2023 Upper Kenai Visitors Guide

VISIT

T

Cooper

surrounded by the Kenai Mountain Range and based at the turquoise headwaters of the Upper Kenai.

Welcome to the Upper Kenai

visitors from around the world come to play, explore and relax in nature’s serenity.

The communities of Cooper Landing and Moose Pass offer visitors unique restaurants, comfortable accommodations, secluded getaways, quaint shops, and cultural attractions.

The Upper Kenai is the ideal location for a family vacation, a wedding, a corporate retreat, or a solo getaway. We hope you enjoy exploring the wonders of this magical place we call home.

Cooper Landing Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau www.cooperlandingchamber.com

www.moosepassalaska.com

Moose Pass Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau

How to Get Here

Most visitors drive from Anchorage along the Seward Highway. It takes an hour to get to the Peninsula and less than two hours to reach our communities. But take your time!

The highway is actually a National Scenic Byway and an All-American Road. Along the way you’ll be treated to spectacular wilderness vistas.

Watch for Dall sheep, mountain goats and humanoids (rock climbers) along the cliffs. You may also catch glimpses of kite surfers, paddle boarders, and beluga whales in Turnagain Arm. As you turn south, coastal vistas give way to forested mountainscapes.

Throughout your journey, we encourage you to take advantage of the multiple pull-outs for safe viewing. Many feature interpretive signs and spotting scopes. Enjoy!

Driving Distances & Times

• Keep your headlights on at all times.

• The Seward Highway maximum speed limit is 65 mph.

• Cooper Landing & Moose Pass community speed limit is 35 mph.

• Sterling Highway maximum speed limit is 65 mph.

Photo: Best Route Productions

Weather, Climate and Seasons

Like everywhere in Alaska, the weather can vary greatly no matter what the season. So come prepared with multiple layers of clothing. Top that off with a warm hat, a sturdy rain jacket and you’ll enjoy your stay no matter what the weather.

Summer (June, July and August): The sun barely sets, the salmon are running, and people are energized by all the daylight. In general, June is the driest, July the warmest, and August the rainiest month. Daytime temps range 60° to 80°F; night and early mornings, 40° to 60°F.

Winter (November - March):

This is the time to see the Aurora Borealis and enjoy outdoor snow activities. Temperatures range from -30° to +40°F. February and March are the best for snow, sun and winter activities.

Spring & Fall (April, May, September, & October):

These months feature fewer crowds and longer sunsets that bathe the scenery in a magical light. It’s a photographer’s dream. April and May are drier and often sunny; September and October showcase vibrant fall colors. Temps are 40° to 60°F during the day; 20° to 40°F at night.

Marmots, Otters and Bears-Oh My!

The Upper Kenai is home to all kinds of critters. Here we have both brown (grizzly) and black bears that feed on the region’s plentiful salmon and berries and thus grow quite large. We also have plenty of moose and mammals large and small, slippery and spiky, furry and fierce.

Here are but a few...

• Black & Brown Bear

• Moose

• Mountain Goat

• Dall Sheep

• Coyote & Wolf

• Red Fox

• Lynx

• Porcupine

• Hoary Marmot

• Beaver

• River Otter

Brown Bear Mountain Goat

Avian Adventures

Hundreds of bird species can be found on the Kenai. The area is a key migratory stop for trumpeter swans, arctic terns and sandhill cranes. The lush forests are home to woodpeckers, kingfishers, dippers and many others. The checklist below is a fraction of species you may see.

Download a complete checklist for the Upper Kenai at: www.cooperlandingchamber.com or www.moosepassalaska.com.

□ American Dipper

□ Arctic Tern

□ Bald Eagle

□ Common Redpoll

□ Goldeneye

□ Loon

□ Merganser

□ Pine Grosbeak

□ Ptarmigan

□ Steller's Jay

□ Red-necked Grebe

□ Raven

□ Trumpeter Swan

Rules in Bear Country

Bears are inherently curious, intelligent and faster than they look. They do not like to be surprised or harassed. Whether you’re out hiking, camping, fishing, biking or otherwise enjoying the outdoors, always be “bear aware” and remember, you are in their home.

Keep Your Distance

Give bears plenty of space. View and photograph from a safe distance.

Don’t Surprise a Bear — Make Noise!

When biking or walking trails, sing, talk loudly or shout out frequently so bears know you’re coming. Avoid thick brush and hike in a group.

Don’t Feed or Accidentally Attract Bears

It is illegal (and foolish) to feed bears on purpose or by not securing food, dishes or garbage in your vehicle or in bear-proof containers. In the backcountry, hang food between trees, out of their reach.

Don’t Let Bears Get Your Fish

- If a bear approaches while you are fishing, STOP FISHING!

- If you have a fish on, either let out slack so the fish does not splash or cut your line.

- Immediately bleed caught fish (in the water), cut all waste into small pieces and toss into deep, fast moving water.

Don’t Run

If a bear notices you, stand your ground. Running will only trigger its chase instinct and no one can outrun a bear. Instead, talk in a normal voice. If it doesn’t run off, make more noise. If it charges, stand your ground; it will likely be a bluff.

Flourishing Flora

Blanketing the Upper Kenai Peninsula spring through fall is an ever-changing tapestry of ripening berries, blossoming wildflowers and fascinating foliage. Many of the over 1,500 species of Alaskan wildflowers can be seen on the Upper Kenai. Here are some of the most commonly seen...

Edible Berries

Blueberry

Cloudberry

Low-Bush Cranberry

Crowberry Currant

High-Bush Cranberry Raspberry

Salmonberry

Watermelon Berry

Flowers & Mushrooms

Bluebells Chocolate Lily

Fireweed

Jacob's Ladder

Paintbrush

Cotton grass

Prickly Wild Rose

Forget-Me-Not

Nootka Lupine

Shaggy Mane, Puffballs & Morels

Plants to Avoid

Devil’s Club (skin irritant)

Cow Parsnip (skin irritant)

Monkshood (Poisonous)

Amanita muscaria (Poisonous)

Baneberry (Poisonous)

Poisonous Berries

A deadly toxic berry in Alaska is the baneberry. It has clusters of shiny white or red berries with a black dot on each end. They taste very bitter, so spit them out before swallowing, thus avoiding their potentially deadly effect. For more information visit: www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd529923.pdf

Help Keep the Kenai Clean

We locals are passionate about keeping the Kenai River, Upper Peninsula and surrounding areas free from trash, debris and human waste. Please help us out by picking up after yourself and leave a place looking better than you found it.

Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare

• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Dispose of Waste Properly

• Leave What You Find

• Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Respect Wildlife

• Be Considerate of Other Visitors

What to do “When Nature Calls” ?

• Whenever possible use public restrooms. (Locations on chart, pg. 22.)

• If you are on or by the river bring a double bagging pack-out system.

• In the backcountry, dig a hole 6-8 inches deep and bury the organic evidence. Bring an extra plastic/ Ziploc bag and pack out toilet paper, wipes, hygiene products and all trash.

When Nature Calls where

Which would you rather see on your outdoor adventure?

Proper Methods?

Monkshood

Fireweed

Blueberry Spruce

Cooper Landing

Highlights of The Landing

• Historical Cooper Landing Museum, School & Bear Skeleton Exhibit

• K’beq Native Heritage Site

• Hiking/Wildlife/Birding

• Juneau Creek Falls

• Resurrection Pass Trail

• Cooper Creek, Quartz Creek, Crescent Creek, & Russian River Campgrounds

• Confluence of the Kenai & Russian River

• Russian River Falls

• Cooper & Rainbow Lake

• Lower & Upper Russian Lakes

• Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

• Alaska State Parks Scenic Viewpoint, Boat Launch, and Day Use Area.

Cooper Landing Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

Milepost 48.7 Sterling Highway www.cooperlandingchamber.com Info@cooperlandingchamber.com

A hub of outdoor adventure, Cooper Landing is nestled in the majestic Kenai Mountains along the turquoise waters of Kenai Lake and the upper Kenai River. It’s no wonder the community is known as the “Gem of the Kenai Peninsula.”

