Cabin/House Seward

[KentuckyWoman]

We are looking for a nice place (cabin) to stay while in Seward for six people. We will not be going until 2006, but hope to secure the reservation this year! Glacierlady sent some info previously, but wasn't large enough. We will be there either 2 or 3 nights mid July (Friday-Sunday). We would like a place with 3 bedrooms (no way can I sleep on a futon or hide-a-bed) and preferably a deck/porch so we can sit outside and enjoy the sights. Ideal price range would be $150-$200 per night, I know some places charge extra for more than 2 people which is fine. Linen must be provided. We don’t want to be too far from Seward, but 5-10 miles would be ok. Any suggestions?

[tee_wrecks]

Not sure if you're locked into the 5-10 minutes deal but check out this link.

 

http://www.moosepassalaska.com/

 

 

My understanding is that Moose Pass is about 25 to 30 miles from Seward. We're booked at the Spruce Moose Inn and it looks terrific on the website. Some of the others look really nice too and might fit your requirements if you're not hung up on the short distance to Seward thing.

 

We picked this area because it appears to be centrally located in relation to the Seward Highway and Sterling Highway since we're booked for a fishing excursion in Soldotna one of the days we're there. We also want to have a quick drive to Seward to have supper in a nice restuarant on our anniversary, June 21.

 

Good luck.

[KentuckyWoman]

Hey thanks. Moose Pass is under consideration. You said Spruce Moose Inn, all I can find is Spruce Moose B&B. Is that what you meant?

[tee_wrecks]

Yep, it's the Spruce Moose B&B. I still have the Inn at Tern lake on my mind. We attempted to book there but it was full for our time frame. The same folks run the Spruce Moose and they booked us there instead. Both places look terrific and Jeff, the operator can help you book tours, guides, etc.

[KentuckyWoman]

My only concern with Moose Pass, what's there to do there? 3 women and 3 men in our group. The men plan to fish one entire day, probably out of Seward. I know there are shops in Seward as well as the cruise terminal to check out. I personally would love to go hiking, but some of those in our party can not due to health, etc. What's your thoughts?

[GlacierLady]

http://www.alaskasaltwaterlodge.com/ They have a fully furnished 3 bedroom suite for $85 per night per room. Continental breakfast.The view from this place is awesome and can't be beat!!! You'll be feet away from the water!! It is at Lowell Point/Miller's landing,with kayaking,fishing and sightseeing charters just a few steps away. A 2 mile gravel road takes you there with steep mountains on 1 side and the ocean on the other.Lots of wildlife viewing. I'll try to come up with other places for your size group and will post but I am positive you will absolutely love this place! Are you interested in B&B's or hotels?

[GlacierLady]

My only concern with Moose Pass, what's there to do there? 3 women and 3 men in our group. The men plan to fish one entire day, probably out of Seward. I know there are shops in Seward as well as the cruise terminal to check out. I personally would love to go hiking, but some of those in our party can not due to health, etc. What's your thoughts?

I wouldn't recommend Moose Pass..nothing there but a small store,post office,and the Inn.The restaurant is very good and they do have floatplane charters.You would find yourself having to drive a minimum of 30 mins to get to Seward and the traffic can get bad. .....Great hiking trail at Lowell Point called Caines head which is 1 of the top 10 hiking trails in Alaska.

[KentuckyWoman]

http://www.alaskasaltwaterlodge.com/ They have a fully furnished 3 bedroom suite for $85 per night per room. Continental breakfast.The view from this place is awesome and can't be beat!!! You'll be feet away from the water!! It is at Lowell Point/Miller's landing,with kayaking,fishing and sightseeing charters just a few steps away. A 2 mile gravel road takes you there with steep mountains on 1 side and the ocean on the other.Lots of wildlife viewing. I'll try to come up with other places for your size group and will post but I am positive you will absolutely love this place! Are you interested in B&B's or hotels?

 

Thanks GlacierLady. Are you a broker for Seward hotels/cabins? This place does look very very nice! Do they allow late arrivals? If we go fishing, do they have grills so we can cook our catch. Thanks again.

