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kenai fjords NATIONAL PARK
Kenai Fjords National Park is not only a glacier journey and tourist adventure, but also a breathtaking encounter with wildlife. The park has activities not offered by others, making it a must-have on your Alaska itinerary.
Kenai Fjords National Park is one of the parks created in 1980 by the Alaska National Lands Conservation Act. National park
Kenai Fjords covers 669,984 acres on the Kenai Peninsula in southeastern Alaska. The park is home to one of the largest ice fields in Harding Icefield, in the United States. The park is named after the numerous fjords carved by glaciers that move from the mountains to form huge ice fields. The ice field unites at least 38 glaciers, the largest of which is the Bear Glacier. Kenai Fjords Park is located west of Seward, a popular cruise port. You can get to the glaciers by road, the rest of the park is mostly accessible by boat. Fjords are glacial valleys.
Information
Kenai Fjords was originally designated by President Jimmy Carter on December 1, 1978, using the Antiquities Act, before final legislation was passed to authorize the allocation of state land in Alaska. The establishment as a national park follows the passage of the Alaska Land Conservation Act in 1980. The park protects an ice field, a narrow edge of forested land between the mountains and the sea, and a deeply leveled coastline. Kenai Fjords Park is home to a variety of land and marine mammals including black bears, whales (humpbacks and killer whales), seals and elk.
Kenai Fjords National Park, located in Alaska, is known for its stunning fjords, glaciers, and diverse wildlife. While much of the park is accessible primarily by boat tours due to its rugged and remote nature, there are several excellent hiking trails that provide opportunities to explore the coastal landscapes and alpine environments. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Kenai Fjords National Park:
Harding Icefield Trail:
Distance: 8.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Description: This iconic trail begins at the Exit Glacier area and climbs through forested terrain, eventually reaching the stunning Harding Icefield. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the vast icefield and surrounding mountains. It's a challenging hike with significant elevation gain.
Exit Glacier Trails:
Distance: Varies (several interconnected trails)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: The Exit Glacier area offers a network of trails ranging from easy walks to moderate hikes. These trails provide opportunities to explore the glacier's terminus, view wildlife, and learn about glacial ecology and history.
Caines Head Trail:
Distance: Approximately 5 miles one way (including coastal trail and beach route)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Description: Accessible via boat or kayak from Seward, this trail leads to a historic World War II fort and offers views of Resurrection Bay. Hikers can explore coastal cliffs, forests, and enjoy beach walking.
Mount Marathon Trails:
Distance: Varies (up to 4 miles round trip to the summit)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Description: Located near Seward, Mount Marathon offers several trail options that ascend to the summit, providing panoramic views of Seward and Resurrection Bay. The trail is famous for its steep ascent and challenging terrain.
Tonsina Point Trail:
Distance: Approximately 3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: This trail begins at Lowell Point near Seward and follows along the shoreline of Resurrection Bay to Tonsina Point. Hikers can explore coastal forests, enjoy beachcombing, and possibly spot wildlife such as sea otters and eagles.
Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail:
Distance: Varies (day hike or longer backpacking options)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: Accessible via water taxi from Homer or Seldovia, this trail leads to Grewingk Glacier Lake and offers views of glaciers, mountains, and the Kachemak Bay area. It's a longer hike or backpacking trip with scenic rewards.
When hiking in Kenai Fjords National Park, be prepared for variable weather conditions and remote wilderness settings. Trails may require bear safety precautions, proper footwear, and adequate supplies. Always check trail conditions and current regulations at the visitor center or ranger station before starting your hike.
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Official name - KENAI FJORDS National Park
Mailing Address: PO Box 1727 Seward, AK 99664
Area: 669,984 acres acres
Coordinates: 59°55′04″N 149°59′15″W
Established - December 2, 1980
Attendance - 321,596 people per year