Most of the community straddles the Sterling Highway at the west end of Kenai Lake. Although home to less than 500 residents, the town swells into the thousands every summer as anglers, campers, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts flock here to enjoy the famed upper Kenai River region. All visitor facilities are available in Cooper Landing. You’ll find everything from cozy accommodations, wilderness lodges, motels, and charming campgrounds to excellent restaurants and food trucks. Convenience stores, tackle shops, post office, emergency services and two gas stations round out the facilities. All these amenities make living, playing and visiting here easy.

Population: 478

Juneau Falls

Cooper Landing

Best Route Productions

Best Route Productions

Turquoise waters of Kenai Lake

Cooper Landing History

Native Heritage

Cooper Landing is the traditional, seasonal home of the Alaska Native Kenaitze Indian Tribe. Their ancestry is tied to the Dena’ina, some of whom likely migrated here from north of the Alaska Range.

The Kenaitze Tribe remains here to this day and partners with Chugach National Forest to help showcase their heritage at two interpretive sites. The K’Beq archaeological site at MP 52.6 features short, guided tours on a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk and offers visitors a view of a Dena’ina house pit and cold storage pits. "Footprints" is a self-guided interpretive nature trail at MP 52.1.

Gold Rush History

In 1884, gold miner Joseph Cooper and his crew traveled up the Kenai River from Cook Inlet. Ten years later he discovered gold near what is now known as Cooper Creek, and Cooper Landing was born. The discovery brought an influx of people. When mining faded around 1910, many chose to stay on and either subsisted on hunting, fishing and gardening, or became guides, trappers, and fur farmers. A school and post office opened in the 1920's. Cooper Landing was eventually connected to the town of Kenai by road in 1948 and to Anchorage in 1951.

Cooper Landing Today

Cooper Landing has long been known as a popular summer tourist destination because of its scenic wilderness location and proximity to world-class fishing. It is a tight-knit, thriving community that shares activities and events together in the community hall, museum and library. It also has a very active retirement community.

Accommodations — Lodging & Camping

Cooper Landing boasts a wilderness lodge overlooking the Kenai River, quaint lodges, motels, B&B's, cabin rentals and access to some of the best campgrounds known in Alaska. Make your reservations early; popular months can fill up as much as a year in advance.

Cooper Landing Community Hall

The Hall is the center for social activities in the Landing, hosting fundraisers, community meetings, weddings, holiday functions, and music performances. Events are held frequently here, so it’s best to reserve early.

Cooper Landing Museum & Historical Society

Rich in history, stories, artifacts and even a full sized adult brown bear skeleton.

Cooper Landing Community Library

The most charming library in Alaska! It features free Wi-Fi, computers available for public use and an excellent collection of books.

Eagles View and Ravens View

Representing seniors (those age 55 and above) in the area of Cooper Landing, Moose Pass and Hope, the Cooper Landing Senior Citizen Corporation has their corporate office and major meeting site located in the Helen Gwin Commons at this independent living facility. Residents are extremely active in the community and enjoy spectacular views of Kenai Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Sunday Worship

Cooper Landing Community Lutheran, Kenai Lake Baptist Church, and St. John Neumann’s Catholic Church offer Sunday services.

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The Perfect Cast

Sockey Salmon (Reds) (June 11 – June 30, July 15 – August 10)

Silver Salmon (Coho) (August 15 - October 31)

Fish Species

Rainbow Trout is our favorite fish to catch, photograph and release. These native resident fish are amazing fighters and in the Kenai river system all year.

Dolly Varden are beautiful, brightly spotted fighters — perfect to catch on film and release.

Sockeye (Red) Salmon are the lifeblood of the Kenai River drainage. They feed the entire food chain with their eggs, smolt and carcasses. Reds are almost exclusively caught from shore.

Silver (Coho) Salmon show up in late August. These rambunctious fish give anglers lots of jumping action throughout the fall.

required for all persons 16 and older. Purchase at local stores, guide services or online at www.adfg.alaska.gov/store/ Be sure you are familiar with regulations and recent updates before venturing out.

King (Chinook) Salmon spawn in the Upper Kenai River so fishing here is catch-andrelease for these monsters, which can weigh over 90 pounds. (Ask local guides/ outfitters about lower river trips if you'd like to catch and keep a king.)

Pink (Humpy) Salmon come into the Kenai River in force every even year. They can be great fun to catch but are not prized for their meat.

World-Renowned Waters

Anglers come from around the globe to fish the famous Kenai and Russian Rivers.

Kenai River Launch Facilities for Kenai Lake, Kenai River and Skilak Lake

Quartz Creek:

Kenai Lake/River State Boat Ramp:

Sportsman's Landing:

Jim's Landing:

The boat ramp is at the confluence of Quartz Creek and Kenai Lake in the campground. The launch/parking facility is free.

Located at the outlet of Kenai Lake. Here to Skilak Lake is drift-only (no motorized boats). Boaters may need to row/paddle through slack water the first two miles. Pay the launch fee at the self-serve kiosk and either park there, or shuttle a vehicle downriver to take-out. Fee-based shuttle services are available.

At the ferry crossing to the Russian River. It's a great ramp for floaters wanting to miss the slack water section of the river. This is a fee-based ramp; look for pay station at entrance to parking lot.

This is the last ramp on the Upper Kenai. Take out here unless you plan to run the rapids! Parking is limited but stalls are deep enough to accommodate vehicles pulling trailers. Overflow parking is just a short walk away, on the north side of the Sterling Hwy.

Upper Skilak Boat Ramp:

This area offers a boat launch, parking, and camping facilities at the upper end of the Skilak Loop Road. Camping is fee-based. It's a common take-out for floaters who run the canyon (outboard motor recommended for the necessary six mile lake crossing). Please note that Skilak Lake is prone to sudden and dangerous winds. Plan your crossing during calmer morning hours if possible.

2023 Plan Ahead Campground Closures

Russian River Campground: August 15th, 2023

Closed to all users for road improvements.

Russian River Falls Access: August 15th, 2022 to June 1st, 2023

Trail access closed to all users from Russian River Campground.

Follow USFS for updates: www.fs.usda.gov/main/ chugach/home

Forgot Your Lifejacket?

Several launches offer life jackets to borrow for free, through the "Kids Don't Float" program. Remember, adults should wear life jackets, too! These cold waters have rendered expert swimmers incapable of staying afloat.

Boat Safety & Etiquette

The Kenai River averages about 70,000 boaters a year. For your safety and smoother put-ins and take-outs for all, please adhere to the following:

• Load and unload your boat, (staging of gear & supplies) away from the launch area.

• All boaters need to wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) on the river.

• If you are fishing, wear eye protection (sunglasses) and a hat to deflect errant hooks.

• Do not clean fish in boat loading areas.

• Pick up your trash!

Launch Your

AdventureHere

If you want to get on the water, Cooper Landing is the place to launch. Enjoy turquoise tranquility on a gentle, scenic day float. Liven it up with a thrilling Class III whitewater run through Kenai Canyon. Or try paddleboarding, canoeing or kayaking on Kenai Lake. River floats are generally 2-3 hours, or 5-6 hours if you include the canyon. Watch for eagles, songbirds, waterfowl, bears, moose and more as you float through the incredible wilderness beauty.

Get Outside!

Cooper Landing makes the perfect base-camp for outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts. Hikers, mountain bikers, boaters, ice-skaters, and backcountry skiers can all find their personal paradise in the surrounding wilderness. And for the casual crew, there are easy nature walks, gold panning opportunities and more.

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Moose Pass

Highlights of Moose Pass

• Tern Lake Day Use Area

• Trail Lakes Hatchery

• Historic Water Wheel

• Summer Solstice Festival

• Salmon Viewing

• Upper & Lower Trail Lake

• Lower Kenai Lake

• Crown Point Mine

Moose Pass

Surrounded by the grandeur of Chugach National Forest, Moose Pass is a charming community steeped in history and home to endless adventure. The core of the community stretches along the shores of Upper Trail Lake, 100 miles south of Anchorage and 28 miles north of Seward.

Here in the heart of the Kenai Mountains, locals and visitors alike can launch countless outdoor activities. Moose Pass is home to some of Alaska's best hiking trails, along with amazing fishing, sightseeing and more.

Population: 315

Moose Pass Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

www.moosepassalaska.com info@moosepass.com

And when the day is done, visitors can enjoy a variety of accommodations as well as an RV park, several U.S. Forest Service campgrounds, a grocery store, post office, and library.

