Kenai Fjords National Park
- WD - Home
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Kenai Fjords National Park Travel Guide
Kenai Fjords is a unique slice of Alaska, where glaciers meet the sea, fjords are sculpted by ice, and a rich marine life thrives. Just a short drive from Anchorage, this park near Seward is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Whether you're paddling alongside icebergs or witnessing puffins take the plunge, Kenai is a living, breathing adventure.
Kenai Fjords National Park is where ice meets ocean, and every moment feels alive, from the thunder of a calving glacier to the flash of a puffin diving into the sea.
How to Get There
Your gateway to this natural wonder is Seward, a charming fishing town just a 2.5-hour scenic drive from Anchorage via the Seward Highway. The journey is as breathtaking as the destination, making your trip to Kenai Fjords a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Nearest Airport: Anchorage (ANC, 2.5 hrs by car)
By Train: Alaska Railroad's Coastal Classic from Anchorage to Seward
By Boat: Seward is a hub for day cruises into the fjords
Pairings: Anchorage, Homer, Prince William Sound
Know Before You Go
Entry Fee: None
Access: Most of the park is only accessible by boat or plane
Wildlife: Whales, sea lions, puffins, sea otters
Permits: Required for camping in backcountry coastal zones
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–September) is prime, with long days and full access to cruises, hiking, and wildlife watching. Spring brings early wildflowers and fewer crowds, while fall quiets down quickly.
Best Things to Do
Exit Glacier: The only road-accessible glacier in the park
Harding Icefield Trail: Strenuous hike with icefield views
Day Cruises: Explore fjords, glaciers, and marine life from Seward
Kayaking: Paddle among icebergs and seals (guided recommended)
Best Hikes
Exit Glacier Overlook (2 miles, easy): Short hike to glacier views
Harding Icefield Trail (9 miles, strenuous): Epic climb to sweeping icefield vistas
Places to Stay
In Park: Backcountry camping only
Nearby: Hotels, B&Bs, and lodges in Seward
Adventure: Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge on Fox Island
Places to Eat
Seward is a small but lively town. Ray's Waterfront serves fresh-caught seafood, and The Cookery offers farm-to-table Alaskan cuisine.