2 Best Day Hikes in Kenai Fjords National Park

Last updated on July 31st, 2022

Overview

Kenai Fjords National Park is located in south-central Alaska, near the town of Seaward, about 130 miles south of Anchorage. The beautiful park contains the largest ice field in the United States, Harding Icefield. Nearly 40 glaciers flowing from Harding Icefield have carved the numerous fjords for which the park is named. Most of the park is only accessible by water so boat tours are the best way to see the immense power of the tidewater glaciers up close. These tours also offer the best chance of seeing the park’s marine wildlife including seals, otters, orcas, humpback whales, and many more. The only maintained trails are found in the Exit Glacier area and the 2 best hikes in Kenai Fjords are listed below. Official Website.

State	Alaska
Nearest Metro Area	Anchorage, AK
Area Size	669,984 acres
Established	December 2, 1980
Hiking Trails	5 miles

HEY YOU, reading this page! Help me, help you – we make a small commission every time an item or piece of gear is purchased after clicking on the links on our GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS pages. If you are in need of some new BOOTS, a new TENT or SLEEPING BAG, TREK POLES, etc. please consider buying after clicking on one of the links on our site! At no additional cost to you, it helps us keep posting more great hiking recommendations for our readers! Happy Hiking!

Click here for more National Park hikes!
You can also view some of our most popular Gear Recommendations here!

Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Hikes in Kenai Fjords National Park

1. Harding Icefield Trail

This trail rises through a forest to end up above the tree-line with awe-inspiring views of the Harding Icefield. Snow and ice stretch as far as you can see, broken up only by the occasional peak. You will want to check the trail conditions before starting out as it remains snow-covered well into July. Come prepared! The trailhead is found near the Exit Glacier Nature Center.

8.2 miles – Out and back
3100′ gain
Strenuous

2. Exit Glacier Loop

System of short trails with excellent viewpoints of Exit Glacier along the way. The trail is paved most of the way to the Toe of the Glacier but becomes rocky as it meets the glacier. At its end you can get close enough to touch the glacier. This loop is a great chance to see the impact the glaciers have made on the surrounding landscape. The trailhead is also located next to the Exit Glacier Nature Center.