Seward, Alaska: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to explore the wonders of Seward, Alaska? This town is just 130 miles south of Anchorage and is a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. It's known for its stunning glaciers, mountains, and lots of marine wildlife. If you're looking for a thrilling glacier cruise, a tough hike, or a taste of local culture, Seward has it all.

This guide will show you the top experiences in Seward. You'll get to see the park's amazing landscapes and try the fresh seafood that makes Seward famous. So, are you ready to see what Seward, Alaska has to offer?

Key Takeaways

• Seward is a scenic Alaskan town located 130 miles south of Anchorage, accessible by cruise ship, car, or train.
• The town is the gateway to the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park, known for its glaciers, mountains, and diverse marine life.
• Top activities in Seward include glacier and wildlife cruises, hiking to the accessible Exit Glacier, exploring hiking trails, visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center, and enjoying scenic flights over the Harding Icefield.
• Seward offers a variety of outdoor adventures, from fishing charters and kayaking to zipline experiences and sled dog tours.
• The town features the beautiful Seward Waterfront Park, hosting festivals and events throughout the year.

Explore Kenai Fjords National Park on a Glacier and Wildlife Cruise

When you visit Seward, Alaska, don't miss out on a Kenai Fjords National Park cruise. These tours let you see whales, marine wildlife, and stunning glaciers. You might start in Resurrection Bay and then head deeper into the park to see places like Aialik Bay, Holgate Glacier, Bear Glacier, or the Chiswell Islands.

Popular Cruise Options in Seward

Major Marine Tours is a top choice for exploring Kenai Fjords in Seward since 1990. Their crew knows where to find wildlife, like sea otters, Steller sea lions, porpoise, bald eagles, and mountain goats.

They offer different cruise options, including a 6-hour tour from the Seward Harbor 360 Hotel. This tour has comfy seating, modern restrooms, a snack bar, and USB chargers. The boat is also wheelchair friendly on the main deck, so everyone can join in.

Kenai Fjords National Park is a huge wonder with over 670,000 acres. It's home to more than 191 bird species and about 30 land mammals. The park's highlight is the 700-square-mile Harding Ice Field, one of just four ice fields in the U.S. Seeing this by boat is a way to connect with Alaska's wild beauty and wildlife.

Hike to Exit Glacier, Seward's Accessible Glacier

Just a 10-minute drive from Seward, Exit Glacier is one of Alaska's most accessible glaciers. It's the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park you can reach by road. You can take a short hike to different viewpoints or go on a guided ice hike onto the glacier for an unforgettable experience.

For a closer look, try a solo hike along the trails to the glacier's edge. Feel the power of nature as you see the huge glacier crevasses. Marvel at the blue ice and hear the crackling ice under your feet. Or, join a guided ice hike to go onto the glacier itself.

The exit Glacier is a stunning natural ramp, dropping 3,000 feet in a few miles from the vast Harding Icefield. As you explore, you'll see how plants have grown back in the past 120 years. This shows how the glacier has melted and moved back.

Whether you want a easy walk or a tough hike, Seward's Exit Glacier is a must-see. It shows the power and beauty of Alaska's glaciers.

Discover Seward's Hiking Trails for All Levels

Seward, Alaska, is a top spot for outdoor lovers. It has many scenic hiking trails for all skill levels. Whether you're experienced or just starting, you'll find trails that show off the area's stunning mountains, glaciers, and forests.

The Exit Glacier Trail is a favorite for those looking for a moderate hike. It's near Seward and takes you to the Exit Glacier. For those who love running, the Mount Marathon Race Route is a famous 6-mile race with a big climb.

For a relaxed walk, try the Caines Head Trail, a 4-mile path from forest to beach. The Tonsina Creek Trail is another option, a 3-mile hike that's about an hour round trip. If you're up for a tough hike, the Lost Lake Trail goes through a rainforest to high-elevation lakes where you can fish for trout.

For a unique experience, take a water taxi to reach hiking spots only reachable by boat. And make sure to visit the Alaska SeaLife Center to see Steller sea lions, puffins, salmon, and black oystercatchers up close.

