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National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park

aerial image of Bear Glacier

Bear Glacier is the largest of nearly 40 glaciers that flow from the Harding Icefield.

Photo: USGS/Bruce Molnia

About

At the edge of the Kenai Peninsula lies a land where the ice age lingers. Nearly 40 glaciers flow from the Harding Icefield, Kenai Fjords' crowning feature. Wildlife thrives in icy waters and lush forests along the fjords once carved by the vast expanse of ice. Today, shrinking glaciers bear witness to the effects of our changing climate.

Activities

AstronomyStargazingBoatingBoat TourCampingBackcountry CampingCanoe or Kayak CampingCar or Front Country CampingClimbingMountain ClimbingIce ClimbingDog SleddingFishingFreshwater FishingFly FishingSaltwater FishingFoodFlyingHelicopter FlyingFixed Wing FlyingGuided ToursBoat TourHikingBackcountry HikingFront-Country HikingPaddlingCanoe or Kayak CampingKayakingJunior Ranger ProgramSkiingCross-Country SkiingSnowmobilingSnowshoeingWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark FilmShoppingBookstore and Park Store

Directions

Kenai Fjords National Park is located just outside the town of Seward in south-central Alaska, 126 miles south of Anchorage. Even though the park is often inaccessible during the winter months, Seward is accessible year-round via the Seward Highway, a National Scenic Byway. Follow the Seward Highway (AK-1) south from Anchorage. It will become AK-9 around mile 35 (87 miles from Anchorage) with AK-1 heading to Homer and Kenai. Continue on AK-9 to Seward.

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Weather

The weather in Kenai Fjords is difficult to predict and can change rapidly. The area generally enjoys a relatively temperate maritime climate, primarily due to the influence of warmer ocean currents that flows through the Gulf of Alaska. Summer daytime temperatures range from the mid 40s°F to the low 70s°F. Overcast and cool rainy days are frequent. Winter temperatures can range from the low 30s°F to -20°F.

News

May 14, 2026

Exit Glacier Area To Open for Summer Season on May 14, 2026

Kenai Fjords National Park is pleased to announce that the gate to the Exit Glacier area will be open for the summer season on May 14, 2026.

Apr 20, 2026

Kenai Fjords National Park Closes Exit Glacier Area to Snowmachine Use

Kenai Fjords National Park has closed the Exit Glacier developed area to snowmachine use due to recent warm temperatures and snowmelt.

Jan 13, 2026

Kenai Fjords National Park Opens Exit Glacier Area to Snowmachine Use

Kenai Fjords National Park opened the Exit Glacier Developed Area to off road snowmachine use on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.