Fireweed

Teal Hetrick

Teal Hetrick

Carter Lake

The Upper Kenai Visitors

Moose Pass is a National Heritage Community; places whose collective stories are important to telling the story of our Nation. For more information visit: www.kmtacorridor.org.

Moose Pass History

The Story Behind the Name

As legend has it a mail carrier traveling by dog sled along the historic Iditarod Trail in 1903 was met by a moose and had difficulty passing.

In 1909, Oscar Christensen and Mickey Natt came to this same area by horse and dog team and apparently had the same problem. They never left. Instead, they stayed and built a log cabin for themselves and a roadhouse that served as an inn and supply house for gold prospectors headed up north.

Moose Meets Mail Carrier

When the railway blazed its way along the trail to the area, it too may have been stopped by moose — at least long enough to create a construction camp here. When completed in 1912, the area was naturally dubbed "Moose Pass."

While many prospectors passed through Moose Pass, some stayed to develop local gold mines such as Crown Point, East Point, and Falls Creek. Several entrepreneurs built sawmills to supply timber for mines, local construction and the railroad and its insatiable need for hemlock ties.

The Railroad and Post Office

The train took over mail service around 1927, but had a propensity to toss sacks of letters and parcels haphazardly out of the rail car. In 1928, pioneer Leora Estes Roycroft took charge of the situation and became the first Postmaster of what was then officially christened as “Moose Pass.” The Estes family went on to develop the first electricity for the community and eventually run the local grocery store, which is still in operation today.

The Estes family installed the original waterwheel in 1927 to run a sawmill. In 1976, a 10-ft replica was constructed, along with a sharpening stone and sign that reads, “Moose Pass is a peaceful little town. If you have an axe to grind, do it here.” Located next to Estes Bros. Grocery Store, Mile 29.5.

Stock

Historic Waterwheel

Teal Hetrick

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Winter Festivities

Moose Pass Today

Just like the independent travelers drawn here by the scenic wilderness and central location, forestry and railroad workers, tourism and service operators and artists call Moose Pass home.

Accommodations-Lodging and Camping

Moose Pass offers visitors several options for lodging, from a full service lakeside lodge and a charming mountainside inn...to cozy cottages. An RV park and US Forest Service campgrounds are also available. We recommend making your reservations early.

Moose Pass Summer Solstice Festival

This annual event not only welcomes summer and the longest day of the year, but also is the largest fundraiser for the operation of the town's Community Center, Volunteer Fire Department and EMS team. The festival features gift and craft booths, games, food, an auction and lots of music throughout the 2-day event.

Moose Pass Community Library

In operation since 1938, the Moose Pass Library is one of Alaska's oldest nonprofits. Today it supports home school and distance education in collaboration with Moose Pass Elementary School and serves the public with over 3000 books, Internet & Wi-Fi services, video conferences and more.

Trail Lake Hatchery

The Hatchery raises coho and sockeye salmon and releases them into streams and lakes on the Peninsula. Stocks also support salmon sport fisheries in Resurrection Bay. Enjoy the self-guided visitor center or, in the offseason, schedule a tour in advance. Mile 32.1

Winter Wonderland

Winter often brings Northern Lights and more community events such as the months-long Light Up the Night celebration, a visit from Santa, and a New Year's Eve fireworks display. Icefishing, snowmachining, iceskating/ hockey and crosscountry skiing on groomed trails and fresh powder are daily highlights enjoyed by community members and visitors alike.

Teal Hetrick

Teal Hetrick

Lake Fishing Paradise

Alaska State Fishing License Required!

Be sure to review current ADFG regulations, as these change throughout the summer. To get a license and review regs visit:

www.adfg.alaska.gov/index. cfm?adfg=license.main

Here anglers can get away from the crowds — and into the fish! Moose Pass offers excellent backcountry fishing for rainbow trout, grayling and Dolly Varden. Local guide services are available whether you'd like to try your luck on local lakes, Upper Kenai River or saltwater fishing out of Seward.

Carter Lake:

Crescent Lake:

The one-mile hike uphill to the lake offers incredible Alpine views along the way. Flyfish from the shore or wade into shallow water. Stocked with rainbow trout every other year, the catch rate is very high. This is a great half-day fishing excursion. Trailhead at MP 33.

Home to trophy-size grayling, the lake is another mile beyond Carter Lake. Crescent Lake is much deeper and colder and offers grayling and rainbow Trout fishing in the small creeks that flow into it as well.

Grayling, Meridian & Leech Lakes: A short, easy hike from the highway takes you to these lakes for trout and grayling fishing. Trailhead at MP 13.2.

Ptarmigan Creek and Lake:

Access to river is a short 5-10 minute hike and anglers can fish the river down to Kenai Lake. Ptarmigan Lake is 3 miles upstream. Here and in the river, rainbows and Dollys await. Trailhead at MP 23.

Johnson Pass Trail: For secluded Alpine wilderness fishing, a 11.7-mile hike or bike leads up to Johnson Lake for grayling. A few miles further you can chase rainbows in Bench Lake. Trailhead at MP 32.5.

Trail Lakes:

Jerome Lake:

Vagt Lake:

Spin casting is very popular here and it's a great evening or short day activity for youth or novice anglers. Fly fishers practice here, too. Fish from any lakeside location for rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, lake trout and the rare white fish; please respect private property.

In addition to its natural population of Dolly Varden, Jerome is stocked yearly with rainbow trout. The pullout makes it a nice scenic stop for a bit of fishing or relaxing in scenic surroundings. MP 38.3.

This hidden gem is nestled in the forest and stocked with rainbows every year. The 1.5-mile walk in takes you through forest and meadow and majestic views. Access at MP 25.1; trail starts at southern end of Lower Trail Lake.

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Play Time In The Pass

Hikers, bikers, boaters, birders — everyone loves to play in and around Moose Pass. Here are a few highlights...

Birding at Tern Lake

This marshy lake is a nursery for Arctic Terns each spring who flock here from as far away as Antarctica. They stay only long enough for their eggs to hatch and their babies to grow strong, but while they're here, they are fishin' fools.

Watch the terns — and sometimes hoards of spawning salmon up close — from the fish-viewing platform. Water, toilets, information and picnic tables are available in the day use area. Located at the intersection of the Seward and Sterling highways.

Hiking or Biking Johnson Pass & Lost Lake Trails

These beautiful, challenging alpine traverses are popular among Alaskan backpackers and mountain bikers alike. Moose Pass also boasts shorter trails, including those to local fishing lakes. See trail map & descriptions on pages 20-22.

Winter Action

Snowmachiners find paradise in Johnson Pass. Local lakes come to life with ice fishing, ice skating and cross-country skiing.

Cooper Landing Trails

Burney’s 1

• Nice stroll through aspen and spruce forest. Perfect for bird watchers.

• Access: Skilak Lake Rd. MP 3.6 (Hidden Lake Campground)

• 200 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 0.5 miles

Hidden Creek 2

• Perfect hike for families with small children, going down to Hidden Creek (marsh) and Skilak Lake.

• Access: Skilak Lake Rd. MP 4.5

• 300 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 1.5 miles

Kenaitze Tribe Trail 3

• Winding interpretive paths highlighting Kenaitze Indian Tribe cultural and natural resources in the area. Trail is downstream of the campground.

• Access: Sterling Hwy. MP 52.6 & 52.3 (Across from Russian River Campground entrance near the K’beq’ “Footprints”

Interpretive site.)

• No elevation gain

• Distance one way 0.5 miles

Lower Kenai River 4

• Accessible May to October. Hike down to Kenai River then either downstream to Skilak Lake (through marshland) with connection to Hidden Cr. Trail or upstream to Upper Kenai River Trail.

• Access: Skilak Lake Rd. MP 2.3

• 250 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 2.3 miles

Rainbow Lake 5

• Short, meandering trail through hemlock. Easy walk.

• Access: Sterling Hwy. MP 48 + Snug Harbor (dirt road) MP 11.5. Parking on left.

• No elevation gain

• Distance one way 0.25 miles

Russian River Falls 6

• Wide, easily accessed family trail with beautiful view of Russian River Falls. Look for jumping salmon June-August.

