Kenai Backcountry Adventures: Seward's Ultimate Outdoor Escapes - Anchorage

Kenai Backcountry Adventures: Seward's Ultimate Outdoor Escapes

Anchoragemoderate to difficult

Difficulty

moderate to difficult

Duration

4 hours to multi-day

Fitness Level

Participants should have good endurance, balance, and basic fitness to handle uneven terrain and cold conditions.

Overview

Discover Seward’s wild heart with Kenai Backcountry Adventures, offering everything from glacier ice climbing to bear safaris and backcountry skiing. Experience Alaska’s rugged landscapes with expert guides who provide personalized, spirited trips for every season.

Details

Set against the dramatic landscape of Seward, Alaska, Kenai Backcountry Adventures offers a spectrum of outdoor experiences that put you directly into the rugged wilderness of the Kenai Peninsula. This region is defined by towering icefields, glacial rivers, dense boreal forests, and vibrant wildlife populations that include Alaska’s iconic bears. From adrenaline-charged rafting runs on the Kenai and Resurrection Rivers to glacier climbing and heli-assisted trekking, their line-up of multi-season tours delivers immersive encounters with some of the last great wild spaces in the United States. Unique among Alaska outfitters, Kenai Backcountry Adventures provides intimate, small-group experiences designed to fit a wide range of skill levels and interests. Their Exit Glacier Ice Climbing and Ice Hiking adventures let travelers stand on ancient ice that grinds down some of the country’s most dramatic mountain terrain, while lodge-based bear safaris provide memorable, close-up views of Alaskan brown bears and their cubs in a responsible, sustainably managed setting. Seasonal packages transition smoothly from summer hiking through the Harding Icefield Trail to winter snowmobiling and splitboarding expeditions that access remote ice and powder fields. Their guides, praised for knowledge and kindness, tailor outings with personal attention, often accommodating families and special needs with thoughtful adaptations. The wilderness they guide through is part of the Kenai Fjords National Park and nearby wildlife refuges, where fjords sculpt granite coasts and glaciers carve deep valleys. With Kenai Backcountry Adventures, visitors gain a front-row seat to Alaska’s wild character, paired with expertly guided logistics and a genuine commitment to making outdoor adventure accessible and unforgettable in this iconic landscape.

Adventure Tips

Layer Up for Glacier Trips

Temperatures on glaciers like Exit Glacier can be much colder than in town—wear insulated, windproof layers and sturdy boots with good tread.

Bring Waterproof Gear for Rafting

Rafting the Kenai or Resurrection rivers means encounters with cold spray and rain showers—wear quick-drying clothes and a waterproof jacket.

Acclimate to Alaska’s Terrain

Many hikes involve uneven ground, rocky ascents, and glacier travel; build up to moderate hikes before tackling multi-day backcountry camping.

Book Early for Summer Bear Viewing

Bear safaris fill quickly during prime salmon-run season; ensure your spot by reserving several months ahead.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Anvil Mountain Access Point for lesser-trafficked hiking
  • Kachemak Bay tucked beaches reachable via kayak from Seward

Wildlife

  • Brown bears
  • Mountain goats

History

Seward is a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, established in 1980 to protect glaciers and marine wildlife habitats.

Conservation

Kenai Backcountry Adventures emphasizes low-impact travel and educates guests on preserving local ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning for soft light and wildlife activity
Golden hour for glacier and mountain peaks
Cloudy days for diffused light on ice

Best Viewpoints

  • Exit Glacier overlook
  • Harding Icefield vantage points
  • Kachemak Bay shoreline

What to Photograph

Glacier crevasses and ice caves
Brown bears in natural habitats
Snow-dusted alpine forests

Recommended Gear

Insulated Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Protects against wind, rain, and glacier chill during all excursions.

all specific

Mountaineering Boots

Essential

Provides sturdy footing for glacier hiking and ice climbing routes.

all specific

Layered Clothing System

Essential

Enables temperature regulation from exertion and changing weather.

all specific

Waterproof Gloves

Keeps hands warm and dry during cold-water and ice activities.

fall|winter|spring specific

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