Kenai River Drifters Lodge has officially come back to life with eager summer travelers from across the globe who have ventured to our serene slice of the Kenai Peninsula to hook massive salmon, observe majestic brown bears, and drift past jaw-dropping glaciers. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, as the Kenai Peninsula is home to seemingly neverending outdoor activities, ranging from berry picking to gold mine tours. To ensure that your midsummer escape to Cooper Landing, Alaska, is nothing short of flawless, we’ve compiled three of the most unique things to do on the Kenai Peninsula.
Guided Hiking and Berry Picking
Alaska is called “The Last Frontier” for a reason: there are literally hundreds of thousands of Alaska hiking trails across the state that meander atop towering mountain ranges, through lush forestry, and past picturesque waterfalls. And luckily for you, the adventure guides here at Kenai River Drifters Lodge know the Peninsula like the back of their hands. Our Kenai River lodge is just steps away from true Alaskan wilderness.
We’ve curated a detailed list of our favorite hikes in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and Chugach National Forest, including Slaughter Gulch, Hope Point, and Ptarmigan Lake. An afternoon of Kenai Peninsula hiking will eventually lead to berry picking. Some of the tastiest Alaska berries can be found in the region, which is one of the primary reasons why hiking is one of the top-rated things to do on the Kenai Peninsula. To explore all of our hiking options, please visit this website.
Scenic Floats on the Kenai River
World-class salmon fishing isn’t the only activity that we offer on the serene Kenai River here at Drifters Lodge. The best way to get a lay of the land before spending several days hooking monster salmon during some of the best runs in the world is a scenic three-hour float trip along the teal Kenai River. We highly recommend the three-hour, 12-mile float, but if you’re aiming to maximize your fishing experience then perhaps our two-hour, seven-mile trip is for you. This glaciated valley excursion is led by an entertaining guide who will provide a wealth of knowledge along the way. You’ll drift past jaw-dropping mountain ranges, feasting brown bears, and soaring bald eagles on this 10-person Kenai National Wildlife Refuge trek.
Day Trips with Drifters Lodge
There are dozens of things to do on the Kenai Peninsula, which is why we created three unique day-trips in nearby Seward, Girdwood, and Homer. Here’s a quick rundown of these spectacular expeditions.
- Girdwood – Girdwood is an Alyeska Mountain town will an abundance of local craft stores as well as gold panning, mine tours, ATV trips, and a 2,300-foot climb aboard the Alyeska Aerial Tram.
- Homer – Homer has everything that you’re looking for in a daytime getaway and so much more! Spend an afternoon savoring award-winning wine, observing local art, and soaking up the unique culture in the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.” Three of our favorite highlights on this journey are the Norman Lowell Art Gallery, Pratt Museum, and Bear Creek Wines.
- Seward – Seward is an adventure hub for avid outdoor enthusiasts hoping to spend a full day kayaking, ziplining, hiking, or observing the nation’s most stunning glaciers on a cruise. To learn more about these three things to do on the Kenai Peninsula, please visit us online.