Seward Waterfront (Sea Otter Trail)

The feel

This is a paved path along Resurrection Bay, flat and easy, and it suits walkers, runners, bikers, scooterists, roller-bladers, skateboarders and baby strollers alike. Along the way you pass educational panels, a jungle-gym for kids and the Branson Pavilion picnic spot.

Landmarks include Founder's Monument, Mile 0 of the Historic Iditarod Trail and the Old Railroad Depot. Bald eagles and sea birds are also seen, and there is a reasonably good chance of spotting sea otters, harbor seals, Steller sea lions and an occasional whale. The campgrounds are packed in summer, so the path gets busy.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 1.9 miles, paved, with about 30 ft of gain. Hop on from the harbor at the north end, near the SeaLife Center at the south end, or anywhere along Ballaine Blvd.

Time

About 1 hour.

Crowds and best time

Busy in summer with the campgrounds full. Clear days give the best views of the bay and surrounding mountains.

Parking

Plenty of parking.

Dogs

Dogs must be on a leash and their waste picked up.

Kids

Flat and easy, with a jungle-gym along the path.

Hazards

Wind. The path gets very icy in winter.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms with public showers are near the Waterfront Playground at 420 Ballaine Blvd., and the Wellington Picnic Area has tables and a nearby restroom.

Season and access

Best from March 31 to November 1. In winter it is walkable with sturdy micro-spikes.

Mingo says

Pick a clear day for the best bay and mountain views. Between March 31 and November 1 the path is at its best.

Before you go

• Keep dogs on a leash and pick up their waste.
• Pack sturdy micro-spikes if you walk it in winter.
• Wind is one of the challenges here, so plan for it.
• Bikes are allowed, but the path can be crowded when it is busy.

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