Seward has trails for everyone, offering a chance to enjoy Alaska's beauty. So, grab your hiking gear and explore the trails that make Seward a paradise for outdoor lovers.

"Seward is a hiker's paradise, with trails that lead to breathtaking glaciers, serene lakes, and rugged mountain peaks. It's the perfect destination to connect with nature and challenge yourself."

Seward, Alaska: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

In Seward, Alaska, one of the top activities is world-class Seward fishing charters. You can book a fishing charter and go out with captains who know the best spots. They'll help you catch halibut, king salmon, and silver salmon.

You can choose from a half-day or full-day on the water. The captains will work hard to help you catch your limit.

Popular fishing charter options include ProFish-n-Sea Charters and Saltwater Safari Company Fishing Charters. These companies offer guided salmon fishing and halibut fishing trips. They cater to anglers of all skill levels.

The captains and crew love the sport and aim to give you an unforgettable fishing experience.

Whether you're an expert or new to fishing, Seward's charters offer a chance to experience the thrill of Seward fishing. You'll also see Alaska's stunning coastal landscapes.

Take a Flightseeing Tour over Glaciers and Mountains

When you visit Seward, Alaska, don't miss out on a flightseeing tour. It's a chance to see the area's stunning glaciers and mountains from above. These tours give you a unique view of the Kenai Fjords National Park, the Harding Icefield, and the Chugach National Forest.

In just under an hour, you'll fly over the massive Harding Icefield. It's the largest icefield in the U.S., covering over 1,600 square miles. You'll also see tidewater glaciers flowing into Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park. This view from above lets you see the true size and beauty of these glaciers.

A glacier viewing cruise is great for getting close to the glaciers. But a flightseeing tour gives you a special view. You'll see the mountain views and the vast Harding Icefield. With skilled pilots, you'll take in the stunning landscapes. You'll also get amazing photos and memories to cherish.

Choose from a 45-minute tour or a 2-hour adventure for an unforgettable experience. A Seward flightseeing tour is the best way to see Alaska's coastal beauty.

Stroll Along the Seward Waterfront Park

Seward is a gem along Resurrection Bay, full of natural beauty and outdoor fun. A top activity here is walking along the Seward Waterfront Park. This 5-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the bay and mountains.

Walking here, you'll see amazing landscapes and wildlife. Look out for bald eagles flying high, sea otters in the water, and sea lions or harbor seals on the rocks.

The trail also has murals that tell stories of Seward's history and nature. These colorful artworks make the walk even more special.

Whether you want a relaxing walk, a bike ride, or to explore Seward's Alaskan landmarks, the Seward Waterfront Park is ideal. It's a peaceful place to enjoy the beauty of the coast.

Explore Remote Areas by Water Taxi

In Alaska, car-accessible trailheads are just the start of the adventure—most destinations are only accessible by boat or plane. In Seward, you can hop on a Seward water taxi, an easy and inexpensive way to expand your horizons.

One popular spot to explore is Caine's Head, which has an abandoned WWII fort ripe for discovery. You can even spend the night there in a cozy cabin. For an even more adventurous option, consider booking remote yurts out in Resurrection Bay.

These water taxis offer a unique opportunity to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach. Whether you're seeking history, stunning scenery, or a peaceful retreat, Seward's water taxis can transport you to some truly remarkable remote destinations.

So if you're looking to explore Seward's stunning natural wonders in a unique and adventurous way, a water taxi is definitely worth considering. With so many remote destinations just waiting to be discovered, the possibilities are endless!

Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center

No trip to Seward is complete without a visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center. It's the top aquarium and marine animal rehabilitation place in the state. Here, you'll see everything from the big Steller sea lions to the fun puffins and colorful salmon.

At the center, you'll have fun and help a good cause. It's more than just an aquarium; it's a place for wildlife rehab and research. They work to protect Alaska's marine animals. You'll see creatures like the black oystercatcher up close, which will make you appreciate the area's ecosystems more.

Seeing the sea lions move gracefully or watching the puffins is a must in Seward. Spend a few hours learning about the marine life here. You'll leave with a deeper respect for the amazing natural world of this place.