Kenai Fjords National Park
Tidewater glaciers, sea otters, and breaching whales out of the fishing town of Seward. Hike the Harding Icefield Trail beside Exit Glacier and cruise a fjord full of ice, puffins, and orcas.
Weather
Spring averages 2–10°C, summer 12–20°C, autumn 4–12°C, and winter −10 to 2°C around Seward. This summer trip pairs the Harding Icefield hike with fjord cruises. Rain is common; waterproof layers are essential. Glacial winds chill the water even on sunny days.
Activities
Hike the Harding Icefield Trail beside Exit Glacier for panoramic ice views. Cruise Kenai Fjords for tidewater glaciers, orcas, humpbacks, and puffin colonies. Kayak Resurrection Bay or Aialik Bay for closer wildlife encounters.
Culture
Seward is a working fishing port with a frontier feel — salmon charters and cruise boats share the harbour. Alaska's bear and whale viewing rules are strictly enforced. The Alaska Railroad from Anchorage is a scenic alternative to driving.
Natural history
Kenai Fjords is a glaciated coastline where the Harding Icefield feeds dozens of outlet glaciers. Steller sea lions, sea otters, and orcas hunt the rich waters. Exit Glacier has retreated dramatically — marker posts show its former extent.
Local food
Seward harbour restaurants serve halibut fish and chips, clam chowder, and fresh salmon. The Alaska Seafood Grill is a post-cruise institution. Pack trail snacks; the Harding Icefield hike is a full day with no shops en route.
Fun fact
The Harding Icefield covers over 1,000 square kilometres of ice — on a clear day from the trail summit you can see nothing but ice to every horizon.
- Fly into: Anchorage (ANC)
- Day 1: Rail or drive to Seward
- Day 2: Harding Icefield Trail hike
- Day 3: Kenai Fjords wildlife cruise
- Day 4: Kayak Aialik / Resurrection Bay
- Day 5: Return to Anchorage, depart
- Est. total: ~$2,700