Kenai Fjords National Park is named after the striking fjords that carve through the landscape. The park covers an area of 2,711 km2 (1,046 sq mi) in sout...
Kenai Fjords National Park is named after the striking fjords that carve through the landscape. The park covers an area of 2,711 km2 (1,046 sq mi) in south central Alaska. Located on the Kenai Peninsula near the town of Seward, the park is small but easily accessible.
The Harding Icefield is one of four major ice caps in the USA. Covering over...
Kenai Fjords National Park is named after the striking fjords that carve through the landscape. The park covers an area of 2,711 km2 (1,046 sq mi) in south central Alaska. Located on the Kenai Peninsula near the town of Seward, the park is small but easily accessible.
The Harding Icefield is one of four major ice caps in the USA. Covering over half of the park, it is responsible for the formation of the 38 glaciers found here. It was the formation and movement of glaciers hundreds of years ago that created the deep fjords the park is so well known for.
This wonderful environment is home to a distinctive collection of marine and land wildlife. Approximately 20 species of seabirds - including the humorously named clown-faced puffins - nest along the coastline and sea lions, seals, sea otters and various whale species (killer, humpback and gray) are often visible. Communities of moose, bears, coyotes and wolves live in the forests while tenacious goats skip lightly on the mountains. Remarkably hardy vegetation also sets down roots in the park, despite the harsh winter climate and constantly changing terrain.
The park can be explored on foot and the Fjords by boat or kayak. Trails lead hikers on winding tours of the rugged, unspoilt land and ever-changing scenery. Tours to active glaciers offer an unforgettable experience and Ranger-led walks allow visitors the opportunity to learn more about the fascinating natural history of the region.
During winter months, roads to the park are closed but access is available in a number of alternative ways. Snowmobiles, dog sled and cross-country skiing are all popular pursuits and practical ways to enter the park once snow has fallen.
Expect high winds and the possibility of rain all year round and especially poor weather during autumn and winter.