Discover the raw beauty of Alaska's coast with a challenging hike along North Beach. Limited groups, breathtaking fjord views, and tidal flats await in Cooper Landing—perfect for adventurers seeking authentic wilderness. Read on to find out more about this unique journey.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape to handle the elevation changes and uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
The coastline has been shaped by glacial activity over thousands of years, leaving behind fjords and rugged cliffs characteristic of the Kenai Peninsula.
Conservation
Flying Cow Outfitters emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to preserve this fragile coastal environment for future generations.
Flying Cow Outfitters
Discover the raw beauty of Alaska's coast with a challenging hike along North Beach. Limited groups, breathtaking fjord views, and tidal flats await in Cooper Landing—perfect for adventurers seeking authentic wilderness. Read on to find out more about this unique journey.
Flying Cow Outfitters is a small adventure outfitter based in Cooper Landing, Alaska, offering guided river trips and coastal hikes on the Kenai Peninsula. The company operates the 7 Mile Rafting Trip on the Kenai River — a two-hour, seven-mile scenic float through a glaciated river valley with expert guidance and essential gear provided.
In addition to rafting, Flying Cow Outfitters guides hikers on the Tonsina Beach Hiking route, a 3.4-mile round trip through old-growth rainforest that leads to a tide-shaped beach rich with wildlife and seasonal forageable berries. The North Beach Hike is a 10-mile round trip along Resurrection Bay that is accessible only at low tide; this route includes a challenging 3-mile fjord-wall section and is limited to small groups to preserve safety and wilderness experience.
Guides emphasize safety, route knowledge, and local conditions while operating within Cooper Landing and nearby Seward areas. Flying Cow Outfitters focuses on delivering scenic, wildlife-focused outings that highlight glacier-fed rivers, coastal bays, and temperate rainforest ecosystems native to the Kenai Peninsula. Trips are designed for visitors seeking nature immersion with manageable logistics — transports, gear, and on-route guidance are provided as described for each itinerary. Bookings and current availability are published online and through local visitor centers directly.
Location
Cooper Landing, AK
Base of operations on the Kenai Peninsula
Top Trips
3 trips
7 Mile Rafting, Tonsina, North Beach
Small Groups
Limited
North Beach limited to small groups
Gear Provided
Essential gear
Rafting includes essential gear provided
Reserve the 7 Mile Rafting Trip or a coastal hike to Tonsina Beach or North Beach — departures and tide-aware scheduling available
Check Tide Tables
Plan your hike around low tide for full access to North Beach, especially the 3-mile fjord section.
Wear sturdy footwear
Trails include rocky and uneven surfaces, so proper hiking shoes are recommended for safety and comfort.
Bring waterproof gear
Rain or sea spray can make conditions wet; packing waterproof jackets and pants is advisable.
Carry plenty of water and snacks
Hydration keeps you energized through this demanding 10-mile round trip with stunning views at every turn.
Hiking boots
Sturdy boots provide necessary support and grip on rocky and muddy sections.
Layers of moisture-wicking clothing
Staying dry and comfortable through changing weather conditions is key.
Tide chart or app
Timing your hike with low tide maximizes access and safety.
Camera or binoculars
Capture the stunning vistas and distant wildlife along the coast.