Two Pacific Star Seafoods employees work to stabilize a commercial drift fishing boat at the company's Kenai wharf.

Two Pacific Star Seafoods employees work to stabilize a commercial drift fishing boat at the company's Kenai wharf.

Kenai

In the language of the Athabascan Dena’ina Indians, “Ken’ey” means “two big flats and a river cutback.”

This geographic description is apt for the land of the present-day town of Kenai. The historic area became the first European settlement on mainland Alaska when it was colonized by Russian fur traders. Their influence can still be seen in the wooden buildings of Old Town Kenai, which sit on the bluffs overlooking the Kenai River as it empties into Cook Inlet.

Old Town’s distinct architecture includes the Holy Assumption of the Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Church and nearby Saint Nicholas Memorial Chapel, a National Historic Landmark.

 

Old Town Kenai

Another highlight is Fort Kenay, a replica of a 1900 Russian Orthodox School, built to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the purchase of Alaska from Russia.


On the bluffs

The Kenai River runs into the Cook Inlet through a wide, sandy delta. The view can be enjoyed from Erik Hansen Scout Park, where in the summer, visitors can watch dipnet fishermen harvesting salmon from the vast run that enters the river every year to spawn.

 

A better view

Park at the beach access lot on South Spruce street, or climb down to the beach from the trail at the south end of Forest Drive.

The tidal flats that border the Kenai delta can also be seen from a boardwalk, complete with spotting scopes, located along Bridge Access Road near the Kenai River bridge, or from a nearby viewing platform on Boat Launch Road.

This is one of the best areas to spot Kenai’s lowland caribou herd, a myriad of shorebirds and other wildlife.

A clown entertains the crowd during Kenai's annual Fourth of July parade.

A clown entertains the crowd during Kenai’s annual Fourth of July parade.

The northern lights illuminate the sky in Old Town Kenai.

The northern lights illuminate the sky in Old Town Kenai.

A viewing platform on Bridge Access road at the tidal flats offers views of area wildlife including a caribou herd and a multitude of birds.

A viewing platform on Bridge Access road at the tidal flats offers views of area wildlife including a caribou herd and a multitude of birds.

More in Life

A girl dressed as Snow White takes candy from a witch at the Orca Theater’s Trunk or Treat in Soldotna, Alaska on Monday, Oct. 31, 2022. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)
October packed with Halloween events

October brings with it fall festivities, trick-or-treating opportunities and other seasonal celebrations

A copy of “Two Old Women” is held inside the Peninsula Clarion offices on Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, in Kenai, Alaska. (Ahlyn O’Hara/Peninsula Clarion)
Off the Shelf: Athabascan legend enchants, informs

The two women, shocked that they’ve been left behind by their family and friends, resolve that they will not resign themselves to death

Shredded chicken and vegetables are topped with a butter crust in this classic chicken pot pie. (Photo by Tressa Dale/Peninsula Clarion)
A meal for when you need a hug

This classic chicken pot pie is mild and comforting

Kenneth Branagh portrays Hercule Poirot in “A Haunting in Venice.” (Photo courtesy 20th Century Studios)
On the Screen: Murder most haunting

Hercule Poirot takes on supernatural in latest Agatha Christie adaptation

Jack Meyers, Jackson Hooper, Kincaid Jenness, Kry Spurgeon, Leora McCaughey and Oshie Broussard rehearse “Lockers” at Nikiski Middle/High School in Nikiski, Alaska, on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2023. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)
High school drama

Teenage archetypes hit the stage in Triumvirate production “Lockers”

Nick Varney
Unhinged Alaska: Get Ready

It looks as though some early deep freeze history may be about to repeat itself

This mildly sweet and nutty gnocchi was made white sweet potatoes, but any potatoes will do. (Photo by Tressa Dale/Peninsula Clarion)
Gnocchi brings it home

Enjoying an afternoon in the kitchen

Andrew Agosti prepares carrot gnocchi at the Harvest Moon Local Food Festival’s Chef Tent at Soldotna Creek Park in Soldotna, Alaska, on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)
Vendors and vegetables

Harvest Moon Local Food Festival celebrates local food scene at Soldotna Creek Park

Most Read