Alaska Wildland Adventures (AWA) offers a wide variety of experiences for families visiting Alaska, especially if you're looking for a balance of comfort, wilderness, and guided adventure. Their trips are known for being well-organized, all-inclusive, and family-friendly—especially for families who enjoy nature, wildlife, and unique, educational travel. Here’s what they can offer your family:
AWA specializes in small-group travel, and many of their tours are suitable for kids (typically age 7 and up). Here are a few standout activities:
Wildlife Viewing: See bears, moose, eagles, whales, sea otters, puffins, and more, especially in Kenai Fjords National Park or along the Kenai River.
Guided Rafting & Kayaking: Calm river floats or coastal kayaking adventures that are safe for beginners.
Hiking & Nature Walks: Explore scenic trails with naturalist guides who tailor the experience to all ages.
Fishing Trips: Try salmon or trout fishing on the Kenai River with expert guides and all gear included.
Educational Programs: Many trips include interpretive talks about Alaska’s wildlife, ecosystems, glaciers, and Indigenous history—great for curious kids and teens.
AWA operates its own wilderness lodges, which are comfortable yet rustic and designed for immersion in nature (but with hot showers and cozy beds!).
Kenai Riverside Lodge: Located in Cooper Landing on the Kenai River; ideal for fishing, hiking, and family basecamping.
Kenai Backcountry Lodge: Accessible only by boat across Skilak Lake—offers a more remote experience with guided nature excursions.
Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge: The only lodge within Kenai Fjords National Park, surrounded by glaciers and ocean wildlife.
AWA can bundle everything—lodging, meals, activities, and transportation—into a seamless vacation package. This is especially helpful for families who want the trip to be low-stress and logistically easy. Options include:
Lodge-to-Lodge Vacations (5-7 Days or Longer): Seamlessly visit one, two or three Alaska Wildland Adventures' lodges, and our team will craft an individualized itinerary to suit your top interests. Raft, fish, canoe, sea kayak and more, all at your desired pace and with experienced naturalist guides.
Family Adventure Packages: Sometimes available seasonally with slower pacing and more hands-on exploration for younger travelers.
Custom Itineraries: AWA can build custom private trips for families or groups with specific needs or age ranges.
All meals (including kid-friendly options)
Private transportation between activities/lodges
Guides who handle everything from safety to storytelling
All outdoor gear provided (waders, life jackets, boots, etc.)
AWA is a great fit if your family:
Loves the outdoors and wildlife
Prefers off-the-beaten-path travel that’s still comfortable
Wants to disconnect from screens and spend time together in nature
Appreciates having an expert guide to handle logistics and enrich the experience