Kenai Fjords National Park Travel Guide

Explore Kenai Fjords National Park with this travel guide featuring a list of places to visit, food and drink scene, hiking and biking routes, safety tips and more.


Introduction to Kenai Fjords National Park

Nestled in Southcentral Alaska in the United States of America, Kenai Fjords National Park is a natural wonder. Covering over 669,984 acres of land and water, the park features stunning glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and abundant marine wildlife.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the captivating terrain of this rugged beauty. We’ll cover all the must-see attractions and share insider tips to help you make the most of your time at Kenai Fjords National Park.

List of Places to Visit in Kenai Fjords National Park

There are a variety of attractions you don’t want to miss when visiting the park. These attractions include:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alaska Native Heritage Center
  • Seward Community Library and Museum
  • Kenai Fjords Visitor Center

Natural Attractions of Kenai Fjords National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Harding Icefield Trail
  • Exit Glacier
  • Fox Island
  • Holgate Glacier
  • Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kenai Fjords National Park

If you’re looking to experience the great outdoors to its fullest, the hiking and biking trails are a must-try when exploring Kenai Fjords National Park.

  • Harding Icefield Trail (8.2 miles)
  • Exit Glacier Trail (1.8 miles)
  • Tonsina Point Trail (3.5 miles)
  • Caines Head Trail (4 miles)
  • Lost Lake Trail (15 miles)

Best Things to Do in Kenai Fjords National Park: Activities and Tours

One of the biggest attractions of Kenai Fjords National Park is the variety of activities and tours available. From kayaking to fishing, there’s something for everyone.

  • Kayaking and canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Whale watching
  • Glacier tours
  • Stand-up paddleboarding

Week-Long Itinerary for Kenai Fjords National Park

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Kenai Fjords National Park, here is an itinerary you could consider:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center
2 Hiking Harding Icefield Trail
3 Fishing trip in Resurrection Bay
4 Whales watching and glacier tours
5 Kayaking at Fox Island
6 Visit to the Seward Community Library and Museum
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Kenai Fjords National Park

A trip to Kenai Fjords National Park isn’t complete without experiencing the delicious local cuisine and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Halibut
  • Salmon
  • King crab
  • Reindeer sausage

Local Beverages

  • Alaska craft beer
  • Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzaria beer
  • Wildberry ale

Where to Stay in Kenai Fjords National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options available when visiting Kenai Fjords National Park.

  • Seward Windsong Lodge
  • Holiday Inn Express Seward Harbor
  • Van Gilder Hotel
  • Exit Glacier Lodge
  • Seward Puffin Suites

What to Buy in Kenai Fjords National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Kenai Fjords National Park, you may want to purchase souvenirs or local products that embody the essence of this beautiful place. Here is a list of some great options:

  • Alaska birch syrup
  • Ulu knives
  • Moose nugget candy
  • Native Alaskan art

Local Culture and Customs of Kenai Fjords National Park

It’s essential to be aware of the local culture and customs when visiting Kenai Fjords National Park. The Native American culture is predominant in Alaska and highly respected.

Best Time to Visit Kenai Fjords National Park

The weather in Kenai Fjords National Park can be unpredictable, but summer is typically the most popular time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kenai Fjords National Park

When visiting Kenai Fjords National Park, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance.
  • Pack appropriate gear and clothing for the weather.
  • Follow the Leave No Trace principles.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind.
  • Approach wildlife too closely.
  • Disturb the natural habitat.

Safety and Health

When traveling to Kenai Fjords National Park, it’s essential to keep safety and health in mind.

Safety in Kenai Fjords National Park

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.
  • Learn about bear safety and precautions.
  • Carry bear spray with you when exploring.

Health in Kenai Fjords National Park

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
  • Protect your skin from the sun and wear appropriate clothing.
  • Pack any necessary medication or medical equipment.

Getting to Kenai Fjords National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several transportation options available when traveling to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Airports Near Kenai Fjords National Park

  • Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
  • Seward Airport (SWD)

Bus Stations Near Kenai Fjords National Park

  • Seward Bus Line
  • Alaska Railroad

Other Options

  • Car rentals
  • Cruise ships

How to Get Around in Kenai Fjords National Park

There are several transportation options available when exploring Kenai Fjords National Park. One of the best ways to explore the park is by hiking or biking. If you’re looking for something more leisurely, take a boat tour or kayak around Fox Island for a unique experience.

Where to Go Next from Kenai Fjords National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for other destinations to visit near Kenai Fjords National Park, here are some great options:

  • Anchorage
  • Denali National Park and Preserve
  • Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

Conclusion

Kenai Fjords National Park is a natural wonder that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. With this travel guide, you can make the most out of your trip to this stunning destination and have a memorable adventure.