Seward Historic Waterfront

The feel

The coastal walk follows the route of the original Iditarod National Historic Trail, used heavily from 1909 to the mid 1920s to carry mail and supplies to mining communities on Turnagain Arm. It ends at Mile 0, at the south-eastern corner of the downtown waterfront, where the Founder's Monument honors John Ballaine and the landing party that arrived on August 28, 1903.

Fourth Avenue has been the center of Seward's commerce and celebrations since the town was founded in 1903. Brown & Hawkins, built in 1904, is the oldest continuously operated business in Seward, and the Van Gilder Hotel dates to 1916. Until 1964 the waterfront held warehouses, docks and intersecting railroad tracks, and the Green Building, built in 1917, was the Alaska Railroad depot until the tracks were destroyed by tidal waves that year.

What to expect

What it is

Mile 0 of the Iditarod Trail and the historic downtown waterfront, with a signed walking tour of 26 signs and 46 sites.

Time

A self-guided audio walking tour is 1.7 miles and takes an average of 45 minutes.

Fees and passes

The audio walking tour costs $11.99.

Bathrooms and water

Public restrooms are behind the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center at the small boat harbor.

Mingo says

Start on the paved Coastal Walk and let it carry you into the downtown waterfront. Keep your eyes open for otters, sea lions and even whales along the way.

Before you go

• Pick up a walking tour map at the Seward Community Library & Museum, then start wherever you choose.
• Go inside only the buildings that are active businesses or public facilities, and respect private property owners.
• Call (907) 224-8051 with questions.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.