Soldotna

The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska is a part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, which in whole protects over 150 million acres of Alaska’s awe-inspiring land, waters, and all the wildlife that resides within them. At the refuge, you will be able to see, do, and learn so much about the inspiring and wild spirit of your surroundings. Visitors can partake in various outdoor adventures such as hiking, cross country skiing, camping, canoeing, kayaking, hunting, and of course, world class fishing. You will make memories of a lifetime as you explore the refuge, hiking high into the alpine tundra or canoeing on the emerald waters of the Kenai River.

1 Skihill Road, Soldotna, AK 99669

The Soldotna Historical Society & Museum is an outdoor space comprising a historic log village. Groomed paths will take visitors through several of the log structures such as the large territorial school which was built in 1958; you can still see the hanging gas lanterns which provided light to study by. Another structure is Damon Hall, which has an amazing mural and a large collection of wildlife mounts. You will come across several photographs and artifacts in a structure that was once the Soldotna Chamber of Commerce log tourist center. If you keep following the trails, you’ll be taken toward the Centennial Campground where you’ll see panoramic views of the famed Kenai River.

461 Centennial Park Rd, Soldotna, AK 99669, Phone: 907-262-3832

If you are traveling with kids:

Centennial Park and Campground offers a little bit of Alaskan wilderness right in the heart of the city. The heavily wooded park runs alongside the Kenai River and houses approximately 176 designated campsites. Many of the campsites may be fitted with, or have access to, restrooms, boat launches, fish cleaning stations, picnic tables, and fire pits. Even the day visitors can enjoy picnicking, boating, and fishing for some of the best red, silver, and king salmon on the entire river. You can even go fishing without a boat as the park has over 650 feet of elevated boardwalk that has access to the river.

349 Centennial Park Rd, Soldotna, AK 99669, Phone: 907-262-5299

Often called “the community backyard”, Soldotna Creek Park is where residents and visitors head to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors. You will be surrounded by breathtaking scenery as you walk the park’s boardwalks and gravel paths. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it with a blanket, at their large pavilion, or on the benches overlooking the gorgeous view of the azure Kenai River, the hills of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, and the snow-capped mountains in the distance. There are many events and concerts held there throughout the year, including the award-winning, family-friendly Frozen Riverfest. Their weekly Wednesday Market attracts craft and food vendors from all over the area, making it a great place to try some local foods and purchase a souvenir or two.

251 States Ave, Soldotna, AK 99669, Phone: 907-262-3151

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

With amenities such as playgrounds, green space, pavilions, and restrooms, Farnsworth Park has become a popular place to spend a day when in Soldotna. The park’s main focus is on being an imaginative and inspiration place for children to play and be worry-free. Children never want to leave as they swing, slide, and climb atop the many playground structures - which is a great way for them to be outdoors and get some fresh air. Plan a day of fun, pick a nice grassy area, and have a picnic to ensure that everyone in the family has a wonderful time on one of Alaska’ long sunlit days.

148 S Birch Ln, Soldotna, AK 99669, Phone: 907-262-3151

Nordic skiing is a fun way to enjoy yourself while getting a workout on your own or with the family, and that is exactly the reason why the non-profit Tsalteshi Trails Association opened up the Tsalteshi Cross Country Ski Trails . There are two trailheads, which lead to over fifteen miles of groomed trails that you can take advantage of in the winter. The excitement doesn’t stop when there’s no snow, as both residents and visitors flock there to go on a run, hike, or explore the trails on their mountain bikes. If you’re a first timer or looking to improve, the Tsalteshi Trails Association does offer programs to youth and adults who want to learn how to ski.

Housed along with the City Parks & Recreations Departments is the Soldotna Regional Sports Complex. Visitors will be able to partake in a number of activities while there, including ice skating on the Olympic-sized ice rink during designated public-skating hours. There are many skating programs and ice skating classes for visitors of all ages, from two years old onwards. If you’re in Soldotna for an extensive amount of time, you may like joining their Production Team which puts together several performances on ice. The sports complex also has walleyball and racquetball courts, as well as an extensive walking path that you can use; these are available to guests during normal building hours.

538 Arena Ave, Soldotna, AK 99669, Phone: 907-262-3151

Go on a professionally-guided fishing adventure on the pristine Kenai Peninsula with Alaska Kenai Fishing for Fun. It’s sure to be one of your most memorable experiences during your visit to Soldotna as your guides takes you to all the best spots to catch Sockeye salmon, King salmon, Coho salmon, Dolly Varden, and Rainbow Trout. Your adventure is personalized to your preference and can be a walk/ wade fishing trip, a float trip, or a fly out trip. Everything you need, such as a drift boat, fly rods, fly reels, boots, bait casters, tackle, and fish cleaning services are included with your tour. For an additional fee, Alaska Kenai Fishing for Fun also offers vacuum packing and overnight FedEx shipping.

Soldotna, AK, Phone: 406-581-5567

Alaska Berries is a famed farm and winery in Soldotna and was the very first winery in the state to be certified as ‘Alaska Grown’. You can visit their farm and see where the origin of all of their products, whether it be wine, jams, or syrup, starts from. The berries are top quality and picked during the peak of ripeness; they even sell many varieties of berry plants that have proven to thrive in Southern Central Alaskan conditions. You can purchase a berry plant or a berry-based product and tour their winery during your visit to Alaska Berries.

48660 W Poppy Ln, Soldotna, AK 99669, Phone: 907-252-8511