kenai fjords tours photos

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Alaska (AK) » 14 Best Kenai Fjord Tours

14 Best Kenai Fjord Tours

Featuring breathtaking valleys, towering ice walls, and some of North America’s most unique wildlife, the Kenai Fjords, and surrounding waters are indeed a sight to behold.

Kenai Fjords National Park is comprised of more than 1,000 square miles and more than three dozen individual glaciers, making it a magnet for nature lovers, photographers, and all-around lovers of the great outdoors.

Most tours of the area depart from Seward and come in a variety of lengths and options suitable for those of most ages, interests, and levels of physical ability.

Below are 14 of the best and most popular Kenai Fjord tours.

1. Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

Even during the summer months, the weather conditions in Alaska can be downright harsh, and short tours are usually best.

This six-hour tour includes ample time with amazing fjords and glaciers, as well as a chance to get up-close-and-personal with whales, otters, and puffins.

Guests will be whisked to the park on one of the largest, fastest, and most stable catamarans in the area. If the weather gets to be too much, it’s possible to retreat to the indoor restaurant and bar for refreshments.

Narration from a park ranger is included, as is an impressive lunch buffet if you’ve chosen that option at booking.

2. Kenai Fjords Half-Day Wildlife Cruise

According to those who’ve been, Resurrection Bay is one of the most secluded stretches of pristine water they’ve ever encountered.

In addition to the epic fjords that tend to leave viewers speechless, tour participants can generally expect to see lots of wildlife, like dolphins, otters, whales, and a variety of marine bird species.

The boat tour includes narration from an experienced guide, free use of binoculars while onboard, and round-trip transportation from the train station or cruise ship port.

It’s best to wear layers appropriate for a variety of weather conditions and to bring a few dollars for food and drinks.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5-Hour Cruise

For hearty travelers who laugh at frigid temperatures and stiff sea winds, this 7 ½ hour tour of Kenai Fjords National Park is probably a perfect fit.

It’s longer than most tours, which means more opportunity to take in the once-in-a-lifetime sights along the Alaskan coast.

Guests will get within a stone’s throw of staggeringly big tidewater glaciers, sea lion colonies, and marine bird breeding grounds.

The tour includes the services of a National Park Ranger, who’ll impart lots of interesting information about the area’s wildlife and geologic history while you’re being mesmerized by the sights.

Coffee, tea, and water are complimentary.

4. Kenai Fjords Wildlife 5-Hour Cruise

For most warm-blooded visitors and those without stout sea legs, tours to Kenai Fjords National Park that last between four and five hours are generally the best.

Though this five-hour cruise tour of Resurrection Bay focuses on wildlife, it also gives guests unparalleled access to the park’s majestic fjords, mountains, and glaciers.

You’ll definitely want to bring a camera to capture it all. It’s possible to choose a lunch option which includes fresh Alaskan salmon and prime rib served buffet-style.

Expect to see tons of wildlife, amazing vistas, and massive chunks of glacial ice plunging into the deep blue waters below.

5. Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Adventure Cruise

Young? Fit? Adventurous?

If you answered yes to all three, then this full-day Kenai Fjords National Park Adventure Cruise should be on your itinerary.

Forget stepping onto a massive catamaran with dozens of other passengers; this is a small-boat excursion, which means a more exciting and intimate experience.

The tour winds its way through Resurrection Bay, Granite Pass, and the Maritime National Wildlife Refuge.

That means epic sights, lifelong memories, and up-close access to lots of unique marine animals that may include killer whales, humpbacks, sea lions, otters, and puffins.

Not sure? Click the link below for specific information.

6. Bear Glacier Private Flight Tour from Seward

There’s really no bad way to take in such a stunning natural wonder as Bear Glacier, but it’s definitely special to see by air.

Bear Glacier is the longest in Kenai Fjords National Park, and for those who are traveling on tight itineraries, this 30-minute tour is the perfect way to see it in all its majesty.

Due to the tour’s short length, you won’t get a buffet meal or complimentary champagne, but they’ll probably be the farthest things from your mind as you swoop over some of the continent’s most impressive natural formations.

A number of departure times are available to accommodate those with different schedules.

7. Aialik Glacier Wildlife Cruise and Kayaking

First off, kayaking in Alaska isn’t a good idea for everyone, but it’s one of the most memorable ways to experience Kenai Fjords National Park for those who’ve got the guts and muscle.

This 10-hour tour is limited to 12 persons, so it’s great for young families and those traveling in groups looking for a more intimate and exhilarating experience than they’ll find elsewhere.

It includes lunch, light snacks, all the necessary gear and training, and an experienced guide dedicated to making the excursion a safe and memorable one.

Plan on seeing lots of wildlife along the way as well, and sleeping like a log when the day is done.

8. Small Group Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise

With a maximum of only six guests, this half-day whale and wildlife cruise is excellent for those who prefer to distance themselves from the crowds.

That means a truly VIP experience, and although the vessel is relatively small, there’s ample room in the cabin to get out of the elements if necessary.

During the summer, it’s common to see whales and orcas, but since animals rarely cooperate, the captain will tailor the tour depending on the conditions at the time.

Tours typically last between three and four hours and include amazing views of the glaciers.

They depart at 9:00 am, and all guests must be at least two years old.

9. Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward

At nearly 100 feet long, the vessel that conveys sightseers to Kenai Fjords National Park on this six-hour morning tour is fast, safe, and warm.

The Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge is brimming with fantastic wildlife. When seen in conjunction with the stunning natural wonders for which the park is most well-known, it makes for a uniquely unforgettable experience.

Lunch is included, as is a professional narration from an experienced guide, who’ll describe the things you’re seeing and their significance in a fascinating and educational way.

It’s a great tour option for those traveling with little ones and the elderly.

10. Bear Glacier Kayaking Adventure with Jet Boat Transport

You may just fancy yourself a budding Bear Grylls after tackling the great outdoors in this adventure tour that includes jet-boat transportation and kayaking around the majestic Bear Glacier.

Eager participants will be whisked from Seward to Bear Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park, and from there, depart on the kayak portion of their trip.

Definitely a tour best left to the young at heart, it’s limited to just six guests, ensuring that each hearty paddler gets the personal attention they expect.

Sea otters, seals, and a variety of marine birds are commonly seen, and both morning and afternoon departures are available.

11. Glacier & Wildlife Cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park

At between seven and eight hours, this glacier and wildlife cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park is a bit on the long side, but it’s a great option for those who have a whole day to dedicate to seeing the area’s scenery and wildlife.

It’s limited to six guests, so it’s a VIP-style excursion.

The tour is conducted on a small vessel, which previous participants agree provides a much more memorable experience than those on large boats with hundreds of other guests.

Depending on the season, it’s not uncommon to see whales, orcas, and other marine animals in addition to the towering glaciers and mind-boggling fjords.

12. Helicopter Glacier Landing

Helicopter tours definitely aren’t the cheapest option when it comes to experiencing the Kenai Fjords, but they offer tour guests views that boat tours just can’t.

This 45-minute tour departs from Seward and includes time over Kenai Fjords National Park, Resurrection Bay, and the Godwin Glacier.

For photographers, it’s in a class of its own, and leaves plenty of time for those who’d like to schedule a half-day boat tour later on.

Due to comfort and space issues, weight restrictions apply, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

There’s also a minimum of two guests per booking, so find a friend before scheduling your tour.

13. Orca Quest Cruise

Nearly all cruise tours of the Kenai Fjords include both glacier and wildlife viewing, but this four-hour orca cruise is one of the few that focuses solely on killer whales.

The orca season generally lasts from May to June, and they’re often seen in Resurrection Bay.

Guests will not only have a high chance of seeing the majestic marine mammals, but hearing them as well through a hydrophone that clearly captures the clicks and chirps they use to communicate with one another.

Tours include narration from an experienced naturalist, who’ll explain their family structure, feeding habits, and seasonal migratory patterns.

14. Half-Day Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise

This half-day whale and wildlife cruise generally lasts between three and four hours, and departs at 3 pm, making it a good option for those who’d like to take another tour in the morning.

