Thursday, July 29, 2021 10:43pm. backcountry skiing & splitboarding . harding icefield trail hike - seward . seward wilderness hiking . Explore one of 2 easy hiking trails in Soldotna or discover kid-friendly routes for your next family trip. (I'm surprised this hike wasn't already listed, since it's fairly popular) There is a sign at the beginning of the trail that briefly describes what may be encountered. Wilderness Hiking in Kenai National Wildlife Refuge In 1941 President Roosevelt designated more than 1.7 million acres as the Kenai National Moose Range. Enjoy hiking and boating through the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, hiking through the forest and then above the tree-line as your knowledgeable guide explains some of the area's history. . The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is a vast land houlding on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. The first day of June — which is National Trails Day — kicked off the summer events at the Refuge with two guided hikes, one along Centennial Trail at the Refuge's Visitor Center and one going out to Marsh Lake at the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area. Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service and others, this expertly researched map contains an abundance of . With animals, trails, campgrounds, and public use cabins, the refuge is an amazing place to explore. Fat Tire Mountain Biking. Hike a secluded trail and at the top, explore the tundra and enjoy captivating views of the lake and surrounding wilderness. We did not spot any wildlife in the park, even though the signs advised visitors to the area to be bear aware. The Dena'ina traditional people of the Kenai call their birthplace "Yaghanen" - the "good land.". On all of these trails, though, one must be aware of the chance of wildlife encounters. While the elevation does increase, it's very gradual and there are only a few short steep sections. Access to the cabin is by hiking trail, boat, skiing, and snowshoeing. Hike details are sourced and have been hiked by families who participate in our community. The entire Skilak Lake area is a great place to hang out, especially for families with small children (under 7). Kenai River Trails Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. kenai fjords national park. It is mainly flat taiga with numerous lakes, and as such, its primary recreation is suited more toward water activities, especially fishing. According to a Kenai National Wildlife Refuge map, the last major fire in the Mystery Hills unit came in 1947, with previous fires also occurring in 1849, 1834 and 1762. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is a 1.92-million-acre (7,770 km 2) wildlife habitat preserve located on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska, United States.It is adjacent to Kenai Fjords National Park.This refuge was created in 1941 as the Kenai National Moose Range, but in 1980 it was changed to its present status by the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge's wealth of habitat, scenery and wildlife draws a half a million visitors a year, more than any other wildlife refuge in Alaska. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is just one of more than 500 units of the national refuge system but it stands out as a very special place among special places! Le sentier offre plusieurs activités et est accessible toute l'année. The Kenai Peninsula is a great place to get away from it all in winter on the many nordic cross-country ski trails that are found from Seward to Soldotna to Homer. Boat across a glacial lake in the midst of soaring cliffs as you journey deeper into the wilderness. The National Wildlife Refuge System's extensive trails, boardwalks, observation decks, hunting and photography blinds, fishing piers and boat launches offer great opportunities to learn and have fun". rafting resurrection river . Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide is an online resource to help families with children source trails that little legs can hike and parents can feel comfortable with. Day Three: Explore Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Spend a full day exploring the remote wilderness of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Explore the Alaskan wilderness on a hike through the majestic Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. While Skyline was brushed out as a contingency plan, Fuller Lakes was left alone, meaning the trail up to the two lakes became overgrown with no foot traffic, but Eskelin said . Swanson River Oil Field Produc Road is a 3.6 mile trail through Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Kenai Backcountry Lodge is located in the heart of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge on the shores of glacier-carved Skilak Lake. Several businesses specialize in canoe trips (single or multi day trips) and rentals for this beautiful area. About half a mile in, the trail breaks out into an area that was burned in 1996. You can be up and back in 1-1.5 hours. The trail overlooks marsh and a lake. Le sentier longe un lac et sa difficulté est évaluée comme facile. Today, it features nearly 2 million acres of lush Alaskan wilderness and protection for all wildlife species and their habitats. Anglers come from around the world to pursue the trophy . The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to spend an afternoon walking on the trails and enjoying the scenery. