Explore the abundant marine wildlife and the glaciers of the Harding Icefield.
The Kenai (pronounced “keen-eye”) Mountains continue to rise from the collision of two tectonic plates: the subduction of the Pacific plate under the Continental plate. Receding glaciers carve mile-deep water fjords surrounded by caverns of rock and ice. Massive tidewater glaciers spill into the plankton-rich waters of the Pacific. The rugged islands of the fjords are rookeries for millions of nesting migratory birds and puffins. Kenai Fjords National Park is one of Alaska’s rare treasures where kayakers, fisher-people, and nature enthusiasts alike are treated to a wildlife extravaganza. The fjords are home to orca, humpback, gray, and fin whales. Smaller marine mammals such as sea otters, harbor seals, Dall’s porpoises and sea lions also frolic in these glacial waters.
Boat tours are a great way to explore the beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park, one of Alaska’s rare treasures. Imagine glaciers carving new valleys and breaking off into the ocean as whales feed for their long migrations north and south. Experienced skippers navigate the waters of these glacier-carved valleys, exploring the Park’s coastline, tidewater glaciers and seeking out marine wildlife. Salt spray mixes with mountain mist as you explore the ancient stunning seascape and listen for the thundering booms as giant slabs of glacier calve into the sea, heard as far as 20 miles away.
The land surrounding the Kenai Fjords is a frozen desert of glaciers and ice caps including the massive Harding Icefield – at 300 square miles, it is one of the four major ice caps in the United States. This terrain invites the adventurous hiker to explore the limits of the Alaskan wilderness.
Several of our Alaska Adventures feature guided hikes in Alaska’s wild lands and day cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park. For a truly unique experience in this coastal wilderness, join us for a stay at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge, the only lodge situated within the borders of this spectacular Park. The rugged beauty of Alaska’s seacoast is balanced perfectly with the cozy comforts of private cabins, a gorgeous main Lodge and hearty meals with gourmet flair. A stay at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge is sure to be a unique and memorable experience.