The best walks and hikes in Kenai Peninsula Borough
4.5
(193)
2,615
hikers
98
hikes
Hiking in Kenai Peninsula Borough explores a landscape of glaciers, mountains, and coastal rainforests. The region is characterized by glacial valleys, forested paths along rivers and lakes, and steep climbs to panoramic vistas over icefields. It contains parts of Kenai Fjords National Park and Chugach National Forest, offering diverse trails.
Best hiking trails in Kenai Peninsula Borough
- The most popular hiking route is Harding Icefield โ Kenai Fjords National Park, an 8.6 miles (13.8 km) trail that takes 6 hoursโฆ
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(3)
71
hikers
5.88km
01:42
160m
130m
Embark on the easy Tonsina Creek Trail, a 3.7-mile (5.9 km) hike that guides you through a vibrant coastal rainforest. You will experience lush spruce and hemlock forests, where fernsโฆ
4.2
(5)
27
hikers
5.52km
01:29
70m
60m
Explore the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge on an easy hike that covers 3.4 miles (5.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 220 feet (67 metres). You can expect toโฆ
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5.0
(5)
27
hikers
11.3km
03:05
180m
160m
Embark on the Grewingk Lake and Saddle Trail, a moderate hiking route that guides you through the diverse landscapes of Kachemak Bay State Park. You will traverse dense rainforests, spruce,โฆ
4.5
(2)
20
hikers
12.9km
04:59
920m
920m
Embark on the Grace Ridge Trail for a challenging hike through diverse Alaskan landscapes. You will ascend from dense Sitka spruce forests into sub-alpine meadows, eventually reaching alpine ridges thatโฆ
9
hikers
3.76km
01:01
50m
60m
Embark on an easy hike along the Russian River Falls Trail, a well-maintained gravel path winding through a mixed white spruce forest. This gentle route spans 2.3 miles (3.8 km)โฆ
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
11.1km
03:21
540m
80m
Embark on the Primrose Trail, a moderate hike that takes you through diverse Alaskan landscapes. You will transition from dense forests into expansive alpine areas, encountering lakes and rolling hillsโฆ
5
hikers
3.43km
02:39
760m
760m
Embark on the Mount Marathon Race Trail, a challenging hike that takes you through lush, mossy temperate rainforests before breaking out into expansive alpine meadows. This moderate route covers 2.1โฆ
5
hikers
2.03km
00:32
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Calvin & Coyle Nature Trail in Homer, Alaska, a gentle route that winds through thick spruce forests and open meadows. This accessible trailโฆ
4
hikers
10.8km
03:32
480m
480m
Embark on the Lost Lake Winter Route and Clemens Cabin Access Trail, a moderate hike spanning 6.7 miles (10.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1564 feet (477 metres). Thisโฆ
3.0
(1)
3
hikers
9.46km
02:36
160m
160m
Embark on a moderate 5.9 miles (9.5 km) hike along the Spencer Glacier Trail, where you'll gain 519 feet (158 metres) over an estimated 2 hours and 36 minutes. Thisโฆ
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Tips from the Community
Spacious location far away from the hustle and bustle of Homer
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I think the map Komoot is built on has Race Point in the wrong place - maybe someone can double-check me on that. Anyway, it should be right about here; there's a huge rock that runners use as a turnaround point during the famous Mount Marathon race. If you continue past that rock, the terrain gets really sketchy, really quickly. Unless you really, REALLY understand what you're getting into, I recommend going to and from this point using what's called the hiker's trail or hiker's route โ a much gentler ascent/descent than the grueling race course, from which unsuspecting hikers often have to be rescued.
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Despite the name, this is the northern access route for reaching Lost Lake. It's steeper than the southern route, so many thru-hikers prefer to start on this side, get the steep ascent out of the way, then enjoy a (somewhat) mellower descent on the other side.
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Despite the difference in name, this is the northern access point for Lost Lake. This side is steeper than the southern route, so for many it's a hike-a-bike after a certain point.
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This route to Lost Lake starts more or less in the middle of a small neighborhood. Don't worry, though โ you'll quickly feel like you're out in the middle of nowhere. The elevation gain from here to Lost Lake is more gentle than if you come from the other direction; so this trail is a favorite of anyone who wants a gentler out-and-back, or as the exit route for thru-hikers who want a descent that's (relatively) easy on the knees.
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The hike to Russian River Falls on the Kenai Peninsula takes you through Alaska's impressive nature on a well-developed and mostly flat path. The approximately 2-mile trail starts at the Russian River Campground and runs through dense forests that offer you a view of the native flora and fauna. The hike is relatively easy, making it ideal for relaxed exploration. At the end of the trail, two observation platforms await you, perfectly placed to experience the impressive waterfalls up close. This place comes alive especially during salmon season in summer. Thousands of salmon fight their way upstream here, and with a little luck you can even watch bears fishing - a unique spectacle of nature that will stay with you for a long time. Other wildlife, such as eagles and the occasional fox, also take advantage of the abundance of fish and make the scenery even more impressive. The chance of seeing animals is particularly high early in the morning or towards the evening. The Russian River Falls Trail is more than just a hike; It gives you the feeling of diving deep into Alaska's wild nature and offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers.
