More specific planning questions

Question

We are a family of 3 with a 9y/o, planning our return trip to Alaska this August (I feel so behind this time). Based on previous TA advice, we will be doing a 10-night trip, split as follow: 3 nights in Fairbanks, drive to Denali for 3 nights, return to FB to fly to ANC and head to Seward for the last 4 nights before flying back home from ANC...

I am having the most trouble finding suitable lodging in Seward and also realizing that there are at least 2 activities out of Whittier that interest us -- Spencer glacier train + kayak or boat tour and 26 Glacier Cruise (or something similar). Should we split our stay in Seward and stay 1 night either in Anchorage or perhaps somewhere even closer to Whittier? Better in the middle or at the end of the trip? We have a late 6:30pm flight home, so I'm not too worried about the drive on the day of.

Above question is my main concern and the rest just need more research, but if you have suggestions, I'd love to hear!

- which location offers best flight tour with glacier landing? I had an opportunity to do this alone a few years ago and would love for my husband and daughter to experience it too but we won't be staying in Girdwood this time.

- suggestions for hikes in Denali -- 4-6 miles is our sweet spot. We have shuttle reservation for one day, should I book one for the other full day as well or are there things to do near visitor center? I'm pretty sure we'll be doing Jr. Ranger program, if available.

- how cold is it to kayak by the glaciers? I really want to do it but I think my husband is hesitant and I also see that most tours require kids to be 12. We've taken our daughter kayaking in calm ocean water in Hawaii and she did great but obviously that's very different environment

- any shore fishing advice? I think my daughter likes the idea of it but she never fished and my husband won't be able to handle boat fishing due to sea sickness. Any shore guide recs would be appreciated since we're not experienced. And I like the idea of cooking freshly caught Alaskan fish :)

- your favorite spots for crab legs and seafood in all 3 towns?

Thank you in advance!!

Answer

Your August Alaska itinerary sounds fantastic! With three kids in tow, it’s wise to plan carefully around logistics, activities, and accommodations. Below is detailed guidance addressing each of your concerns and suggestions for making the trip smooth and memorable.

1. Seward and Whittier excursions — splitting your stay?

Seward itself has limited lodging options, especially for a family of three, so it can be tight to book late. Since you are interested in excursions from Whittier (Spencer Glacier train + kayak/boat tour and 26 Glacier Cruise), you have a couple of choices:

Stay all 4 nights in Seward and make day trips to Whittier. It’s roughly a 2-hour drive one way, scenic but long. This is feasible if you enjoy a drive with stops along Turnagain Arm.
Split your stay: 2 nights in Seward for local exploration (Kenai Fjords National Park, Exit Glacier, downtown Seward), then 1–2 nights near Whittier (or even Girdwood) to shorten travel for your glacier excursions. Staying closer to Whittier reduces early morning stress and maximizes time on the water.
Since you have a 6:30pm flight from ANC at the end, it’s fine to drive from Seward to ANC on the day of your flight, so no need to stay in Anchorage at the end unless you want an extra buffer night.

Recommendation: Consider splitting your stay if the glacier excursions are the main priority; otherwise, staying entirely in Seward is simpler.

2. Best glacier flight tours with landing

Several operators offer glacier landing flights from both Anchorage and Seward. For family-friendly tours:

Anchorage departure: Lake Hood or Merrill Field offer flights to Chugach glaciers with optional snow landings. Great for families, easy logistics.
Seward departure: Flights over the Kenai Peninsula, including snow landings, are available. Slightly shorter transit to glaciers if you’re already in Seward.
Note: Check age requirements and total flight duration—most tours allow children, but weight limits or noise concerns may apply.

3. Denali hikes and shuttles

For 4–6 mile hikes accessible without a shuttle, consider:

Horseshoe Lake Trail: Easy, scenic, 3 miles round trip, often good wildlife viewing.
Mount Healy Overlook: 4.5 miles round trip, moderate, with panoramic valley views.
Shuttle option: You already have one day booked. Booking a second day is worthwhile to access longer trails or deeper park areas (e.g., Savage River, Toklat River). Alternately, explore near the visitor center with your child—easy walks, ranger programs, and interpretive displays.
Jr. Ranger program: Yes, available at Denali Visitor Center and Campgrounds; perfect for your 9-year-old.

4. Glacier kayaking safety and kids

Glacier kayaking is cold and potentially challenging. Key points:

Water temperatures are typically 35–45°F, so tours provide dry suits and spray skirts.
Most operators require children ≥12 years old for safety. Your daughter at 9 may not qualify.
For beginners or younger kids, consider guided zodiac or small boat tours—they offer the same glacier views without age restrictions and cold exposure.
Important: Wear layers and be prepared for wind and spray, even in calm conditions.

5. Shore fishing for families

Shore fishing is a great alternative if boat fishing is not feasible due to seasickness. Recommendations:

Seward: Resurrection Bay offers easy access from the harbor and nearby beaches. Local guides can provide rods, bait, and instruction for beginners.
Kenai Peninsula beaches (near Seward and Whittier) are good for salmon and rockfish during August.
Tip: Bring small tackle, buckets, and gloves for kids. Most guides will handle cleaning; you can cook your catch afterward.

6. Favorite seafood spots

Fairbanks: The Pump House and Lavelle’s Steakhouse often serve fresh local fish and Alaskan specialties.
Denali area: 229 Parks Restaurant has salmon and halibut, plus kid-friendly options.
Seward: Ray’s Waterfront, The Cookery, and Seward Brewing Company—great for crab legs, halibut, salmon, and local seafood.
Optional: Anchorage has a wide variety of excellent seafood restaurants if you stay near Whittier.

Summary & Tips:

Splitting Seward/Whittier stay makes excursions easier but is optional.
Book any glacier flights early; they can fill fast in August.
Denali shuttle for one full day is fine; the second day can be hikes near the visitor center if you want a more relaxed pace.
Consider boat/zodiac tours instead of kayaking for your 9-year-old.
Shore fishing is ideal for beginners; check guides in Seward for family-friendly trips.
August is peak season; book lodging and tours ASAP.

Your itinerary is well-paced for a family with a 9-year-old, mixing adventure, wildlife, and relaxation. With a little planning around Seward/Whittier and age-appropriate excursions, it should be a memorable trip!

More specific planning questions

More Alaska (AK) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions