Things to Do

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Swan Lake/ Swanson River Canoe Trail System is a complex of lakes, rivers and portages in the heart of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. The myriad of sparkling lakes within the Swan Lake system attracts canoeists of all interests and abilities, and offers a choice of several canoe routes of varying challenge levels, rewarding fishing opportunities, peace and relaxation. Several small rapids and riffles add a challenging element to this canoe trip, but it is considered moderately easy for those with basic canoeing skills.

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The Upper Kenai River is a very popular rafting destination for private boaters and guided raft trip participants. Within the available 17 river miles between Kenai and Skilak Lakes, mainly class 2 and some class 3. This section of the river requires some planning: once at Skilak Lake, rafters must either boat the seven miles to a take out point at Upper Skilak Lake Campground, or deflate their rafts and pack them up the Hidden Creek Trail to the Skilak Lake Loop Road, a distance of 2 miles, uphill. Rafters should always wear their personal floatation devices on this river due to the fast and cold waters.

The Six Mile Creek is one of the most challenging rafting rivers on The Kenai, the excitement and thrill of running this river with an expert is an experience unlike others on The Kenai. Towering rocky cliffs looming over the huge waves provide a stunning setting for this thrilling run. Mainly class 4 or 5 sections, it should only be attempted by experienced rafters or with a reputable company.

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Resurrection Bay provides a stunning backdrop of scenery and wildlife as you paddle your way in and out of coves tucked along the shoreline, sharing your serenity with sea lions, sea otters, a variety of whales and multitudes of puffin and other assorted avian. Start from shore to enjoy the inner portions of the bay, take a water taxi to the remote areas or fly-in to Kenai Fjords National Park to have a spectacular experience kayaking amidst the glaciers. Seward has been named one of the top ten kayaking towns in the United States and after a day of paddling we are sure you will agree.

Kachemak Bay surrounding Homer, Seldovia, and Halibut Cove has long been known for the best halibut fishing in the world, but more and more kayakers are finding the allure of the fjords of Kachemak Bay State Park irresistible. Your adventure is sure to bring you in contact with numerous sea otters and birdlife, and you might even encounter a whale or two, but you will always be simply awed by the scenery.

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The town of Seward is the launching point for a number of different glacier trips ranging from a short tour around Resurrection Bay to an all day excursion into Aialik Bay or Northwestern Fjord. Homer also offers a number of wildlife cruises in Kachemak Bay State Park. Remember that while you will be enjoying glacial views from the comfort of the boat cabin, the closer you get to the glaciers the more the temperature drops, so dress in warm layers.

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The Kenai is well known for the extensive camping opportunities available along its road system. Numerous public campgrounds are located within the Chugach National Forest, the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska State Parks unit, and within municipal areas of Seward, Soldotna, Kenai, and Homer.

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Feel the power, excitement, and energy of sled dogs as they take you on the ride of your life with one of The Kenai’s sled dog tour companies. Cuddle adorable sled dog puppies and see the inner workings of a real sled dog kennel.

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Flightseeing takes many forms on The Kenai, it can be enjoyed from airplanes, seaplanes, ski-planes, and helicopters. You can enjoy the spectacular scenery from the air as you fly over Kenai Fjords National Park, Lake Clark National Park, the Chugach National Forest or even Kachemak Bay State Park. Or you can land for an up close and personal look at a glacier, a volcano, or bears and other wildlife. It can also be your ticket to accessing remote fishing areas and hiking trails.

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If golf is your game you can’t miss The Kenai, where the natural beauty defies description. Enjoy five different challenging courses with breathtaking views. Tee up under the midnight sun and play golf in the middle of the night with regulation balls. Don’t be surprised if a moose or caribou play though, it is all part of the remarkable experience of golfing in the last frontier.

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For those who enjoy hiking and wilderness treks, The Kenai hosts over 400 miles of improved trails through pristine natural surroundings. Some trails are ideal for day-outings or family adventures while others are for heartier souls who are up to a challenge.

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Horseback riding has not replaced the dog sled for the traditional animal supported adventure in Alaska, but it has become a source of romance and adventure for many visitors to The Kenai. The opportunities for horsemen are numerous and range from mid-day, guided mountain trail rides to afternoon trots along the beach. Families can enjoy a group ride through scenic mountain passes and lush valleys, and hunters can ease the burden of packing out their meat with strong backs of packhorses.