Cooper Landing

See

Cooper Landing is located on the shores of Kenai Lake and the Kenai River, with mountains all around. The emerald green waters of the river feature some of the best freshwater salmon fishing in the world. A ferry can also transport you across the Kenai to the mouth of the Russian River.

The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is untamed Alaska at its best, and yet is fairly easy to access. Be aware that if you rent a car, they may explicitly forbid driving it on unpaved and rough Skilak Lake Road, the primary access to the Refuge. When road conditions are particularly poor (usually following late snowmelt and/or prolonged heavy rain) the road will have illuminated signs at either end recommending four-wheel-drive vehicles only. Wash boarding can also be severe on this road. All that being said, the scenery is spectacular, there’s lots of wildlife, and several free lakeside campgrounds, as well as public-use cabins that can be rented either online or at the Refuge offices in Soldotna. Be sure to ask about access when renting, none of them are drive-up and require at least a short walk or paddle.

Do

There are various fishing guide services in Cooper Landing, or if you prefer you can simply go down to the river and throw in a line. Be sure you have a valid Alaska fishing license and are aware of current local rules, given the importance of this fishery it is not uncommon for the Department of Fish and Game to conduct spot checks to insure all fishing is done on a legal basis. A limited number of companies are authorized to guide through the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most pristine wildernesses on the peninsula. There are also outfitters who can take you on a rafting trip down the Kenai River to Skilak Lake. If you bring your own boat, be aware of regulations prohibiting motors on some stretches of the river.

Eat

• Gwin's Lodge, right on the highway, is a local institution that has been housing and feeding fishermen for decades.

Sleep

• The Kenai Princess Lodge is on the bank opposite the main body of the town. It features bungalow-style rooms with wood burning fireplaces and private porches. There is a short, easy trail leading to a deck over the river, perfect for fishing or just watching the river go by.