Cooper Landing Area Points of Interest
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Points of Interest
Quick: what’s the longest combined rail and highway tunnel in North America? It’s the Anderson Memorial Tunnel, and you’ll drive through it on the scenic and historic drive to Whittier. The Kenai Mountains-Turnagain Arm National Heritage Area is a place whose valleys and mountains, communities and people tell the larger story of a wild place and a rugged frontier. This audio guide gives you the inside scoop on its fascinating history. You’ll… ...more
Here’s our list of places to see wildlife on the Kenai Peninsula, as well as tours to get you to the good spots.
Kenai Lake marks the beginning of the Kenai River Special Management Area. Established in 1984 to protect this very important resource, the 105-mile area stretches almost all the way to the city of Kenai. Take a walk to the viewing decks with informative signs about this area. You will be able to see the Kenai River along the highway for the next 10 miles.
Take a stroll down the boardwalk as it winds along the river. There are several interpretive signs with information about fishing, dall sheep, rafting and boat safety. You’ll also find access to Pioneer Village where you can pan for gold at Prospector John’s Authentic Gold Panning.
This is a must stop for photos of beautiful Kenai Lake. The lake was formed from glacier water is a majestic blue and green tone. You’ll find several parking areas along the lake and signs that give you a little history about it.
Close to Anchorage and endowed with abundant recreational opportunities, central Kenai is Alaska’s playground. Two highways, numerous trails, and several major rivers slice through the spine of the Kenai Mountains. World-class fishing, hiking, river rafting, and canoeing – plus alpine lakes and gold history – make for an ideal day trip or week-long vacation.
Sounds Wild: Birds SmellTern Lake has lots to offer but few people use the old Sterling highway to access the boreal forest near this lake. Drive into the recreational area and as you turn left toward the restrooms you will see an old road to your right. You can walk for miles down this road and enjoy the smell of the woods and the sound of the birds.More Information ...more
Grab your optics and let’s take in the 360-degree view here at the start of the Kenai River, Alaska’s world-renowned salmon fishing hot spot. See wildlife up on the hillsides, songbirds, waterfowl, and the brilliant ice-blue Kenai Lake and River. Breathtaking.