Kayak Tour, Historic Iditarod Trail Hike & Lunch Near Seward

A captivating blend of water, land, and history, the Kayak Tour, Historic Iditarod Trail Hike & Lunch Near Seward offers an authentic taste of Alaska’s wilderness and culture. Priced at $249 per person and lasting 6 hours, this tour provides an immersive outdoor experience just 30 miles north of Seward in the charming town of Moose Pass. It combines kayaking on two glacial lakes, hiking along a historic trail, and enjoying a delicious picnic, making it ideal for adventure lovers who want a well-rounded day outdoors.

While the tour is designed for those comfortable with mountainous terrain and swimming, it’s not suitable for children under 7 years. The small group size—limited to 6 participants—ensures personalized attention and a more intimate connection with Alaska’s landscapes and stories. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and enthusiasm, adding depth to the natural sights with local tales and historical insights.

Key Points

• Full-day Alaska adventure combining kayaking, hiking, and scenic lunch
• Starts in Moose Pass, a quiet town near Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park
• Kayak on 2 glacial lakes, with equipment and safety gear included
• Hike along the historic Iditarod National Trail to stunning views of Grant Lake
• Delicious picnic lunch at Grant Lake with breathtaking scenery
• Limited group size for personalized guidance and storytelling
• Requires swimming ability and comfort in rugged terrain

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Moose Pass as the Starting Point for Alaska Exploration

The tour departs from Trail Lake Lodge in Moose Pass, a small town with a welcoming atmosphere and historical charm. The meeting point offers easy access to restrooms at either Trail Lake Lodge or Estes Brother’s Store across the street. The proximity to Seward and Anchorage makes this an accessible choice for travelers seeking a quick yet immersive wilderness experience.

Moose Pass provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding mountains, lakes, and trails, making this tour suitable for those staying in the area or passing through during a scenic road trip along the Seward Highway.

Kayaking Across Two Glacial Lakes in the Chugach Mountains

The core activity involves paddling on two stunning glacial lakes, with kayaks provided, suitable for small groups. The tour emphasizes safety and equipment orientation for newcomers or seasoned paddlers alike. During the paddle across Trail Lake, guides share stories passed down from locals, including tales of Alaska Nellie, the ghost of a gold miner named Al, and other colorful characters, enriching the experience beyond just the scenery.

This kayaking experience highlights the natural beauty of the Chugach Mountains, with views of glacial waterfalls and pristine waters. The paddle is generally calm, but participants should be comfortable swimming and handling a kayak, as these lakes are the focus of the trip.

Hiking the Historic Iditarod Trail to Grant Lake

After the kayak adventure, the group hikes along a section of the Iditarod National Historic Trail. The trail takes you up and over a ridge, leading to Grant Lake, a peaceful, blue-hued body of water. The hike is moderately rated, with terrain that can be uneven due to rapid vegetation growth in the spring and summer.

While the hike offers breathtaking views and a sense of wilderness, it also provides an opportunity to learn about the trail’s significance in Alaska’s history. The scenery at Grant Lake is described as “hard to describe,” with an atmosphere that captures the rugged essence of Alaska’s wild interior.

Scenic Picnic Lunch at Grant Lake

A highlight of this tour is enjoying a picnic lunch at Grant Lake. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush greenery, the lunch spot offers spectacular vistas and a peaceful setting for refueling. The menu includes delicious, satisfying food that complements the outdoor atmosphere, making the meal a memorable part of the adventure.

This pause allows everyone to soak in the scenery, capture photographs, and appreciate the tranquility of the area before setting out again on the water.

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Re-Exploring the Lakes by Kayak and Hiking Back

Following lunch, the group returns to the water for another kayak session, exploring the lakes from a different perspective. This second paddle offers a chance to observe more wildlife, take in the landscape, and enjoy the calm waters.

The hike back down the trail toward Moose Pass is relatively short but engaging, with opportunities to see local flora and possibly wildlife. The journey ends back at the meeting point, leaving participants with a sense of accomplishment and a collection of vivid memories.

What’s Included and Practical Tips

The tour package covers all essential equipment: life jackets with signaling devices, paddles, a small drybag for personal items, and a basic first aid kit. Included in the $249 price are lunch and snacks, as well as a safety briefing and guidance from experienced professionals.

Participants should bring warm clothing, hiking shoes, water, rain gear, and insect repellent. The tour takes place rain or shine, so proper gear is essential. Since it involves hiking in rugged terrain, a good level of swimming ability and comfort with uneven surfaces are required.

Small Group Experience and Knowledgeable Guides

With limited to 6 participants, this tour ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The guides are recognized for their passion and knowledge, enriching the tour with local stories and Alaskan tales that go beyond typical guidebook information.

The guides’ storytelling skills shine, particularly when sharing stories about local history, wildlife, and the geology of the area, making each moment both educational and entertaining.

The Weather: Rain or Shine

This adventure operates regardless of weather conditions. While sunny days enhance the scenery, participants should be prepared for rain by bringing appropriate rain gear. The outdoor nature of the tour means that unexpected weather may occur, but it does not detract from the overall experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This full-day adventure appeals primarily to adventure enthusiasts comfortable with mountainous terrain and water activities. It suits nature lovers, history buffs interested in the Iditarod Trail, and those wanting a personalized, small-group experience.

The physical requirements make it less suitable for children under 7 years, but older kids with hiking and swimming skills can enjoy the outing. The combination of kayaking and hiking makes it ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded outdoor experience with meaningful stories and breathtaking scenery.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Alaska Experience in Moose Pass

The Kayak Tour, Historic Iditarod Trail Hike & Lunch offers an authentic look into Alaska’s natural beauty and cultural history. For $249, it delivers a full, immersive day of paddling, hiking, and relaxing in a stunning wilderness setting. The small group size paired with knowledgeable guides ensures a personalized, engaging experience.

While participants should be prepared for rugged terrain and variable weather, the scenic lakes, historic trail, and delicious picnic make this tour a memorable choice for those craving outdoor adventure and local stories. It’s especially well suited for active travelers eager to combine water fun with a hike and learn about Alaska’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be able to swim to join this tour?
Yes, participants should know how to swim, as kayaking on the lakes is a key part of the experience.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring warm clothing, hiking shoes, water, rain gear, insect repellent, and a camera. A daypack is recommended to carry personal items.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 7 years are not recommended due to the physical nature of hiking and water activities.

How long is the hike along the Iditarod Trail?
The hike is moderately rated and involves going up and over a ridge to Grant Lake, with a focus on enjoying the scenery and local stories.

What weather can I expect?
The tour operates rain or shine, so appropriate rain gear is essential. Expect scenic views and potential wildlife sightings regardless of weather.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby