Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort in Alaska!

Set out on a one-of-a-kind Alaskan adventure that blends the tranquility of kayaking and the thrill of hiking to uncover the historic remnants of a World War 2 army fort. Paddle across the picturesque Resurrection Bay, then trek to the well-preserved ruins of Fort McGilvray, where you’ll marvel at the stunning vistas and gain insights into the fort’s strategic significance during the war. With expert guidance, you’ll have the chance to observe the diverse local wildlife and learn about the natural beauty and rich history of this captivating landscape. Get ready to unlock a unique piece of Alaska’s past.

Key Points

• Explore a historic World War 2 Army fort in Alaska through a combined kayaking and hiking adventure, suitable for all skill levels.
• Enjoy guided kayaking to Millers Landing and a hike to the well-preserved ruins of Fort McGilvray, offering stunning natural landscapes.
• Observe diverse local wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and seabirds, during the kayaking and hiking portions of the activity.
• Receive specialized training and all necessary gear, ensuring a safe and immersive experience in Alaska’s natural beauty and history.
• Meet the requirements of moderate physical fitness and weight limit to participate in this full-day outing with a maximum group size of 16.

Overview of the Adventure

This adventurous excursion combines the serene tranquility of kayaking with the exhilaration of hiking to uncover the historical remnants of a World War 2 Army fort nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska.

Designed to accommodate all skill levels, the experience begins with a special training session to ensure participants feel comfortable and confident on the water.

Over the course of the day, explorers will have the chance to hike to the historic Fort McGilvray, situated on Caines Head, and then paddle their kayaks to the picturesque Millers Landing, all while keeping an eye out for the diverse local wildlife.

With an expert guide leading the way, this unique combination of land and sea exploration provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in Alaska’s natural beauty and rich history.

Kayaking and Hiking Activities

The adventure kicks off with a kayaking journey to Millers Landing, where participants don their provided gear – including paddles, spray skirts, life jackets, pumps, and paddle floats – before launching onto the serene waters. Gliding across the tranquil bay, they’ll observe local wildlife, such as seals, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. After the peaceful paddle, it’s time to tackle the hike to Fort McGilvray on Caines Head. The guided trek takes explorers through scenic landscapes, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and coastline. Along the way, the group will learn about the fort’s historic significance and its role during World War II.

Activity	Duration	Difficulty
Kayaking to Millers Landing	1-2 hours	Easy
Hiking to Fort McGilvray	2-3 hours	Moderate
Observing Local Wildlife	Ongoing	Easy

Fort McGilvray Exploration

Upon reaching the trailhead, explorers embark on a guided hike up to the historic Fort McGilvray, situated atop Caines Head.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the fort’s strategic significance during World War II, when it served as an important coastal defense installation.

The hike, though moderately challenging, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the pristine coastline and the sparkling waters of Resurrection Bay.

Once at the fort, explorers can wander through the well-preserved ruins, imagining the bustling activity that once filled the grounds.

This unique combination of land and sea exploration allows participants to fully enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of this remarkable site.

Millers Landing Kayaking

Next, explorers transition from the hike to the Millers Landing kayaking portion of the adventure.

After the guided hike to the historic Fort McGilvray, they make their way down to the Millers Landing Store facility on Lowell Point Road, where they’ll receive a special training session before launching out onto the waters of Resurrection Bay.

Under the watchful eye of the professional guide, you will paddle their kayaks across the picturesque bay, keeping an eye out for local wildlife that may appear along the way.

This section of the journey allows travelers to experience both the land and sea environments, providing a well-rounded exploration of the area’s natural and historical features.

Wildlife Observation

Participants can expect to spot a variety of marine and coastal wildlife during the kayaking portion of the excursion. Bald eagles soar overhead, while sea otters float on their backs in the calm waters. Seals and sea lions bask on the rocky shoreline, and humpback whales may breach in the distance. The diverse ecosystem in the Alaskan wilderness supports a rich array of fauna, which adventurers can observe from the unique vantage point of a kayak.

Wildlife	Description	Likelihood of Sighting
Bald Eagles	Majestic birds of prey with distinctive white heads and tails	High
Sea Otters	Playful marine mammals known for floating on their backs	Moderate
Seals and Sea Lions	Pinnipeds that rest on rocks and shorelines	High
Humpback Whales	Massive marine mammals that breach the surface	Low

Included Gear and Provisions

The tour provides all the necessary gear and provisions for the kayaking and hiking expedition.

Kayaking gear: paddle, spray skirt, life jacket, pump, paddle float
Rain gear
Local taxes and landing/facility fees
Professional guide supervision

Travelers are outfitted with a paddle, spray skirt, life jacket, pump, and paddle float to ensure a safe and comfortable kayaking experience. Plus, the guides supply rain gear to protect against the elements during the hike portion of the adventure.

This allows participants to focus on exploring the historic Fort McGilvray and observing the local wildlife without having to worry about their equipment or weather conditions. The included provisions make the adventure accessible to a wide range of skill levels, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point for this adventure is the Millers Landing Store facility on 13880 Lowell Point Road in Seward, Alaska. Travelers will gather at this location to meet their professional guide and prepare for the day’s activities.

This full-day outing covers both land and sea exploration, with a maximum group size of 16 participants. The activity duration is approximately a full day, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker and kayaker or a beginner, this excursion welcomes adventurers of all skill levels. Before launching, there will be a special training session to ensure everyone is comfortable with the necessary equipment and techniques.

Requirements and Restrictions

This adventure has certain requirements and restrictions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Travelers with back problems or walking disabilities shouldn’t attempt this excursion, as the hike to Fort McGilvray can be strenuous. Participants must be at least 12 years old and weigh no more than 250 lbs to fit comfortably within the 33′ x 17.25′ kayak cockpits.

Plus, you’ll need to be in moderate physical shape with no heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

To make the most of this experience:

• Bring proper outdoor attire, including rain gear, to prepare for Alaska’s changeable weather.
• Stay hydrated and refuel during the day-long activity.
• Listen closely to your guide’s instructions for safe kayaking and hiking.
• Enjoy the stunning natural surroundings and wildlife sightings along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Safety Precautions Are in Place for the Kayaking Portion?

The safety precautions for the kayaking portion include providing participants with life jackets, paddle floats, and a safety briefing. The guides also closely supervise the group and ensure everyone feels comfortable with the equipment and techniques.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Kayaking/Hiking Gear?

Participants can bring their own gear, but the tour company provides all necessary kayaking and hiking equipment. Using the provided gear ensures proper fit and functionality for the activities. Personal equipment is not required.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour for More Exploration?

While the standard tour covers the essentials, participants can opt for an extended version that allows more time for exploration of the historic fort and surrounding natural areas under the guide’s supervision.

Are There Any Accommodations Available Near the Meeting Point?

There are several accommodation options near the Millers Landing Store meeting point, including the Seward Waterfront Park Campground and various hotels and inns in downtown Seward, just a short drive away. Visitors can easily find lodging to suit their needs.

What Is the Guide-To-Participant Ratio for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 16 travelers, with a professional guide leading the expedition. This provides a guide-to-participant ratio of approximately 1:16, ensuring personalized attention and supervision throughout the kayaking and hiking activities.

Recap

Enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty and history on this unforgettable adventure.

Paddle across Resurrection Bay, then hike to the well-preserved ruins of Fort McGilvray, gaining insights into its strategic significance during WWII.

With expert guidance, observe local wildlife and explore the captivating Alaskan landscape.

Don’t miss this chance to create lasting memories on an unforgettable kayak and hiking journey.