On the next phase of our Alaska adventure, we left Anchorage and embarked on the beautiful Seward Scenic Byway from Anchorage, 127-mile route meandering south from sea to mountains to sea across the Kenai Peninsula, ending in the harbor town of Seward. The scenery on the way was absolutely spectacular, with towering mountains and lush green forests lining the road. We were able to take in all of the natural beauty that Alaska has to offer and couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the majesty of it all.
Upon arriving in Seward, we were greeted with the excitement of the Independence Day weekend. The town was bustling with activity and we were able to take part in the many celebrations and festivities that were happening all around.
One of the highlights of the weekend was the famous Mount Marathon Race. This grueling event sees runners ascend the steep and rocky mountain, reaching heights of over 3,000 feet, before racing back down to the finish line. It’s a true test of strength and endurance and it was incredible to watch the runners push themselves to their limits.
Seward, Alaska is a historic town with a rich past. It was founded in 1903 as the terminus of the railroad that connected the mainland to the gold fields of the Interior. It played a vital role in the development of Alaska and the transportation of goods during the gold rush. Today, it is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor recreational opportunities and as a major stop for cruise ships visiting Alaska.
While in Seward, we visited the Alaska Sealife Center, an incredible facility dedicated to the conservation and education of the marine life of the Gulf of Alaska. The center is home to a wide variety of marine animals, including sea otters, puffins, and sea lions. We were able to witness these amazing creatures up close and learn about their habitats and behavior.
One of the highlights of our visit was the Puffin Experience. This interactive exhibit allows visitors to get an up-close look at these adorable birds, as well as learn about their migration patterns and conservation efforts. It was an unforgettable experience and we left with a greater appreciation for these fascinating creatures. Click on thumbnail to view image
Drive to Seward on the Scenic Byway
Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords NP
One of the must-do activities during a visit to Seward, Alaska is a visit to Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. Where “Mountains, Ice and Ocean meet”. Nearly 40 glaciers flow from the Harding Icefield, Kenai Fjords’ crowning feature. This spectacular glacier is one of the most easily accessible glaciers in the park, and it offers visitors a chance to witness the power and beauty of a real glacier up close.
Exit Glacier has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s when it was first explored by naturalists and scientists. Today, the glacier is an important research site and a popular destination for visitors.
We set out on a hike to explore the glacier and were immediately struck by the incredible beauty of the surroundings. We hiked up onto the glacier and were able to walk on the ice, marveling at the stunning views. The ice was a brilliant blue and the surrounding mountains rose up in the distance. We were able to see the glacier’s retreat over the years and learn about the effects of climate change on the glacier. Click on thumbnail to view image
Resurrection Bay Boat Tour
Another must-do experience during a visit to Seward, Alaska is taking a boat tour of Resurrection Bay. This beautiful bay is home to a diverse array of wildlife and offers visitors a chance to see some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery.
We set out on a boat tour that included a stop for lunch on Fox Island. The boat ride itself was an incredible experience, as we were able to take in the stunning views of the bay and the surrounding mountains. As we sailed, we saw sea lion colonies, killer Whales and even got a close look at Bear Glacier, one of the massive glaciers in Kenai Fjords NP.
We all loved our stop on Fox Island for lunch. The island is a beautiful and remote location, and we were able to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the breathtaking views even seeing a large porcupine. Click on thumbnail to view image