The tour is capped at six guests, and though the boat is small, there’s heated indoor seating and restrooms.

The summer months in Alaska are when a variety of whale species are seen around Seward, and massive humpbacks are the most common.

Conditions can still be cold and rough, so it’s wise to wear warm layers, as the conditions can change on a dime.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

14 Best Kenai Fjord Tours:

• Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
• Kenai Fjords Half-Day Wildlife Cruise
• Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5-Hour Cruise
• Kenai Fjords Wildlife 5-Hour Cruise
• Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Adventure Cruise
• Bear Glacier Private Flight Tour from Seward
• Aialik Glacier Wildlife Cruise and Kayaking
• Small Group Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise
• Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward
• Bear Glacier Kayaking Adventure with Jet Boat Transport
• Glacier & Wildlife Cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park
• Helicopter Glacier Landing
• Orca Quest Cruise
• Half-Day Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise

For inquiries or to book by phone, call

1.888.478.3346

• 4 hr. Spring Resurrection Bay Tour
• 5 hr. Resurrection Bay Tour with Fox Island
• 5.5 hr. Glacier Dinner Cruise
• 6 hr. Kenai Fjords National Park Tour
• 8 hr. Northwestern Fjord Tour
• 8.5 hr. National Park Tour with Fox Island
• Fox Island History
• Room with a Cruise

Northwestern Fjord Tour

Traveling further into Kenai Fjords than any other tour, this is a journey to the remote Northwest

Carved out by glaciers, the Northwestern Fjord is unlike anywhere else on earth. Watch for wildlife at every turn, and get so close to the glaciers you can almost touch them on this fully-narrated full-day cruise. Seabird rookeries dot the islands and alpine glacier cover the horizon. What a place!

*Vegetarian and gluten-free items are available upon request. Meal options may vary and are subject to change without notice.

Lock in the best rate when you book in advance Ages 1 and under cruise free Cancel up to 4 days before your trip for a full refund

For inquiries or to book by phone: 1.888.478.3346

2024 Tour Dates: May 25 – August 25

Kenai Fjords Tours Safety Promise Guest Information & Reservation Policy

Operating since 1974, Kenai Fjords Tours has the most experienced and knowledgeable captains, sailing the newest fleet of custom sightseeing vessels operating in Kenai Fjords National Park.

These tidewater glaciers are always active – calving and moving and crashing into the sea. In the alpine zone, high-mountain glaciers glisten in the sun.

Watch for wildlife at every turn, including the playful sea lions hanging out on cliffs and in coves.

Tips & Tricks

Tours fill up very quickly, so we recommend you book well in advance to secure your preferred tour.

Arrive early for day trips to take advantage of our free parking and shuttle service.

Dress in layers and bring a water-repellent jacket. Coastal weather changes quickly.

Make sure you have a fresh memory card and your batteries are charged — you'll be taking tons of photos.

The #KenaiFjordsTours Experience

Connect with @KenaiFjordsTours on       

Stories from Kenai Fjords

A member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).

1.800.808.8068   |  CONTACT US

Stay connected

• Specials & Packages
• Directions & Check-in Information

KENAI FJORDS PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise #1

Kenai fjords national park cruise #2, orca quest cruise, seward harbor 360 hotel, “rock the park” episode featuring major marine tours, last frontier magazine video featuring major marine tours, newsletter sign-up.

Signup for our newsletter to get the most recent Major Marine updates.

• Name * First Last
• State/Country
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Kenai Fjords Tours

Review Highlights

“ We saw sea lions, sea otters, harbour seals, humpback whales, cute puffins-hundreds of them and of course orcas. ” in 44 reviews

“ Dinner on Fox Island wasn't anything to rave about - so probably not necessary to add to your itinerary but nonetheless, a 5/5 day. ” in 43 reviews

“ I found myself sitting inside to warm up and then popping back outside when there was wildlife or nice scenery! ” in 73 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

