Kenai Fjords National Park: A Serene Glacial Paradise That’s Worth the Journey

As you explore magnificent Alaska, you will enjoy some of the country’s most remarkable scenery, fascinating wildlife, and breathtaking views. One area of The Last Frontier that will leave you speechless is Kenai Fjords National Park. This national park features 669,984 acres of pure natural beauty on the Kenai Peninsula. Spending just a little bit of time exploring this national park will be an experience you will never forget.

Is Kenai Fjords worth visiting?

Kenai Fjords National Park is located in south-central Alaska near the town of Seward. During the winter, large amounts of snow and ice make it difficult to access the park but the town of Seward is accessible year-round. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll find this area is an outdoor lover's paradise with recreational activities for everyone. From time on the water to the land, there is so much to explore and see that you'll want to spend multiple days here.

Glaciers in Kenai Fjords National Park

The crowning jewels of this national park are the incredible glaciers from the Harding Icefield. In fact, approximately 40 glaciers make their way from the Harding Icefield, and Exit Glacier (shown in the image above), is one of the most popular and stunning glaciers in this national park. It is also one of the few areas of the national park that are accessible year-round and is an area you can access via an automobile.

Hiking at Kenai Fjords National Park

One of the most popular activities at this national park is hiking. You will find a network of trails in the Exit Glacier area where you can put on your hiking boots and explore. Keep in mind that only a handful of trails in this national park are maintained by the National Park Service, and there is no cell phone service in this Alaskan park. If you plan to hike, we recommend visiting with rangers at a visitor center to know current conditions and receive trail recommendations for the time of your visit. We also recommend using tools like AllTrails+ for the ability to download maps and more.

One popular yet challenging hike is the Harding Icefield Trail. This out-and-back trail is just over 8.5 miles and is tough — it’s going to challenge you physically and mentally. You will gain more than 3,100 feet in elevation on this journey. Preparation is essential for conquering this journey. However, despite the challenge, the view at the top is worth every step.

Water activities at Kenai Fjords National Park

To truly see what this National park has to offer, spend some time on the water.

Boat tours can give you a different perspective of the park. These tours not only give you a different perspective of the natural beauty found within this national park, but they are also a wonderful way to spot wildlife. Whales, for example, can be seen when out in the water. Orcas and humpback whales are the most common species in Kenai Fjords National Park. However, you may see other whale species depending on the time of year.

If you are brave enough to venture on your own, grab a paddle and a kayak. Kayaking is a great way to experience this majestic park. However, the waters can be rough. If you are not experienced on a kayak, be smart and go on this incredible adventure with an experienced guide.

Where to stay in Kenai Fjords National Park

With so much to do, stay and spend some time inside this beautiful and unique national park. If you wish to stay inside Kenai Fjords National Park, there is one campground near the Exit Glacier area. This campground is only available for tent camping, and the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s important to note that this campground is walk-in only, and there is a 14-day stay limit.

If you wish to stay outside of the park, you can find additional camping opportunities within nearby Chugach National Forest. A variety of lodging options are also available in the town of Seward. If you want more space and a cozy place to set up base camp for your adventures at this Alaska national park, I recommend booking a stay at a cozy vacation rental in Seward.

Practical tips for visiting Kenai Fjords National Park

General Information:

Accessibility: Certain areas of Kenai Fjords are accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. At Exit Glacier, a partially paved, one-mile loop will give you a great view of this spectacular area. You will also find restrooms throughout the park that are wheelchair-accessible. The public-use cabins are wheelchair accessible and the Exit Glacier campground has two sites with wheelchair-accessible accommodations. The visitor center is also wheelchair accessible.

Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in Kenai Fjords National Park but only in designated areas. You may bring your family animal as you drive to Exit Glacier and in the parking lot of the Exit Glacier Nature Center. Animals are not allowed on any of the trails and in the backcountry of this national park. Pets are also not allowed in any buildings throughout Kenai Fjords National Park.

Parking: Exit Glacier is the only area in this national park that is accessible by vehicle. There is a parking area in the Exit Glacier Nature Center. However, parking is limited and can be difficult to find during the summer months and at midday.

Seasonal Access: Kenai Fjords National Park is open throughout the year. However, there are certain areas of the park that are inaccessible during the winter months. The best months to visit this national park are June, July, and August. You can visit the National Park Service website to learn about the park's current conditions.

Cost: There are no fees for entering this national park. There are also no fees for camping. However, if reserving a public-use cabin, fees are required and will vary depending on the cabin.

Restrooms: One of the best places to find restrooms at Kenai Fjords is at a Visitor Center. The Exit Glacier Nature Center also has toilets nearby that are open seasonally (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Pit toilets are available for the rest of the year.

Why do we love Kenai Fjords National Park?

Kenai Fjords National Park is a place for thrill seekers, nature lovers, hikers, families, those who are looking for an escape from city life — basically everyone. This is a bucket-list-worthy destination that will impress, inspire, and mesmerize. It's home to adventure, and that adventure is waiting for you.

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