Awesome memories in Alaska oftentimes start with a few simple ingredients – a love for the unusual, an appreciation of history and a mindset that is ready for anything. Luckily for those adventure hounds of the world, these 15 boardwalks in Alaska encompass a little bit of everything… From the developed gems that offer fun shops, delicious restaurants and unlimited activity vendors to the more remote jaunts that deliver rich history, abundant fishing streams, picturesque views and unbelievable amounts of wildlife. While these are all very different from one another, each and every one is truly built to win the hearts of last frontier lover’s from all across the world.
1. Creek Street – Ketchikan
This historic boardwalk is perched on pilings along the banks of Ketchikan Creek. Visitors enjoy the many shops, restaurants and activity vendors available. Get greeted by the tall Chief Johnson Totem Pole upon entering and enjoy stunning views overlooking the Thomas Basin Marina.
2. Soldotna Creek Park – Kenai River
Located right in town off the Sterling Hwy is this special spot right on the Kenai River. Bring your fishing rod and flip for reds and then relax on the huge lawn with a picnic lunch.
3. Potters Marsh – Anchorage
Located right inside Alaska's largest city of Anchorage is this special place in the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge. Bring your scope and watch for birds, or stay a while and feast your eyes on a breathtaking sunset over the inlet.
4. Icy Strait Point - Hoonah
Check out the old cannery that has been converted into a modern day hot spot known as Icy Strait Point. Enjoy lunch on the boardwalk and a spectacular view from Chichagof Island.
5. The Spit – Homer
With stunning views of Kachemak Bay and the Homer Harbor in the distance, people flock from all over the world to visit the "spit" every year. On the boardwalk you will find delicious restaruants, fun shops and a vast array of activity vendors to assist you with getting out to enjoy fun filled adventure.
6. Anan Creek – Wrangell
Supporting one of the largest pink salmon runs in Southeast Alaska, this trail is something to remember. Visitors enjoy the well maintained boardwalk to offers great wildlife viewing opportunities. This is is an ancient Tlingit native fishing site.
7. Rodak Trail – Eagle River Nature Center
The Eagle River Nature Center is a place for people of all sizes, shapes and ages. This boardwalk that overlooks mountain views and fish nearby streams is an excellent place to get your dose of wilderness adventure, without having to drive too far.
8. Dale B. Clemens Memorial – Seward
Walk along the Seward Harbor and enjoy stunning views of the Kenai Fjords National Park, boats coming in and out of the harbor and some great fishing spots to boot!
9. Gavin Hill – Sitka
This 6-mile loop trail on Harbor Mountain is one of the most popular places to disappear into the wilderness in Southeast Alaska. Enjoy miles of boardwalk in a lush rainforest setting.
10. Tutka Bay Pier
Located at the entrance to the rugged yet beautiful 7-mile fjord at the southern end of Kachemak Bay is this special place that offers the perfect way to unwind and decompress.
11. Ouzinkie – Kodiak
This quaint village is located on the southwest shore of Spruce Island, closest to Kodiak. Known for its deep fishing community roots, visitors here will be amazed by the towering spruce trees, pristine beauty and the rural living conditions.
12. Mendenhall Glacier Boardwalk – Juneau
From the visitors center in Juneau you can easily access this great walking spot. Take in views of the stunning Mendenhall Glacier and be sure to look out for birds and various wildlife in the distance!
13. Ancient Dwelling Grounds – Barrow
It doesn't get more Alaskan than this! On the edge of town is this boardwalk that takes you through low grassy mounds showcasing the remains of dwellings that ancestors of the native Inupiat people once lived in.
14. Halibut Cove
Just a short jaunt across from the town of Homer is this quaint little beach town. Check out the fun shops, beautiful art, delicious restaurants and small hospitality outlets.
15. Alaska Raptor Center - Sitka
This 17-acre rehabilitation center located in the Tongass National Forest is truly magical. Walk around for hours on the well maintained boardwalks and find yourself wanting to come back time and time again.
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