Four Day Seward Itinerary
Seward is a picturesque town nestled between towering mountains and Resurrection Bay. Known as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward offers convenient access to nature, wildlife, and adventure. Whether arriving by train, road, sea, or air, visitors will find countless ways to experience the charm of this coastal community. Here’s a 4-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Seward.
Day 1
Kick off your Seward adventure with a day cruise to explore the stunning fjords, glaciers, and wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park. Watch for humpback whales, orcas, puffins, sea otters, and seals as you cruise up to towering tidewater glaciers that calve ice into the water with a thunderous roar. Most vessels are catamarans that minimize swaying of the boat, and some shorter cruise routes stay in more protected waters, so you can enjoy the scenery and not worry about getting your sea legs tested.
After your cruise, treat yourself to dinner at one of Seward’s excellent locally-owned restaurants. You’ll find an impressive variety of cuisine for a town of only 3,000 residents, including Asian, Greek, and of course Alaskan, which consists of wild Alaska seafood such as king crab legs, salmon, or halibut prepared with locally inspired flavors.
Day 2
For your second day, choose one of the following options to experience Alaska’s coastal heritage, or cast a line for legendary fish.
If you want to try one of Alaska’s oldest forms of water transportation, join a guided kayaking tour, or rent kayaks to paddle along the coastline at nearby Lowell Point. Kayaks date back thousands of years in Alaska and were primarily used for hunting by Alaska Native Peoples. Glide past rocky cliffs, spot marine wildlife, and experience the serene beauty of Resurrection Bay or Kenai Fjords National Park.
Another option is to charter a fishing trip to test your skills against Alaska’s prized salmon, halibut, rockfish, and cod. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, fishing in these rich waters is a memorable experience. Your fishing guides will fillet your catch right on the dock, and you can arrange to have it frozen, packaged, and shipped home.
Next, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, a world-class marine research and rehabilitation facility. Get up close to puffins, sea lions, and touch-tanks that offer hands-on marine education. The center is an excellent way to learn about the region’s marine ecosystem while supporting important conservation work.
Day 3
Today, immerse yourself in Alaska’s glacier-covered landscapes or escape to a secluded cove.
Take a helicopter ride to land on a glacier, where you can experience the thrill of dog sledding on snow – even in the summer! This once-in-a-lifetime adventure combines jaw-dropping views with an introduction to Alaska’s official state sport — dog mushing.
If you prefer to stay at lower altitude, hire a water taxi to take you to a remote cove in Resurrection Bay, where you can hike to a secluded waterfall. For an extended wilderness experience, consider staying at a remote lodge accessible only by boat, where you’ll enjoy tranquility and stunning views. Many of these places are less than an hour by boat from the Seward harbor.
In the evening, unwind with a leisurely stroll through Waterfront Park and Downtown Seward. Walk the paved path along the bay, visit historic monuments, and take in the views of Resurrection Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Day 4
Spend your final day exploring Seward’s iconic trails.
Drive to Exit Glacier and choose from a variety of hiking options, which are the only established hiking trails in Kenai Fjords National Park. A short, accessible trail leads to a viewpoint near the glacier, while the more challenging Harding Icefield Trail rewards advanced hikers with sweeping views of the massive ice field. Along the road to the glacier, you’ll see signposts that indicate the year the glacier's leading edge reached that spot.
If you’re looking for a challenging, brag-worthy hike, then tackle Mt. Marathon, famous for its grueling 4th of July race. The race starts in downtown Seward and runners sprint to the base of the mountain, and then scramble to the top, before making a treacherous descent down the scree to the finish line. Fortunately, you can hike at your own leisurely pace, and be rewarded with incredible views of the town, glaciers, mountains, and Resurrection Bay. Be prepared for steep inclines and rugged terrain, as this hike is only recommended for experienced hikers. You can challenge yourself with the race route or take the less-steep Jeep Route for an easier grade – but still plenty of climbing.
Wrap up your Seward experience with live music at a local bar or brewery. Enjoy great food, drinks, and chat with the locals.
Seward is a place where adventure meets relaxation, offering something for everyone. From thrilling glacier landings to peaceful waterfront strolls, you’ll find countless ways to connect with Alaska’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking wildlife, world-class seafood, or unforgettable outdoor experiences, Seward is sure to leave you inspired.
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