1304 4th Ave

Seward, AK 99664

You Might Also Consider

Alaska Saltwater Tours

Our full day Small Group Whale Watching, Wildlife, Natural History, and Glacier Tour ventures deep into Kenai Fjords National Park. With over 25 years experience, we will show you the Fjords' best kept secrets. This is a… read more

in Fishing, Boat Tours, Whale Watching Tours

About the Business

Alaska's #1 Wildlife and Glacier Cruises-Kenai Fjords Tours- Specializing in sightseeing tours of Kenai Fjords National Park. View whales, glaciers, sea otters, puffins, sea lions, eagles and so much more. All tours include a meal in the price. Stop at Fox Island-- step ashore and enjoy our all you can eat Alaska Salmon and Prime Rib buffet. 6 different itineraries to choose from. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

How far in advance would you recommend booking a tour (during summer busy season)?

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

224 reviews

We did the Kenai Fjords National Park Tour (6 hours). This is a great way to see several glaciers up close and personal! We got lucky with such a beautiful day, but didn't see whales or bears, though we looked. But the scenery was worth it. The captain took us in and out of coves to search for wildlife, and we did see some harbor seals, puffins, sea lions, and eagles! We also got very close to the glaciers--I've been to a lot of glaciers on this trip but hadn't gotten as close as we did on this tour. The captain and crew were really wonderful--knowledgeable and very kind. We hit some very big waves and the crew walked around asking each person how they were doing and if they needed a bag, ginger ale or Dramamine, etc. They also warned us about the waves ahead of departure, so we could prep accordingly. The boat is two stories, and there is a lot of room both inside and out, though it was a bit tight getting in and out of the doors with people standing near them. The lunch they served exceeded my expectations. They served a chicken wrap for most people, a chicken salad for gluten free, veggie wrap for vegetarians, and chicken nuggets for kids. The wrap was really good! It also came with a granola bar, chips, and an Andes mint. At the end, they even passed out warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies! The galley also served drinks of all kinds.

The scenery

We got very close to the glaciers

Although the weather the day of our cruise was not ideal, our captain and staff made our experience truly memorable. This is an amazing tour and opportunity to see things you won't see from land! The 6 hour national park tour was just the right amount of time. We saw glaciers, waterfalls, puffins, seals, sea lions, and orcas. The captain and crew were great and super knowledgeable on what we saw. I highly recommend this tour! Pro-tip: take Dramamine if you think you might get seasickness.

This is an awesome tour and well-worth it! This was the Kenai Fjords National Park Tour that's about 5.5 hours. They also offer other tours. We saw so many animals - orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, otters, harbor seals, puffins, murres...The tour guide knows the locations where the animals might be spotted and the tour companies let each other know where there are animals. Chances of seeing wildlife are great. The boat stops for a good amount of time to let you take pictures and enjoy the sighting. He also turns the boat so that both sides have the opportunity to see the animals or glacier. The guide also was good to let you know that the boat would be moving along so that you could get your last picture. The staff works hard on the boat to make sure everyone is having a good time. They are mindful that some may get seasick and make it a point to let you know to tell them if you are getting seasick. There are unprotected areas that do get a bit choppy so taking preventative motion sickness medication might be a good idea if prone to seasickness. The operator is very good about warning about choppy waters and saying for how long it will last before reaching calmer waters. They provide lunch. When we went, it was a chicken wrap, granola bar, and chips. There is a vegetarian option. They sell snacks and beverages. When we disembarked, they gave each of us a chocolate chip cookie.

A highlight of our first trip to Alaska was the 6-hour National Park tour. Getting to see the gorgeous landscape of Kenai Fjords NP and tons of wildlife (whales, puffins, seals, sea lions, porpoises, lots of birds) was epic. We saw multiple glaciers, but Holgate Glacier was the largest. It was so cool to be moving towards this glacier for the longest time, since it's so big. You can step in and out of the cabin whenever you want to get a closer look. The crew scooped up a piece of the calved glacier and I got to hold it! Be prepared- in early June, we wore warm winter coats, gloves, and hats. Sunglasses are always needed. A base layer of pants would have been nice. Also, the provided lunch was terrible (flavorless chicken wrap), so I'd recommend bringing your own food and water. It was funny to watch everyone realize that this food was so bad, and seek out sauces to drown the flavors. Dress warmly, exit the cabin as much as possible, and you'll have a blast!

