
Secondly, for an outstanding hike through alpine meadows to an epic viewpoint above the glacier, continue on the Harding Icefield trail to Marmot Meadows (about 5 miles round-trip and 2,000 feet elevation gain). And thirdly, if the conditions are good (and you have the energy!) it is another 2 miles one way to the end of the trail including a fun rock scramble and more great views of the glacier and the even larger Harding icefield that forms Exit Glacier, plus the glaciers you saw on your cruise.
Alaska Sea Life Center
In Seward right on the shores of Resurrection Bay is the Alaska Sea Life Center. This interactive center has informational exhibits and opportunities to see marine wildlife like sea lions, king crabs, puffins, and the Giant Pacific Octopus. There is also a rescue center and a hands-on touch tank, and if you want to get to know the animals even better, there are a number of tours offered. These provide the opportunity to see some of the marine wildlife up close, and even see their rescue and research efforts firsthand.
Rafting/Floating the Kenai River
As you make your way back to Anchorage make a side trip to Cooper Landing and take the opportunity to get out on the Kenai River. With options to do a couple hours on a float trip, on an all-day rafting trip, or a fishing outing, the trip will certainly be worth it. The river is home to many iconic species including moose, eagles, Dall sheep, beavers, and even bears. No matter which excursion you choose your guide will provide insight into the wildlife, and also the native inhabitants and early settlers, as well as how the river valley was formed.
If you want to venture a bit farther out, head west on another beautiful drive to the quintessential Alaska town of Homer. With waterfront hotels, kayak tours, and quaint restaurants, Homer is one of our favorite spots in the region beyond Kenai Fjords National Park. In addition, it is the launch point for other adventures in Alaska including Katmai National Park and Lake Clark National Park.
This region has a bit of everything and we hope to see you in Alaska soon!
