Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

The name of this new wilderness ecolodge says it all—and it may be the best-situated lodge in Alaska. Located within a 1,700-acre, native-owned wildlife sanctuary in the heart of Kenai Fjords National Park, the central lodge and 16 guest cabins of Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge have full views of Pedersen Glacier and easy access to hiking, kayaking and wildlife-viewing adventures. One bonus for staying here: the great Kenai Fjords wildlife and glacier cruise that transports you to and from the lodge.

EcoTourism Pioneer

The company that owns and operates the lodge—Alaska Wildland Adventures—was started by Kirk Hoessle, a Missourian who came here for a summer job years ago and never really left. He started AWA as a tent safari and rafting tour operator, but then expanded his company beyond the tents, but he wanted to keep lodges small, for an intimate vibe. The Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge is the newest—and it was always a dream of Hoessle’s to build in the unspoiled wilderness of the Kenai Fjords. When the native corporation sought out a partner to share the beauty of ancestral lands and waters with a small group of travelers each summer, they sought out Hoessle for his environmentally sensitive lodge/tour operation knowledge, and believed he would care for the land—which he does. He's long been an advocate for ecotourism in Alaska, and prides himself on hiring guides with the same expertise and passion about the great outdoors.

Up Close in the Fjords

To get to the lodge, you’ll take a fully-narrated Kenai Fjords wildlife cruise where you’ll spot marine mammals and waterfowl against a backdrop of shimmering glaciers—a memorable way to travel between Seward and the lodge. Once at the lodge, you can explore remote coves and pebbled beaches within the Alutiiq heritage lands of the Pedersen Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary. You’ll hike and kayak with expert guides and see harbor seals, river otters, mountain goats, black bears, bald eagles, and waterfowl.

Green Living, Gourmet Dining

Back at the 3,000 square foot lodge, you can enjoy superb glacier, water and wildlife views—as well as dining on Alaskan specialties, fresh-baked breads plus fine wines and local beers. And if ecotourism is a priority for you, you’ll sleep easily at night knowing that the lodge, cabins and all activities reflect Alaska Wildland Adventures’ "leave no trace" style of ecotourism. The elegantly rustic lodge and secluded guest cabins pair modern comfort and environmental stewardship. Experience the vistas and wildlife of spectacular Kenai Fjords National Park with experts who call Alaska home.

In addition to the Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge, Alaska Wildland Adventures owns and operates two other wilderness lodges on the Kenai Peninsula. Check out Kenai Riverside Lodge, located on the banks of the upper Kenai River; and Kenai Backcountry lodge, a remote boat-in only lodge located on the glacier-carved Skilak Lake. If one lodge is not enough, take part in one of Alaska Wildland Adventures’ all-inclusive Adventures, or choose a two or three lodge combination package and experience all AWA has to offer.

FAQs

• What is included if I travel with Alaska Wildland Adventures?

  When you travel with Alaska Wildland Adventures, all activities are included as outlined in your trip-specific itinerary, including all meals and snacks, accommodations, pre-trip planning materials, first-class equipment and guide support. All you’ll need to bring is personal gear and clothing (outlined in our Packing List) and high spirits, and they’ll take care of the rest!

• What kind of food do you serve?

  Meals are a highlight of every trip. Their highly skilled and imaginative cooks emphasize freshness and flavor. From delicious Alaskan seafood with fresh garden salad, to homemade breads and rolls, to decadent desserts, you will be amazed at how well you can eat in the wilderness. They’re able to accommodate a variety of dietary requirements with advance notice, and there will be opportunities to let them know about those during the booking process.

• Are there any physical requirements I should be aware of?

  Most trips are for folks in average physical condition. Participants should be comfortable trail walking three to four hours with short breaks. Some trips offer non-exertive options while others include more strenuous hiking. Ask their reservations staff about the right trip for you.

• What are the best trips to bring children on?

  Kenai Riverside Lodge is ideal for parents and grandparents traveling with children 7-11. For well-traveled children and youth, ages 12-18, we recommend the more active Alaska Wildland Collection, although any itinerary is suitable for older teens.

• Will I have opportunities to see wildlife on my trip?

  Alaska Wildland Adventures intentionally plans their itineraries to travel to remote areas including visits to various national parks, state parks and wildlife preserves in the state. Kenai Fjords National Park – which is featured in many of their trips – is home to whales, sea lions, seals, sea otters, porpoises, bald eagles, Dall sheep, puffins, murres and more aquatic wildlife. Interior regions such as Talkeetna and Denali are home to moose, caribou, Dall sheep, grizzly bears, porcupines, foxes, wolves, golden eagles, ptarmigan and other land creatures – though these creatures can be spotted in many areas of the Kenai Peninsula, as well. The longer you stay in wild places, the more opportunities you’ll have to view wildlife.