The Distinctly-Shaped Icy Wonderland That Must Be Alaska's Most Breathtaking National Park

With abundant wildlife, a rich history, and astounding natural sights rarely witnessed anywhere else in the world, Alaska is an outdoor adventurer's ultimate playground. From watching bears in their natural habitat at Anan Wildlife Observatory to exploring the volcanic black sand beaches on Adak Island, the state is not only a photographer's dream but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in untamed nature. At the heart of this vast wilderness lies the Kenai Fjords National Park, a gateway to Alaska's raw beauty, with dramatic glaciers, a rugged coastline, and unparalleled wildlife encounters.

Founded in 1980, the park spans over 600,000 acres of wilderness in the Kenai Peninsula. Its terrain includes coastlines, remote islands, and glaciers, with more than half of the park covered in snow and ice. The park's defining features are the Harding Icefield and Exit Glacier, remnants of the Ice Age that continue to sculpt the land, forming u-shaped valleys. These areas are filled with water to create the awe-inspiring fjords that make the park famous.

Located just 12 miles away from the historic port city of Seward, Kenai Fjords is a must-visit destination. While camping and cabins within the park are very limited, Seward offers accommodation options alongside small-town charm and warm hospitality, as well as access to fishing, scenic strolls, skiing, and dog sledding.

The park's glaciers are among its most iconic and spectacular features, drawing visitors from around the globe. The Harding Icefield, a massive expanse spanning 700 square miles with over 40 glaciers, is a must-visit. Its vastness is both humbling and exhilarating, providing the distinct icy landscape that defines much of the park.

For adventurous visitors, the Harding Icefield Trail is a highlight. This 8.2-mile hike begins at Exit Glacier and ascends 3,000 feet, offering panoramic views of the icefield along the way. It is a challenging but unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience, best undertaken in the summer months. Proper preparation, including sturdy footwear and sufficient supplies, is essential, and a knowledgeable guide can enhance the experience, particularly when it comes to navigating the route safely. Tragically, some visitors have noted a visible recession of the Exit Glacier in recent years, a stark reminder of the impacts of global warming on these landscapes.

For those seeking a less strenuous adventure, Exit Glacier itself is one of the park's most accessible features. Extending across 4 miles, it offers stunning views of glacial formations and is reachable by road from Seward, either by shuttle bus or taxi. The Exit Glacier Nature Center provides visitor resources and ranger-led tours, while trails like the 1.1-mile Glacier View Loop Trail offer easy walks with breathtaking sights that the whole family can enjoy.

Kenai Fjords National Park isn't just about glaciers; its dramatic fjords and coastal scenery are equally captivating. From May to September, kayaking tours allow visitors to experience the park's rugged coastline and marine wildlife from the water. Paddling through these pristine waters often brings encounters with seals, sea otters, and Dall's porpoises. For those preferring a more relaxed approach, Kenai Fjord Tours — a premier local tour operator — also offers day trips and half-day excursions showcasing the park's natural beauty from the comfort of a boat. These tours often include stops at Fox Island, a stunning location known for its unique heart-shaped rocks and picturesque beaches.

The park's water is teeming with marine life, including orcas, fin whales, and humpback whales. Whale-watching tours are a highlight, particularly during the summer months when these magnificent creatures are most active and can be seen rising to the surface of the water. Bird enthusiasts will also marvel at the nearly 200 bird species spotted in the park, from characterful puffins to majestic eagles. Resurrection Bay is another prime spot for wildlife viewing, with family-friendly tours operating throughout the summer months.

Staying in Seward combines adventure, wildlife encounters, and small-town charm. The harbor town offers a range of activities, from world-class halibut and salmon fishing on day-long charters to trails like the Mount Marathon Hike, which offers panoramic views. While Anchorage is considered the most depressing city in America during winter, Seward transforms into a picturesque destination for cross-country skiing and dog sledding. Visitors can also explore the Seward Waterfront Park, which features camping facilities, picnic areas, and trails along the picturesque coastline. Whether you're admiring its glaciers, kayaking through fjords, or spotting whales, this icy wonderland is an otherworldly travel destination like no other.