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Welcome to the summary of the twenty-ninth episode of the Locals Know Best podcast, which features the many fabulous excursions and things to do in Kenai, Alaska, and on the Kenai Peninsula.
I’m Cindy, your host. I love all things travel and am a former full-time RVer. Through my adventures, I’ve learned that locals really do know the best spots!
Every podcast episode dives into one local’s perfect day (or few days) of outdoor adventure in their town.
Locals Know Best Podcast Episode 029: Kenai, Alaska, You’ve Entered The Real Alaska
Welcome to the twenty-ninth episode of Locals Know Best! I’m your host, Cindy. I’m a full-time RVer and lover of all things travel-related. Years of adventuring on the road have taught me one fundamental lesson; locals ALWAYS know best! Every episode of this podcast will dive into one local’s perfect day of outdoor adventure in their town!
Today, I’ll be speaking with Jon Taylor about how to make the most of an outdoorsy trip throughout the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska.
This episode is sure to put you under the spell of the north. Join Jon and me as we enjoy the Kenai peninsula as an adventure-loving local would!
Our discussion is chock full of outdoor experiences, including sea kayaking, flying ourselves to epic fishing locations, hiking, and fat tire biking the beach! Also, as you would expect, there’s tons of mountain, glacier, bear, and Alaskan National Park chat along the way!
Listen to the Episode
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About Jon Taylor
Follow Jon on Instagram and learn more about Kenai, Alaska, at ILoveKenai.com.
Jon is a pilot, traveler, musician, and the Creative Director for Divining Point, a Strategic Marketing Agency.
He started his career as a commercial photographer. During that time, he discovered the camera often unlocked access to some of the most beautiful places.
His talents include brand strategy, photography, videography, and graphic design for businesses in multiple industries.
He is known for his vision and creative eye, which allow him to conceive stunning visuals and rich storytelling that are sure to evoke emotion from viewers.
Also, being a pilot, Jon gets to go where no roads will take you, which, it turns out, is most of Alaska!
He is passionate about hiking, camping, biking, bourbon tasting, and snow machining, and he says he’s married the most beautiful Alaskan who’s ever emerged from the snow.
If you’ve ever dreamt of exploring Alaska like a local, don’t miss this episode! He does an incredible job of explaining why Kenai is the perfect place to home base for all of your future Alaskan adventures!
About Kenai Peninsula
The Kenai Peninsula spans over 25,000 square miles and features turquoise lakes, abundant wildlife, countless stunning hiking trails, and some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you’ll ever see.
While many visit for its outdoor adventures and natural beauty, Jon highlights the friendly locals as another compelling reason to explore the area. It’s a fantastic destination for hiking, fishing, camping, and more.
Jon describes visiting Kenai as stepping into the “real” Alaska, where you’re immersed in nature and its endless possibilities.
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Kenai Peninsula?
The best time to visit Kenai is in July, when the days are the longest, providing plenty of sunlight for exploring. It’s also peak fishing season, with locals flocking to dip large nets for salmon. Jon describes this time as a circus, with crowds gathering and making navigating or enjoying spots like the beach challenging. Jon suggests visiting in early July to avoid the chaos, as the salmon typically start running later in the month.
Jon also has a soft spot for winter in Kenai. Though the season brings long, dark days, he finds it unique and special. The snowy landscape offers opportunities for snowshoeing, snowmachining (or snowmobiling, as it’s called in the continental U.S.), and even glimpses of the northern lights. However, he warns that the freezing temperatures and constant darkness can be harsh for those not used to such extreme conditions.
The Best Things To Do in Kenai, Alaska & Kenai Peninsula
1. Fishing
Jon took up fishing after moving to Alaska and highly recommends trying it in the inlet. He suggests heading to Kenai Aviation or Alaska West Air Inc. and letting them know you’re interested in fishing. They offer float plane trips to remote, prime fishing spots. In just about 30 minutes, you can find yourself in untouched areas where it’s just you, nature, and fish that have never encountered humans before.
For an added treat, there are fantastic local spots in town where they’ll cook your freshly caught fish for you. It’s a perfect way to end your fishing adventure.
2. Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity in Kenai year-round, but summer offers the best conditions, free from snow, making trails more accessible. One of the top hikes is in Cooper Landing, where the Skyline Trail spans just 1.5 miles but climbs over 2,000 feet in elevation. It’s a challenging short hike, but the breathtaking views of mountains, the inlet, volcanoes, and more make it well worth the effort. At the summit, you’ll even find a box where you can leave a note for the next hiker.
Jon’s favorite hike, though, is the Russian River Pass, where you can trek from cabin to cabin. This longer hike requires booking the cabins in advance to ensure accommodations.
Hiking in Alaska is very different from hiking in the continental United States. Alaska is exceptionally remote, and you will likely pass only a few people on the trails, if any. So, remember to hike with a buddy, carry bear spray, and always stay on the trail to ensure your safety.
3. Aerial Sightseeing
Jon believes aerial sightseeing is the ultimate way to experience Alaska. From above, you can marvel at breathtaking glaciers, spot wildlife like bears, and explore remote areas of the state that few ever get to see.
His insider tip is to head to Kenai Aviation for affordable rates. If you ask, they might even let you take the controls for a bit!
4. Sea Kayaking
Seward and the Kenai Fjords are fantastic destinations for sea kayaking. Miller’s Landing Sea Kayaking is a great sea kayaking tour company in the area. The experience is truly special, with vibrant blue waters, towering mountains surrounding you, and the chance to immerse yourself in the heart of nature.
5. Wildlife Sightseeing
The best ways to experience wildlife in Kenai are through road trips, cruises, aerial sightseeing, and hiking. Kenai offers many opportunities to spot land and sea animals, including bears, moose, otters, whales, and more.
6. Spend Time At Kenai Beach
Take a walk along Kenai Beach, and you’ll come across rocks, stones, and gems like jade. The best time to visit is mid-tide when the colorful rocks are most visible. You can also explore the area on a fat tire bike if you prefer biking.
The Best Photo Spots
Old Town Kenai is a great place for photos. You’ll find beautiful, historic buildings here. Jon suggests checking out the Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church, which has been around since the 1800s. It’s a hidden gem offering gorgeous views and a fascinating history.
Other Kenai Peninsula Activities and Attractions
Although we didn’t touch on these things in the episode, several other activities are worth exploring on the Kenai Peninsula. I recommend checking out these additional attractions if you have extra time in the area.
Visit The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most visited in Alaska. It’s about two million acres in size and home to countless different types of animals, including moose, bears, and wolves.
It’s a great place to see animals and for outdoor activities like fishing, canoeing, camping, hiking, and more.
Go Biking
Kenai is a fantastic destination for cycling enthusiasts. You can try fat biking along Kenai Beach or explore the numerous trails perfect for mountain biking. Some of the best include the Crescent Creek Trail and the Devil’s to Resurrection Trail.
Take in Some History
The Kenai Peninsula, along with Alaska in general, is incredibly unique due to its history as a former Russian territory in the 1800s. This influence is still evident in various aspects of the region’s culture.
A prime example is the Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church in the area. You can admire the historic building and interact with the church staff, many of whom have local roots and a deep knowledge of the area’s rich history. To learn more about the region’s past, visit the Cooper Landing Museum, housed in an old schoolhouse.
Go Golfing
When most people think of Alaska, golfing isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, if you visit during the summer, you’ll find some excellent courses to enjoy. One of the best golf courses in the Kenai area is the Kenai Golf Course.
Go on a Glacier Cruise
If you’re seeking a unique way to explore Alaska and want to get up close to glaciers, a glacier cruise is a fantastic choice. Many cruises depart from Seward and take you to the Kenai Fjords National Park, offering an incredible opportunity to experience a national park that few have the chance to visit.
Go Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is a quintessential Alaskan experience. This is the perfect activity if you’d like to spend time with husky pups and explore Alaska’s wilderness. It’s a rare experience in most other places, making it an unforgettable adventure.
Experience Camping in Alaska
If you love camping, Alaska is a fantastic place to do it; just be sure to bring the right gear. There are plenty of campgrounds around Kenai, with Diamond M Ranch Resort being one of the most popular spots for RV camping.
For a more authentic tent camping experience, head to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you’ll find 12 first-come, first-served walk-in, tent-only campsites at Exit Glacier.
