Soldotna Creek Park Boardwalk
The feel
Boardwalks, gravel paths and benches all look out over the Kenai River, and the park is a flat, easy stroll along the water. The river carries runs of king, sockeye, silver and pink salmon, so the boardwalk is a good place to watch anglers work the bank.
The park has 2,300 feet of riverfront boardwalk and 12 sets of river access stairs. A wide trail and ramp over 300 feet long, accessible to users of all abilities, leads to the mouth of Soldotna Creek. A large community playground and covered pavilions make it an easy stop with kids.
What to expect
- Route and terrain
- Out and back, 1 mile, with about 20 ft of gain. Riverfront boardwalk, gravel paths and river access stairs.
- Time
- About 0.5 hour.
- Crowds and best time
- The Soldotna Wednesday Market runs in summer with food trucks and live music, and the park hosts events through the year.
- Parking
- Paved parking for 80 to 100 vehicles. Access is off the Sterling Highway near the Soldotna Tesoro gas station, at 44149 Sterling Hwy.
- Fees and passes
- No day use fee.
- Dogs
- Dog friendly.
- Kids
- Rated easy, with a large community playground and three covered pavilions.
- Bathrooms and water
- One restroom, open year round.
- Season and access
- Open year round. Winter brings an ice skating path and events such as Frozen RiverFest.
Mingo says
Come in summer, when salmon are running in the Kenai River. Pick a Wednesday if you want the market crowd.
Before you go
- Call Soldotna Parks and Recreation at (907) 262-3151 for event and parking details.
- Park in the paved lot off the Sterling Highway near the Tesoro gas station.
- Picnic areas with barbecues are first come, first served.
Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.
Today
Getting there
- Distance
- 1 mi
- Elevation gain
- 20 ft
- Route
- Out & back
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Dogs
- Allowed
- High point
- 130 ft
- Drive from Anchorage
- 2h38 to Soldotna
- Drive from Fairbanks
- Full day, 9h12 to Soldotna
What it is like
🦟 Bugs: High (Jun-Jul) Bears: Present, stay aware