Kenai Fjords National Park, located in south-central Alaska, is a mesmerizing land of ice, sea, and towering peaks. Covering over 600,000 acres, the park is renowned for its dramatic fjords, majestic glaciers, and rich marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The Harding Icefield, one of the largest icefields in the United States, feeds dozens of glaciers that carve through the rugged landscape, creating stunning fjords and inlets.

The park holds both natural and cultural significance, with indigenous peoples like the Alutiiq relying on its resources for thousands of years. Kenai Fjords was established as a national park in 1980 to protect its unique environments. An interesting fact is that the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, and puffins, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Must-see attractions include the breathtaking Exit Glacier, which can be reached via a scenic hike, and the fjords themselves, best explored by boat or kayak. A boat tour offers the chance to witness calving glaciers and spot a variety of marine wildlife.

The best time to visit Kenai Fjords is from June to early September, when the weather is warmer, and the park is fully accessible. During this period, the long daylight hours provide ample time for exploring, and the wildlife is most active.

Photo by Kedar Gadge on Unsplash