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge; Trail. Hike one of the many established trails. The cabin is located approximately one mile from Engineer Lake Campground on the Seven Lakes Trail. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Float. Snacks and drinks are included throughout, as is a wilderness guide. Michelle Ostrowski, an education specialist at the refuge, said Saturday's event was successful. There are varied activities to participate in and the Refuge Center on Skihill Road in Soldotna, Alaska is a wonderful place to get information, see exhibits and watch beautifully crafted video presentations of wildlife on the refuge. It seems a general rule of thumb that the best views hiking are on the trails that take the most work. Explore the Alaskan wilderness on a hike through the majestic Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. There are three basic options on these refuge trails. After spending the majority of the last year and a half closed because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center in Soldotna opened its doors on Saturday to celebrate National Trails Day. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. The ADA accessible trail features a short boardwalk near the water and is perfect for kids on their first hike in Alaska. The small group size ensures a personalized experience and a route that's catered . Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is a 2.6 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Soldotna, Alaska that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. See The Leaves Change Along The Fuller Lakes Trail In The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge In Alaska. Most of the hikes are short trails that end at a lake. The Trail can get very muddy in sections if rain and probably should be avoided during breakup. Keen-eye Trail . Return to the lodge in the afternoon and enjoy the wood-fired sauna or simply relax at . It is less crowded than the Keen-Eye Trail (which was built to accommodate large groups), and while it's not a difficult hike, it features some light hills and varied terrain. This 6-hour tour allows active travelers to experience the Alaskan backcountry, and tour routes range from easy strolls to difficult, strenuous climbs. Looking for the best hiking trails in Soldotna? Description. Fishing. The ranger had lots of information on local wildlife to see in the fall along with tips for checking out the trails at the Refuge. Hiking. Cruise across the lake to reach remote hiking areas. Look for a pull-out parking area located at Mile 57.1 on the Sterling Highway in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge just outside of Cooper Landing if heading towards Kenai. Runners, walkers, climbers, mountain bikers, cyclists, and walkers of all levels are certain to find a favorite trail. For . For a quick hike with good views, go down Skilak Lake Road, past Hidden Lake campground, to Skilak Lake Lookout Trail. Kenai Nature Trail "For boundless opportunities to discover nature in all its splendor, national wildlife refuges are unsurpassed. Thursday, October 28, 2021 4:17pm. The trail starts with a long gentle descent through a spruce forest. Camping and Day Use. . Hiking. Located nearby is the Kenai National Moose Range, and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge (hiking trails abound). This 6-hour tour allows active travelers to experience the Alaskan backcountry, and tour routes range from easy strolls to difficult, strenuous climbs. This trail is located on the Sterling Highway near Cooper Landing. With summer traffic in full force, it took what seemed like an eternity to make it from Fred Meyer back to the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters area. Length 2.6 miElevation gain 269 ftRoute type Loop. This is one trail that breaks the rules. It is a wooded trail that connects to the shorter Keen-eye trail. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is a 1.92-million-acre (7,770 km 2) wildlife habitat preserve located on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska, United States.It is adjacent to Kenai Fjords National Park.This refuge was created in 1941 as the Kenai National Moose Range, but in 1980 it was changed to its present status by the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. Skilak Lake Overlook Hike (2miles one way, 800 ft elevation gain) Drive Skilak Lake Trail to Homer (120 miles, approx 2.5 hours) Sightsee enroute (Russian Orthodox churches in Kenai, Village of Ninilchik) Night in Lands End Resort, Homer Spit, dinner at Homer Restaurant . kenai fjords national park. Get a glimpse of Skilak Glacier and look out over the lake. expeditions & multi-day trips from seward. This 2. Hiking. