Ever since I watched then-President Obama touring Resurrection Bay and Exit Glacier in 2015, I’ve dreamed of visiting Kenai Fjords National Park, not knowing if I would ever get to visit this faraway land one day. When I finally got the opportunity to visit, the reality was a thousand times better. Kenai Fjords is nestled in the heart of Alaska’s rugged landscape like a natural wonderland awaiting exploration. This pristine wilderness, characterized by its dramatic fjords, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife, offers families a remarkable opportunity for adventure and discovery. In this guide, I’ll give you the best tips for planning a memorable trip to Kenai Fjords with kids.
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Practical Information About Kenai Fjords NP
Kenai Fjords National Park, located on the southeastern coast of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, spans over 669,984 acres of awe-inspiring terrain. Its defining features are the numerous fjords carved by glaciers over millennia, creating a landscape of breathtaking beauty and ecological richness. The park is renowned for its abundant marine life, including whales, sea lions, and puffins, as well as its impressive ice formations, such as the iconic Exit Glacier.
Operating hours
Kenai Fjords National Park is open year-round with the primary months to visit being June, July, and August.
The road to the Exit Glacier area is not plowed during the winter months and is closed to cars. During this time, it becomes a great spot for winter activities, including cross-country skis, snowmobiles, and more.
There are 2 visitors centers within Kenai Fjords National Park. They are only operational during the summer months and closed outside that time.
- Kenai Fjords Visitor Center in Seward’s boat harbor is open daily from 9am to 7pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day (May 25 – Sep 2)
- The Exit Glacier Nature Building will be open daily from 9am to 5:30pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day (May 25 – Sep 2)
Fees
No entrance fees are charged at Kenai Fjords National Park.
Best Time to Visit Kenai Fjords With Kids
Kenai Fjords experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, from mild summers to harsh winters. The best time to visit Kenai Fjords National Park with your kids is from May to September. The temperatures are milder, the wildlife is more active, and the longer daylight hours are ideal for outdoor activities with kids. June through August, is the most popular time to visit. Although keep in mind that August is the wettest month in this section of Alaska. It is best to be prepared for rainy situations and pack rain jackets and boots.
How to Get To Kenai Fjords
Most people arrive at Kenai Fjords via the town of Seward, some 130 miles south of Anchorage, either by car or via Alaska Railroad. Either option offers a scenic drive/ride through the Chugach Mountains and along the rugged coastline. Many one-way Alaska cruises begin or conclude at Seward, so depending on your itinerary, you can set aside some additional time to explore the park.
Where to Stay When Visiting Kenai Fjords With Kids
Campgrounds
If you’re up for embracing your wild side and channeling your inner nature lover, camping within the park’s boundaries is an experience worth considering. Just make sure to pack warm sleeping bags, bug repellent, and be bear aware.
Cabins and Lodges
If the thought of roughing it in a tent and morning dew-drenched socks isn’t your cup of tea (trust me, I’ve been there), cozy cabins and lodges just outside the park offer the perfect blend of comfort and connection with nature. Snuggle up in a warm cabin after a long day of adventuring and indulge in some s’mores around a crackling campfire. The Seward Windsong Lodge is a great option here. The lodge is a bit rustic but has cozy rooms and all the amenities, including an on-site restaurant called Resurrection Roadhouse, which serves breakfast and dinner.
Harbor 360 Hotel
For families seeking comfort and a prime location, Harbor 360 Hotel Seward is an excellent choice. Overlooking the picturesque Resurrection Bay, this family-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. Plus, itโs within walking distance of many attractions and restaurants, making your stay just a little bit easier.
Best Things to Do in Kenai Fjord With Kids
Wildlife Cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park
One of the best ways to experience the park’s wildlife is by embarking on a boat cruise. Several tour operators in Seward offer family-friendly boat excursions that provide opportunities to spot humpback whales, sea otters, seabirds, and other coastal wildlife. Don’t forget to pack some good binoculars to take a good look at all the animals you will encounter.
Glacier Cruises
Many tours also include visits to tidewater glaciers. Embark on a glacier cruise through the icy waters of Kenai Fjords for a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular displays. These family-friendly excursions offer the opportunity to witness towering tidewater glaciers calving into the sea. Kids will delight in the chance to see massive chunks of ice float by while learning about the park’s glacial history and ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
Flightseeing Over Kenai Fjords
For a bird’s-eye view of Kenai Fjords’ dramatic landscapes, consider booking a flightseeing tour. From the vantage point of a small plane or helicopter, families may soar over the park’s jagged coastline, towering mountains, and gigantic ice fields, gaining a unique perspective on its natural beauty and grandeur. Flightseeing trips are an exciting way to explore the park’s isolated wilderness sections and take magnificent aerial images to be treasured for years.
Kid-Friendly Hikes at Kenai Fjords’ Exit Glacier
Kenai Fjords National Park offers kid-friendly paths, perfect for little legs. One of our favorites is the Exit Glacier Trail with a chance to get up close with a glacier. The trail loops 2.2 miles with some elevation and ends at an overlook.
There is a shorter one mile trail to a viewpoint with a sweeping perspective of the glacier’s descent. This trail is paved and is wheelchair accessible.
Junior Ranger Program
Engage your mini-adventurers in the Junior Ranger Program. They will channel their inner park ranger and learn all about the park’s ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Plus, they’ll earn a super cool badge at the end as they complete various tasks.
Other Ranger-Led Programs
Immerse your family in the wonders of Kenai Fjords National Park through ranger-led programs and activities. From guided hikes to interactive exhibits, these educational experiences offer valuable insights into the park’s natural and cultural history.
So, there you go! Have you visited Kenai Fjords National Park before? Which experiences would you add or remove from the list? I would love to hear about it. Also if you would like more tips on Alaska or other USA travel, please consider subscribing to the blog.
Thank you for reading xx
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