Cooper Landing

Some would say Cooper Landing is the heart of the Kenai Peninsula, both literally and figuratively: Located in the middle of the peninsula, the small town also sits at the intersection of the Kenai and Russian Rivers, which makes it an especially fertile fishing spot.

Originally settled by prospector Joseph Cooper, Cooper Landing's nickname is the Emerald, because of it's waters, tinged in a unique blue-green thanks to suspended ultra-fine glacial silt.

Things to Do

• World class Rainbow fishing is readily available, and it's a great jumping off point for salmon fishing on the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers. See our list of recommended fishing guides.
• Go on a full or half-day rafting trip on the Kenai River.
• Hike to Russian River Falls (where you might see salmon leaping out of the water) or other great local trails.
• Visit the K'beq Culteral Heritage Interpretive Site which features interpretive signage and a boardwalk around a Dena'ina house foundation.
• Visit the wildlife viewing deck overlooking Kenai Lake at the Cooper Landing State Recreation Site and Boat Launch. Look for ducks and other waterfowl, as well as Dall Sheep dotting the mountains. There's also a good salmon viewing spot at the Quartz Creek Campground from late July to early october.

Where to Stay

Cooper Landing is home to some fabulous lodges and cabin rentals, as well as some of the most popular campgrounds in the state, like Quartz Creek Campground and the Russian River Campground.

Getting to Cooper Landing

By Car: Cooper Landing is on the road system. It's about 2 hours from Anchorage, and 2 hours from Homer along the Sterling Highway. Here's our road guide.

By Bus: Alaska Bus Company offers transportation to Cooper Landing during the summer between Anchorage, Girdwood, Soldotna, and Homer.

Private Transfer: AK Tripping offers private transportation with an experienced local driver to and from Cooper Landing for groups of up to 4 in a comfortable Toyota Highlander.