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Kenai Hiking Guide
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Guide to the Best Hiking in the Kenai Peninsula
If you dream of going out into the rugged wilderness, surrounded by vibrant trees and abundant wildlife, the Kenai Peninsula is one of the best places you can go. With plenty of hiking trails around, you’ll find adventure around every corner.
Let’s go over some of the best hikes in the Kenai Peninsula.
Skyline Trail
- Length: ~2 miles
- Elevation Gain: over 2000 feet
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Difficulty: Hard
If your idea of a great hike is to scale a mountain for a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, you are going to love the Skyline Trail in Alaska.
While there is lots of conflicting information about this particular trail, there are several things you should be aware of. First, the trail is steep, being over a 20% grade the entire way. Second, there have been sightings of bears, uncommon but a definite possibility. It is recommended that you bring some sort of protection just in case.
The view at the top of the trail allows hikers to see for miles around. Try to go on a clear day as the visibility can be very high due to the low amounts of pollution.
Kenai River Trail
- Length: ~ 10 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~ 500 ft
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Difficulty: Moderate
The Kenai River Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in the area as it runs through Alaskan forests along the banks of the Kenai River. During fishing season, the area is well traversed by fishermen looking for a big catch.
This also means that there is a fair amount of bears during this time as well, so exercise caution and don’t make too much noise on the hike. The elevation gain is minimal on the hike but there are portions of the trail that can become overgrown, so watch your step.
All in all, the Kenai River Trail is a great choice for those wanting to experience both the tranquil sounds and sights of the Alaskan wilderness.
Harding Icefield Trail
- Length: 8.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~3700 ft
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Difficulty: Very Hard
The Harding Icefield Trail allows hikers a chance to travel back in time for a glimpse at what Alaska might have looked like in ages past. The end of the trail gives you a close look at Exit Glacier, making the landscape a seemingly infinite sheet of ice and snow, broken occasionally by a mountain peak.
The difficulty of this hike is well known and it is important that you take the necessary precautions if you wish to venture on this trek. From bears to hostile weather, there are plenty of challenges that can arise. This said, should you prepare sufficiently and stick to the trail, Harding Icefield will perhaps be the most rewarding experience on this list.
To get a full, complete list of precautionary measures you should take, visit the National Park Service website.
Plan Your Alaskan Adventure Today
We all crave a bit of adventure in our lives, the trouble is where to find it. At Discover Alaska Lodging, you won’t have to look far. From excellent hiking and fishing opportunities to amazing wildlife, you can get the adventure of your dreams while staying at a well-kept cabin or cottage.
Browse our listings and book today.