search

About

Kenai Fjords National Park is located at the southernmost central point of Alaska and on the southeastern side of the Kenai Peninsula. The park covers an area of 1,046.9 square miles (2,711.3 sq km) making it the smallest national park in Alaska, but the 17th largest in the United States.

The National Parks Services describes Kenai Fjords as the place “where mountains, ice, and ocean meet.”  The strikingly rugged coastline jets into the icy waters of Resurrection Bay and the Gulf of Alaska creating one of the most magical landscapes.

The park was named for, and renowned for, the abundant fjords that decorate the southern coastline of Alaska.  The fjords were created by glaciers as they moved toward the sea from the ice field above. The depths of these fjords can stretch another 600 to 1,000 feet (180 to 300 m) below sea level.

The Harding Icefield is one of the largest ice fields in Alaska, and it serves as the source for approximately 40 different glaciers.  Bear Glacier is the largest glacier flowing from the Harding Icefield, but Exit Glacier is probably the most famous.

Nestled in the depths of the park is an unnamed mountain that serves as the tallest point in the park at 6,450 feet (1,970 m).  Although the surrounding mountains only reach heights around 6,000 feet (1,829 m), they are astounding to the eye because of their vertical ascent beginning right from sea level.

Exit Glacier is one of the most popular glaciers because of its accessibility.  The Harding Icefield is the source of this glacier.  There are annual markers placed that reveal the significance of glacial recession.  The glacier is accessed by the park’s only road.  Other famous fjords include:

  • Aialik Bay
  • Harris Bay
  • McCarty Fjord
  • Nuka Bay

Located along the coast of southern Alaska and Resurrection Bay, the lush forested region is home to wildlife while the icy waters of the bay are home to an abundance of exciting sea life.

The impressive grizzly bear, black bear, and moose are some of the larger more exciting wildlife sightings on land.  The humpback whales and pods of orca are the more exciting marine life encounters. 

Other wildlife found in the Kenai Fjord park includes sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, Dall’s porpoises, coyote, timber wolf, lynx, porcupine, and beaver.  The gorgeous bald eagle and incredible peregrine falcon are two of the bird species that people hope to see.

Photos

Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park

Things to See

The Harding Icefield and subsequent glaciers created from it along with the fjords these glaciers have created along the southern coastline of Alaska are the highlights.  These are some of the most impressive landscapes where oceans and lands come together. 

Harding Icefield

Only a portion of the Harding Icefield is located in the national park.  The massive icefield extends beyond the park borders deeper into the Kenai Mountains of the Kenai Peninsula in southern Alaska.

The Harding Icefield encompasses an area of 700 square miles (1,813 sq km).  The glaciers expand the iced territory to over 1,100 square miles (2,849 sq km).  It is the largest of the four remaining ice fields in the United States while receiving over 33 feet (10 m) of snow each year. 

Exit Glacier

There is the Exit Glacier Nature Center which provides educational insights into the glacial phenomenon of the park.  It also provides access to the only road in the park which takes visitors to the Exit Glacier.

The accessibility and remarkable views along with the ability to engage the glacier up close make this one of Alaska’s most frequented natural attractions.

The Exit Glacier is a receding glacier with a recession occurring annually.  The amount of recession varies from year to year, however, from 2013 to 2014, it receded 187 feet (57 m). The Exit Glacier covers an area of 4 miles (6.4 km). 

Popular

Popular

Kenai Fjords National Park, a stunning landscape where mountains meet ice and sea in Alaska, is a thriving habitat for marine and terrestrial wildlife, offering visitors breathtaking encounters with species uniquely adapted to this cold and rugged environment.

Orca Majestic Orca, or killer whales, are a thrilling sight, their striking black and white patterns visible as they navigate the icy waters in search of prey.

Steller Sea Lion The noisy Steller Sea Lion gathers on rocky haul-outs, their loud roars echoing across the water, a testament to the park’s rich marine life.

Bald Eagle Soaring above the fjords, the Bald Eagle epitomizes the wild spirit of Alaska, its keen eyes scouting for fish from the dramatic coastal cliffs.

Puffin Both the Horned and Tufted Puffins charm visitors with their colorful beaks and awkward landings, nesting on cliff faces and diving for fish.

Humpback Whale The Humpback Whale, known for its spectacular breaching and vocalizations, frequents the park’s waters, feeding on krill and small fish in the nutrient-rich fjords.

Harbor Seal Often seen lounging on ice floes, Harbor Seals are a common yet enchanting presence, their round, curious eyes watching visitors as they pass by.

