Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-visit destination in Alaska. Its landscapes— shaped over millennia by glaciers, icefields, and ocean storms— are picturesque sights with deep fjords, rugged mountains, and cascading waterfalls. One of the best ways to discover this area is by kayaking, which offers a serene and up-close exploration of the park’s coastline and waters as you navigate through passages inaccessible by land or larger vessels.
Embark on a morning of kayaking through Kenai Fjords National Park with expert guides during Gondwana Ecotours’ Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure. Coast through pristine waters, watch out for chance wildlife encounters and learn more about the park’s unique ecology.
What’s It Like To Kayak In Kenai Fjords National Park?
Kayaking in Kenai Fjords National Park is a calm and enjoyable activity for those with and without prior kayaking experience. Most of the areas you’ll explore are shielded from wind by nearby cliffs and mountains, creating calm waters to navigate. Additionally, we use stable tandem kayaks that seat two people, creating a comfortable experience for novices and experts alike.
During this adventure, expert guides will join you. They will provide paddling instructions and a thorough safety briefing to ensure you feel prepared before your journey begins. They will also provide all necessary gear, including rubber boots, adjustable spray skirts, and life jackets to help keep you safe and dry. The guides will join you throughout the adventure, paddling alongside your group while sharing information about wildlife and the surrounding nature.
With the support of our knowledgeable guides, you can feel confident in your skills and focus on the breathtaking scenery around you.
Glacier Calving
Paddle in turquoise waters near floating icebergs and observe towering tidewater glaciers, like Holgate Glacier, from a safe distance. You may even encounter a glacier calving, a dramatic scene when massive chunks of ice break off from the glacier’s edge into the surrounding waters. This natural process is accompanied by thunderous cracks and large ripples across the ocean, immersing you in a firsthand display of the power of nature.
Seeing the sheer scale of these imposing glaciers and their brilliant shades of blue is a surreal experience, made even more extraordinary by the close access that kayaking provides.
Wildlife Encounters
Kenai Fjords National Park’s glacially-fed waters support a thriving ecosystem, making this adventure eventful with chance wildlife encounters. If you’re lucky, you might spot humpback whales or orcas breaching in the distance or harbor seals popping their curious heads up nearby. You may also encounter sea lions lounging on the rocky shores or porpoises leaping through the water. Enjoy the calls of various birds, like the bald eagle, as they soar overhead, or spot seabirds nesting on nearby rocks.
This adventure is a unique opportunity to see Alaska’s abundant wildlife in its natural habitat, right in the heart of the action.
An Immersive Adventure
After kayaking, enjoy some restful moments during a picnic lunch along the coastline. Admire the panoramic views of the fjords, ice-capped mountains, and lush forests. This idyllic setting allows you to unwind and connect with nature, taking in the beauty of the land, sea, and sky.
Experience the grandeur of Kenai Fjords National Park’s wildlife and nature firsthand during this memorable kayaking adventure, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the park’s natural wonders and diverse ecosystem.