Booked the 6 hour tour of Kenai Fjords, but seeing how the weather was i started to question if the tour would go on. I called twice to see if the tour was still on and was told it was rain or shine. I asked at what point would they consider cancelling the tour and was told if the water gets too choppy. I hoped for the best seeing how it was rainy and gloomy. The staff was super nice and helpful. The captain of the boat was very knowledgeable about the wildlife. He would point out animals on land and sea. The boat water was nice as well helping with food, pictures and checking on people in case anyone got sick. We were given a light lunch (choice between a chicken wrap, a vegetarian option and another that I can't remember). Lunch also included chips, granola bar and a chocolate. Later on we were also treated to a freshly baked chocolate cookie. Unfortunately for our tour group the captain had to make the safety decision to turn back around as the water in the direction we were heading was getting more intense. We spent the rest of the tour in resurrection bay whale hunting. We were able to spot a whale and got some good videos of it. Since the tour was not the complete 6 hours the company provides a partial refund. If i am ever back in Seward i will definitely rebook this tour and with this company.

See all photos from Vina R. for Kenai Fjords Tours

My notes from the Resurrection Bay Tour With Fox Island (which we called "the wildlife tour"): Nice, knowledgeable, professional crew. Sea otters, bald eagles, seals, mountain goats. The boat gets amazingly close to the shoreline. Arrive early to get a good seat on the boat. The only part less than excellent was the meal on Fox Island. Otherwise, A+.

I appreciate how the itinerary is designed to hit a marquee glacier and otherwise flex based on the best wildlife possibilities. We didn't see any whales, likely due to being late season, but one black bear and mountain goat -- and tons of birds, seals, otters, and sea lions are practically guaranteed. Good small staff cheerfully working all the jobs simultaneously and keeping good watch for wildlife. The chicken wrap lunch was nothing great, but not bad, the kind of simple thing I'd make at home. I would advise that everyone going should be keen to absorb the scenery and watch for wildlife for several hours. There are fast sightings like puffins flying by that they can't announce. One time walking through the boat, I noticed like 8-10 people napping -- that's an expensive nap, and I'm not sure the stop at the glacier alone is worth making the trip. To that end, everyone should have either a huge telephoto or decent binoculars...the latter being pretty cheap relative to the cost of a ticket, and really necessary on any sort of Alaskan visit.

We took a tour with this company last week and had the opportunity to see just about everything. We had a Black bear, Orcas, Humpback whales, Sea lions, Harbor seals, Sea otters, Tufted and Horned puffins, and many species of other bird life. There was also beautiful habitat and scenery along the trip, including a wide variety of islands, coves, and then of course, the glaciers. It's difficult to understand the size of the glaciers until you see a boat in front of one.

See all photos from Lamar G. for Kenai Fjords Tours

Decent tour with ample seating on boat. We did the 5 hr resurrection bay with lunch on fox island. The lunch was decent. Salmon way over cooked but still decent tasting. Steak was medium and very tender. Caesar salad and the curried quinoa were the best things on the plate. Didn't care for the green beans and wax beans with carrots and we love green beans. Chocolate cookies close to home were also a nice touch. It was a rainy day but we still saw a nice variety of wildlife and some of the features of the bay were lovely on the fog.

See all photos from Shelbie C. for Kenai Fjords Tours

One of the most amazing things I have ever done in Alaska! We saw eagles and dolphins and whales and sea otters. It was incredible and even though the wind was cold and whippy, it did not even matter. Food was okay but the tour was all about the animals and scenery. Totally worth it! Would recommend 100% to all!