• Access: Sterling Hwy. MP 52 (You must enter Russian River Campground)

• 400 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 2.4 miles

Seven Lakes 7

1 Mile

Amenities:

Bear Mountain 9

Easy

3 Miles

Amenities:

1 Mile

Amenities:

4.6 Miles

Amenities:

0.5 Miles

Amenities:

4.8 Miles

Amenities:

8.8 Miles

• Relatively flat, easy but often muddy trail through birch-lined tapestry of lakes.

• Access: Sterling Hwy. MP 68.1 OR Skilak Lake Rd. MP 9.6 (Engineer Lake Campground)

• 150 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 4.4 miles

Upper Kenai River 8

Amenities: 5.6 Miles

• See the river and angler action up close, with connection to Lower Kenai River Trail downstream.

• Access: Skilak Lake Rd. MP 0.6

• 260 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 2.8 miles

Amenities:

1.6 Miles

• This short but steep trail offers sweeping views similar to those of Skilak Lookout Trail.

• Access: Skilak Lake Loop Road Mile Point 6.9

• 400 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 0.8 miles

Crescent Creek 10

Amenities:

12.8 Miles

• Gain elevation gradually through birch forest to the grayling-rich lake. Snow may be present in early season.

• Access: Sterling Hwy. MP 45 to Quartz Creek Rd. MP 3.5

• Trail is difficult around the lake shore.

• 1,300 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 6.4 miles

Resurrection Pass 11

Amenities:

38.8

• From either end, this wilderness traverse climbs up through birch and conifer forests, past lakes and streams, to wide open, glacier-carved Alpine valleys. Snow can remain at higher elevations until mid-June. Public use cabins (advanced reservations required) and 19 campsites available along the way.

• Access: Sterling Hwy MP 53.2 OR Hope Hwy MP 16.2 + Left (S.) on Palmer Creek Rd. for 0.6 Mile; veer right onto Resurrection Creek Rd. to trailhead ~3.4 miles further.

• 2,100 foot elevation gain

Russian Lakes 12

Miles

Amenities:

21.78 Miles

• This beautiful, spruce forest trail continues past the Russian River Falls to Lower and Upper Russian lakes to Cooper Lake and the Snug Harbor Rd. trailhead. Or vise versa. Enjoy great views of the Kenai Mountains and Skilak Glacier. Try fishing the Upper and Lower Russian lakes. There are numerous campsites along the way and public use cabins by advance reservation only. Note —bears frequently use this trail, too, so be “bear aware.”

• Access: Sterling Hwy. MP 52 (You must enter Russian River Campground) OR Sterling Hwy. MP 48 +Snug Harbor (dirt road) MP 9 + Cooper Lake Road MP 3

• 1,100 foot elevation gain

Skilak Lookout 13

• Gradual elevation gains. No water source. The panoramic view at the top is worth hiking to the end.

• Access: Skilak Lake Rd. MP 5.4

• 800 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 2 miles

Fuller Lakes 14

• Steep hike to 3 sub-alpine lakes. Good fishing.

• Access: Sterling Hwy. MP 56.9

• 1,400 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 2.9 miles

Skyline 15

• Rapid elevation rise. Be ready to sweat & bring plenty of water.

• Access: Sterling Hwy. MP 61.6

• 1,800 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 1.3 miles

Amenities:

4 Miles

Amenities:

5.8 Miles

Amenities:

Difficult

2.6 Miles

Amenities:

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Trail Closed August 1st, 2022 to June 1st, 2023

22

Gull Rock 16

• This trail follows the south shore of Turnagain Arm to a rocky peninsula offering great views. There can be downed trees crossing the trail in spring. Be sure to bring water and snacks for a full day of hiking.

• Access: Hope Hwy MP 17.8. Take a left 500 ft before Porcupine Campground. Drive quarter mile to trail head. (Closed to motorized vehicles May 1 - Nov 30.)

• 1,000 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 5.7 miles

Ptarmigan Creek 18

Amenities:

14.2 Miles

• This short but sometimes steep family trail paralleling the river is 3.5 miles up to the beautiful turquoise, grayling filled Ptarmigan Lake. Trail continues another 3.6 miles along the shoreline.

• Access: Seward Hwy MP 23. Trailhead starts from the Ptarmigan Creek Campground.

• 450 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 3.5 to 7.1 miles

Vagt Lake 19

Amenities:

Hope Trails Easy

Hope Point 17

Intermediate

• Be sure to bring enough water and layers; it can be cool at top. The view of Turnagain Arm from the top is definitely worth the relentless elevation gain.

• Access: Hope Highway MP 17.8. The trail starts on the left, 500 ft before the entrance to Porcupine Campground. When the trail splits ~1/8 mile in, stay left (right fork goes to Gull Rock Trail).

• 3,600 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 3.5 miles

Amenities:

Intermediate

23 Miles Johnson Pass 23

• Part of the Historic Iditarod Trail, the forested trail opens to subalpine terrain at the top with beautiful mountain views along the way. Trail often overgrown by mid-summer, adding difficulty for bikers (and for bears to hear you coming so be sure to make noise as you travel).

• Access: Seward Hwy MP 32.5 OR Seward Hwy MP 64

• 1,000 foot elevation gain

3.26 Miles

• Easy, kid-friendly trail rambling through aspen forest to “secret” lake. Fun winter ice fishing, too.

• Access: Seward Hwy MP 25.4

• (Turn east, cross RR tracks, turn north; trail starts at South end of the lake.)

• 250 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 1.63 miles

Amenities:

Miles Carter Lake 20

• Trail features wildflowers, excellent views and the promise of rainbow trout and grayling. Trail is short but steep and can be muddy. Hike 1 more mile to Crescent Lake or make a 17.7-mile traverse to the Crescent Lake trailhead. Trail is primitive and challenging around the lake.

• Access: Seward Hwy MP 34

• 1,000 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 3.4 miles

Amenities:

Amenities:

Miles Lost Lake 24

14.6

• Gain 2000 ft. in the first four miles, then amble through the amazing Alpine vista another 3 to the lake. Campsites and public use cabin (by advance reservation only) available. Snow could still be present till July. For a 15-mile traverse, continue to Primrose Trailhead.

Amenities:

• Access: Seward Hwy MP 5+ Turn west on Scott Way, which turns into Samantha Way, then left on Heather Lee Lane. Take first right on Hayden Lane and follow to Lost Lake Trailhead.

• 1,820 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 7.3 miles

Primrose 25

15 Miles

Miles Crown Point Mine 21

11.8

• This is a popular motorized trail, so you may need to share the trail and its spectacular views.

• Access: Seward Hwy ~MP 25 + Drive east 0.4 mile, turn left at sign for active mining claim. Drive a bit up on the rugged road then park and start hiking.

• 2,400 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 5.9 miles

Amenities:

Miles Devil’s Creek (Pass) 22

• Moderate elevation gain through conifer forest becomes steeper midway, leveling out near end as vast tundra expanses are revealed. Intersects with Resurrection Pass Trail at mile 10 for through-hike options (16.7 miles to Cooper Landing or 21.7 miles to Hope.) Good for multi-day backpacking or hardy bikers. Public Use cabins available by advance reservation only.

• Access: Seward Hwy MP 39

• 1,400 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 10 miles

20

Amenities:

• Wander steadily up the forested hillside and, after a steep stretch, emerge into a vast Alpine wonderland. Walk along the shores of Lost Lake and, if you’d like to make the 15-mile traverse, continue down Lost Lake Trail to Seward.

• Access: Seward Hwy MP 17 + Primrose Campground Dr. MP 1.1 Park near lake; trailhead at south end of campground.

• 1,600 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 7.5

Victor Creek 26

• First mile is steep but then levels. Should only be traveled in summer due to avalanche dangers.

• Access: Seward Hwy MP 19.7

• 1,100 foot elevation gain

• Distance one way 2.25 miles

Amenities:

4.5

Miles

Amenities:

Intermediate Intermediate Intermediate

*Note if you plan to fish along these trails, be sure to have your fishing license with you and know the current regulations.

Always be “bear aware”!

Cooper Landing Business Directory

COMMUNITY

Education, Research & Schools

Cooper Landing School K-12

19030 Bean Creek Rd.

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1244

F (907)595-1461

kpbsd.org/schools/cooper-landing

Cooper Landing Community School www.clcommunityschool.webs.com

Emergency Ambulance & Fire

Cooper Landing Emergency Services, Inc.

