The 8 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours in Seward
Seward is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience Alaska’s rugged beauty firsthand. Unlike many other spots, Seward offers a mix of marine adventures, mountain treks, and wilderness explorations—all within striking distance of each other. It’s not just about looking at scenery; it’s about getting into it, whether by kayak, on foot, or both. The area’s Kenai Fjords National Park and iconic Harding Icefield are magnets for hikers and adventurers eager for real wilderness experiences.
What makes Seward especially appealing for hiking and trekking is its combination of accessible trails and challenging backcountry routes, all supported by guides who know the area inside and out. Each tour on this list offers something unique—be it wildlife sightings, glacier views, or historical sites—and caters to different fitness levels and interests. If you’re ready to lace up your boots or grab a paddle, these tours will point you in the right direction.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of hiking and trekking experiences suited to different tastes and abilities. You’ll find full-day hikes into the Kenai Fjords to see the Harding Icefield (Harding Icefield Trail Hiking Tour), wilderness walks around Seward (Seward Wilderness Hiking), and combined kayak and historic forts (Kayak and Hike to WW2 Army Fort in Alaska). There’s also a shorter, scenic hike through Tonsina Beach, and a challenging Mount Marathon climb for more experienced hikers. Keep reading for detailed insights into each tour.
1. Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort in Alaska!
Starting with a combination of hiking and kayaking, this tour is perfect if you want an active day that mixes history with wildlife viewing. You’ll begin with a moderate hike to Fort McGilvray on Caines Head, where a guide shares stories of WWII history and the strategic importance of the area. From there, it’s time to paddle out on the icy waters of Resurrection Bay toward Miller’s Landing.
This trip is designed for all skill levels—guides provide a quick training session before launching, so beginners are welcome. The kayak gear and all equipment are included, making it easy to focus on the experience. Expect to see sea otters, bald eagles, and maybe even whales as you paddle past scenic cliffs and rugged shoreline. The reviews highlight how helpful and energetic the guides are and praise the smooth kayaking even for those new to the sport.
Bottom line: If you want a day combining history, wildlife, and active water sports, this tour offers impressive value at $188.37 per person. It’s a well-rounded experience for families, adventurous beginners, and those interested in Alaska’s coastal defenses.
2. Harding Icefield Trail Hiking Tour
For a full-day trek into one of Alaska’s most iconic sights, this tour is hard to beat. The Harding Icefield is a massive expanse of ice, and this tour takes you into Kenai Fjords National Park, where you’ll hike into the wilderness with an expert guide (see more about this tour). The hike is challenging, but manageable for those with decent fitness levels, and small groups ensure a personalized experience.
The highlight is the spectacular views of the icefield, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Your guide shares fascinating insights about the geology, wildlife, and history of the area as you trek through lush forests and rocky terrain. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Seward and is capped at 12 participants, making it intimate and less crowded.
Guests mention how guides like Al and Tatum elevate the experience with their knowledge and friendliness. The trail can be strenuous, especially in mosquitoes, so packing layers and insect spray is advisable.
Bottom line: This tour offers a premium, immersive experience into Alaska’s glaciers, perfect for active travelers wanting a true wilderness challenge at $174 per person.
3. Seward Wilderness Hiking
If you’re after a more relaxed, customizable hike, this guided walk through Seward’s scenic trails is a great choice. The tour covers glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, and alpine tundra, with a focus on local flora and fauna. Because it’s adaptable, the guide can tailor the hike to your fitness level and interests.
The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics simple, and the knowledgeable guide, Coen, makes sure you see the best spots while sharing insights about bears, moose, and the history of the region (see more). Reviewers praise the friendly guides and the spectacular views, especially the “really fun” hike that left them with memories of “amazing scenery and wildlife.”
This tour is suited for those who want a less strenuous outing but still want to explore Alaska’s wilderness intimately. The price ($111.15) offers good value for a semi-private experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or less experienced hikers looking for guided scenery and wildlife spotting, at a moderate price.
4. From Seward: Harding Icefield Trail Hiking Tour
This 8-hour guided hike into the Harding Icefield offers an epic day in Kenai Fjords National Park. Starting from Seward, the trip includes a stop at Exit Glacier before heading into the mountains to view the massive icefield and surrounding peaks. The guide shares stories, wildlife facts, and geological insights as you trek along rugged terrain.
What makes this tour stand out is the balanced mix of challenging hiking and rewarding scenery. The guide, Pierce, was commended for his attention to safety and knowledge—even accommodating slower walkers. The trail is strenuous, but the views of glaciers, waterfalls, and snow-capped summits are unforgettable.
