Safety

Safety first.

NPS Photo

 

Dial 9-1-1 in Emergencies

While cell phone coverage is very spotty in the park, there may be some areas where cell coverage may still exist. Dispatchers from the Seward area may be able to assist you.

• Within the Exit Glacier Area, emergencies should be reported to rangers on patrol, or to staff at the Exit Glacier Nature Center.
• On the Kenai Fjords coast, a marine VHF radio (channel 16) or satellite phone may be the best way to contact the park or Coast Guard.

 

Welcome to Alaska - Remote, Rugged, and Unpredictable

Anything can happen, including bear encounters, falling ice, radical shifts in the weather, earthquakes, or avalanches. Preparation can make the difference between the adventure of a lifetime and tragedy. Your national parks can be great places to challenge yourself physically and mentally. Yet, it is important to know your limits and remember you are responsible for your own safety.

Whether you're headed out on a day hike, backcountry trip, or even just a scenic drive, it's always a good idea to have emergency supplies with you including extra food and water, warm layers, a first aid kit, and at least one type of communication device. Let someone know your plans and who to contact if you don't check in.

Even experienced wilderness travelers can have an accident that results in an injury or even death. Accidents are possible anywhere, as many variables are out of our control - so the information below is important to all visitors. Depending on your trip type, you may also want to read more specific safety information from this page to prepare for your trip:

Wildlife

Wildlife can behave unpredictably. While Kenai Fjords National Park boasts an abundant array of wildlife that park visitors love to observe, they also have the potential to be dangerous. Do not intentionally approach wildlife. Carry bear spray when in the park and use bear resistant food storage containers. Read the Wildlife Safety section for more details.

Plants

Do not eat berries, mushrooms, or other plants unless you know what they are and are sure you have no allergy to them. There are no poison oak, sumac or ivy species in the park, but some other plants can cause allergic reactions, such as cow parsnip. There are also deadly berries and mushrooms that grow in the park, so never take a chance if you are unsure of plant identification.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is always a factor in the subarctic. Rainy, chilly days are normal in summer. Dress in layers, preferably made of wool or synthetic material that is able to insulate you even when wet. Bring rain gear or an umbrella.

Injuries

The trails in Kenai Fjords are few, but can be very steep, rocky, and feature uneven terrain. Be careful of your footing, especially when trails are wet, icy or snow-covered. Many park visitors utilize trekking poles for help with stability and balance. In the spring, take note of signage notifying visitors of closures due to avalanche risk. If orange flagging is present on the trail, please follow them even if footprints lead elsewhere—the flagging exists to prevent damage to plant life as well as aid in visitor navigation.

Navigation

National Parks in Alaska are unlike many parks in the lower 48 when it comes to signage and navigation. Visitors at Kenai Fjords National Park enjoy a true backcountry experience with less signage and fewer established trails—this also means that you are often responsible for your own navigation. Make sure you have a map of where you are planning to visit; it is recommended to have a hard copy in addition to a GPS map.

Don't Go Alone

There is safety in numbers. Hiking or kayaking with at least one other person is invaluable, especially in remote areas. Always make sure someone else knows your plan, when you'll be back, and who to contact if you don't check in.

Know Thyself

Even if you plan to stay on trails the entire time you are here, keep in mind that while medical services are available in Seward, the nearest major facilities are 2-3 hours away. Expect a rescue operation to take several hours at minimum. If you know you have a medical condition, such as a heart problem, talk to your doctor about your travel plans to see if there is anything you should do to ensure a safe trip.

 

Make sure you are properly prepared

Backcountry Safety

 

Be Aware of Abandoned Mines Hazard

Abandoned mines exist on remote coastal park lands. Explosives, mine openings, unsafe structures and toxic chemicals may be present. Visitors should use extreme caution and avoid abandoned mineral properties

 

Learn More