38748 Snug Harbor Rd., PO Box 510

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1800/ (512)695-4499

F (907)595-1800

operations.cles@arctic.net cooperlandinges.org

Government & Public Agencies

Alaska State Parks

Kenai Area Office, PO Box 1247

Soldotna, Alaska 99669

(907) 262-5581 dnr.alaska.gov/parks

Chugach National Forest Seward Ranger District. Kenai Lake Work Center 29847 Seward Hwy. Seward, AK 99664 (907)288-3178

www.fs.usda.gov/main/chugach/home

Cooper Landing U.S. Post Office 38741 Snug Harbor Rd. Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907) 595-1234/1-800-ASK-USPS

Kenai Peninsula Borough Mayor 144 N. Binkley St. Soldotna, AK 99669 1(800)478-4441

www.kpb.us

Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District 14896 Kenai Spur Hwy., Ste. 103 Kenai, AK 99611 (907)283-3335 F(907)283-3913

rroeske@kpedd.org

www.kpedd.org

Kenai National Wildlife Refuge PO Box 2139, Ski Hill Rd. Soldotna, AK 99669-2139 (907)262-7021 – HQ/ (907)260-2820 - VC 1(877)285-5628/ F (907)-262-3599

kenai@fws.gov

www.fws.gov/refuge/kenai/

Organizations & Non-Profits

Alaska Waste 47323 Merrywood Ave. PO Box 1209

Soldotna, AK 99669

(907)283-9390

F (907)262-4370

josuer@akwaste.com

alaskawaste.com

Cooper Landing Advisory Planning Commission

PO Box 694

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-4686

cooperlandingapc@gmail.com

www.borough.kenai.ak.us/planning-dept/ planning-commissions/cooper-landing-apc

Cooper Landing Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

Mile 48.7 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 809

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-8888

info@cooperlandingchamber.com

www.cooperlandingchamber.com

Cooper Landing Community Club & Hall 18511 Bean Creek Rd., PO Box 508

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-2169

cooperlandingcommunityclub@gmail.com

www.cooperlandingcommunityhall.com

Cooper Landing Rifle & Sportsman’s Club

18026 Bean Creek Rd., PO Box 710

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)205-0801

ljohnsonak@gmail.com www.cooperlandinggunclub.org

Cooper Landing Nordic Ski Club CooperLandingNSC@gmail.com

www.cooperlandingcommunityclub.com/ cooper-landing-nordic-ski-club

Cooper Landing Senior Citizen Corp. Inc. 19958 Campus Dr., PO Box 552

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-3000

clscci@arctic.net

www.cooperlandingseniors.com

Kenai Mountains-Turnagain Arm National Heritage Area PO Box 1934 Girdwood, AK 99587 713-376-7070

rachelblakeslee@kmtacorridor.org www.kmtacorridor.org

Kenai River Sportfishing Association

35093 Kenai Spur Hwy. Soldotna, AK 99669

(907)262-8588

F(907)262-8582

info@krsa.com www.krsa.com

Kenai Watershed Forum

44129 Sterling Hwy. Soldotna, AK 99669

(907)260-5449

F(907)260-5412

www.kenaiwatershed.org

FOOD & DINING

Brewery

Cooper Landing Brewing Company 21879 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 638 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-2522

nelzb@cooperlandingbrewing.com www.cooperlandingbrewing.com

Coffee, Food Trucks

Trail Lake Lodge

33654 Depot Road, PO Box 5 Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3101

info@TrailLakeCorp.com

www.TrailLakeLodge.com

Groceries/Box Lunches/ Convenience Items

Wildman TR Inc

19194 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 724

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1456

F (907)595-1888

wildman@wildmans.org

www.wildmans.org

Gwin’s Lodge

14865 Sterling Hwy. (Mile 52), PO Box 769

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1266

F (907)595-1264

reservation@gwinslodge.com

www.gwinslodge.com

Lounges & Bars/Liquor

Gwin’s Lodge

14865 Sterling Hwy. Mile 52, PO Box 769

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1266

F (907)595-1264

reservation@gwinslodge.com

www.gwinslodge.com

Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge

17245 Frontier Cir., PO Box 676

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1425 / 1(800)426-0500

aklodges@princesscruises.com

www.princesslodges.com

Sunrise Inn

21849 Sterling Hwy. Mile 45, PO Box 529

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1222

info@sunriseinnak.com

www.sunriseinnak.com

Wildman TR Inc

19194 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 724 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1456/ F (907)595-1888

wildman@wildmans.org

www.wildmans.org

Lounges & Bars/Liquor (Continued)

Trail Lake Lodge

33654 Depot Road, PO Box 5

Moose Pass, AK 99631

(907)288-3101

info@TrailLakeCorp.com

www.TrailLakeLodge.com

Restaurants & Cafes

Gwin’s Lodge

14865 Sterling Hwy. Mile 52, PO Box 769

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1266

F (907)595-1264

reservation@gwinslodge.com

www.gwinslodge.com

Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge

17245 Frontier Cir., PO Box 676

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1425 / 1(800)426-0500

aklodges@princesscruises.com

www.princesslodges.com

Sunrise Inn

21849 Sterling Hwy. Mile 45, PO Box 529

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1222

info@sunriseinnak.com

www.sunriseinnak.com

Trail Lake Lodge 33654 Depot Road, PO Box 5 Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3101

info@TrailLakeCorp.com www.TrailLakeLodge.com

LODGING

Cabins & Lodges

Alaska Horsemen Guest Ranch 35090 Quartz Creek Rd., PO Box 857 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1806

info@alaskahorsemen.com www.alaskahorsemen.com

Alaska Rivers Company 16782 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 827 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1226 / (907)290-6275

info@alaskariverscompany.com

www.alaskariverscompany.com

Alaska Troutfitters 18230 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 632 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1212

info@aktroutfitters.com www.aktroutfitters.com

Angle 45 Adventures

Mile 8.1 Hope Hwy. Hope, AK 99605 (907)782-3175

F (907)782-3175

angle45@angle45.com

www.angle45.com

Cooper Landing Fish Camp, LLC 16938 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 557 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-3474

info@cooperlandingfishcamp.com

www.cooperlandingfishcamp.com

Eagle Landing Resort 18514 Sterling Hwy, PO Box 609 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1213

eaglelandingresort@gmail.com

www.eaglelandingresort.net

Grizzly Ridge, LLC 18280 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 609 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1260

stay@grizzlyridgeak.com

www.grizzlyridgeak.com

Gwin’s Lodge 14865 Sterling Hwy., Mile 52, PO Box 769 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1266 / F (907)-595-1264

reservation@gwinslodge.com

www.gwinslodge.com

Kahtnu Spirit Lodging

17158 Frontier Cir., PO Box 652 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)299-2855/(907)231-6793

kahtnuspiritlodging@gmail.com

www.kahtnuspiritlodging.com

Kenai Cache Outfitters 14899 Sterling Hwy. Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1401/ (859)321-7433

kenaicacheoutfitter@gmail.com

www.kenaicache.com

Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge 17245 Frontier Cir., PO Box 676 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1425 / 1(800)426-0500

aklodges@princesscruises.com

www.princesslodges.com

Kenai River Trips

Reservation@gwinslodge.com

•

Full Bar & Liquor Store

•

Alaska Wildland Adventures 16520 Sterling Hwy., Mile 50.1 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 1-800-334-8730/(907)783-2928

F (907)783-2130

info@alaska-wildland.com

www.alaskawildland.com

Kenai River Drifters Lodge 18404 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 746 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-5555

info@drifterslodge.com

Cabins & Lodges (Continued)

