Park Stories

People have traveled through and lived in the Kenai Fjords area for thousands of years. From Alaskan Natives to Europeans and Americans, a mix of cultures use these lands in different ways. Listen to the stories of people intimately connected to the park. How did people survive and sustain themselves in this rugged environment? What was it like to first explore the Harding Icefield? What does it mean to be a park steward?

Archeologist Aron Crowell describes artifacts uncovered within Kenai Fjords National Park and what they reveal about the Sugpiaq/Alutiiq people who once lived here.

Students share the excitement of participating in an archeological dig and learning about their Sugpiaq ancestors.

Yul Kilcher recounts his brave attempts to cross the Harding Icefield in 1936 and 1968.

Josephine Sather describes her life and work on Nuka Island as a fox farmer and homesteader.

Shauna Potocky, Chief of Interpretation & Education at Kenai Fjords National Park, welcomes visitors and reflects upon the value of stewardship.