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge (KNWR) covers much of the western half of Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, almost 2 million acres of mountains, rivers, lakes, and forested plains. Refuge Notebook: The joy of unexpected rewards on Fuller Lakes Trail. National Geographic's Trails Illustrated map of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge was created for all outdoor enthusiasts adventuring in this diverse area on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. Access to the cabin is by boat, hiking trail, skiing, and snowshoeing. Paddle through the 100 mile canoe trail system; Fish on a secluded lake Spend a full day exploring the remote wilderness of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Start your one-hour hike with a pit stop at the visitor center to gaze at life-sized brown bear, moose, bobcat, and Dall's sheep exhibits. You can choose to hike the myriad of trails in the mountains or spend the day on the river, floating the gentle Class I - II+ waters as you seek out moose, bears, eagles and more. harding icefield trail hike - seward . The parking area and trailhead are located in Engineer Lake Campground at mile 10.3 on the Skilak Lake Road. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and Chugach National Forest. 2 ‑mile loop trail is an off-shoot of the Keen-Eye Trail that departs from the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Alaska has trails for every level of hiking experience. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge covers the western section of the Kenai Peninsula. These trails provide unique access, breathtaking vistas and great daytrip opportunities for visitors. alaska heli-rafting and bear viewing adventure . Created in 1941 to protect the Kenai moose, sixty-five percent of refuge lands are . kenai national wildlife refuge. Hike one of the many established trails. The Kenai River area is famous throughout the world for large populations and tremendous sized salmon and rainbow trout. by Peninsula Clarion Contributor. Private Land Parking Lot Restroom Sterling Highway Paved Road Trail Angler's Trail Powerline River Access Points CFR 261.10 (d). This 19 mile gravel loop road leads to Refuge hiking trails, campgrounds, and a scenic drive and then rejoins the Sterling Highway at Milepost 75. . The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge was originally established in 1941 as the Kenai National Moose Range. USFWS Weapons Discharge, Food Storage, Learn about the Alaskan terrain and wildlife from the guide. Highly recommend stopping by for a few hours, but be sure it is a nice day. Whether you're getting ready to hike, bike, trail run, or explore other outdoor activities, AllTrails has 7 scenic trails in the Soldotna area. Hunting. Day 3: Kenai National Wildlife Refuge to Homer. Learn about the wildlife and history of the Kenai Peninsula as your guide takes you through this pristine wilderness. Etc. These hikes range from difficult, multi-day back-country hikes to easier, short paved-trail walks. National Forest Kenai National Wildlife Refuge State of Alaska Cook Inlet Region Inc. There's a variety of trail types in and near the greater Soldotna area that offer access to the beauty of the Kenai Peninsula; nature, hiking, and recreational trails are all available. Full-day hiking tour in Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge est un sentier en boucle de 2.6 miles peu fréquenté situé près de Soldotna, Alaska. In 1980 the Moose Range was expanded to almost two million acres, renamed the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, and well over half of it was designated Wilderness. Overview. seward wilderness hiking . packrafting on the kenai river . Shop kootenai national wildlife refuge pins and buttons created by independent artists from around the globe. After making your own way to Cooper Landing, follow your guide on to the trail to begin your 6-hour hiking tour in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Includes boat transport, picnic lunch, snacks, water and tea. We print the highest quality kootenai national wildlife refuge pins and buttons on the internet Nowadays, the locals refer to the Kenai Peninsula as "Alaska's . Check out the National Park Service website for more information.. Chugach Mountains (Near Anchorage): Chugach National Forest, the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, and the state of Alaska have provided a network of hiking trails in the Chugach and Kenai Mountains for those of the backpacking persuasion who prefer to tread the beaten path. You can stay at Kenai Riverfront Resort and enjoy a warm sauna every night after skiing the groomed local trails or after taking day trips to groomed trails in Homer, Nikiski, or Seward. Learn about the Alaskan terrain and wildlife from the guide. Visit our Maps site to download maps of all the trails on the refuge. Michelle Ostrowski, an education specialist at the refuge, said Saturday's event was successful. 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