Mystic Waters Fly Fishing PO Box 688

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(509)715-9697

sec907@gmail.com

www.mysticfishing.com

Salmon Run Lodge

18523 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 678

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-2197

salmonrunlodge@yahoo.com www.salmonrunlodgeak.com

Campgrounds/RV Parks

Alaska Waste 47323 Merrywood Ave. PO Box 1209

Soldotna, AK 99669

(907)283-9390

F (907)262-4370

josuer@akwaste.com alaskawaste.com

Gwin’s Lodge

14865 Sterling Hwy., Mile 52, PO Box 769

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1266

F (907)595-1264

reservation@gwinslodge.com www.gwinslodge.com

Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge 17245 Frontier Cir., PO Box 676 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1425 / 1(800)426-0500

aklodges@princesscruises.com www.princesslodges.com

Kenai River Float-n-Fish 18251 (main) & 16826 Sterling Hwy. PO Box 568

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)519-0048

hooked@mightykenai.com www.mightykenai.com

Sunrise Inn

21849 Sterling Hwy. Mile 45, PO Box 529

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1222

info@sunriseinnak.com www.sunriseinnak.com

Hotels & Motels

Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge

17245 Frontier Cir., PO Box 676 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1425 / 1(800)426-0500

aklodges@princesscruises.com www.princesslodges.com

Sunrise Inn

21849 Sterling Hwy. Mile 45, PO Box 529

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1222

info@sunriseinnak.com

www.sunriseinnak.com

Trail Lake Lodge 33654 Depot Road PO Box 5 Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3101

info@TrailLakeCorp.com

www.TrailLakeLodge.com

Vacation Rentals

Kahtnu Spirit Lodging 17158 Frontier Cir., PO Box 652

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)299-2855/(907)231-6793

kahtnuspiritlodging@gmail.com

www.kahtnuspiritlodging.com

Kenai River Float-n-Fish

18251 (main) & 16826 Sterling Hwy. PO Box 568

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)519-0048

hooked@mightykenai.com

www.mightykenai.com

Vacation Rentals (Continued)

Resurrection Trail House PO Box 647

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)202-6388

resurrectiontrailhouse@gmail.com

www.resurrectiontrailhouse.com

Round Mountain Retreat 13340 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 667 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)598-1333

roundmountainretreat@gmail.com

Upper Kenai Cabins 35423 Russian Gap Rd., PO Box 866

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-3055

info@upperkenaicabins.com

www.upperkenaicabins.com

RECREATION

Air Charters/Flightseeing/ Wildlife Viewing

Talon Air Service

Soldotna, AK 99669 (907)262-8899

F (907)262-5452

talonair@alaska.net www.talonair.com

Equipment Rentals & Sales

Alaska Outdoor Woodstoves 42370 Donna Circle Soldotna, AK 99669 (907)598-1633

F (907)262-1633

williams@arctic.net

www.alaskaoutdoorwoodstoves.com

Bike Cooper Landing, LLC 17158 Frontier Cir., PO Box 652

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)231-6793

F (866)235-4232

bikecooperlanding@gmail.com

www.bikecooperlandingak.com

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC PO Box 541

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)599-0126

cooperlandingguide@gmail.com

www.cooperlandingfishingguide.com

Kenai Kayak Company PO Box 858

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)521-0244

kenaikayakco@gmail.com

www.kenaikayakco.com

Fly-in Fishing

Alaska Troutfitters

18230 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 632 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1212

info@aktroutfitters.com www.aktroutfitters.com

Kenai River Drifters Lodge 18404 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 746 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-5555

info@drifterslodge.com www.drifterslodge.com

Gold/Gemstone Panning

Prospector John Mile 45 Sterling Hwy. Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)598-1808

jhpbj@yahoo.com www.goldpan-alaska.com

Guided Hiking & Biking

Alaska Rivers Company 16782 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 827 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1226 / (907)290-6275

info@alaskariverscompany.com www.alaskariverscompany.com

Kenai River Drifters Lodge 18404 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 746 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-5555

info@drifterslodge.com www.drifterslodge.com

Guided Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Alaska Rivers Company 16782 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 827 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1226 / (907)290-6275

info@alaskariverscompany.com www.alaskariverscompany.com

Cooper Landing Fish Camp, LLC 16938 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 557

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-3474

info@cooperlandingfishcamp.com www.cooperlandingfishcamp.com

Kenai Kayak Company PO Box 858

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)521-0244

kenaikayakco@gmail.com

www.kenaikayakco.com

Guided River Rafting

Alaska River Adventures 35269 King Salmon Dr., PO Box 725

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-2000

info@alaskariveradventures.com

www.alaskariveradventures.com

Alaska Rivers Company 16782 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 827

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1226 / (907)290-6275

info@alaskariverscompany.com

www.alaskariverscompany.com

Cooper Landing Fish Camp, LLC 16938 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 557

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-3474

info@cooperlandingfishcamp.com

www.cooperlandingfishcamp.com

Kenai Kayak Company PO Box 858

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)521-0244

kenaikayakco@gmail.com

www.kenaikayakco.com

Kenai River Drifters Lodge 18404 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 746 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-5555

info@drifterslodge.com

www.drifterslodge.com

Kenai River Trips

Alaska Wildland Adventures 16520 Sterling Hwy., Mile 50.1 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 1-800-334-8730/(907)783-2928

F (907)783-2130

info@alaska-wildland.com

www.alaskawildland.com/day-trips

Guided Sport Fishing

5 Dogs Fishing, LLC PO Box 912 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)598-3525

fivedogsfishing@gmail.com

www.5dogsfishing.com

907•521•0244 kenaikayakco@gmail.com

• Guided sea kayak tours on Kenai Lake

• All equipment provided

• All skill levels welcome

Guided Sport Fishing (Continued)

Alaska River Adventures

35269 King Salmon Dr., PO Box 725

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 907)595-2000

info@alaskariveradventures.com www.alaskariveradventures.com

Alaska Rivers Company

16782 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 827

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1226 / (907)290-6275

info@alaskariverscompany.com www.alaskariverscompany.com

Alaska Troutfitters

18230 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 632

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1212

info@aktroutfitters.com www.aktroutfitters.com

Alaskan Angling Adventures PO Box 847

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)741-0474

alaskananglingadventures@gmail.com www.alaskananglingadventures.com

Angle 45 Adventures

Mile 8.1 Hope Hwy. Hope, AK 99605

Boatman’s LLC PO Box 864

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907) 202-1004

chad@boatmansalaska.com www.boatmansalaska.com

Cooper Landing Fish Camp, LLC 16938 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 557

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-3474

info@cooperlandingfishcamp.com www.cooperlandingfishcamp.com

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC PO Box 541

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)599-0126

cooperlandingguide@gmail.com www.cooperlandingfishingguide.com

Fish and Sons Kenai Charters 35372 Raven St., PO Box 628 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)598-1065 fishnsons@gmail.com www.fishandsons.net

Jason’s Guide Service PO Box 822

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)351-3036

Kenai Cache Outfitters 14899 Sterling Hwy.

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1401/(859)321-7433

kenaicacheoutfitter@gmail.com

www.kenaicache.com

Kenai River Drifters Lodge 18404 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 746

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-5555

info@drifterslodge.com

www.drifterslodge.com

Kenai River Float-n-Fish 18251 (main) & 16826 Sterling Hwy. PO Box 568

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)519-0048

hooked@mightykenai.com

www.mightykenai.com

Kenai River Trout Anglers 18234 Langille Rd., PO Box 818 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)599-0085

kenairivertroutanglers@gmail.com

www.kenairivertroutanglers.com

Kenai River Trips

Alaska Wildland Adventures 16520 Sterling Hwy., Mile 50.1 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 1-800-334-8730/(907)783-2928

F (907)783-2130

info@alaska-wildland.com

Guided Sport Fishing (Continued)

Mystic Waters Fly Fishing PO Box 688

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (509)715-9697

sec907@gmail.com

www.mysticfishing.com

Salmon Run Lodge

18523 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 678

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-2197

salmonrunlodge@yahoo.com www.salmonrunlodgeak.com

Guides & Tours

Alaska River Adventures 35269 King Salmon Dr., PO Box 725

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-2000

info@alaskariveradventures.com www.alaskariveradventures.com

Alaskan Angling Adventures PO Box 847

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)741-0474

alaskananglingadventures@gmail.com www.alaskananglingadventures.com

Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC PO Box 541

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)599-0126

cooperlandingguide@gmail.com

www.cooperlandingfishingguide.com

Gwin’s Lodge

14865 Sterling Hwy. Mile 52, PO Box 769

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1266

F (907)595-1264

reservation@gwinslodge.com

www.gwinslodge.com

Kenai River Drifters Lodge

18404 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 746

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-5555

info@drifterslodge.com www.drifterslodge.com

Kenai River Trout Anglers 18234 Langille Rd., PO Box 818

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)599-0085

kenairivertroutanglers@gmail.com

www.kenairivertroutanglers.com

Horseback Riding/Sleigh Rides

Alaska Horsemen Guest Ranch

35090 Quartz Creek Rd., PO Box 857

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1806

info@alaskahorsemen.com

www.alaskahorsemen.com

Museums/Cultural

Cooper Landing Historical Society Museum 17946 Sterling Hwy., Mile 48.7. PO Box 542 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)202-6049

museum@arctic.net

www.cooperlandingmuseum.com

SERVICES

Banking/Financial

First National Bank Alaska 44501 Sterling Hwy. Soldotna, AK 99669 (907)260-6000/ F (907)260-6027 www.fnbalaska.com

Caretaking/Property Mgmt.

