Located in the heart of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge on the shores of glacier-carved Skilak Lake, Kenai Backcountry Lodge is a remote wilderness retreat. Accessible only by boat, this historic property offers a chance to relax and reconnect with nature far from busy tourist areas. Activities are designed to highlight the stunning landscape, including the magnificent Cottonwood Trail overlooking the surrounding mountains and Skilak Lake below.
Cozy guest cabins are nestled into the forest and just steps away from the outdoor gazebo, wood-fired sauna and main lodge. Fresh and Alaskan-sourced gourmet meals are always a highlight of Alaska Wildland trips, and ask about the custom hydro-electric system, which utilizes the power of a nearby creek to lessen the dependence on generators.
Lodge: Originally built in the 1930s as a remote hunting lodge, Kenai Backcountry Lodge was lovingly restored and renovated to preserve its historic character; Rustically elegant lounge and dining room heated by a wood stove; Pour yourself a glass of wine or enjoy a creek-cooled beer.
Cabins: Nine guest cabins tucked into the surrounding forest near the main lodge and connected via gravel pathways and boardwalks; Cozy ambience with lodge-style furnishings, linens, comforters, propane heaters and lights; Each cabin has at least two beds, a private en suite bathroom and shower and a private porch; Off the grid (electrical outlets for charging electronics are available in the main lodge); We can support CPAP machines in certain cabins.
Grounds: Wood-fired sauna (and a quick plunge into the lake afterwards if you dare!); Canopy-covered ping-pong table; Lakeside chairs and campfire area; Screened-in gazebo set in the woods.
Whether you plan to visit one of our lodges for a short stay or enjoy a lodge-to-lodge package, we’ll help find the perfect trip for you! Explore our most popular lodge packages below to review itinerary details, activity inclusions and pricing - or, get in touch to discuss customizable options!
If you'd like a vacation focused only at Kenai Backcountry Lodge, you can find the itinerary options, trip length and pricing details here.
Alaska Wildland Collection
A seven-day exploration of the magical Kenai Peninsula, this trip includes stays at all three of our wilderness lodges for a river, backcountry and seacoast experience in wild Alaska.
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Customized Travel
Sharing the magic of wild Alaska together is priceless! Whether you’d like a private family vacation or wish to customize one of our existing trips, we can help.
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Kenai Backcountry Lodge
Stay at Kenai Backcountry Lodge for a remote and peaceful wilderness experience. Choose a trip from four days (or more) and have the flexibility of choosing your trip dates.
Read More > Learn More >Kenai Backcountry Lodge is located on glacier-carved Skilak Lake and is accessible only by boat from Kenai Riverside Lodge. Located at Milepost 50.1 on the Sterling Highway, Kenai Riverside Lodge is an easy two-hour drive from Anchorage or one-hour drive from Seward. The Seward Highway is one of the most beautiful drives in the United States, unspoiled by billboards or fast food chains and boasting plenty of pull-outs and view points along the way. Mountain passes, Turnagain Arm, and evidence of the 1964 earthquake near Portage are all popular places to stop and take in the vistas with your eyes and camera on the journey south.