Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort in Alaska!

Imagine spending a day traversing rugged coastal terrain and gliding across the shimmering waters of the Gulf of Alaska, all while uncovering a piece of wartime history. That’s precisely what this Kayak and Hike to Historic WWII Army Fort tour offers in Seward. It’s a well-balanced mix of physical activity, scenic beauty, and historical insight—all guided by seasoned experts who prioritize safety and fun.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the opportunity to hike to Fort McGilvray atop Caines Head, offering panoramic views and a chance to wander through the remains of a WWII military installation. Second, the kayaking leg takes you past ghost forests and local wildlife, from sea otters to bald eagles, turning the day into an unforgettable outdoor escapade.

Although the adventure is physically demanding, it’s designed to be accessible to most levels of fitness, with instruction and gear included.

A potential consideration? The tour is weather-dependent and requires moderate physical fitness, with a maximum weight limit of 250 pounds. It’s not suited for those seeking a relaxed afternoon or with mobility restrictions. However, if you’re eager for an active, immersive experience that combines sea and land, this trip is hard to beat.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, have a sense of adventure, and want to explore Alaska’s natural beauty and history firsthand. Families with older kids, nature lovers, and history buffs will find plenty to enjoy. Now, let’s dig into what you can expect from this memorable day.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 2 Canoe & Kayak Experiences In Seward.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and history in one day.
• Inclusive Gear & Instruction: No experience needed; all gear and safety briefings provided.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from Caines Head, ghost forests, and Gulf of Alaska scenery.
• Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to see whales, eagles, sea otters, and mountain goats.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Suitable for most with a good fitness level; 2 miles hiking, 5 miles paddling.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, safety-conscious guides who make the trip engaging and informative.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: A Well-Organized Kickoff

The adventure begins early, with check-in at 13880 Beach Drive in Seward around 7:45 a.m. This initial step ensures you’ll get your parking pass and sign the necessary forms before the action starts. Arriving early also lets you settle in and get acquainted with the friendly guides. The tour’s timing—starting at 8 a.m.—means you’ll experience the daylight hours fully, which is perfect for capturing those scenic views.

Safety and Preparation: Setting the Stage

Before paddling out, you’ll participate in warm-up exercises and a safety briefing. This is a crucial part of the experience, especially for folks new to kayaking. The guides are attentive and will provide a special training session tailored to your skill level, which boosts confidence and ensures safety on the water. They emphasize that no experience is necessary, making this accessible for beginners but still exciting for seasoned paddlers.

The Coastal Hike to Fort McGilvray

After gearing up, the group departs for a 5-mile paddle across calm waters toward Caines Head. Once there, you’ll hike roughly 2 miles each way up rugged terrain to reach Fort McGilvray. The trail offers a compelling combination of coastal views, forested paths, and historical ruins. The ascent provides spectacular vistas of the Gulf of Alaska, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Guide commentary enhances the experience, sharing local history and pointing out geological features like driftwood ghost forests—remnants of the 1964 earthquake. The effort to reach the fort is rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and a tangible connection to the past.

Exploring Fort McGilvray

The remains of WWII Fort McGilvray are a highlight. Guided exploration reveals old gun emplacements, tunnels, and other structures, giving a tangible sense of the military presence during the war. As one reviewer notes, “well worth kayaking to see the WWII fort,” the ruins are a tangible link to a bygone era, made even more meaningful by the natural beauty surrounding it.

Kayaking to Miller’s Landing

After the hike, the group retraces its steps back to the water and begins the 5-mile paddle to Miller’s Landing. Along the way, you’ll tighten your grip on your paddle, watch for wildlife—perhaps whales breaching or eagles soaring—and enjoy the silence of the sea broken only by your strokes and natural sounds. One reviewer praised the guides’ attentiveness, sharing, “Ron was fantastic. He was very knowledgeable and personable.”

Wildlife & Scenic Highlights

Throughout the day, the chances to spot wildlife are plentiful. Keep your eyes peeled for sea otters, mountain goats, black bears, and Dalls porpoises. Guides often spot whales—a highlight for many participants. The ghost forests, formed by the 1964 earthquake, create a surreal landscape backdrop, emphasizing Alaska’s dynamic environment.

Practicalities & Tips

The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness. While it’s suitable for most, participants should be comfortable hiking and paddling for several hours. The gear—paddles, spray skirts, life jackets—is all included, and guides are ready to assist with tricky waves or paddling techniques. Remember to bring sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain can be uneven.

Weather can influence the experience—cancellations due to poor conditions are possible, but the tour provider offers rescheduling or full refunds when that happens. Participants should also consider bringing rain gear, especially if the forecast isn’t clear.

Reviews & Authentic Feedback

Most reviews reflect the tour’s high value and memorable nature. One traveler exclaimed, “Our guide Isaac was tremendous. He was energetic, helpful, informative, and adventurous.” Another highlighted the wildlife sightings, remarking, “We saw many sea otters, bald eagles, and even a humpback whale from our kayaks.” Many appreciate the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, which make the adventure both safe and fun.

Cost & Value

At $188.37 per person, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the all-inclusive nature—gear, instruction, guide, and multiple activities—plus the potential for wildlife sightings and historical exploration, it offers good value. The tour’s popularity, booked on average 54 days in advance, reflects its desirability among travelers seeking an active and authentic Alaskan experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy physical activity and nature, and who are open to trying kayaking and hiking. It’s perfect for families with kids aged 12 and older, especially those interested in history and wildlife. Travelers seeking a full-day, immersive outdoor adventure that combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and history will find plenty to love here.

If you prefer a more relaxed or less strenuous outing, this tour might be a bit much, but for those craving a true wilderness experience, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This kayak and hike adventure in Seward offers a compelling blend of outdoor activity, scenic vistas, and history, all guided by knowledgeable and safety-conscious guides. It provides ample opportunities for wildlife encounters and stunning views, making it a standout choice for active travelers wanting to experience Alaska’s rugged charm. The inclusive gear and instruction remove barriers for beginners, while the challenge and scenery appeal to seasoned outdoor lovers.

The value lies in the combination of physical activity, educational content, and awe-inspiring scenery—delivering a full package that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, wildlife observer, or outdoor adventurer, this tour promises a vivid, memorable day in Alaska’s wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any experience to join this tour? No, all gear and instruction are provided, and experience isn’t necessary. Guides will help you feel confident on both land and water.

What should I bring? Be sure to bring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear if needed, and comfortable clothes suitable for vigorous activity. A camera is a good idea for capturing the views.

How long is the kayaking portion? You’ll kayak approximately 5 miles to Caines Head and another 5 miles back from Miller’s Landing.

Is the tour suitable for children? Children aged 12 and older can participate, provided they are comfortable with the physical demands and are accompanied by an adult.

What about wildlife sightings? Expect to see eagles, sea otters, and possibly whales or mountain goats. Guides are attentive to spotting wildlife along the route.

How physically demanding is the tour? It involves hiking about 4 miles round-trip and paddling 10 miles total. Moderate fitness is recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are meals or drinks included? No, food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or water for the day.

Where does the tour start and end? Both start and end at the same meeting point in Seward, with the activity beginning at 8 a.m. and returning later in the day.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Alaska’s wilderness, history, and wildlife—perfect for active travelers eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.