Seramur Home Services, LLC 41651 Seward Hwy. Moose Pass, AK 99631 PO Box 648 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)599-0019

seramurhomeservices@gmail.com

Churches

Cooper Landing Community Lutheran Church Snug Harbor Rd., Mile 1, PO Box 518 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1556

Kenai Lake Baptist Church

18787 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 662 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)598-1112

klbc@kenailakebaptistchurch.org www.kenailakebaptistchurch.org

St. John Neumann Catholic Church Snug Harbor Rd., Mile 1.PO Box 737

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1300

Construction

Alaska Waste 47323 Merrywood Ave. PO Box 1209 Soldotna, AK 99669 (907)283-9390/ F (907)262-4370

josuer@akwaste.com

alaskawaste.com

Fish Processing

Kenai Cache Outfitters 14899 Sterling Hwy. Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1401/(859)321-7433

kenaicacheoutfitter@gmail.com

www.kenaicache.com

Salmon Run Lodge 18523 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 678 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-2197

salmonrunlodge@yahoo.com

www.salmonrunlodgeak.com

Fly Shop/Tackle Sales/Licenses

Alaska Troutfitters

18230 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 632

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1212

info@aktroutfitters.com

www.aktroutfitters.com

Gwin’s Lodge

14865 Sterling Hwy., Mile 52, PO Box 769

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1266

F (907)595-1264

reservation@gwinslodge.com

www.gwinslodge.com

Kenai Cache Outfitters

14899 Sterling Hwy. Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1401/(859)321-7433

kenaicacheoutfitter@gmail.com

www.kenaicache.com

Salmon Run Lodge

18523 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 678

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-2197

salmonrunlodge@yahoo.com

www.salmonrunlodgeak.com

Gasoline/Diesel/Propane

Grizzly Ridge, LLC

18280 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 609

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1260

stay@grizzlyridgeak.com

www.grizzlyridgeak.com

Sunrise Inn

21849 Sterling Hwy., Mile 45 PO Box 529

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1222

info@sunriseinnak.com www.sunriseinnak.com

Gift Shops/Clothing

Gwin’s Lodge

14865 Sterling Hwy., Mile 52 PO Box 769

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1266

F (907)595-1264 reservation@gwinslodge.com www.gwinslodge.com

Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge

17245 Frontier Cir., PO Box 676

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907)595-1425 / 1(800)426-0500

aklodges@princesscruises.com www.princesslodges.com

Kenai River Drifters Lodge

18404 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 746

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-5555

info@drifterslodge.com

www.drifterslodge.com

Sourdough Dru's Gifts & Gold Main Street

Hope, AK 99605

(907)782-3282

alaskahopegold@gmail.com

Graphic Design/Website Design

Best Route Productions PO Box 872

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (303)570-2081

info@bestrouteproductions.com www.bestrouteproductions.com

Housing/Apartment Rentals

Cooper Landing Senior Citizen Corp, Inc. 19958 Campus Dr., PO Box 552

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-3000

clscci@arctic.net

www.cooperlandingseniors.com

Our Place Rentals 35555 South Face Place, PO Box 649

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1829

ourplace@arctic.net

Laundromat

Wildman TR Inc.

19194 Sterling Hwy.,PO Box 724

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1456

F (907)595-1888

wildman@wildmans.org

www.wildmans.org

Library Services

Cooper Landing Community Library 18511 Bean Creek Rd., PO Box 517

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1241/ F (907)595-1241

cooperlandinglibrary@gmail.com

www.cooperlandinglibrary.com

Oil & Gas

Conoco Phillips Alaska, Inc 700 G St.

Anchorage, AK 99501 (907)276-1215/ F (907)265-1502

www.conocophillipsalaska.com

Photography

Best Route Productions PO Box 872 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (303)570-2081

info@bestrouteproductions.com

www.bestrouteproductions.com

Professional Guided Fishing Trips

Kenai Cache Outfitters 907-595-1401

14899 Sterling Highway Cooper Landing, AK 99572

kenaicacheoutfitter@gmail.com

www.kenaicache.com

Real Estate Sales/ Appraisals

Sharon Saunders, GRI REALTOR

Realty ONE Group Aurora

16786 Sterling Hwy.

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(928)706-8901

sharon@sellsalaska.com

www.sharonsellsalaska.com

Retreats/Conferences/Weddings

Cooper Landing Community Club and Hall

18511 Bean Creek Rd., PO Box 508

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-2169

cooperlandingcommunityclub@gmail.com www.cooperlandingcommunityhall.com

Gwin’s Lodge

14865 Sterling Hwy., Mile 52 PO Box 769

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1266 / F (907)-595-1264

reservation@gwinslodge.com www.gwinslodge.com

Inn at Tern Lake

41843 Seward Hwy., PO Box 7 Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3667

rose@ternlakeinn.com www.innatternlake.com

Transportation - Taxi/Shuttles/

Wildman TR Inc.

19194 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 724

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-1456/ F (907)595-1888

wildman@wildmans.org www.wildmans.org

Refuse Collection

Alaska Waste 47323 Merrywood Ave. PO Box 1209 Soldotna, AK 99669

(907)283-9390 / F (907)262-4370

josuer@akwaste.com alaskawaste.com

Visitor Center & Information

Cooper Landing Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

MP 48.7 Sterling Hwy., PO Box 809

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907) 595-8888

info@cooperlandingchamber.com www.cooperlandingchamber.com

Anchorage Chamber of Commerce

1016 W 6th Ave., Ste 303

Anchorage, AK 99501

(907)272-2401/F (907)272-4117

info@anchoragechamber.org www.anchoragechamber.org

Bearfoot Travel Guides/ Northcountry Communications 2440 E Tudor Rd. #122 Anchorage, AK 99507 (907) 320-1145

Chugiak Eagle River Chamber of Commerce 12001 Business Blvd., Ste. 108 Eagle River, AK 99577 (907)694-4702

info@cer.org www.cer.org

Discover Kodiak 100 Marine Way, Ste. 200,Kodiak, AK 99615 (907)486-4782/ 1(800)789-4782 visit@kodiak.org www.kodiak.org

Explore Fairbanks 101 Dunkel St. #111 Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907)456-5771/ 1(877)551-1728 F (907)459-3757 info@explorefairbanks.com www.explorefairbanks.com

Girdwood Chamber of Commerce PO Box 1313, Girdwood, AK 99587 (907)265-5827

girdwoodchamber@gmail.com www.girdwoodchamber.com

Greater Copper Valley Chamber of Commerce PO Box 469, Glennallen, AK 99588 (907)822-5555/ F (907)822-5558 chamber@cvinternet.net www.traveltoalaska.com

Greater Palmer Chamber & Visitor Center 723 S Valley Way, Palmer, AK 99645 (907)745-2880 info@palmerchamber.org www.palmerchamber.org

Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce 415 E Railroad Ave. Wasilla, AK 99654 (907)376-1299 / F (907)373-2560 contact@wasillachamber.org www.wasillachamber.org

Greater Whittier Chamber of Commerce PO Box 607, Whittier, AK 99693 whittiercoc@gmail.com www.whittieralaskachamber.org

Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center 201 Sterling Hwy., Homer, AK 99603 (907)235-7740 /F (907) 235-8766 info@homeralaska.org www.homeralaska.org

Hope Chamber of Commerce PO Box 9, Hope, AK 99605 www.hopealaska.info

Kenai Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 11471 Kenai Spur Hwy., Kenai, AK 99611 (907)283-1991 info@visitkenai.com www.visitkenai.com

Kenai Peninsula Tourism Marketing Council 35571 Kenai Spur Hwy. Soldotna, AK 99669 (907)262-5229/ 1 (800)535-3624

