Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort in Alaska!

Discover the Unique Alaska Adventure: Kayak and Hike to WWII Army Fort in Seward

The Kayak and Hike to Historic WWII Army Fort in Seward offers an engaging blend of outdoor activity and history. Priced at $188.37 per person, this 8-hour tour takes you from land to sea, exploring Alaska’s rugged landscape and wartime remnants under the guidance of experienced professionals. This tour is especially suitable for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to combine scenic sightseeing with a touch of history.

What makes this experience stand out is the seamless inclusion of all kayak gear and a guided hike to Fort McGilvray, perched atop Caines Head. With all skill levels welcome, it’s designed to be accessible to beginners with a quick safety and training session. Expect to see local wildlife, including eagles, whales, sea otters, and mountain goats, while paddling past ghost forests from the 1964 earthquake. The entire trip offers an authentic, active way to explore Alaska’s natural beauty and historical sites.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure combining kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing in Seward, Alaska
• All gear and instruction provided, no experience necessary
• Includes a guided hike to Fort McGilvray atop Caines Head with panoramic views
• Wildlife sightings such as whales, eagles, sea otters, and sea lions
• Paddle 5 miles to Miller’s Landing, with a 2-mile hike to the historic fort
• Suitable for moderate physical fitness levels and travelers under 250 lbs

Starting at Seward’s Waterfront: Meeting and Equipment Preparation

The tour begins at the 13880 Beach Drive in Seward, where you check in at 7:45 a.m. for a parking pass and to sign necessary forms. The guide team provides a professional briefing and outfitting for your kayak adventure. Warm-up exercises and a safety briefing take place at 8 a.m. before the group departs on the water at 8:15 a.m..

This early start ensures ample daylight for the entire 8-hour experience. The group is limited to 16 travelers, allowing for personalized attention and safety. The meeting point is the operational hub for this adventure, and no hotel pickup is provided, so guests should plan accordingly.

Exploring Caines Head: Hiking to Fort McGilvray

Once on land, the tour features a 2-mile hike up Caines Head to reach Fort McGilvray. The trail offers spectacular views of the Gulf of Alaska and the surrounding cliffs. The walk is moderate in difficulty but accessible to those with a decent level of fitness.

At the historic Fort McGilvray, visitors get to see the remains of a WWII military installation. The site provides insights into Alaska’s wartime defenses, with bunkers and other structures visible. The hike and exploration are led by guides who share informative commentary about the fort’s history and significance.

Kayaking from Caines Head to Miller’s Landing

After the hike, the group departs by kayak for Miller’s Landing, paddling 5 miles along the coastline. This part of the tour is a highlight for many, as the guides lead you past ghost forests that survived the 1964 earthquake, and you get close-up wildlife encounters.

While paddling, you might spot sea otters, bald eagles, and even whales, including humpbacks. The guides ensure everyone’s safety, provide training sessions beforehand, and are attentive to wave and water conditions. The inclusion of all gear, such as paddles, spray skirts, life jackets, and paddling aids, makes it accessible for beginners.

Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Vistas

Throughout the day, wildlife watching remains a constant highlight. From the water, observers often see sea lions, sea otters, and Dalls porpoise. On land and from viewpoints atop Caines Head, views stretch over the Gulf of Alaska, revealing the majestic cliffs and resurrection bay shoreline.

The guides’ extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor make wildlife spotting both fun and educational. The natural scenery—rugged coastlines, driftwood forests, and sweeping ocean vistas—creates a truly immersive experience.

The Historic Significance of Fort McGilvray

The fort remains at Caines Head serve as a tangible link to Alaska’s wartime past. The bunkers and structures are well-preserved enough to give visitors a sense of the military presence during WWII. The guides highlight the strategic importance of this location and its role in defending the region.

Visitors can explore the fort grounds at leisure, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding waters and cliffs. The historical context enriches the outdoor activity, making this a meaningful addition to the adventure.

Practical Details and Physical Requirements

Preparation is straightforward, as all necessary kayaking gear, including paddles, spray skirts, and life jackets, are included. The moderate physical fitness requirement means participants should be comfortable with hiking and paddling for the day, with the weight limit of 250 lbs and the cockpit size restrictions in mind.

Children aged 12 and above can participate when accompanied by an adult, making this suitable for families with teenagers. Travelers should bring hiking boots for the land portion and be prepared for potentially rainy weather—though the experience proceeds rain or shine.

Logistics and Group Experience

The tour departs promptly at 8 a.m. from the meeting point, with check-in starting at 7:45 a.m. The group size is capped at 16 travelers to ensure safety and personalized attention. Since hotel pickups are not included, guests need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting spot.

The trip includes local taxes, landing and facility fees, and professional guide services. The guides, such as Issac, Ron, Emily, and Rich, are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety consciousness—making the adventure both fun and secure.

The Value of This Alaska Adventure

Priced at $188.37, this tour offers a comprehensive day of outdoor activity, wildlife viewing, and historical exploration. The inclusion of all gear and expert instruction adds to the value, especially for those new to kayaking or hiking. The 8-hour duration balances adventure with ample time for relaxation and sight-seeing.

While this experience requires some physical effort, it is perfect for those who enjoy active days and outdoor scenery. The reviews highlight the professional guides and the variety of wildlife seen along the way as key reasons this tour is highly recommended.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This kayak and hike adventure suits active travelers eager to see Alaska from both land and sea. It appeals to those interested in history, wildlife, and spectacular views. Given the guided instruction, it offers a safe, manageable experience for beginners and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts alike.

However, participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity and bring appropriate clothing for variable weather. The well-organized itinerary and personalized guides make this a memorable way to explore the coastal beauty and WWII relics of Seward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior kayaking experience needed for this tour?
No, all gear and instruction are provided, and no experience is necessary.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring hiking boots for the trail to Fort McGilvray and wear weather-appropriate clothing.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children aged 12 years and above can participate when accompanied by an adult.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour requires a moderate fitness level due to paddling and hiking, with a weight limit of 250 lbs.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see whales, eagles, sea otters, sea lions, and mountain goats.

What is included in the price?
All kayak gear, guides, taxes, and facility fees are included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is rain or shine; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at 13880 Beach Drive, Seward and ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

How long does the entire day last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from check-in in the morning to return in the afternoon.

This kayak and hike tour offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, and historical exploration, making it a standout activity for visitors eager to experience Alaska’s coastal beauty and wartime sites firsthand.