Best Hikes near Soldotna, Alaska
The Last Frontier is a seemingly neverending playground for nature enthusiasts of all sorts, including hikers, birdwatchers, and anglers. Hiking in Alaska, in particular, is an ethereal experience that will unquestionably be one of the highlights of your trip to Soldotna, AK. When you choose a once-in-a-lifetime escape to Alaska Legends Kenai River Lodge, you’ll always be in the heart of Alaska’s pristine wilderness.
Hiking in Alaska: Three Breathtaking Trails
Whether you’re planning a group fishing trip, honeymoon, or corporate retreat, you’ll find that you’re always minutes away from a wilderness excursion. We’ve hand-selected three of our favorite hikes near Soldotna, all of which are a short yet utterly-beautiful drive from Alaska Legends Kenai River Lodge.
- Easy: Kenai National Wildlife Refuge – One of the best places to spot wildlife in their natural habitat is the nearby Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Start your one-hour hike with a pit stop at the visitor center to gaze at life-sized brown bear, moose, bobcat, and Dall’s sheep exhibits. This 2.9-mile loop is flat, making it perfect for families and novice hikers. Headquarters Lake attracts a wide variety of birds as well as bald eagles, moose, and, yes, bears. The Headquarters Lake loop is a quiet, serene stroll for those looking for a short albeit beautiful midday activity near Soldotna, AK.
- Moderate: Hidden Creek Trail to Skilak Lake – We’d categorize Hidden Creek Trail to Skilak Lake as a hidden gem, as most tourists (and even some locals) don’t know of its existence. You can pick up the Hidden Creek trailhead from Skilak Lake Road and follow the creek southward to beautiful Skilak Lake. Both sides of the creek lead to this serene natural marvel. Many of the area’s trails typically climb toward a peak overlook, but Hidden Creek allows hikers to observe the foothills of the Kenai Mountains. Hiking in Alaska doesn’t get much more secluded – we recommend packing a picnic and bringing along binoculars!
- Hard: Skyline Trail – The Skyline Trail is only three miles in length yet it’s one of the most challenging out-and-back hikes on the Kenai Peninsula. You’ll start your journey near Sterling Highway and climb nearly 2,000 feet in elevation. The trek is taxing, no doubt, but the sweeping, panoramic Kenai Mountains views are among the best on the peninsula. You may even have the opportunity to hike through the clouds on an overcast day!
Riverfront Soldotna Lodges
Alaska Legends Kenai River Lodge is within a couple of hours from some of the most beautiful places in Alaska. Combine your well-deserved Kenai Peninsula getaway with hiking, fishing, and kayaking adventures through our area partners! While we provide a remote wilderness locale, we’re also within minutes of a local airport, the Birch Ridge Golf Course, and a plethora of Soldotna fishing charters. Please visit us at KenaiLegends.com to book your next Alaskan adventure!