VISITING SEWARD 2020
MUST DO’S IN SEWARD
KAYAKING, HIKING & GLACIER CRUISE TOURS Whether you’re a first-time adventurer, or a seasoned explorer, there are many options for exploring Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park. Half-day, full-day and multi-day kayaking, kayak & hike combos, and kayak & cruise combos. Sunny Cove Kayaking, www.sunnycove.com, 1.907.224.4426
WILDLIFE & GLACIER CRUISES Explore Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park while listening to naturalist narration aboard a comfortable tour boat. Adventures into Northwestern Fjord, and Aialik Bay are available daily. Watch for whales, orcas, seals, puffins, eagles, sea lions and more!
Kenai Fjords Tours, www.kenaifjords.com, 1.907.224.8068
Prefer a small boat option? View Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park with the naturalist captains of Seward Ocean Excursions. Seward Ocean Excursions, www.sewardoceanexcursions.com, 1.907.599.0499 DOG SLEDDING TOURS Visit the dog camps of Iditarod racers and learn more about ‘The Last Great Race.’ Options include a kennel tour and a dog sled ride, or for the ultimate adventure, choose the helicopter dog sledding tour on Godwin Glacier.
Turning Heads Kennel, www.turningheadskennel.com, 1.907.362.4354
Seavey’s Ididaride, www.ididaride.com, 1.907.224.8607
HIKING Seward is home to a multitude of hiking trails, from easy beach walks and rainforest trails to quad burning climbs to mountain ridges and glacier overviews. • Harding Icefield Trail • Exit Glacier Trail • Tonsina Point Trail • Mount Marathon Trail
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FLIGHT SEEING We always recommend getting in the air while visiting Seward. Alaska is a huge state, and your perspective will change when you see our majestic mountains, glaciers and fjords from the air.
AA Seward Air Tours, www.sewardair.com, 1.907.978.3089
Seward Helicopters, https://sewardhelicopters.com, 1.907.362, 4354
5 ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER
The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only facility in Alaska that combines a public aquarium with marine research, education, and wildlife response.
While primarily dedicated to marine research and education, the nonprofit Center is the only permanent marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation facility in Alaska.
Alaska SeaLife Center, www.alaskasealife.org, 1.907.224.6300
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FISHING Seward is a fishing mecca, with all five species of wild Pacific salmon, halibut, rockfish and lingcod, amongst others. Shore fishing is available, but most people opt to board a charter boat for deep sea fishing or to hire a guide to navigate a drift boat through the waters of our local rivers.
Visit https://www.seward.com/fishing/ for a full list of available charters and guides.
7 VISITING SEWARD 2020
PACKING FOR ALASKA
Seward is located at the northernmost terminus of North America’s largest temperate rainforest and can experience upwards of 70” of precipitation annually. However, summer can also bring sunshine and onshore sea breezes. Being prepared will save you from making last-minute local purchases to keep you comfortable while adventuring.
8 CLOTHING
Waterproof Jacket o As they say in Alaska, there are no bad weather days, just bad gear. You’ll appreciate a light waterproof jacket for your paddling trip, wildlife cruise, or exploring Seward’s trails. A pair of waterproof pants can be handy as well. Synthetic/Wool Underlayers o Getting out on the water can be chilly, especially when you’re watching a calving glacier. Warm underlayers can keep you comfortable during your adventures. Warm Gloves, Hat and Socks o Bring a few extra pair of socks. Your feet can get wet on your cruise, fishing, and kayaking adventures. Comfortable Shoes o Trail appropriate shoes will keep you comfortable both on deck and while hiking. Shorts & Lightweight Top o You never know, you might luck out on a warmer, sunny day! Sweatshirt or Fleece Top o Perfect for dry, cool days and nights. Quick Dry Pants o Throw a pair of quick dry pants in with your jeans. You’ll be much more comfortable when participating in water-based adventures or during rainy days.
PERSONAL ITEMS
Sunglasses Sunscreen Toothpaste Toothbrush Lip Balm Medications o There is a pharmacy in Seward but planning ahead is worthwhile. Bug Repellant Refillable Water Bottle o Water filling stations can be found in many locations in Seward. Eye Mask o It can be tough to sleep in the land of the midnight sun!
ELECTRONICS & DEVICES
Camera & Batteries Binoculars Phone, Charging Cord and Charging Block Computer/Tablet and Charging Cords
EXTRAS Day Pack o You’ll want a small, lightweight pack for your trail adventures. Travel Insurance o Alaska’s weather can be dynamic and travel plans run into last minute alterations or cancelations. Do get caught unprepared. Many major credit cards include some level of travel insurance.