15 other reviews that are not currently recommended

People Also Viewed

Liquid Adventures

Northern Latitude Adventures

Alaska Saltwater Lodge

Seward Ocean Excursions

Major Marine Tours

AA Seward Air Tours

Alaska Sealife Center

Marathon Helicopters

Alaskan Coastal Safari LLC

Best of Seward

Things to do in Seward

People found Kenai Fjords Tours by searching for…

Fox Island Dinner Seward

Kenai Fjords Boat Tours Seward

Best Boat Tour in Seward

Glacier Bay Cruises in Seward

Glacier Tour in Seward

Kenai Fjords Glacier Dinner Cruise in Seward

Boat Cruise in Seward

Whale Watching in Seward

Wildlife Tour in Seward

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Campgrounds

Whale Watching

Other Tours Nearby

Find more Tours near Kenai Fjords Tours

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

My 5 Favorite Experiences In Kenai Fjords National Park

E xploring Alaska’s Kenai Fjords National Park is like journeying back in time to when the Ice Age still reigned supreme and ice covered the world.

Today, much of that ancient ice still remains at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula in a lush but harsh terrain where ice, mountains, and ocean meet. This national park in Seward, Alaska, sweeps over a staggering 607,805 acres of unspoiled wilderness along the southeastern coast of Alaska. The Harding Icefield , a remnant of when ice ages carved out this land, is the largest icefield contained within U.S. borders. It stretches out for 700 miles of miles-thick ice. 

During a hosted trip to Seward , I fell in love with this wild, untamed land. Snow-capped soaring peaks of the Seward Peninsula Mountains always loom in the distance, but the glaciers that make this park so special are what really drew me here. From hanging glaciers to receding and surging ice walls, seeing the massive and awe-inspiring power of how ice continues to shape this land makes one feel humbled.

Exploring the outdoor wonders of Kenai Fjords isn’t the only activity you can enjoy here, however. Hiking, ocean tours, and biking are all popular, but eating local, learning about the indigenous culture, and taking in the local vibes are also a lot of fun.

Although I only had a few days in Seward, here are my favorite experiences in Kenai Fjords National Park.

1. Spot Local Wildlife 

I was hosted by Pursuit Collections , which has a variety of adventures in its Alaska Collection. Being a provider of attraction and hospitality experiences, Pursuit owns and operates Kenai Fjords Tours. Even if I wasn’t hosted by Pursuit, I would overwhelmingly recommend the Northwestern Fjord Tour for the simple fact that it goes further and longer than most of the boat tour operators in the area.

This full-day narrated boat tour brings visitors along the Northwestern Fjord to see three tidewater glaciers, to the little islands that dot the fjord, and along seabird rookeries. Most of Kenai Fjords National Park can only be accessed by the water, so taking a boat tour of this gorgeous land is a must.

On our first day trip, the weather was gray and ominous, promising rough crossings, but the skilled and knowledgeable captain and crew handled it with ease. Along the way, they spotted frolicking sea otters, massive colonies of sea lions, whale spouts in the distance, a pod of killer whales, and the delightful little puffins that call this area home.

We cruised through hidden bays with waterfalls that looked as if they came straight out of the Disney movie Ferngully . We were educated on the life span and awesome power of the glaciers we were almost close enough to touch.

A light breakfast and lunch is included on this tour, but if you need a steaming hot chocolate or a glass of the local brews, the bar is open as well. Oh, and the homemade, gooey chocolate chip cookie at the end of the day tour will probably taste like the best cookie you’ve ever had.

Pro Tip: I don’t care how calm the harbor looks or how beautiful the weather seems, take motion sickness pills before the tour. Our bad weather day made our tour especially rough, but even on calm days, a dozen or so folks end up getting sick each trip. Don’t ruin this special experience with seasickness.

2. Take A Glacier Dinner Cruise

Departing from Seward in the afternoon, this Kenai Fjords Tours evening cruise also starts from Resurrection Bay before gliding deeper into Kenai Fjords National Park to see glaciers up close.

A plated meal of crab cakes, roasted corn, salad, and a dinner roll makes for a nice romantic dinner on board while you gaze at the impossibly deep blue of the glaciers, watch whales breach in the water, or see otters playfully float alongside.

Pro Tip: Definitely layer up, even in the summer. The wind is staggeringly cold, so a hat and gloves can definitely make this cruise more comfortable, especially if you spend most of your time out on deck watching the beautiful lush scenery go by.

