Seward, Alaska
Seward is beautifully situated amidst snow-capped peaks and Resurrection Bay, a picturesque harbor encircled by mountains. The city in Alaska was named after the Secretary of State under Abraham Lincoln, who went against public opinion to acquire Alaska from Russia. Seward has a rich maritime heritage, with a busy fishing port and the remarkable displays and conservation work at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Additionally, it is renowned as the historic starting point of the Iditarod Trail, the original dogsled race route connecting Seward to the interior of Alaska.
The coastal town is located around 2-2.5 hours south of Anchorage. It is also known as the "Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park".
Stroll along the waterfront trail in town, or use the seasonal shuttle that follows a route through various locations along the path. Additionally, many local companies offer transportation services to and from tours, with stops at the cruise ship dock, Seward railroad depot, and local hotels.
At the fascinating Alaska SeaLife Center, dedicated to putting visitors in close contact with cutting-edge marine research, discover how both injured wild animals and resident animals requiring medical treatment are nursed back to health.
Seward's Waterfront Bike Path is a two-mile, paved road along Resurrection Bay. This popular path is great for bikers, scooterists, rollerbladers, skateboarders, baby strollers, runners, and walkers. You can hop on this trail from the harbour at the north end, near The SeaLife Center at the south end, or from anywhere along Ballaine Blvd.
Located near Seward, the Kenai Fjords National Park serves as an excellent starting point for kayaking, boat rides, and hikes surrounded by stunning landscapes. This area teems with diverse marine life, including sea otters, porpoises, sea lions, and various whale species. The Harding Icefield stands out as the park's highlight, spanning hundreds of miles of icy terrain up to a mile thick, ranking as one of the United States' four primary ice caps. Witness the dramatic sight of active glaciers calving into the sea with a thunderous roar, leaving spectators in awe.
See the Resurrection River Valley on a guided hike to a viewpoint along the scenic Exit Glacier. Covering an area of approximately 2½ miles, this easily accessible valley glacier descends the mountainside from the Harding Icefield to the Resurrection River in a massive wall of blue-tinged ice. After a short drive to the trailhead, follow along the path on a hike toward’s the overlook where you can enjoy panoramic views.
Walk/Hike
The Two Lakes Trail - a relaxing, short one-mile loop in downtown Seward.
Ptarmigan Lake - a few miles north of Seward. Bear spray recommended.
Grayling Lake- easy, out and back trail. Extend your hike time by taking the route to Meridian Lake.
The Tonsina Trail - one of Seward's most popular and accessible hikes.
Take a day trip through Kenai Fjords National Park to the resort community of Girdwood, located in the foothills of the Chugach Mountains along the Turnagain Arm waterway. Hop on a cable car for a ascent to the Alyeska Resort, where you will find walking trails toward various picturesque viewpoints and a restaurant. Return down the mountain, where you can also head to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for an opportunity to see local wildlife up close.
Embark on an unforgettable journey with a full day scenic train ride through the Alaskan wilderness and a thrilling rafting experience among the icebergs of Spencer Glacier. Begin your adventure with a scenic drive to Portage Station to board the Alaska Railroad train car. Enjoy the breathtaking views through the large windows as you pass through the Placer River Valley and Spencer Glacier, a majestic landscape of towering peaks and steep valleys. Upon arrival, navigate the icebergs of Spencer Lake on a raft.