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The trailhead is accessible only by water; the usual method is to charter a water taxi from the town of Homer. In fact, most hikers use this as the endpoint for a short but beautiful thru-hike, starting at the Glacier Spit trailhead, hiking to Grewingk Glacier, then getting picked up by the water taxi here. You can hike out and back from this trailhead alone if you want the shortest trip possible, but there are some steep stairs to navigate. Also, be aware that bear sightings are extremely common, year after year, near where the Saddle Trail approaches Grewingk Glacier.
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This trailhead is accessible only by water; the usual method is to hire a water taxi from Homer. The taxis do not run in loops like a bus or mass-transit ferry, so you do need to arrange (and pay for) transport in advance. Although you can reach several trails from here, the most popular by far is the hike to the shore of Grewingk Lake, with Grewingk Glacier on the other side. If you plan to do that hike, make sure your pick-up plans with the water taxi company are very explicit. Most hikers will ask to be dropped off at this trailhead (Glacier Spit) but picked up at another trailhead (Saddle Trail), as you can link the two trails together into a short, but beautiful, thru-hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to hike in the Kenai Peninsula?
The prime hiking season in the Kenai Peninsula is from late May to mid-September. During these summer months, the trails are generally free of snow, daylight hours are long, and wildflowers are in bloom. July and August offer the warmest weather, but also bring more rain and insects. September can be a great time to hike with fewer crowds and beautiful autumn colors, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of early snowfall at higher elevations.
What should I pack for a day hike in the Kenai Peninsula?
Layering is key, as weather can change rapidly. Essential items include:
- Waterproof rain jacket and pants
- Warm layers like fleece or wool
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- Plenty of water and high-energy snacks
- A map and compass or a GPS device
- Bear spray and the knowledge of how to use it
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as sun exposure can be intense, especially on glaciers or snowfields.
What are the safety concerns regarding wildlife, especially bears?
The Kenai Peninsula is home to both black and brown bears. It's crucial to be bear-aware on all trails. Hike in groups, make noise by talking or clapping to avoid surprising a bear, and carry bear spray in an accessible location. Never leave food unattended and pack out everything you bring in. Be especially vigilant on trails near salmon streams, such as the Russian River Falls loop, during the salmon runs.
Are there any good, easy hikes suitable for families?
Yes, the peninsula has several family-friendly options. The Exit Glacier Loop is a very accessible, mostly paved trail that offers fantastic views of a glacier's terminus. Another great choice is the Tonsina Creek Trail near Seward, which is a relatively flat walk through coastal rainforest to a scenic beach.
Which hike offers the most dramatic glacier views?
For an unforgettable, challenging hike with panoramic glacier views, the Harding Icefield โ Kenai Fjords National Park trail is unparalleled. This strenuous ascent rewards hikers with a breathtaking vista over the massive Harding Icefield, the source of nearly 40 glaciers. Be prepared for a full-day effort with significant elevation gain.
Are there any multi-day backpacking trips available?
The Kenai Peninsula is a fantastic destination for backpacking. The 39-mile Resurrection Pass Trail is a classic multi-day trek through a wide mountain pass with public use cabins available for reservation. For a more challenging alpine experience, the Lost Lake Trail can be done as an overnight trip, offering stunning scenery of pristine alpine lakes.
Do I need a permit to hike in Kenai Fjords National Park or Chugach National Forest?
No permits are required for day hiking in either Kenai Fjords National Park or the Chugach National Forest. However, some trailheads and parking areas, particularly those managed by the National Forest, may require a day-use fee or a parking pass. If you plan to camp overnight or use public use cabins, you will need to make reservations and pay associated fees in advance.
What are some good hikes for seeing lakes and rivers?
The peninsula is rich with water features. The Ptarmigan Creek Trail is a moderate hike that follows a beautiful creek up to the stunning Ptarmigan Lake. For a different experience, the Grewingk Lake Trail in Kachemak Bay State Park leads to a glacial lake where you can often see icebergs that have calved from the Grewingk Glacier.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. Besides the famous Harding Icefield trail, experienced hikers looking for a steep climb with rewarding views should consider the Hope Point trail. This is a demanding out-and-back route with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, offering panoramic views of the Turnagain Arm and surrounding mountains.
How many hiking trails are there in the Kenai Peninsula Borough?
There are over 50 designated hiking routes in the Kenai Peninsula Borough available on komoot, ranging from easy walks to difficult alpine expeditions. This extensive network covers diverse landscapes within Kenai Fjords National Park, Chugach National Forest, and Kachemak Bay State Park, ensuring plenty of options for every skill level.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Kenai Peninsula?
The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the dramatic and accessible glacier views, the abundance of wildlife, and the sheer scale of the Alaskan wilderness. The variety of trails, from coastal rainforest walks to challenging ascents above the treeline, is also a commonly highlighted feature.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Dog policies vary by land manager. In the Chugach National Forest, dogs are generally permitted on trails but must be under control. However, in Kenai Fjords National Park, pets are not allowed on any trails, including popular ones like the Harding Icefield and Exit Glacier trails. They are only permitted in the parking lot and on the road to Exit Glacier. Always check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike.
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