Kayaking

A kayaker pauses in the water near the face of a glacier.
Kayaking gets you up close and personal with the marine environment at Kenai Fjords

NPS / K. Thoresen

Paddling in Kenai Fjords can be a once in a lifetime experience. By dipping your paddle into these waters, you're participating in the long history of human powered travel along the Kenai Peninsula coast. You can experience the awe-inspiring power of a tidewater glacier, while dipping a hand into these frigid waters. And keep a sharp eye peeled for birds and marine mammals who call these food-rich waters their summer home.

 
 

Camping Along the Coast

Tens of thousands of years of glacial carving and strong waves have scoured much of the existing shoreline in the fjords. There are many sharp cliffs and finding safe landing beaches can be challenging. We recommend carrying a chart and/or map of the area. The National Geographic Trails Illustrated map (available in park bookstores) provides a broad view of the park and includes some landing beaches with food storage lockers. Consulting online satellite maps, such as Google Earth, before your trip, can also help provide a more current view of potential landings and beaches.

Camping in the coastal backcountry can be a different experience then traditional backpacking or other backcountry travel. (Carrying your gear in a kayak is certainly easier than carrying it on your back). We encourage all visitors to the coastal backcountry to follow Leave No Trace principles while visiting. It is also important to acquaint yourself with the regulations for our coastal areas, specifically regarding proper food storage and human waste disposal.

When choosing a landing/camping site, use clues such as driftwood accumulation, beach steepness and cobble size to judge what the wave action is likely to be in storm conditions. Make sure you will be able to launch from the beach in the morning if the wind or weather changes overnight. Avoid landing on beaches within two miles of a tidewater glacier.

If you'd prefer a roof over your head, consider staying in one of the two Public Use Cabins (PUC) in Aialik Bay. Aialik PUC is located in Abra Cove and has a view of Aialik Glacier. Holgate PUC is located in Holgate Arm with views of Holgate Glacier. Both cabins are available by reservation each summer.

 
 

Kayak Outfitters

If you are new to kayaking or looking for a guided trip, consider using one of many experienced guides when planning your kayak adventure in Kenai Fjords.

Last updated: May 3, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 1727
Seward, AK 99664

Phone:

907 422-0500

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