Embark On A Day Trip
Seward is an amazing spot, with the mountains so close you can hardly believe it. Homer is a fantastic place to visit for seafood, and there are many other incredible places to explore by car.
In Alaska, you’ll spend a lot of time driving between destinations, but rather than feeling mundane, it’s a beautiful experience, offering breathtaking scenery and wilderness along the way. I recommend packing lots of snacks and drinks and allowing yourself plenty of time in your schedule to relax, take in the views, and enjoy the journey without feeling rushed.
Other Further Away Destinations Mentioned in this Episode Include:
- Denali National Park and Preserve & Wonder Lake Campground
- Lake Clark National Park and Preserve & Tanalian Falls Trailhead
- Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
Overrated Things To Do In Kenai
Don’t visit Kenai just for the fishing. Be sure to hike, sea kayak, take a road trip, take an aerial tour, and explore all the area has to offer. Jon points out that many fishermen make the mistake of focusing only on fishing. While the fishing is fantastic, Kenai has so much more to offer, and it’s worth experiencing all the outdoor activities in the area.
Where To Stay In The Kenai Peninsula
Kenai Peninsula Lodging
The Cannery Lodge is the top place to stay in Kenai. With its rich history and original structures, it’s been beautifully renovated to offer luxury right on the water. The lodge features its own boat dock, helipad, and more, along with stunning views of volcanoes and marine life, providing a truly unique Alaskan experience.
Jon himself stayed there for several months and highly recommends it. He says you may never want to leave, but it also makes a perfect home base for exploring the area.
Kenai Peninsula VRBO Vacation Rentals
If you’d rather stay in a vacation rental, the Kenai Peninsula and surrounding areas offer a few different VRBO options.
Jon’s Kenai Peninsula Travel Itinerary Map
Where To Eat In The Kenai Peninsula
Louie’s Steak & Seafood is the top restaurant in Kenai. Jon praises its consistency and delicious food. It’s one of the oldest establishments in town and boasts a stunning interior filled with taxidermy fish, bears, and other wildlife. For food, breakfast is a standout, and Jon recommends indulging in any seafood dishes while steering clear of the beef options, as Alaska doesn’t have many cows. You’ll enjoy fresh fish, crab, and more.
For lunch, Sunrise Inn in Cooper Landing is a great choice. It offers diner-style food. Make sure you try the apple pie while visiting.
The Flats Bistro is an excellent bistro for dinner.
Kenai Joe’s Taphouse is one of the area’s oldest bars. It is known for its fantastic cocktails, including smoked bourbon and old-fashioneds.
If you’re in Homer, Alaska, it’s the best spot for seafood, being a fishing village. Captain Pattie’s Fish House is a solid choice, but for a unique experience, head to The Saltry Restaurant. Accessible only by boat, it’s located on an island and offers excellent food and breathtaking scenery, making it more about the experience than just the meal.
Veronica’s Cafe is a must-visit for coffee and a quick bite, especially for their cranberry turkey wrap.
Kenai Peninsula Alaska FAQs
Is Kenai, Alaska, worth visiting?
Kenai is definitely worth visiting for its hiking, fishing, wildlife, nature, friendly locals, and dramatic scenery.
Can you drive from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula?
Yes, you can drive from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula. The drive takes about three hours.
Can you see the northern lights from the Kenai Peninsula?
Yes, you can see the northern lights from the Kenai Peninsula, and the best conditions are in the fall, winter, or spring.
What is the Kenai Peninsula known for?
The Kenai Peninsula is known for its wilderness and nature.
Where is the best place to see moose in Kenai Peninsula?
The Seward Highway and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge are two of the best places on the Kenai Peninsula to see moose.
Final Thoughts On: Outdoorsy Things To Do In Kenai Peninsula Alaska
Alaska is an incredible destination that feels like you’re stepping back in time due to its rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. It offers an unforgettable experience, with turquoise lakes and dramatic hikes that provide stunning views of water, volcanoes, mountains, and more.
It’s a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering endless adventures. Kenai’s warm and welcoming people will make you feel right at home.
The Kenai Peninsula is often overlooked in favor of places like Denali, but it’s truly worth a visit for a more authentic Alaskan experience, especially if you love spending time outdoors and in nature. It’s one of those unforgettable destinations offering stunning views, exciting activities, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it well worth the trip.
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