Seward is a true outdoor lover’s playground, especially for those who thrive on hiking and trekking adventures. This coastal town offers access to glaciers, rugged mountains, and dense wilderness, making it a prime destination for nature seekers. Whether you’re eager to step onto a glacier, explore historic sites by kayak, or summit a mountain, Seward has a tour to match your enthusiasm. We particularly like the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure for its combination of adventure and safety, and the Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort for combining water and land exploration with a fascinating history lesson. The variety of options means there’s something for all, whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual hiker.
Quick Overview
The list below features top-rated Seward hiking and trekking tours, ranging from ice hikes, mountain trails, and wildlife hikes to helicopter glacier treks. All these experiences are designed to showcase Alaska’s stunning landscapes—each with its own unique twist. For an immersive glacier experience, check out the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure, or combine water and land with the Kayak and Hike to Historic WWII Army Fort. For hikers seeking a full-day challenge, the Harding Icefield Trail Hiking Tour offers rugged terrain and breathtaking views.
1. Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure from Seward
At number 1, the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure offers the chance to step onto a real glacier with a guide. This tour starts with a steep hike that takes you well away from the crowds typical of more accessible glaciers, making it perfect for adventurous, fit travelers. All necessary gear and instructions are provided, so even first-timers can feel confident. Once on the ice, you’ll explore stunning ice formations, crevasses, and waterfalls, with enough time to enjoy a provided lunch overlooking the glacier. The guide’s expertise ensures safety, even on challenging terrain. Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Brandon and Al, with comments like “breathtaking scenery” and “once-in-a-lifetime experience.” The tour is excellent for those who want an active, off-the-beaten-path glacier day.
Bottom Line: Great for adventurous travelers eager to explore a glacier beyond the typical tourist paths, with expert guidance and a full-day experience.
2. Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort in Alaska!
Number 2 on our list combines land and sea exploration with a dive into Alaska’s wartime history. This tour takes you on a hike to Fort McGilvray, then on a guided kayak trip to Miller’s Landing. You’ll learn about the WWII military presence while observing local wildlife like sea otters, bald eagles, and perhaps even humpback whales from your kayak. The guides, like Issac and Ron, are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making even novices feel comfortable in open water. The included gear and training make this suitable for all skill levels. The mix of hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing makes it a well-rounded adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers interested in history, wildlife, and ocean vistas, with a balanced outdoor experience.
3. Harding Icefield Trail Hiking Tour
Number 3 is a full-day hike into Kenai Fjords National Park, focusing on the impressive Harding Icefield. You’ll be guided by a professional wilderness expert, ensuring safety on challenging terrain. The small group size (capped at 12) guarantees personalized attention and a more intimate wilderness experience. The trail offers spectacular views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and waterfalls, with the chance to see wildlife along the way. Most reviews mention how guides like Tatum or Al help mitigate the difficulty, making this hike accessible to motivated hikers with a good fitness level. The tour includes transportation from Seward, taking away logistical worries.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a serious wilderness challenge with expert guidance and incredible scenery, this trail is hard to beat.
4. Seward to Anchorage transfer with National Park hike and AWCC
Number 4 offers a scenic transfer from Seward to Anchorage, with a couple of stops that double as hiking and wildlife-viewing opportunities. The first stop is at Exit Glacier, where you can walk along the glacier’s edge and learn about its geology. Next, you visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, home to bears, moose, and other native animals. The day combines nature, wildlife, and stunning scenery in a well-paced 8.5-hour trip. Reviews note how Leona’s flexibility and knowledge make this a memorable, educational journey. It’s perfect for travelers who want a combination of scenic drives, light hikes, and animal encounters without a strenuous focus.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive day of scenery and wildlife en route to Anchorage.
5. From Seward: Harding Icefield Trail Hiking Tour
Number 5 is a comprehensive wilderness trek into Kenai Fjords National Park, emphasizing wildlife spotting and scenic vistas. The trip covers eight hours of trekking, with a focus on stories about the area’s natural and human history, plus the chance to see moose, bears, and other wildlife. The guide’s local expertise ensures you get the most out of the experience, and the tour’s duration makes it an excellent choice for serious hikers wanting a full immersion into the wilderness.
Bottom Line: A rewarding option for experienced hikers eager for a full immersion into Alaska’s backcountry and wildlife.
6. Seward Wilderness Hiking
Number 6 is a guided small-group hike designed to suit your fitness level and interests. This tour explores glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, and alpine tundra, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the local flora and fauna. The guide is praised for their knowledge and flexibility, making it a personalized experience. The tour’s shorter duration (about four hours) makes it accessible for families or those with limited time but still wanting to experience the wilderness authentically.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for families and casual hikers who want a manageable yet enriching wilderness experience.
7. Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure
Number 7 is similar to the first but offers a full-day glacier trek with a friendly guide. This tour emphasizes stunning glacial waterfalls, ice crevasses, and local stories. The highlight: a complimentary lunch on the glacier, providing a unique dining experience amid ice formations. It’s best suited for active travelers who want an immersive glacier experience with some storytelling along the way. Guides like those who have led this tour mention their focus on safety and education, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive glacier adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting an all-day glacier experience with excellent scenery and local insights.