3. Hike The Exit Glacier

As the only glacier in the park you can hike to, Exit Glacier is one of the 35 glaciers that pour over the Harding Icefield. It earned its name by being the exit point for the first recorded crossing of the Harding Icefield in 1968.

There is a series of trails to access the Exit Glacier. The first is an easy-to-moderate 1-mile hike to the Glacier View Loop or the 1.8-mile path to the Glacier Overlook Trail.

The other option is the challenging and sometimes dangerous 8.2-mile Harding Icefield Trail , which has an elevation gain of 1,000 feet per mile and takes 6–8 hours to complete. This trail is recommended for skilled hikers only.

We did the Glacier Overlook Trail, which rewarded our steps with sweeping vista views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Exit Glacier itself is a marvel to see. Its beauty is breathtaking to witness, but it’s also sobering in the fact that it is retreating at an average rate of 125 feet a year.

Nevertheless, the Glacier Overlook Trail is a well-maintained trail, but it can be moderately strenuous in places as it weaves over the glacially carved inclines.

Pro Tip: While the Exit Glacier area is open year-round, the road to the glacier is usually inaccessible to cars from late-October to mid-November due to snow.

4. Learn About Wildlife

Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park are teeming with wildlife. You’re likely to spot a moose along the banks of the Resurrection and Snow Rivers, see a playful sea lion in the Seward Harbor , and view more bird life than you can count.

The Alaska Sealife Center

The easiest way to get up close and personal with the native wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park is a visit to the Alaska Sealife Center . Located in downtown Seward, this public aquarium and permanent marine mammal rehabilitation center features all different kinds of species, including puffins, salmon, seals, octopus, steller sea lions, and more.

It’s also a great place to learn about the Sealife Center’s animal rehabilitation efforts, which were featured on National Geographic’s Alaska Animal Rescue . The aquarium also has a touch tank and a variety of encounters with animals like a sea otter or an octopus.

Ididaride Dog Sled Tours

Believe it or not, dog-sled tours are available during the summer months as well as the winter. Ididaride Dog Sled Tours offers tours just a short flight from the Seward Airport to its dog-sledding camp on a glacier, where you can experience a dog-sled ride through the gorgeous backdrop of glaciers.

Visitors can ride on the runners and help drive the sled or just relax and enjoy the ride. The Summer Wilderness Tour is done on wheeled sleds for an hour and a half tour.

See The Bears 

Kenai Backcountry Adventures offers the only bear-viewing tour from Seward, Alaska. This 12-hour tour includes a full-day bear-viewing experience in Lake Clark National Park and includes all gear, lunch, and airfare.

5. Explore Seward’s Charming Streets

Seward’s historic downtown is a fun place to spend half a day or so. With plenty of little shops , you’ll have a lot of chances to pick up thoughtful souvenirs or hand-crafted gifts. Art lovers will adore the local galleries and all the murals painted around town.

In fact, downtown Seward is considered the “Mural Capital of Alaska” with more than 30 paintings depicting famous events, historical characters, and the landscape of Alaska’s Kenai Fjords Peninsula.

The Seward Community Library & Museum is worth a visit to see the collection and history of Seward throughout the years.

Pro Tip: A great way to explore Seward is with the Seward free shuttle, which runs a 5-mile route that takes about 30 minutes to complete. Seward City Tours offers an informative, 1-hour Historical City Tour , or a 5-hour Seward Deluxe Tour . The History and Glacier Combo is a happy medium for those who can’t do the full 5-hour tour. The tours include luggage storage and shuttle service to any destination in town.

Related Reading:

• 6 Quaint Small Towns To Visit While Exploring Kenai Peninsula In Alaska
• The One Thing You Should Do Every Time You Visit A National Park
• 6 Budget-Friendly Activities In Anchorage To Experience The Best Alaska Has To Offer

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, photo gallery.