Guests report that the guide’s personalized approach and interesting commentary make it feel like a true adventure. The tour is priced at $174 per person, which is good considering the all-day nature and expert guiding.
Bottom line: This is ideal for serious hikers seeking an all-day wilderness experience with spectacular glacier views.
5. From Seward: 4-hour Wilderness Hiking Tour
If your time is limited but you still want to experience Alaska’s wilderness, this half-day tour is a solid choice. It covers alpine creeks, spruce forests, waterfalls, and wildlife in around four hours of guided walking. The guide, Travis, is praised for his excellent trail choices and local knowledge.
This tour is flexible enough to be tailored to your interests, whether focusing on wildlife, scenery, or a gentle walk. It’s a good way to get a taste of Seward’s wilderness without committing to a full day. The price ($156) reflects a moderate value, especially with hotel pickup included.
Reviewers mention how the guide’s trail selection kept the pace comfortable, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Bottom line: A practical, shorter option for those wanting a wilderness experience without a full-day commitment, perfect for a morning or afternoon outing.
6. Tonsina Beach Hike with Seward Guided Hikes
This 3 to 4-hour tour combines forest walks, mountain vistas, and ocean views—a well-rounded introduction to Seward’s landscapes. Led by a local third-generation Sewardite, you’ll learn about area history, flora, and fauna as you pass through mossy forests and arrive at Tonsina Beach, with sweeping views of Resurrection Bay.
The guide provides hiking poles, snacks, and water. The trail includes some uphill sections and steep downhill parts, making it suitable for those with moderate fitness. The tour’s unique angle is the local insight and historical stories about WWII and Seward’s past.
Priced at $145, it offers an authentic, relaxed experience, with positive feedback emphasizing the informative guide and beautiful scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers interested in history and nature who prefer shorter, manageable hikes with personalized local stories.
7. Mount Marathon Bowl Guided Hiking Tour
For thrill-seekers who want challenging terrain and breathtaking views, this Mount Marathon climb is a must. The steep trail leads to a bowl of lush greenery surrounded by towering peaks, with views of Seward and Resurrection Bay. The guide, a local race participant, shares stories about the famous Mount Marathon Race and the area’s geography.
The hike lasts about 3 to 4 hours, and while demanding, the reward is a spectacular panorama. It’s suited for those with good fitness and a desire for an intense workout paired with cultural insights.
Pricing at $200 makes it one of the more expensive options, but the access to more challenging terrain and the storytelling makes it worthwhile for serious hikers.
Bottom line: Best suited for fit, adventurous travelers eager to challenge themselves and learn about Seward’s mountain race legacy.
8. From Seward: 2-hour Wilderness Hiking Tour
If you only have a short window but want a taste of Alaska’s wilderness, this quick guided walk is perfect. It’s a 2-hour trek through mountain scenery, alpine creeks, and waterfalls, with a professional guide providing local insights along the way.
The tour includes hotel transfer and recommendations for local dining afterward. It’s priced at $111, making it an accessible option for travelers pressed for time but still eager to get outside.
The reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, and the scenery is described as breathtaking despite the brief duration.
Bottom line: An excellent introductory hike for travelers with limited time, offering a snapshot of Seward’s wild landscape.
How to Choose the Right Hiking or Trekking Tour in Seward
When deciding between these tours, consider your fitness level, time availability, and what you most want to experience. If you’re after glacier views and a full-day challenge, the Harding Icefield Trail or the From Seward: Harding Icefield Trail are top options. For a shorter, less strenuous outing, the 4-hour Wilderness Hiking or the Tonsina Beach Hike offer great scenery in a manageable timeframe.
Those interested in combining history with outdoor activity will enjoy the Kayak and Hike to WWII Fort, while thrill-seekers may prefer the Mount Marathon challenge. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular full-day trips or guided hikes during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Seward’s diverse terrain and stunning scenery make it a top destination for hiking and trekking. Whether you want a full-day glacier trek, a wildlife-focused walk, or an adventure combining water and land, the options are plentiful. For those who love a challenging mountain climb, the Mount Marathon tour is ideal. If you prefer a more relaxed, scenic experience, the Seward Wilderness Hiking or Tonsina Beach hikes might suit you better.
Two or three tours stand out for their value and variety—the Harding Icefield Trail, the Kayak and Hike to WWII Fort, and the From Seward: Harding Icefield Trail—each offering a unique taste of Seward’s rugged wilderness. Book early to ensure your spot in these memorable adventures—Alaska waits for no one!