5.0
(15)
347
hikers
3
hikes
Hiking around Seward offers access to a diverse landscape characterized by coastal paths along Resurrection Bay, views of surrounding mountains, and trails through varied terrain. The region features a mix of forested areas, open overlooks, and routes that provide glimpses of the dramatic Alaskan environment. Trails often follow the coastline, offering views of the bay and its adjacent hills. The elevation changes vary from gentle coastal walks to more challenging ascents into the hills.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
20
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
3.98km
01:01
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3
hikers
6.11km
03:44
970m
970m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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I think the map Komoot is built on has Race Point in the wrong place - maybe someone can double-check me on that. Anyway, it should be right about here; there's a huge rock that runners use as a turnaround point during the famous Mount Marathon race. If you continue past that rock, the terrain gets really sketchy, really quickly. Unless you really, REALLY understand what you're getting into, I recommend going to and from this point using what's called the hiker's trail or hiker's route β a much gentler ascent/descent than the grueling race course, from which unsuspecting hikers often have to be rescued.
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This paved multi-use path goes right along the waterfront, offering nice views of Resurrection Bay. Honestly, it's spectacular, and it's not uncommon to see curious sea lions or seals watching you from the water, and sometimes if you're very lucky you might see a whale. Believe it or not, the campgrounds you pass are run by the city. (They are pretty cheap!) There's also a small skate park, some playground equipment, and a large first-come, first-serve picnic pavilion.
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A boat tour from this harbor is a must when you are in Seward. There are two large providers (Major Marine Tours & Kenai Fjord Tours), which certainly do not differ in quality. In any case, we can definitely recommend booking the large 8.5-hour tour, where you travel in much smaller boats and have a very intense nature experience. There were not even 20 people on board and we saw a lot of wildlife. π³π¬π¦π¦ββ¬π¦ You could feel the crew's love for the sea every minute and learned an incredible amount about its creatures. To prevent any seasickness (the waves were sometimes really rough), there were various chewy candies at check-in or on board.
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Nice place for a coffee break
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Great aquarium with local wildlife and natural history exhibits
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Around the lagoon leads a boardwalk, which again and again rewarded with beautiful vantage points. In the background you can see the Mt. Marathon.
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The lagoon west of Seward is a good spot for bird watchers.
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The indigenous Benny Benson designed the flag of Alaska. In honor of this monument was built.
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There are 4 hiking routes directly accessible from bus stations in Seward. These trails offer a range of difficulties, from easy strolls to challenging climbs, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes of Resurrection Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Seward Harbor β Scheffler Creek Bridge loop from Seward. This route is just under 4 km long with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed stroll along the waterfront and past the scenic Scheffler Creek Bridge.
The bus-accessible hikes in Seward offer stunning views of Resurrection Bay, the surrounding rugged mountains, and glimpses into the temperate rainforests. Trails like the Resurrection Bay Overlook β Scheffler Creek Bridge loop from Seward provide beautiful coastal vistas, while more challenging routes ascend to panoramic viewpoints.
Yes, all 4 routes in this guide are circular, meaning they start and end at the same point, making them convenient for bus station access. Options include the moderate Race Point loop from Seward and the easier Seward Harbor β Scheffler Creek Bridge loop from Seward.
Along these bus-accessible trails, you can discover several points of interest. The Seward Harbor is a vibrant starting point, and the Scheffler Creek Bridge is a scenic spot. For those willing to venture a bit further, the Lowell Point State Park hike to Tonsina Creek and the Caines Head Trail offer historical and natural beauty.
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Race Point β Mount Marathon Trailhead loop from Seward is a difficult route. It features significant elevation gain (over 960 meters) and offers rewarding views, including those towards the famous Mount Marathon.
The bus-accessible trails in Seward are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.96 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the convenience of starting directly from town, and the diverse range of trail difficulties available.
Seward's diverse ecosystems, from coastal areas to temperate rainforests, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the trails, you might encounter various bird species, and if you're lucky, marine wildlife in Resurrection Bay. Keep an eye out for salmon in creeks during spawning season, especially near the Tonsina Creek Trail.
The best time for hiking in Seward is typically from late spring through early fall (May to September). During these months, the weather is generally milder, trails are clear of snow, and the region's lush temperate rainforests and alpine meadows are vibrant with wildflowers. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, there are two moderate options. The Race Point loop from Seward is a nearly 9 km route with over 840 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout and scenic views. Alternatively, the Resurrection Bay Overlook β Scheffler Creek Bridge loop from Seward is a moderate 8 km loop with less elevation, focusing more on coastal views.


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