Things to Do in Soldotna Alaska

February 13, 2022June 18, 2023 Kevin E Beasley 0 Comments kenai, kenai river, peninsula, soldotna

Are you looking for things to do in Soldotna Alaska?

Well get ready for quite an adventure. There’s always something to do in Soldotna.

If you are wanting to experience the Kenai peninsula, Soldotna could be a central hub for your Alaska vacation. Soldotna is about 150 miles south of Anchorage via the Seward and Sterling highways. About 4,000 full-time residents live in this jewel of a small-town. Alaska charm is the best way to describe the fastest growing city on the Kenai Peninsula.

Soldotna is an easy and scenic drive from some of the other great towns on the peninsula including Sterling, Seward, and Homer. Whether you are most interested in fishing, wildlife viewing, Alaska rural life, or flight-seeing, Soldotna has a ton to offer to help turn your Alaska vacation into an epic adventure.

Stop by the Soldotna Welcome Center to get a feel for all the offerings of this beautiful little river town. You can also get a first-hand look at the 97+ lb. world record King Salmon caught in the Kenai River in 1985. Enjoy a quick stroll on the Kenai River Boardwalk while you sip a hot cup of coffee and watch locals and visitors fish for those world-class freshwater and saltwater fish.

Here are Five Things to Do in Soldotna Alaska

Fish for Salmon in the Kenai River

Mid-May through September Soldotna is teeming with fisherman. Don’t miss the runs of red, silver and especially the king salmon in the lower Kenai River. Soldotna has been voted the number 1 fishing spot in North America by Field & Stream Magazine. You can fish right from the bank. Kenai has over a mile of elevated boardwalks.

Fishing license are required if you are over 18. You can get them online before you travel to give yourself more time on the river! If you are not comfortable fishing in Alaska or if you want the best advice on how to hook the big ones, you can hire a professional river fishing guide. Either way, you’ll have a bucket list fishing experience in and around Soldotna.

Some of the fish you may catch during the summer months include Sockeye, Silver, Pink and King Salmon. And if you want to take a fishing charter out of neighboring Seward or Homer, you can try your luck at the famous Alaskan Halibut.

Wildlife Viewing in Soldotna Alaska

Soldotna is home to many species of Alaskan wildlife. The variety of geographic features in Soldotna, including wetlands, lakes, and mountains, Soldotna provides a wide variety of animals.

Remember when spotting wildlife that animals follow food sources. During the Salmon runs you can often see Bald Eagles soaring overhead or fishing on the banks. Moose are commonly sighted all over town. Occasionally you may spot a Caribou or Lynx. Birds are always popular in Soldotna. If you happen to be visiting in May, you can catch the Kenai Peninsula Birding Festival. The festival features guided float trips, talks, and a 24-hour Midnight Sun Big Sit.

Take wildlife viewing to the next level with a flight-seeing tour around the peninsula.

An Unexpected Highlight – The Soldotna Rodeo

On a recent visit to Soldotna with my kids, I was surprised to discover the Soldotna Rodeo. Sponsored by the Soldotna Equestrian Association, the rodeo runs for three weekends in June and July. You could see Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, Roping, Chute Dogging & even Bull Riding at this home-town heroes event. Make sure to bring some cash to enjoy the AWESOME food at the food trucks lining the arena. The admission is very affordable and you will be glad you experienced this event. You’ll even get to know some of the locals who make Soldotna their home year round!

Find out more about the Soldotna rodeo here.

Hiking or Biking in Soldotna Alaska

If hiking or biking is your thing to do in Alaska, it doesn’t get much better than Soldotna. There are numerous hiking trails in and around the city. Click here to see a list of maintained trails.

Another amazing location to hike and see nature is the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Learn about nature in Alaska at the visitor’s center and then stroll their various trails around the park.

When hiking trails in Alaska, stay aware of wildlife and plants. It’s wise to take pepper spray along with you. And it’s important to have working knowledge of poisonous plants in Alaska. If you encounter wildlife, follow these guidelines:

Stay aware of your surroundings so you know your exit routes.
Don’t turn and run away! Animals respond to your fear.
Back away slowly while facing the animal and give them room to exit.
If you are with a group, gather together close to look large.
Don’t do anything to threaten or approach the animal.

Enjoy Great Food and Lodging in Soldotna

When considering things to do in Soldotna, Alaska, don’t forget that there is a friendly and welcoming community of people to greet you!

Check out some of the amazing restaurants, shops and lodging owned and operated by the local residents. Here are a few of the local favorites!

Kenai River Brewing Company is a micro-brewery and kitchen open Tuesday through Sunday in Soldotna.
Pizza Boys – a locally owned favorite in downtown Soldotna.
Black Jaxx Bar-B-Q is an unexpected gym for an Alaska small town.
Mel’s Alaska Cafe – classy decor and friendly service make Mel’s a great place to hang out.