Seward: Tonsina Point Kayak & Exit Glacier Nature Hike

The Seward: Tonsina Point Kayak & Exit Glacier Nature Hike is a full-day adventure that offers a perfect mix of sea kayaking and hiking in Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness. Priced with a focus on immersive nature experiences, this tour lasts 6 hours and is rated 4.4 out of 5, highlighting its popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. Starting from Seward, the tour takes participants through wildlife-rich Resurrection Bay and concludes with a scenic trek to Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of wildlife viewing, glacial vistas, and nature education all in a single day. You get to paddle alongside bald eagles and sea otters, then hike through a glaciated forest with views of mountain peaks and valleys. The experience is tailored for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and want to see a variety of natural sights in a relatively short period. As with any outdoor activity in Alaska, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity, and the tour runs rain or shine, with cancellations only possible due to high winds.

Key Points

• Combine kayaking and hiking in one full-day adventure in Seward, Alaska
• Experience wildlife sightings such as bald eagles, sea otters, and harbor seals
• Visit Resurrection Bay for stunning glacial-fed waters and serene paddling
• Hike the Exit Glacier Overlook Loop Trail, offering mountain views and geological insights
• Expert guides provide commentary on flora, fauna, and geology throughout the day
• Suitable for ages 10 and up, with moderate difficulty requiring some hiking experience

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Meeting and Starting Points for Your Alaska Adventure

The tour begins in Seward, where participants meet at Adventure Sixty North. After a brief safety briefing and being equipped with all necessary gear, the group departs via a short van ride to Lowell Point Beach. This scenic spot serves as the launch point for the 3-hour kayaking session in Resurrection Bay. The tour includes a 25-minute stop at Adventure Sixty North before heading to the kayaking location, with a subsequent 15-minute drive back to the starting point after the activity.

The logistics are straightforward, ensuring that travelers can relax and focus on enjoying the scenery and wildlife. The van transfer is short and smooth, connecting the kayaking and hiking portions of the day seamlessly.

Kayaking in Resurrection Bay: Wildlife and Calm Waters

The kayaking segment lasts about 3 hours, during which the guide leads paddlers through calm glacial waters fed by nearby ice formations. Resurrection Bay is known for its abundant wildlife, including bald eagles, harbor seals, and sea otters. The serene environment and informative commentary from guides make this a rewarding experience for nature lovers.

Participants are provided with all necessary gear, including life jackets and paddling equipment, making it accessible even for those with minimal kayaking experience. The waters are described as calm, which is ideal for a leisurely paddle amid stunning maritime scenery.

Exploring the Local Ecosystem and Geology with Expert Guides

Throughout the kayaking and hiking parts of the tour, guides share insights about the local flora, fauna, and geology. Expect to learn about the glacial history of the region, as well as details about quartz veins and copper deposits visible along the trails and in the landscape.

The guides’ commentary enhances the experience, turning a scenic outdoor activity into an educational journey. Their knowledge helps guests understand the ecosystem’s delicate balance and the geological forces that shaped the area.

Hike to the Exit Glacier Overlook Loop Trail

After returning from kayaking, the tour transitions to a moderate 2.2-mile hike through Kenai Fjords National Park. The Exit Glacier Overlook Loop Trail offers impressive views of glacial valleys and mountain peaks. The trail passes through a forest of towering spruce, cottonwood, and birch trees, providing a lush backdrop to the glacier vistas.

Guides point out unique geological features such as quartz veins and copper deposits, enriching the hiking experience. Wildlife such as moose, bears, and mountain goats can be spotted along the trail, adding to its appeal for natural observation.

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Scenic Views of Glacial Valleys and Mountain Peaks

Reaching the overlook grants breathtaking views of Exit Glacier and the surrounding valleys. The scenery includes towering mountain peaks and expansive glacial formations, making it an ideal spot for photos and appreciating Alaska’s rugged beauty.

This hike offers a moderate challenge, with some hiking experience recommended, but it remains accessible for most physically active travelers. The trail’s terrain and moderate elevation make it suitable for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Logistics, Timing, and Physical Requirements

The entire tour spans about 6 hours, with short van rides interconnecting each activity. It begins in Seward and includes a 25-minute stop at Adventure Sixty North before kayaking, then a 15-minute drive to Exit Glacier for the hike, and a final 15-minute return to the starting point.

Participants should wear layers and bring rain gear if preferred, as trips run rain or shine. The tour is suitable for travelers aged 10 and up, with moderate difficulty and some hiking experience recommended. The physical demands involve sea kayaking and moderate hiking, making it ideal for active visitors comfortable with outdoor pursuits.

The Experience Provider: Adventure Sixty North

The tour is operated by Adventure Sixty North, which holds an overall rating of 4.4. The company specializes in outdoor adventures, offering flexible booking options like reserve now, pay later, and full refunds for cancellations made 24 hours in advance. Guides work in English and are experienced in sharing knowledge about Alaska’s landscapes and wildlife.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This 6-hour combination tour suits travelers seeking active outdoor experiences with a focus on wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and geological features. It is well-suited for adventurers aged 10 and up who enjoy moderate physical activity and are prepared for weather variability.

Those looking for a balanced day of sea kayaking and hiking, with plenty of photo opportunities and learning, will find this tour offers a compelling glimpse into Alaska’s natural beauty. It provides excellent value for its full-day duration and diverse activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 6 hours.

Is kayaking suitable for beginners?
Yes, all necessary gear is provided, and the waters are described as calm, making it accessible for most skill levels.

What should I wear?
Wear layers and bring rain gear if preferred, as the tour operates rain or shine.

What is the difficulty level?
The tour has moderate difficulty; some hiking experience is recommended, and there is some physical activity involved.

Are children allowed to participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for ages 10 and up.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to encounter bald eagles, sea otters, harbor seals, moose, and possibly bears and mountain goats.

How do I book or cancel?
Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the van transfers between stops are part of the tour package.

What are the main highlights?
The tour features wildlife-rich kayaking, stunning glacier views, and a scenic hike to the Exit Glacier overlook.

Can I expect to learn about geology?
Absolutely, guides share insights about local geology, including quartz veins and copper deposits found along the route.

This Seward: Tonsina Point Kayak & Exit Glacier Nature Hike offers a well-rounded, active exploration of Alaska’s remarkable landscapes, perfect for those eager to combine wildlife, scenery, and geology in one memorable day.

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