8. From Seward: 6-hour Wilderness Hiking Tour
Number 8 offers a mid-length wilderness trek, emphasizing mountain rivers, spruce forests, and waterfalls. The guide shares local stories and wildlife facts, helping you connect with the land. The tour suits those with moderate fitness looking for a day outdoors. Reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge and flexibility make this a memorable trip, with some noting excellent wildlife sightings.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a moderate day hike that combines scenery, wildlife, and local stories.
9. Alpine Hike and Picnic
Number 9 is a small group helicopter tour combined with an alpine hike and picnic. It offers a luxurious twist on outdoor adventure, with stunning aerial views and a peaceful hike in remote alpine areas. This experience is ideal for those wanting a scenic, less strenuous outdoor activity with the added thrill of helicopter flight. The guide knows the best spots for an Alpine picnic and provides a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a combination of scenic helicopter flight and peaceful alpine hiking.
$549.00 per person
10. Tonsina Beach Hike with Seward Guided Hikes
Number 10 features a gentle 3-4 hour hike through mossy forests to Tonsina Beach, with panoramic views of Resurrection Bay. The guide, a third-generation Sewardite, shares local history and wildlife insights. The hike’s moderate difficulty makes it suitable for families and casual hikers. Reviewers appreciate the personalized guidance and local stories, adding depth to the scenery.
Bottom Line: An accessible, scenic hike ideal for families and those wanting a relaxed outdoor experience with local flavor.
$145.00 per person
11. From Seward: Lost Lake Trail Hiking
Number 11 promises an untouched wilderness experience at Lost Lake, with stunning alpine views and peaceful shores. This trail offers tranquil moments and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hikers who want to escape crowds and enjoy solitude in nature. Details are sparse but suggest an adventurous trail suitable for experienced hikers seeking serenity.
Bottom Line: Suitable for hikers looking for a quiet, scenic outing in pristine wilderness.
$320 per person
12. Heli Glacier Trekking in Seward
Number 12 offers a scenic helicopter flight followed by a guided trek on a remote glacier. This 4-hour heli trek provides an unforgettable perspective on Alaska’s icy landscape, with landing sites next to deep crevasses and icefalls. The tour is perfect for those who want a helicopter adventure combined with glacier trekking but is pricier at $479. It’s best suited for adventure travelers comfortable with helicopter flights.
Bottom Line: A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for dedicated glacier explorers willing to invest in an aerial and icy adventure.
$479
13. Heli Hiking in Seward
Number 13 is similar to heli trekking but focuses on heli-hiking, with a scenic helicopter flight followed by a hike in remote wilderness. It offers a chance to see wildlife and glaciers from the air and on foot. This 4-hour tour is ideal for those seeking aerial views combined with outdoor activity. The experience is tailored to adventure lovers with a sense of discovery.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a combination of helicopter flight and wilderness hiking within remote areas.
$291
14. Mount Marathon Bowl / Race Summit with Seward Guided Hikes
Number 14 combines hiking and local history by climbing Mount Marathon. You’ll trek the Jeep Trail to the Bowl and then along the skyline ridge to the mountain’s summit, with stunning views of Seward and Resurrection Bay. The guide shares stories of the famous Mount Marathon Race and local tales. The challenge is real, but the views and stories are worth it.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers interested in history, scenery, and a challenging climb.
$240.00 per person
15. Mount Marathon Bowl Guided Hiking Tour
Finally, number 15 offers a shorter, guided hike up Mount Marathon. It provides spectacular town and bay views, with an emphasis on local stories about the race and Seward. The hike is suitable for those wanting a less intense but equally rewarding experience, with the chance to learn about the famous race and local wildlife.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a shorter, scenic hike with a focus on local storytelling and panoramic views.
$200.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Hiking & Trekking Tour in Seward
When deciding among these options, consider your fitness level, time availability, and what kind of experience excites you most. If you want an authentic glacier walk, the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure is hard to beat, especially with its informative guides and superb scenery. For a wildlife-rich day, the Kayak and Hike to Historic WWII Fort offers a balanced mix of water and land exploration. Those seeking serious mountain trekking should look at the Harding Icefield Trail, while helicopter adventures like the Heli Glacier Trekking are perfect for thrill-seekers.
Choose tours based on your budget, physical readiness, and whether you prefer full-day immersive experiences or shorter scenic walks. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your spot on popular tours.
Seward’s outdoor options are vast—from icy glaciers to alpine lakes and rugged mountains—making it a world-class destination for hikers. Whether you want to challenge yourself on a 8-hour trail, glide across icy waters, or enjoy a scenic helicopter flight, you’ll find a tour that fits your style. For a memorable trip, combine a few different experiences, and don’t forget to book early—these tours fill up fast in the summer. Happy hiking!