Sea Otter The adorable Sea Otter floats among the kelp, using rocks to crack open shellfish, a key species for understanding the health of the park’s marine ecosystem.

Mountain Goat High on the rocky crags above the fjords, Mountain Goats are adept climbers, their white coats a stark contrast against the green and gray backdrop.

Black Bear roam the park’s forests and coastal areas, foraging for berries and salmon, a symbol of the wilderness that Kenai Fjords helps preserve.

Glacier Worm Unique to glacial environments, Glacier Worms are seen on the surface of ice fields, specially adapted to life in and on the slowly moving ice.

Kenai Fjords National Park’s diverse inhabitants, from the playful Sea Otter to the elusive Glacier Worm, showcase the adaptability and resilience of life in one of Alaska’s most spectacular natural settings, inviting visitors to marvel at the wonders of the natural world.

Things To Do

Engaging Kenai Fjords

Boat Tours

Experience the stunning beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park from the comfort of a boat tour. Sail through the park’s icy fjords, past towering glaciers, and alongside rugged coastline as you witness the park’s dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife.

From the deck of a boat, you can spot whales breaching, sea otters playing, and seabirds soaring overhead, creating unforgettable memories of Alaska’s pristine wilderness.

Kayaking

Explore the tranquil waters of Kenai Fjords National Park by kayak. Paddle through serene fjords, past towering icebergs, and alongside majestic glaciers as you immerse yourself in the park’s stunning natural beauty.

Kayaking offers a unique perspective of the park, allowing you to get up close to wildlife such as seals, sea lions, and seabirds while enjoying the peaceful solitude of Alaska’s wilderness.

Hiking

Discover the rugged landscapes of Kenai Fjords National Park on its network of hiking trails. Trek through ancient forests, across alpine meadows, and along rocky coastlines as you explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Hiking trails offer opportunities to spot wildlife such as bears, moose, and mountain goats while providing breathtaking views of the park’s glaciers and fjords.

Wildlife Viewing

Observe the diverse wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park in their natural habitat. From whales and sea otters to bears and bald eagles, the park is home to a wide variety of species that can be spotted throughout the year.

Join a guided wildlife tour or venture out on your own to explore the park’s shoreline and backcountry areas, keeping a lookout for signs of wildlife and listening for the calls of birds echoing through the wilderness.

Boat Tours

Experience the stunning beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park from the comfort of a boat tour. Sail through the park’s icy fjords, past towering glaciers, and alongside rugged coastline as you witness the park’s dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife.

From the deck of a boat, you can spot whales breaching, sea otters playing, and seabirds soaring overhead, creating unforgettable memories of Alaska’s pristine wilderness.

Kayaking

Explore the tranquil waters of Kenai Fjords National Park by kayak. Paddle through serene fjords, past towering icebergs, and alongside majestic glaciers as you immerse yourself in the park’s stunning natural beauty.

Kayaking offers a unique perspective of the park, allowing you to get up close to wildlife such as seals, sea lions, and seabirds while enjoying the peaceful solitude of Alaska’s wilderness.

Hiking

Discover the rugged landscapes of Kenai Fjords National Park on its network of hiking trails. Trek through ancient forests, across alpine meadows, and along rocky coastlines as you explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Hiking trails offer opportunities to spot wildlife such as bears, moose, and mountain goats while providing breathtaking views of the park’s glaciers and fjords.

Wildlife Viewing

Observe the diverse wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park in their natural habitat. From whales and sea otters to bears and bald eagles, the park is home to a wide variety of species that can be spotted throughout the year.

Join a guided wildlife tour or venture out on your own to explore the park’s shoreline and backcountry areas, keeping a lookout for signs of wildlife and listening for the calls of birds echoing through the wilderness.

Kenai Fjords National Park Trails

Kenai Fjords offers an array of hiking trails to explore the park and access the pristine nature of the area.  Here are some of the more popular trails:

placeholder

Harding Icefield Trail

This is a 7.4-mile (11.9 km) trail that provides access and views of the Exit Glacier and the Harding Icefield.

placeholder

Exit Glacier Trail

This is a short 15 to 20-minute trail from the parking area of Exit Glacier out to the glacier itself.  The path takes visitors along the trail of the recession from the glacier up to and along the face of the glacier. 

placeholder

Edge of the Glacier Trail

This is a 1.9-mile (3.05 km) loop trail that provides views out over the glacier and surrounding stunning landscapes.

placeholder

Resurrection River Trail

This is a difficult 16.1-mile (25.9 km) with a 571-foot (174 km) ascent.  This trail meanders out to Resurrection River taking hikers through beautiful meadows and stunning mountainous landscapes.

