Posted in Alaska February 24, 2017 by

The One Small Town In Alaska Where You’ll Never Want To Sleep

Soldotna is one small Alaskan town with a lot to say. Quite frankly, it’s almost like it’ll never shut up. The fierce beauty of the local landscapes scream so loudly while simultaneously giving you the most grandiose dose of eye-candy. In a place this beautiful, you’ll have a hard time staying indoors. In fact, you’ll probably never want to sleep. Just see for yourself…

Welcome to Alaska's Kenai River City of Soldotna!
Wikimedia
With a year-round population around only 4,100 residents, don't let the small size of the city fool you. There is so much to do here, you will never want to sleep.
Located on the gorgeous Kenai Peninsula, this charming town truly epitomizes the "Alaska's Playground" lifestyle.
Flickr - Travis
As you head in, you might be tempted to pull to the side of the road and pose for a photo-op on top of a giant wooden fish statue.
Flickr - Daniel Hoherd
Yes, that will really happen. And you know what? We say "go for it!" When in Soldotna, you just gotta learn how to let loose and live a little.
Don't let the insanely beautiful views distract you from paying attention to the road.
Sara Hondel
Instead, take advantage of the many scenic pullouts along the way. Get out and stretch your legs while soaking in epic panoramic mountain views as far as the eyes can see.
By now you're probably wondering what all the fuss is about. Well, just take a looksie below...
Courtney Stanley
The world-renowned Kenai River attracts more than just the angling addicts who come to reap in the plentiful rewards of the prolific fisheries.
Facebook - Visit Soldotna
This peaceful paradise does something magical to the soul. While we could try to put its glory into words, it's really quite unexplainable.
Facebook - Visit Soldotna
Once you experience a serene float down these glacial blue waters, you'll get it.
The Soldotna Visitor Center boardwalk along the Kenai River attracts more than just fisher people.
Sara Hondel
This picture-perfect path with a million dollar view attracts runners, walkers, birders and photographers as well.
Sara Hondel
We'd be willing to be that you've never seen 'winter wonderland' dressed this pretty before!
Sara Hondel
Not only is the Kenai River a photographers dreamland, but it is also an excellent place to soak in majestic wildlife views.
Courtney Stanley
We are 100% certain that you'll have to pinch yourself in disbelief. I mean, this place is just EVERYTHING.
From mama moose with their adorable babies to large herds of migrating caribou, Soldotna is a rare gem that nature lovers can't get enough of.
Flickr - Brian Henderson
An outdoors lifestyle is just a way of life here.
Courtney Stanley
Every time you leave the house you'll see people riding ATVs and Snow Machines on the endless trails set back from the road.
One of the most beloved places in town is Tsalteshi Trails.
Facebook - Tsalteshi Trails
With roughly 15 miles of trails to enjoy, locals and visitors alike can't get enough of the many routes to explore.
Running, mountain biking and on-leash dog walking is a great way to soak up the summertime sunshine.
Facebook - Tsalteshi Trails
During the snowy winter months, Tsalteshi Trails becomes a beautifully groomed Nordic skiing paradise.
Facebook - Tsalteshi Trails
But if you aren't into the poles and prefer something with a little more pizzazz, head over to Soldotna Creek Park for some ice skating.
Sara Hondel
This family friendly activity is not only a total blast, but it's also right in town off of the Sterling Highway which is very quick and convenient.
Facebook - Soldotna Creek Park
In the summertime, the Soldotna Wednesday Market at Soldotna Creek Park is a great place to enjoy live music and lots of fun outdoor booths.
Facebook - Summertime in Soldotna
Or if you're feeling a bit more flexible, join in on the 'yoga in the park' fun and namaste next to the river.
Facebook - Soldotna Creek Park
With a nice variety of stocked lakes in town, ice fishing is another great snowy season activity that the whole family will love.
Facebook - Visit Soldotna
Other wintertime activities in Soldotna include sledding, fat tire biking and snow shoeing.
Sara Hondel
Local coffee shops in town like Allen Sisters Coffee, The Grind and Arctic Fox offer the perfect pick-me-up to keep you going strong and living happy.
Facebook - Allen Sisters Coffee
If kicking back with a cold one is more your style, Kenai River Brewing Co. and St. Elias Brewing are great spots to grab a local brew.
Facebook - Kenai River Brewing Company
You'd be crazy to pass through town without stopping at the sweet spot with apple fritters that are to die for.
Flickr - Antti T. Nissinen
For dinner, places like Mykel's Restaurant, Senor Panchos and Buckets Sports Grill will satisfy your taste-buds like never before.
Yelp - Mykel's & Soldotna Inn
Or you can head to the Duck Inn, Bridge Lounge or Copper Top Lounge at Hooligans Lodge for dinner and drinks into the late night hours.
Facebook - The Duck Inn, Soldotna
Before we wrap this party up, let us remind you that it's always worth rising early for a sunrise in Soldotna...
Courtney Stanley
...And every Soldotna sunset is worth chasing!
Courtney Stanley

Not only is Soldotna an epic adventure destination, but it is also a wonderful place to live, laugh and love freely. Business, growth, education, healthcare, community, family… the list goes on and on. Living in Soldotna truly is a lifestyle that will have you hooked. If you aren’t already convinced, check out the great YouTube video below from the Soldotna Chamber of Commerce and find yourself falling in love with Alaska’s Kenai River City.

Don’t forget to check out these 20 reasons to drop everything and move to Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.