Kenai Fjords National Park, a realm where majestic mountains plunge dramatically into the icy embrace of the Gulf of Alaska, stands as a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Alaska. Located near Seward, AK 99664, USA, and accessible by phone at +1 907-422-0500, this park is not merely a destination; it’s an experience that etches itself into the memory. Of the eight national parks gracing Alaska’s vast expanse, Kenai Fjords holds a unique allure, a siren song for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Here, the colossal Harding Icefield, a relic of the last ice age, continues its timeless work, sculpting the landscape with glacial precision.
The park, encompassing a sprawling 669,984 acres on the Kenai Peninsula, was first recognized for its exceptional beauty in 1978 under President Jimmy Carter, receiving full national park status just two years later. Its accessibility from Anchorage has propelled it to become Alaska’s most visited national park, drawing approximately 350,000 visitors annually, all eager to witness its glacial wonders and abundant wildlife.
A journey to Kenai Fjords is an immersion into a world where pristine wilderness reigns supreme. Here, visitors can traverse trails that lead to the edge of glaciers, kayak through icy waters teeming with marine life, and witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of calving glaciers. This is a place where the grandeur of nature is palpable, a place that demands to be explored and respected.
Things to Do
Even the drive to Kenai Fjords is an adventure in itself, a scenic prelude to the wonders that await. The winding roads offer breathtaking vistas, a tapestry of mountains, forests, and glimpses of the shimmering sea. But the true essence of the park is revealed when you venture beyond the asphalt, immersing yourself in its natural embrace.
Exit Glacier, a focal point of the park, is a prime example. Accessible by road, it is one of the many glacial tongues extending from the Harding Icefield. Its name originates from its historical use as an "exit ramp" for backcountry explorers descending from the icefield. Although climate change has caused its retreat, Exit Glacier remains a majestic sight. Well-maintained hiking trails allow visitors to approach the glacier, offering close-up views of its icy façade and the dramatic landscape it has carved.
For a more immersive experience, consider taking to the water. Kayaking is a quintessential Kenai Fjords activity, offering an intimate perspective of the park’s scale and beauty. Paddling through Aialik Bay, Northwestern Lagoon, or Bear Glacier Lagoon, one is dwarfed by towering cliffs, mesmerized by the sight of glaciers calving into the sea, and surrounded by the sounds of nature. These remote locations require careful planning and are best accessed with the assistance of a guided tour or water taxi.
Speaking of guidance, venturing into the Kenai Fjords backcountry, whether on foot or by kayak, demands respect and preparation. Hiring a commercial guide service is highly recommended, especially for inexperienced adventurers. These professionals possess invaluable knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and potential hazards, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
If a more relaxed approach is desired, a boat tour provides an excellent alternative. Departing from Seward, these tours, ranging from half-day excursions to full-day expeditions, offer a comfortable way to explore the park’s wonders. Shorter tours often focus on Resurrection Bay, providing opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenery, while longer tours venture deeper into the fjords, unveiling more remote and pristine landscapes.
Best Hikes & Trails
The only maintained trails within Kenai Fjords National Park are concentrated in the Exit Glacier area, offering a range of options for hikers of all skill levels.
The Resurrection River Trail, a 4.5-mile trek, is a popular choice for those seeking a moderate hike. The trail meanders along the Resurrection River, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
For a more challenging and rewarding experience, the Harding Icefield Trail is a must. This strenuous 8.2-mile roundtrip hike ascends over 1,000 feet, leading to breathtaking panoramic views of Exit Glacier and the vast expanse of the Harding Icefield. The trail typically requires six to eight hours to complete, but the unparalleled vistas make every step worthwhile.
Where to Camp
For those seeking an immersive experience, camping within the park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature. However, designated camping options are limited.
The Exit Glacier Campground, located near the Exit Glacier Nature Center, provides the only established campground within the park. It offers 12 campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to its popularity, arriving early is crucial, especially during peak season. RVs are not accommodated at this campground.
Where to Stay
Most visitors to Kenai Fjords opt to stay in Anchorage, taking day trips to the park. Alternatively, Seward, with its proximity to the park, offers a convenient base. However, lodging options in Seward are limited, and booking well in advance is essential, particularly during the summer months.
For those seeking a more secluded and immersive experience, the Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge offers a unique alternative. Located on a private wildlife preserve, this eco-lodge is accessible only by boat and provides a comfortable and sustainable base for exploring the park. The lodge offers various activities, including kayaking, rafting, hiking, and fishing excursions.
Public-use cabins provide another option for overnight stays within the park. These rustic cabins, available for reservation through Recreation.gov, offer a more independent and adventurous experience. However, they book up quickly, and visitors must bring their own sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and personal supplies.
How to Get There
Reaching Kenai Fjords National Park is an integral part of the Alaskan adventure.
For those driving from Anchorage, the Seward Highway (AK-1), which becomes AK-9, offers a scenic 126-mile route south to Seward. The drive is straightforward, but traffic can be heavy during peak season.
The Alaska Railroad provides a relaxing and picturesque alternative to driving. Daily trains run between Anchorage and Seward from May to September, offering stunning views of the Alaskan landscape.
Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage serves as the primary gateway for air travelers. Many visitors also arrive via cruise ships that begin or end their voyages in Seward.
Accessibility
While the rugged terrain of Kenai Fjords presents challenges to accessibility, the National Park Service strives to accommodate visitors of all abilities.
The park’s visitor center in Seward and the Exit Glacier Nature Center are wheelchair accessible, with accessible restroom facilities.
Boat tours and public-use cabins are also accessible. The Exit Glacier Campground offers two designated wheelchair-friendly campsites, and a partially paved 1-mile loop trail near Exit Glacier provides panoramic views for visitors using wheelchairs.
Tips for Your Visit
- Plan Ahead: Book accommodations, tours, and transportation well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pack Appropriately: Dress in layers, as the weather in Kenai Fjords can be unpredictable. Bring waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars.
- Respect the Environment: Practice Leave No Trace principles, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Be Aware of Wildlife: Kenai Fjords is home to bears, moose, whales, and other wildlife. Maintain a safe distance, store food properly, and carry bear spray when hiking.
- Check the Weather: Weather conditions can change rapidly in the park. Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for all types of weather.
- Stay Safe: Inform someone of your hiking plans, carry a map and compass or GPS device, and be aware of potential hazards such as steep drop-offs and slippery trails.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Kenai Fjords is a wild and unpredictable place. Be open to new experiences, adapt to changing conditions, and savor the beauty of this extraordinary landscape.
