Mountains, a tranquil ocean bay, and abundant wildlife make Seward an idyllic camping destination.
On the southern end of the famous Kenai Peninsula, Seward encompasses the best of Alaska with a collision of marine and mountainous environments. Whales patrol the near shore waters while seals and puffins lounge on shorelines between swims. Camping opportunities are numerous in and around Seward, which serves as the perfect jumping-off point for visits to Kenai Fjords National Park and the Exit Glacier, plus fishing charters and hiking trips. Surrounded by wild landscapes, this port town offers no shortage of stunning views and recreation for all levels of Alaskan adventure seekers.
Kenai Fjords National Park encompasses more than a half-million acres of wild country to the west of town. Cruises open access to remote shorelines and use Seward as a jumping-off point. Loaded with glaciers, fjords, and islands, the possibilities for adventure are endless here.
Very few glaciers have convenient road access and Exit Glacier is one of the best. Located within minutes of Seward, this is a must-visit glacier where you can stand at the overlook or hike to the ground level for a closeup view. Guided ice climbing tours are available.
Test your hiking abilities on the 4.5-mile Mt. Marathon trail. Famous for its role in a grueling adventure race, this hike is much shorter than that full race but still steep and challenging. It begins on a Jeep trail through a rugged valley, climbs a steep slope to a moderate bench, then winds and climbs to the peak where views of the bay and surrounding mountains await.
Explore the waterfront and take advantage of water taxi services to reach more remote trailheads, rental cabins, and yurts with no road access. Resurrection Bay is ripe with water-based opportunities, and travelers who pack light and are willing to go off-grid can reach some amazing locations in the bayby water.
Accessible year-round, Seward is a small community connected to the road system—visitors can reach town via Highway 9 on the Kenai Peninsula. June, July, and August are the best months for exploring the Kenai Fjords National Park by water and for general hiking in mild weather conditions. The bay in Seward is protected by mountains, but winter still delivers storms that make for rough sea conditions and very cold weather. Even still, winter can be desirable for skiing, as trails remain accessible from town.