Kayaking through the narrow inlets of the Kenai Fjords feels like stepping back in time. While the rugged landscape is remote and nearly inaccessible in some areas, people have been traveling these waterways for over a thousand years. The Sugpiaq people (also known as Alutiiq) learned to master the ever-changing Alaskan seasons by embracing the sea. They hunted, fished, and migrated on kayaks and flat-bottom boats, adapting to the ever-shifting ice fields and the extreme northern temperatures. They became connected to their environment in a way that few of us will ever have the opportunity to experience. Luckily, you can still get a sense of what it might have been like for them as they paddled up the fjords alongside towering glaciers on our Gondwana Ecotours Glaciers & Grizzlies Adventure.
What are the Kenai Fjords?
The Kenai Fjords were created by the slow creep of glacial ice carving deep inlets into the rock. The ice that once covered most of Alaska has now retreated to a few dozen icefields, one of the largest being Harding Icefield near Kenai. It’s home to nearly 40 glaciers and sits just outside of Seward, Alaska—a popular port for Alaskan cruise ships and a stop on our Glaciers & Grizzlies tour. We launch our kayak expedition from Seward into the famed Resurrection Bay, known for its deep coves, abundant wildlife, and stunning views. The bright blue of the glaciers next to the pine woods along the coast make a dramatic backdrop for this Alaskan adventure.
While journeying through the Kenai Fjords, kayaking paddles dip into the tranquil waters of Resurrection Bay, surrounded by towering cliffs that echo the calls of seabirds above. Navigate through the icy waters, and watch playful sea otters and majestic humpback whales breaching in the distance. We are reminded of the sheer power and beauty of nature in this remote corner of the world. The glimmering glaciers reflect the sunlight like shards of crystal, casting a spellbinding aura over the untouched wilderness that stretches as far as the eye can see. With each stroke of the paddle, we inch closer to unlocking the secrets held within the heart of the Kenai Fjords, a place where time stands still and the wonders of the wild reign supreme.
Kenai Fjords Wildlife
While many people travel to Alaska to see whales or grizzly bears, they might not realize just how diverse the wildlife here can be. Whether you look to the land, sea or air, you will find creatures both great and small. The fjords of 
Kenai are the nesting grounds for 20 different seabirds, including the bald eagle, the peregrine falcon and the lovable puffin with its colorful beak. In the waters around the bay, you find not only humpback whales, but also porpoises, orcas, sea otters and harbor seals. And on land, you can catch a glimpse of bears and moose moving between the trees. With so many different species, one of the best ways to be able to see them all is to paddle quietly through the water in a kayak. You might just find yourself gliding next to playful otters or catching sight of an eagle diving to catch its prey.
The pristine beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park isn’t just a treat for the eyes – it’s a haven for an incredible array of wildlife. As you glide through the calm waters in your kayak, the majestic peaks of the fjords towering above you, you may spot a family of sea otters floating lazily on their backs, cracking open shellfish. The air is alive with the cries of seabirds circling above, their wings catching the sun’s rays. Keep your eyes peeled on the rugged shoreline, where a mother bear might be teaching her cubs how to fish, or a moose might be grazing peacefully in a meadow. Every stroke of your paddle brings you closer to the heart of this untamed wilderness, where nature’s wonders unfold at every turn.
Kenai Fjords Weather
You might assume that kayaking near Alaskan glaciers would be freezing, but actually, in the summer and early fall, 
the weather is fairly temperate. It can range from around 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The water can be significantly cooler, but it’s not as cold as you may think, averaging about 50 degrees. However, since the weather is often unpredictable, it’s important to prepare for your trip by dressing in layers and wearing waterproof pants, shoes, and jacket. If you travel with us, we will provide you with waterproof gear to wear on your kayaking expedition. We also have a complete packing list that will help guide you on what type of clothing you need to bring in order to be comfortable on your trip to Alaska.
Kayaking through the fjords of Kenai is a one-of-a-kind experience. You might never have imagined that one day you could paddle through the waters of Resurrection Bay next to a pod of porpoises, or that you could come face to face with a brilliant blue glacier. But Gondwana Ecotours has put together a trip that can make all of these experiences possible and more! We create unique adventures for people who want to experience something new and off-the-beaten path. But don’t take our word for it, hear what it’s like from our other travelers!
Exploring the northernmost reaches of Alaska unveils a pristine wilderness teeming with rugged beauty and untouched landscapes. Experience an unforgettable journey through the remote and enchanting terrain, where the spirit of adventure beckons at every turn.
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