4-Day Seward Camping Adventure: Kayak Resurrection Bay & Hike Exit Glacier from Anchorage
Leave Anchorage for a hands-on four-day loop into Kenai Fjords country: hike to Exit Glacier, paddle Resurrection Bay, watch for whales and eagles, and camp three nights at the water’s edge. Small groups and an expert local guide make this an efficient way to see Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife and coastal geology.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for changeable weather
Temperatures swing quickly—wear a wicking base, insulating mid-layer and waterproof shell to stay comfortable on hikes and the kayak.
Pack a dry bag for electronics
Water spray and sudden rain are common on the bay; protect cameras and phones with a 5–10L dry bag.
Bring a sleeping bag or rent one
Tents and camp gear are provided but sleeping bags are not—rent if you don’t own a three-season bag rated ~20°F.
Prepare for seasickness
If you get queasy on boats, bring medication or pressure bands before the marine cruise and kayak day.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tonsina Point for close eagle and tidepool viewing
- •Millers Landing shoreline at dusk for quiet sea-otter sightings
Wildlife
- •Sea otter
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Glaciers here are actively retreating—respect marked trails and wildlife closures, pack out waste, and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance.
The Kenai Peninsula is on traditional Denaʼina and Alutiiq lands; Seward later grew as a railroad terminus and gateway to the Gulf of Alaska in the early 20th century.
Photographer's Notes
- • Exit Glacier edge and overlook
- • From a sea kayak in Resurrection Bay
- • Tonsina Point eagle roost
What to Bring
Waterproof rain shellEssential
Keeps you dry and wind-protected during coastal fog, drizzle and kayak spray.
Three-season sleeping bag (~20°F)Essential
Needed for comfortable camping nights; rentals available if you don’t bring one.
Sturdy waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Provides traction on muddy trails, rocky shorelines and uneven campsite terrain.
Dry bag (5–10L)Essential
Protects camera, layers and electronics on boat trips and kayaking.
Common Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No—you’ll get basic instruction and guided paddling in Resurrection Bay; reasonable upper-body fitness helps but novices are welcome.
Is sleeping bag rental available?
Yes, sleeping bag rentals are offered pre-tour—confirm with the operator in advance if you need one.
How hard is the Exit Glacier hike?
There are options: a short glacier-edge walk (~1.2 miles round-trip, ~400 ft gain) or the longer Harding Icefield Trail (~8.2 miles round-trip, ~2,600 ft gain) for experienced hikers.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include sea otters, sea lions, bald eagles, puffins, and seasonal whales such as orcas or humpbacks on marine cruises.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour meets in Anchorage (hotel lobby) at 8:00 AM on day one and returns to Anchorage on day four in the evening.
Are meals and transport included?
Yes—most breakfasts, lunches and some dinners are included along with park admissions, a glacier/marine cruise and transport in a modern vehicle.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days (approx. 96 hours)
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: able to walk several miles with elevation and paddle 3–6 miles in a sea kayak.
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