Seward Alaska

Ron Niebrugge, Seward
	"Locals just go on the cruise tours when they have company-but they come back realizing what a wonderful place they have as a backyard." Who he is: Seward resident since 1992. Professional photographer specializing in wildlife and travel. Age: 40 Don't miss: Don't come all this way and do just a half-day cruise. A full-day Kenai Fjords tour lets you experience calving glaciers and both land and sea wildlife.

Where were you born and raised?

Born in San Diego and grew up in the Copper Center/Glenallen area in Alaska. When I returned from college I moved to Seward.

Why did you come to Alaska?

Originally, I moved with my parents-being a kid you don't have much say in the matter. But I returned because I missed the small-town feel where you know everybody, and I missed a lot of the things Alaska had to offer. My parents originally came just as a visit for friends and liked it so much that they decided to stay.

What's your favorite thing about living in Alaska?

All the outdoor activities, from boating to running to cross-country skiing to rafting, there is just so much to do here.

What is there about living in Seward that's unlike any other place in Alaska?

I think Seward has some of those nice advantages of being on the coast. You have boating, fishing, Kenai Fjords National Park-the beauty of all that. You also have the fun of the small town. I enjoy being able to go to the post office and knowing most of the people there. Also, it's just a two-hour drive from Anchorage, so if you need to hit a big store or watch a movie it's just a short drive up. That is something that most Interior towns don't have because they are too landlocked.

What's your favorite book on Alaska?

Minus 148 Degrees, the story about the first winter climb of Denali.

What's your favorite season and what do you like to do?

I would say summer, followed closely by winter. In the summer-just being able to go outside and do most of the stuff that I have been talking about. As for winter, when you get that crusty snow you can skate ski around the valley. March is an awesome time to do that.

How would you spend your perfect weekend in Seward?

I enjoy mountain running, so I would probably go up Lost Lake trail or Mount Marathon, either one would be a great start for Saturday. Maybe having dinner at a nice restaurant in town. As for Sunday, take a Kenai Fjords boat trip.

Would you say locals still enjoy the fjord tours?

They do when they have company visiting. But every time locals do go on, they come back realizing what a wonderful place they have as a backyard.

What's your favorite local hidden treasure?

Probably the Harding Ice Field trail. Hike up along that trail and you get to see wildlife and amazing views. When you look at the ocean you feel like it's the first time you looked at it. I think that would have to be one of them, although it has gotten more popular over the years.

Where's your favorite place to have breakfast in Seward? Dinner?

Probably the Breeze Inn. For dinner is tough-I would have to say either the Salmon Bake or Ray's.

What's one experience or attraction you think visitors should not miss in Seward?

? I would definitely think the full-day Kenai Fjords cruise tour. I think coming all this way and only doing a half a day is just a waste. With the full day you get all the experiences of calving glaciers and both land and sea wildlife. Also, don't miss the Alaska SeaLife Center.

What's one thing about Alaska you think visitors may not know that you would like to share with them?

Make sure to watch the Northern Lights in the wintertime. People don't realize how spectacular that sight can be.