F (907)262-5212

info@kenaipeninsula.org

www.kenaipeninsula.org

Moose Pass Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau PO Box 147 Moose Pass, AK 99631 www.moosepassalaska.com

Seward Chamber of Commerce 2001 Seward Hwy.,PO Box 749 Seward, AK 99664 (907)224-8051/ F (907)224-5353

visitseward@seward.com

www.seward.com

Soldotna Chamber of Commerce 44790 Sterling Hwy. ,Soldotna, AK 99669 (907)262-9814/ F (907)262-3566

info@soldotnachamber.com www.soldotnachamber.com

Talkeetna Chamber of Commerce PO Box 334, Talkeetna, AK 99676 1(808)333-7779

info@talkeetnachamber.org

www.talkeetnachamber.org

Valdez Convention & Visitors Bureau 309 Fairbanks Dr., Valdez, AK 99686 (907)835-2984

F (907)835-4845

info@valdezalaska.org

www.valdezalaska.org

Visit Anchorage 524 W 4th Ave., Anchorage, AK 99501 (907)276-4118 / 1(800) 478-1255

F (907)278-5559

info@anchorage.net

www.anchorage.net

Youth Activities

Camp Fire Alaska 161 Klevin St., Ste. 100

Anchorage, AK 99508 (907)279-3551/ F (907)278-9829

campfire@campfireak.org

www.campfireak.org

Camp K on Kenai Lake Mile 4 Snug Harbor Rd. Cooper Landing, AK 99572

Kenai River Drifters Lodge 18404 Sterling Hwy.,PO Box 746 Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)595-5555

info@drifterslodge.com

www.drifterslodge.com

Moose Pass Business Directory

Explore Moose Pass

COMMUNITY

Education, Research & Schools

Moose Pass School K-8 PO Box 46

Moose Pass, AK 99631

(907)288-3183

F(907)288-3670

kpbsd.org/schools/moose-pass

Emergency Services

Moose Pass Volunteer Fire Department PO Box 104

Moose Pass, AK 99631

(907)288-3665

F 907-288-3666

moosepassfireems@yahoo.com www.moosepassfire.com

Government & Public Agencies

Chugach National Forest Seward Ranger

District- Kenai Lake Work Center 29847 Seward Hwy.

Seward, AK 99664

(907)288-3178

www.fs.usda.gov/main/Chugach/home

Moose Pass U.S. Post Office 31785 Post Office Dr.

Moose Pass, AK 99631

(907)288-3623

FOOD & DINING

Restaurants & Cafés

Trail Lake Lodge 33654 Depot Rd. PO Box 5

Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3101

info@TrailLakeCorp.com www.traillakelodge.com

LODGING

Cabins & Lodges

Bear Cub Cabin 41160 Seward Hwy. PO Box 7

Moose Pass, AK 99631 907-288-3667

tealhetrick@gmail.com www.airbnb.com

Property #13141762

Fern Hollow Cabins PO Box 176

Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3678

jjodhner@arctic.net

Edelweiss House 27243 Seward Hwy., Seward, AK 99664 (907)288-5073

edelweisshouse@icloud.com vrbo.com/1277774

Inn at Tern Lake 41843 Seward Hwy., PO Box 7 Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3667

rose@ternlakeinn.com www.innatternlake.com

(907)288-3667

Jewel of the North 31087 Seward Hwy. Seward, AK 99664 (907)288-3166 / 1(877)317-REST

thenorthernjewel@alaskan.com

www.jewelofthenorth.net

Teal Hetrick

Cabins & Lodges (Continued)

Paradise Cabins 41123 Seward Hwy PO Box 7

Moose Pass, AK 99631 907-330-9085

willowhetrick@gmail.com www.airbnb.com property #13751342

Trail Lake Lodge

33654 Depot Road

PO Box 5

Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3101

info@TrailLakeCorp.com www.TrailLakeLodge.com

Campgrounds/ RV Parks

Moose Pass Campground 34984 Seward Hwy. PO Box 531

Seward, AK 99664 (330)283-7542

moosepasscampground@gmail.com www.moosepasscampground.com

RECREATION

Guided Sport Fishing

Chugach Backcountry Fishing PO Box 7

Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)362-1224

chugachbackcountry@gmail.com www.chugachbackcountryfishing.com

Gone Again Charters 30197 Upper Trails Ct. PO Box 143

Moose Pass, AK 99631

Seward Boat Harbor (907)288-3655/ (907)362-1590 cell goneagaincharters@yahoo.com www.goneagaincharters.com

Guided Kayak Tours & Rentals

Moose Pass Adventures 34815 Seward Highway PO Box 121

Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)382-0466

ops@moosepassadventures.com www.moosepassadventures.com

SERVICES

Caretaking/Property Mgmt

Seramur Home Services, LLC 41651 Seward Hwy.

Moose Pass, AK 99631 PO Box 648

Cooper Landing, AK 99572 (907)599-0019

seramurhomeservices@gmail.com

Churches

Moose Pass Community Church PO Box 111 Moose Pass, AK 99631 www.moosepasscommunitychurch.blogspot.com

Moose Pass United Methodist Church PO Box 141 33676 Depot Rd. Moose Pass, AK 99631 www.sewardumc.com

Gift Shops/Clothing

Crazy Moose 41658 Seward Hwy., Mile 35.9 Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)717-7474

czymoose1@yahoo.com

Moose Drop In Trading Post 35105 Seward Hwy. PO Box 164

Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-2453

info@moosedropintradingpost.com

Trail Lake Lodge 33654 Depot Road PO Box 5

Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3101

info@TrailLakeCorp.com www.TrailLakeLodge.com

Groceries

Estes Brothers Grocery Store Mile 29.5 Seward Hwy. Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3151

Health Services

Seward Community Health Center 417 First Ave. PO Box 2895 Seward, AK 99664 (907)224-8511

jchapman@sewardhealthcenter.org www.sewardhealthcenter.org

Library Services

Moose Pass Library 33675 Depot Rd. Moose Pass, AK 99631 (907)288-3111

bookmoose@gmail.com www.moosepasslibrary.webs.com

Visitor Centers & Information

Moose Pass Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

PO Box 147

Moose Pass, AK 99631

www.moosepassalaska.com

Cooper Landing Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

MP 48.7 Sterling Hwy. PO Box 809

Cooper Landing, AK 99572

(907) 595-8888

info@cooperlandingchamber.com

www.cooperlandingchamber.com

Seward Chamber of Commerce

2001 Seward Hwy. PO Box 749

Seward, AK 99664

(907)224-8051

F (907)224-5353

visitseward@seward.com

www.seward.com

Upper Kenai 2023 Visitor Guide

Cover Photo © Kristine Route - Best Route Productions

Publisher

Cooper Landing Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau and Moose Pass Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

Graphic Design, Layout, & Production Kristine Route - Best Route Productions

Photography © Kristine Route - Best Route Produtions, Teal Hetrick, Clark Fair, Cooper Landing Museum, © Peter Nile, © Frank Kovalchek

Copywriting

Katie Hickey – KT Creative

Contributing Writers/Editors/Research

Yvette Galbraith, Rose Hetrick, Willow Hetrick, Cheryle James, Kristine Route, Martha Story, Shirley Wilmoth

Printing

Journal Graphics

The Upper Kenai Visitors Guide was made possible by the joint efforts of the members of the Cooper Landing Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau and Moose Pass Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau. All advertisers in this publication are members of their local chamber. We encourage you to patronize these businesses before, during and after your visit to the Upper Kenai Peninsula.

Guided Fishing Riverfront Cabins Scenic River Rafting

Fishing: Full & Half Day

• King, Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, and Silver Salmon.

• Native Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, and Arctic Grayling.

• Drift Boat, Powerboat, Walk-in, Hike-in and Fly-in.

• All equipment provided: Simms Patagonia, TFO, Sage, G. Loomis, Redington, etc.

• Fly fishing instruction available.

• Beginners to professionals welcome.

• Guided 2 hour, 3 hour and Canyon 5 hour.

• Floats leave almost a zillion times each day.

• Good for ages 2-92.

• Wildlife happens and if you’re lucky... we sometimes spot moose and/or bears along the banks of the Kenai River.

• Call for group specials.

• Private rafts no problem.

• All equipment provided.

• An awesome way to see Alaska.

Scenic Floats - Canyon Rafting

Photo: © Eagle Eye Gallery #55134 Design: Best Route Productions