there is no "off" season in seward

While the midnight sun may be setting, summer’s end doesn’t mean the adventure is over. There are plenty of options outside our busiest season for a trip to Seward.

Fall foliage provides a beautiful backdrop, making it the perfect time to mountain bike, hike, trail run, or maybe even pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars (we forget what they look like in the summer!).

September through April, when skies are dark enough, you might catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis) paint the night sky, though due to Seward’s coastal location and frequent clouds, our displays are not as reliable as what you might see further North.

There are boundless outdoor activities to enjoy in Seward in the winter and spring. Luckily for us (and yes, we mean luckily) our snow can stick around until May, meaning we get to enjoy skiing, fat biking, ice skating, and more!

Avid skiers can strap skins onto their skis (or splitboards!) and head into the backcountry where snow peaks beckon, while regularly groomed ski trails around Seward attract nordic skiers of all skill levels. Whether you prefer skate or classic technique, check in with the Seward Nordic Ski Club (p. 67) for the most up-to-date trail conditions.

Mount MARATHON RACE & JULY 4TH FESTIVAL

In 2017, Outside Magazine declared, “Mount Marathon is the Toughest 5K on the Planet.”

Seward’s Mount Marathon Race is regarded as one of the hardest short-distance mountain races in the world. Up to 30,000 people descend on Seward to watch the mayhem and celebrate Independence Day.

The grueling course climbs 3,022 feet above sea level, followed by a fast and dangerous descent. The 3.1mile race has an average slope of 34 degrees and is 60 degrees at its steepest.

The first organized race was held in 1915, making it one of the oldest footraces in the country. This year, over 1,000 gutsy women, men, and children—including multiple generations of Alaskan families—will tackle the mountain on race day.

Learn more at mmr.seward.com

Reel in your silver salmon straight from shore! The derby has a designated shorefishing category.