Soldotna, Alaska is one of my favorite places to visit in Alaska. Our family adores Soldotna, so we decided to compile a list of things to do when visiting. Here’s a list of our favorite things to do there.
Some of these ideas you may have heard before, but I believe some of my thoughts are new to you. Continue reading to see what makes this place so wonderful and why I love going back.
Background
Soldotna is located on the Kenai Peninsula and has a population of 4,518. It’s conveniently located among four equally cool towns: Homer, Kenai, Seward, and Anchorage.
Now you’re undoubtedly wondering what makes Soldotna so fantastic. This area is an outdoor enthusiast’s heaven, with a lot of opportunity for outdoor sports.
This location is ideal for those who enjoy fishing, hunting, hiking, kayaking, boating, climbing glaciers, skiing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities. It all begins in Anchorage (if you’re heading to Soldotna by car), where you’ll take the Seward Highway.
There’s something special about leaving the city and seeing the seashore along the Turnagain Arm. The Chugach Mountains emerge in all their glory, as the vast plain gives place to mountains and more mountains.
While there is a lot to see on the trip to Soldotna, this travel guide is primarily about Soldotna. So, here’s my top 25 list of things to do in Soldotna, one of the best towns on the Kenai Peninsula.
Are you planning a last-minute trip to Soldotna? If so, schedule your trips and lodgings as soon as possible! Continue reading for our picks of the finest things to do near Soldotna.
Best accommodations in Soldotna:
- Aspen Hotels of Alaska: 326 Binkley Cir, Soldotna, AK (newer hotel)
- Kenai River Lodge: 393 Riverside Dr, Soldotna, AK (riverside lodging)
- Soldotna Inn: 35041 Kenai Spur Hwy, Soldotna, AK (budget inn)
Best places to rent a car near Soldotna (located approximately 10.8 miles away in Kenai at the Kenai Municipal Airport):
- Budget Car Rental: 305 N Willow St Ste 116, Kenai, AK
- Avis Car Rental: 305 N Willow St, Kenai, AK
Flying to Soldotna, Alaska:
- Kenai Municipal Airport (ENA Airport): A short drive to Soldotna
- Address: 305 N Willow St, Kenai, AK
- Daily flights from Anchorage (ANC) to Kenai Airport (ENA) via Grant Airways
1. Go hiking
Soldotna, located on Alaska’s scenic Kenai Peninsula, is recognized for its stunning natural beauty and fantastic hiking routes. Soldotna is an ideal place for nature lovers who enjoy spending time outside.
If you’re in the mood for a rigorous hike, put on your favorite hiking boots and begin exploring the Kenai mountains. The Kenai Peninsula boasts more than 25,600 square miles of spectacular hiking landscape.
In addition, the Hidden Creek (approximately 50-minute drive from Soldotna) and Skilak Lookout (47-minute drive from Soldotna) trails are well-known for their panoramic views of the environment.
Skyline trail
If you’re looking for a more difficult climb with breathtaking views from my Soldotna travel guide, consider the Skyline Trail. The 6.5-mile climb leads to the summit of Skyline Ridge, which provides panoramic views of the Kenai Peninsula.
The walk may be difficult, but the views are worthwhile. Set aside four to five hours to complete the trek, and carry lots of water as the hike can be hard.
Kenai River trail
The Kenai River Trail offers an easy stroll along the Kenai River, a popular fishing spot on the Kenai Peninsula. The trailhead is about 50 minutes from Soldotna. It offers amazing opportunities to see animals such as moose, eagles, and beavers.
The trail is roughly 10.2 miles long and is ideal for anyone who enjoys a relaxing hike. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the beautiful river vistas.
Resurrection Pass trail
The Resurrection Pass Trail is a moderate to strenuous hike that spans 38 miles, offering stunning vistas of alpine tundra and glacier-fed streams. The trek takes about three to five days, and hikers can camp at designated spots along the trail.
This hike is ideal for experienced hikers who enjoy a challenge and want to experience the wilderness of Alaska. Bears are prevalent, so make sure to bring bear spray and know how to practice good bear safety.
Related adventures: Read about other hikes our family has taken around the world
Hidden Creek trail
The Hidden Creek Trail is a beautiful, family-friendly must-see hike. The course is short, roughly 2 miles round trip, but features a wealth of wildlife and picturesque views of Hidden Creek.
Good to know: This hike is perfect for families with young children.
Skilak Lookout trail
The Skilak Lookout Trail is a moderate hike near Kenai Lake and offers jaw-dropping views of the Kenai Mountains. This hiking trail is about 5.5 miles long and takes about three to four hours to complete.
Drink plenty of water and bring snacks when hiking. Please keep in mind the signage indicating areas with dangerous conditions.
2. Fish on the Kenai River
The Kenai River, which winds through Soldotna, is a fishing haven. King Salmon, silver salmon, and sockeye salmon are abundant in this river, along with other species of fish.
Fishing charters are available for those who want to enjoy the experience with the help of a guide. If you like to fish without a guide, earn how to fish for salmon by reading our article on how to floss for salmon on the Kenai River. It’s an informative article giving you all the information on how to catch red salmon on the Kenai River in AK.