Last updated: November 9, 2016

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

PO Box 1727 Seward, AK 99664

907 422-0500

Stay Connected

• Whale and Bear Photo Tour 2025
• Anan Photo Tour 2025
• Katmai Bears 2025
• Bear and Puffin Photo Tour 2025
• Costa Rica Photo Tour 2024
• Bear and Puffin Photo Tour 2024
• Whale and Bear Photo Tour 2024
• Katmai Bears 2024
• Kenai Fjords Photo Tour 2024
• Desert Photo Retreat Photography Workshops
• Private Photo Workshops – Tours
• Desert Photo Retreat
• Photo Gallery

Alaska Photo Tours

Professional Photographer

Ron and Janine have been making their living with Ron's photography for more than 20 years!

Long-time Alaskan

Ron has made Alaska his home for over 40 years!

Small Group Size

We keep our group sizes small to improve teaching opportunities and to lessen our impact.

Best locations at the best times

As a long time professional Alaska photographer, Ron knows when and where to be for the best photo opportunities!

2025 Photo Tours

Alaska Bear and Puffin Photo Tour

Alaska bears, bears and bears, oh yes, and puffin, eagles landscapes and much more!

June 20-26, 2025 - 1 Space Remains June 25-July 1, 2025 - 3 Spaces Remain

Alaska Whales, bears and much more!

9 day/8 night Inside Passage yacht based trip to prime bear and whale viewing, along with glaciers and more!

July 22-30, 2025 -  Space Available

Katmai Bears Photo Tour

8 days/7 nights Katmai National Park boat based trip to prime bear viewing and more!

August 11-18, 2025 -  4 Spaces Remain

Anan Photo Tour

6 days and 5 nights, including 5 nights hotel, meals, boat charter, and 2 days photographing bears at Anan Wildlife Observatory.

July 30 - August 3, 2025 - Space Available

Arizona Photo Tours & Workshops

Join Ron for some Arizona Photography

Private Workshops / Photo Tours

You pick the time, location and subject, I provide the instruction, guiding and logistics.

Due to Ron's busy photo tours schedule he will not be offering private tours or workshops in 2023 or 2024.

2024 Photo Tours Limited Space Available on 2024 Costa Rica Photo Tour

Costa Rica-Osa Peninsula Photo Tour

9 days/8 nights on the Osa Peninsula photographing in one of the most biodiverse places in the world!

November 21-29, 2024 - Only 3 Spaces Remain  

June 20-26, 2024 -  Full 

June 25-July 1, 2024 - Full

July 21-29, 2024 - Full

Kenai Fjords Photo Tour

6 days/6 nights Kenai Fjords National Park boat based trip to prime wildlife viewing and stunning fjord landscapes!

May 28 - June 3, 2024 - Full

Tour Not Offered in 2024

August 11-18, 2024 - Full

Unscheduled Photo Tours

No dates at this time

Valley of fire state park, nevada..

Photo Workshop – Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Advanced Search »

• Don't have an account? Register Now

Visit our Help Center to find the answers.

CDL Shuttle Driver Kenai Fjords Tours

Join Kenai Fjords Boat Tours as a Shuttle Driver!

Make connections with guests visiting from all over the world!

CDL Shuttle Driver

Uses company transportation assets to move guests and cargo in a safe, friendly and timely manner. Drivers conduct and coordinate basic maintenance on company vehicles and maintain records in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation and company standards

• Conduct pre and post operation maintenance on assigned vehicle daily. Annotate issues correctly
• Operate shuttles along assigned routes, reporting changes or challenges to the coordinator
• Coordinate and communicate with guest service, group coordination and marine staffs to ensure that guests receive the best possible service and important information is shared throughout the company
• Maintains records in accordance with company, state and DOT requirements regarding vehicle maintenance, driver activities and traffic incidents

How to Apply

Apply at the link and a hiring manager will contract you.

Contact Info

• [email protected]
• (907) 224-4555
• www.alaskacollection.com

Thunder Bay, Kenai Fjords National Park, and marine debris found

Sarah Conlin, Ashley Lutto/NPS/USFWS

You are exiting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website

You are being directed to

We do not guarantee that the websites we link to comply with Section 508 (Accessibility Requirements) of the Rehabilitation Act. Links also do not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.