Anglers from across the globe visit the Kenai Peninsula for world-class king salmon fishing, breathtaking wildlife, and an opportunity to unplug from today’s modern world. However, not every single guest here at Kenai River Drifter’s Lodge wants to spend the entire week salmon fishing in Alaska, which is why we have “substitutions.” We encourage visiting anglers to swap a full day of fishing with one of our Alaskan adventure activities, including hiking, rafting, bird watching, and guided day trips to the Kenai Peninsula’s most popular cities. The Last Frontier has so much more to offer than Kenai River fishing, majestic brown bears, and giant glaciers. So, without further ado, here are four Kenai Peninsula hidden gems.
Alyeska Aerial Tram
The Alyeska Aerial Tram, located in the charming resort town of Girdwood, shuttles nature enthusiasts to the top of Alyeska Mountain, 2,300 feet above the valley’s floor. While the tram ride lasts only seven minutes, you’ll gradually gain an unforgettable birds-eye view of the Chugach Mountains, pristine streams, hanging glaciers, and majestic wildlife. Alyeska Mountain’s peak features genuinely stunning panoramic lookouts, first-rate Glacial hiking trails, and the valley-view Bore Tide Deli.
Downtown Seward, Alaska
Guests at Kenai River Drifter’s Lodge can also embark on a nine-hour day trip to nearby Seward, which includes a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park, the Alaska SeaLife Center, and premium downtown shopping. Your guide will lead you to Seward’s most popular shops and art galleries. Pick out a hand-carved souvenir inside the iconic Alaska Shop, grab an ice cream cone at Harbor Street Creamery, and sip on a pint of craft beer at the Seward Brewing Company.
Turnagain Gallery
Head home with beautiful handmade jewelry or a marvelous chainsaw carving from Turnagain Gallery to go along with several boxes of perfectly-packaged salmon from your Kenai River fishing trip. Turnagain Gallery rests near Girdwood on the edge of Chugach State Park. Browse through their masterfully crafted souvenirs and watch a talented chainsaw artist create a unique work of art.
Pratt Museum
The quintessential port city of Homer is yet another ideal day trip from Cooper Landing. A visit to Homer is incomplete without a tour of the Pratt Museum, the only interdisciplinary museum on the Kenai Peninsula. Pratt is home to one of the largest collections of exhibits in Alaska. Learn about local history, observe award-winning art, visit the saltwater aquarium, and walk through the botanical garden.
Premier Kenai River Fishing
The highlight of your Kenai River fishing trip will be our massive salmon runs. Explore our extensive guided fishing trips by visiting our new website. Whether you’re hoping to reel in trophy king salmon, monster halibut, or beautiful rainbow trout, our professional, experienced guides will make sure that your trip to Cooper Landing is one for the record books. Give us a call at 1-907-595-5555 to book a long overdue guided fishing trip to the Kenai Peninsula!