Related posts: Learn about the best fishing rivers on the Kenai Peninsula
Soldotna, Alaska, is a must-visit destination for any avid fisherman seeking the ultimate fishing experience. The Kenai River in Soldotna is home to huge Chinook salmon, sockeye, pink salmon, rainbow trout, and dolly varden char.
Note: Before you go fishing, read all the regulations. In addition, try to time your trip around the salmon runs. Great times include mid June and mid July.
3. Visit the Soldotna Visitor Center
The Soldotna Alaska Visitor Center is an information hub for visitors to the region, and knowledgeable staff is available to answer any questions. They can provide maps, brochures, and other educational information to help you maximize your time in Soldotna.
One of the most notable features of the visitor center is its viewing platform. You can enjoy stunning views of the Kenai River and the surrounding mountains from here.
Apart from the viewing platform, the visitor center has exhibits showcasing the area’s rich history. You can learn about the people who first inhabited the region, the pioneers who settled here, and the wildlife that calls the area home.
On display are numerous taxidermy including brown bear, dall sheep and salmon. Overall, it’s just as much a museum as it is a visitor’s center and well worth the trip!
Address: Soldotna Visitor Center, 44790 Sterling Hwy, Soldotna, AK 99669
4. Watch a local chainsaw artist
If you’re looking for something different to do, go to the Town of Living Trees just off the Sterling Highway. Here, you can watch Scott Hanson, a local chainsaw artist who carves pieces of wood into pieces of art.
This genuine Alaskan wood carver can do everything from carved moose to salmon to bears! His unique, handcrafted, chainsaw-carved carousel is a site to behold.
Scott sells his carved artwork in his art gallery on-site. There’s nothing more “Alaskan” than locally made chainsaw artwork.
Address: 41672 Sterling Hwy, Soldotna
5. Visit the Funny River Horse Trailhead
If you’re interested in a longer hike, you may want to check out the Funny River Horse Trailhead. You’ll enjoy seeing the impressive beauty of the region while hiking through the Kenai Wildlife Refuge.
This hike is 24.4 miles roundtrip and takes approximately 10 hours to finish. Travel with a group and practice good bear safety techniques. Take ample water, bear protection and inform others your plans before you depart.
6. Go kayaking and canoeing
If you want to get up close to the wildlife from a different viewpoint, consider renting a kayak or canoe from a local outfitter to paddle around the lakes or rivers in Soldotna.
Kayak and canoe rentals:
- Kenai Kayak Company
- Alaska Canoe and Campground (12-minute drive from Soldotna in Sterling, AK)
Great water to paddle in Soldotna:
- Swan Lake
- Swanson River
- Kenai Lake (50-minute drive from Soldotna)
7. Float the Kenai River
If you want to relax, you can take a leisurely float on the Kenai River aboard a raft or inner tube and admire the view from the water.
There’s several put ins along the Kenai River, just make sure you know where to get out before you start.
White water rafting
White water rafting near Soldotna on the Kenai River can be exciting depending on the water flow. Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. On the river, stay alert and keep your paddles at the ready.
Don’t forget to take in the gorgeous surroundings – the Kenai River valley is one of the most scenic places in the world. On our most recent trip down the Kenai starting in Cooper Landing, we spotted 16 bald eagles!
Address: Alaska Rivers Company, 16782 Sterling Hwy, Cooper Landing, AK 99572
8. Visit the Kenai Wildlife Refuge in Soldotna
The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge spans over 1.92 million acres. More than 250 bird species can be discovered throughout the refuge, and visitors can hike, fish, kayak, camp, and explore.
Visiting the Kenai Wildlife Refuge is a great family activity as numerous wildlife displays are on site. In addition, there are several hikes, including one to Headquarters Lake, which has a viewing platform overlooking this secluded body of water.
There are also historical cabins and educational films at the refuge. Quick day hikes are available starting at the refuge center and perfect for families with young children.
Address: 33398 Ski Hill Rd, Soldotna, AK 99669
9. Look for moose in Soldotna
Soldotna is home to various wildlife species, including moose. You can stop in your car around the outskirts of town, especially towards sunset, to look for the iconic Alaskan moose.
The resident moose population in Soldotna and Alaska fluctuates yearly due to winter kills and car crashes. You can start your journey in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.
You should always stay safe from moose (and any Alaska wildlife) or remain in your vehicle. Early morning or dusk is your best bet for viewing real-life moose, as they may scuttle back into the woods if they sense human presence.
You can also drive the Sterling Highway towards the Russian River and look for marshy areas – moose tend to favor this habitat for eating vegetation.
Pictured below: Moose are an important diet for many local people in Soldotna. At the local sportsman’s store is a display showing legal versus non-legal bulls for harvest during moose hunting season.
12. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing
Skiing and snowboarding are two of the more popular winter sports near Soldotna. The nearby ski resort, Alyeska Resort, has a range of terrains suitable for beginners and experienced skiers.
The Alyeska Resort is approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes from Soldotna by vehicle. For those who love snowboarding, the terrain parks at the resorts offer excellent opportunities to practice tricks and jumps.