placeholder

Exit Glacier Harding Icefield Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 8.2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 3,500 feet (1,067 meters)

Description: This trail offers an unforgettable journey from the forested valleys near Exit Glacier to the expansive views of the Harding Icefield. The challenging hike rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas of ice and snow, sprawling as far as the eye can see, showcasing the park’s rugged beauty and the awe-inspiring scale of glacial landscapes.

placeholder

Exit Glacier Overlook Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1 mile round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: A more accessible option for those wishing to view Exit Glacier, this trail leads to an overlook providing spectacular views of the glacier. Along the way, interpretive signs educate visitors about glacial retreat, local ecology, and the impact of climate change on the landscape.

placeholder

Coastal Trail

Rating: Moderate to Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, up to 9 miles one way with variable elevation gain

Description: This trail, accessible from the Exit Glacier area, offers a rugged hike along the coast. Hikers can experience the wild, untouched shoreline of Kenai Fjords, with opportunities to spot marine wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and whales, against the backdrop of towering fjords.

placeholder

Resurrection River Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: Up to 18 miles one way with minimal to moderate elevation gain

Description: Connecting the Exit Glacier area with the town of Seward through a river valley, this trail offers a long but relatively flat hike through diverse ecosystems, including forests and wetlands. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a multi-day backpacking experience.

placeholder

Tonsina Creek Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 100 feet (30 meters)

Description: Starting near Lowell Point, this trail winds through a lush rainforest to a scenic beach overlooking Resurrection Bay. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the tranquil sounds of Tonsina Creek, with chances to see salmon during spawning season. The beach offers stunning views and a peaceful spot for relaxation.

placeholder

Exit Glacier Harding Icefield Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: 8.2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 3,500 feet (1,067 meters)

Description: This trail offers an unforgettable journey from the forested valleys near Exit Glacier to the expansive views of the Harding Icefield. The challenging hike rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas of ice and snow, sprawling as far as the eye can see, showcasing the park’s rugged beauty and the awe-inspiring scale of glacial landscapes.

placeholder

Exit Glacier Overlook Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1 mile round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: A more accessible option for those wishing to view Exit Glacier, this trail leads to an overlook providing spectacular views of the glacier. Along the way, interpretive signs educate visitors about glacial retreat, local ecology, and the impact of climate change on the landscape.

placeholder

Coastal Trail

Rating: Moderate to Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, up to 9 miles one way with variable elevation gain

Description: This trail, accessible from the Exit Glacier area, offers a rugged hike along the coast. Hikers can experience the wild, untouched shoreline of Kenai Fjords, with opportunities to spot marine wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and whales, against the backdrop of towering fjords.

placeholder

Resurrection River Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: Up to 18 miles one way with minimal to moderate elevation gain

Description: Connecting the Exit Glacier area with the town of Seward through a river valley, this trail offers a long but relatively flat hike through diverse ecosystems, including forests and wetlands. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a multi-day backpacking experience.

placeholder

Tonsina Creek Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 100 feet (30 meters)

Description: Starting near Lowell Point, this trail winds through a lush rainforest to a scenic beach overlooking Resurrection Bay. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the tranquil sounds of Tonsina Creek, with chances to see salmon during spawning season. The beach offers stunning views and a peaceful spot for relaxation.

FAQ’s

What is Kenai Fjords National Park known for?

Kenai Fjords National Park, located in Alaska, is known for its stunning fjords, towering glaciers, and diverse wildlife. The park’s rugged coastline is characterized by deep fjords carved by ancient glaciers, which provide breathtaking vistas of icy cliffs, sparkling waters, and towering mountains.

Visitors come to Kenai Fjords to explore its pristine wilderness and witness the dramatic forces of nature at work. The park is also renowned for its abundant wildlife, including whales, sea otters, seals, and seabirds, making it a popular destination for wildlife viewing and photography.

Additionally, Kenai Fjords offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and boat tours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty and experience the wonders of Alaska’s wilderness..

What is Kenai Fjords National Park known for?

Kenai Fjords National Park, located in Alaska, is known for its stunning fjords, towering glaciers, and diverse wildlife. The park’s rugged coastline is characterized by deep fjords carved by ancient glaciers, which provide breathtaking vistas of icy cliffs, sparkling waters, and towering mountains.

Visitors come to Kenai Fjords to explore its pristine wilderness and witness the dramatic forces of nature at work. The park is also renowned for its abundant wildlife, including whales, sea otters, seals, and seabirds, making it a popular destination for wildlife viewing and photography.

Additionally, Kenai Fjords offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and boat tours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty and experience the wonders of Alaska’s wilderness..

Sources