Snowshoeing
If you want to take it easy, Soldotna has plenty of snowshoe trails for beginners and advanced outdoor enthusiasts. The trails at Tsalteshi Trails and Skyline Trail are perfect for trekking through the snow and taking in the beauty of the outdoors.
Address: Alyeska Resort, 1000 Arlberg Ave, Girdwood, AK 99587
13. Hire a bush pilot out of Soldotna
The view of Alaska from above is undoubtedly breathtaking, and you can see it all on a scenic flight. Witness the glaciers, mountain peaks, and rivers in full view, and take as many pictures as you wish.
Clark Lake
The Clark Lake fly-out trip is a must-do for anyone visiting Soldotna. As you take off in a small plane near Soldotna, excitement and anticipation build up. You’ll fly over Cook Inlet and eventually reach the stunning Clark Lake.
Snow-capped mountains and lush greenery surround the serene lake. Once you’ve landed, explore the lake’s blue waters, paddle boarding or fishing. This beautiful fly out trip requires 10-12 hours of your day, so pack accordingly.
Wolverine Creek
Another popular fly-out trip from Soldotna is Wolverine Creek. The trip begins with a short flight over the western part of Cook Inlet and into Redoubt Bay, where Wolverine Creek flows into the ocean.
As you approach the creek, dozens of bears can sometimes fish for salmon in the shallow waters. You might also spot other wildlife like moose and eagles.
The Wolverine Creek fly-out trip is not for the faint of heart, but it’s the perfect experience for adventure lovers. Bear encounters can be close to the safety of your boat.
It’s an excellent opportunity for those who like to fish and wish to photograph bears. The plane ride takes approximately 30 minutes from Soldotna.
Crescent Lake
The Crescent Lake fly-out trip is another best-kept secret near Soldotna. After taking off, you’ll cross the Kenai Mountains and approach Crescent Lake. The stunning lake is nestled in a valley, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and towering peaks.
The crystal clear water of Crescent Lake is perfect for kayaking, swimming, bear viewing, and fishing. You’ll have the entire day to soak up the stunning beauty of this hidden gem.
Best fly-out services near Soldotna:
12. Visit Soldotna Creek Park
Soldotna Creek Park makes for an excellent stopover. This spot is home to a fishing platform that provides a clear view of salmon and trout swimming upstream and picnic tables and benches to kick back and relax.
13. Go on a bear-watching tour
If you’re searching for a wildlife adventure, pack your gear and embark on a bear-watching trip on the Kenai Peninsula. Alaska has one of the world’s greatest populations of brown bears. If you’re lucky, you can see them when visiting isolated locations like as Russian River Falls, Brooks Falls, and Katmai National Park. However, your safety should be your number one priority.
Brown bears are most visible throughout the summer and fall, when they are searching for salmon or berries to eat before hibernating. If you drive towards Cooper Landing in the evening, you’re likely to encounter bears eating salmon carcasses along the bankyou’ll likely.
Always practice bear safety, travel in groups, be aware, and keep a safe distance from all Alaska animals.
14. Eagle watching
Soldotna’s eagles are a sight, typically along the Kenai River. A guided fishing charter on the Kenai River will give you the best chances of viewing eagles in their natural habitat.
If you want to see eagles up close, you can check out the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a rehabilitation center for animals like eagles, bears, and more.
The Center offers captivating views of birds and other wildlife, like caribou, as they roam the wild. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is an hour and 47 minutes from Soldotna.
A popular spot for eagle viewing is A.R.C. Lake in Soldotna. Not only are eagles plentiful, but you fish in this stocked lake and picnic.
Another great spot to see bald eagles is at the Soldotna landfill. I’m not suggesting you go to the landfill just to see eagles.
However, if you have trash to take, there’s a good chance you’ll see bald eagles, which can number in the hundreds, at the dump. The eagles are simply going after easy pickings like table scraps.
Address: ARC Lake Park, 46930 Sterling Hwy, Soldotna, AK 99669
15. Watch the northern lights in Soldotna
The lights of the north are luminous, colorful waves that occur high in the Earth’s atmosphere when charged particles from the sun make contact with atoms and molecules. Simply put, it is nature’s light show.
The lights are visible from September through April, but the best viewing time is between December and February. During this time, the nights are the longest, and the skies are the clearest.
Read our recommendations on increasing your chances of seeing the northern lights in Alaska.
Related adventures: Visit our adventures in the sky page
16. Experience great food in Soldotna
Soldotna, Alaska, may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations, but it offers a unique experience for travelers. One of the best ways to experience a new place is through its food, and Soldotna has exceptional cuisine.
Below are a few recommendations, but for more great eateries in Soldotna read about the best places to eat on the Kenai Peninsula.
Addie Camp & Fresh 365
Located in the heart of Soldotna on the Kenai Peninsula, Addie Camp is a staple of the local community for its fresh and delicious seafood. The simple but satisfying menu features classic dishes like steak, giant elk burgers, and gourmet soups.
Address: 43550 Whistle Hill Loop, Soldotna, AK 99669