[GlacierLady]

Your very welcomed! Nope, I'm not a broker and I don't make any commission.I call myself a transportation specialist...heehee.. I drive and drive and drive all over this great town and state! Seward is a very small,close knit community.Most everyone knows each other.I personally call and ask on every referall I do..Great way to say hello and how's it going. I get great pleasure in making sure others love it here as much as I do....Late arrival won't be a problem and if they don't have a grill for you to use ...I do! Saltwater lodge is family owned and Jim does a great job on fishing charters.My dad's favorite! This place is really awesome!You won't be dissappointed!

[GlacierLady]

I do have a question for you, Kentuckywoman ..but your in Mpls?...lol I'm originally from Mn.

[KentuckyWoman]

I do have a question for you, Kentuckywoman ..but your in Mpls?...lol I'm originally from Mn.

 

Yes, I am in Minneapolis, originally from Kentucky. The other 2 couples are from Kentucky (relataives). Where were you from in MN? By the way, I wrote to the Alaska Salt Water Lode already!! Would we be disappointed if we headed south from Anchorage say around 5pm and didn't take the time to stop at any of the stops recommended? That's my whole concern whether to get to Seward Friday or Saturday. Of course, we haven't even booked our cruise nor of course airfare. You should get a commission! You do a great job for your city! Are there lots of good places to eat in Seward? And one last question (for now), how do you pronounce Seward? Soo ward??

[KentuckyWoman]

GlacierLady

 

Do you know of this place? Opinions please!

 

http://www.alaskasview.com/searchdet.cfm?ID=130

[kayaklover8]

I know if you really want to go hiking, the trail by Russian River Falls is handicap accessible and it's a fairly short hike with some nice scenery up to the falls (only about 3 miles I think).

 

Here is a list of activities in Seward, and here are some lodges in Seward. I know the Ballaine Bed&B is fairly cheap.

 

Seward/Central Kenai is great for River/combat fishing when in season. If you're into Halibut/Ocean Charters, you might want to look into Homer. I know there's a really neat place across Tutka Bay in Homer called a Tent and Breakfast. It's a great experience if you don't mind travelling a little farther than Seward.

[KentuckyWoman]

Seward/Central Kenai is great for River/combat fishing when in season. If you're into Halibut/Ocean Charters, you might want to look into Homer. I know there's a really neat place across Tutka Bay in Homer called a Tent and Breakfast. It's a great experience if you don't mind travelling a little farther than Seward.

 

Thanks, but Homer is too far away. Our ship departs from Whittier so we plan to spend our time in Seward. Thanks for the other info.

[GlacierLady]

Thanks for the compliments. My 1st job here forced me to learn all I could about Seward (chamber of commerce but I was still driving...lol)Went to school in Two Harbors/Duluth (most relatives still there)and spent 18 years in various south suburbs of the cities before moving here in 97. Was actually my exhusband's dream to live in Alaska and he's still in Lakeville. Anyways...Seward has lots of restaurants that are good.None at Lowell Point but Miller's has snacks/pop for sale. The drive from Anc is great and being in July there will be plenty of daylight to stop and take some pics if you wish,even at midnight.I don't consider 5pm as a late start for driving here,in fact more moose and bear are seen later in the evening. What recommended stops are you referring to? Seward .. soo ward ..close enough was named from the United States politician who as secretary of state in 1867 arranged for the purchase of Alaska from Russia (known at the time as Seward's Folly) (1801-1872) Henry Seward I also lovingly refer to this place as soggy Seward when it starts raining and never seems to stop.

[GlacierLady]

GlacierLady

 

Do you know of this place? Opinions please!

 

http://www.alaskasview.com/searchdet.cfm?ID=130

I know where it is located,but have never heard of it as a B&B or who owns it...very residental area.Sounds like another person turning their house into a B&B. That is VERY common here.

[SEPyle]

Thanks so much GlacierLady for the info on The Alaska Saltwater Lodge! We'll be on our first trip to your beautiful state in late May. This time we're doing a cruisetour thru Celebrity, but even before coming I'm looking forward to coming back to Alaska! I've put the website for this delightful place in my favorites so I will be able to remember it for our next trip!

 

You sound like me. I'm a TA and when I find a good independent tour or great place to stay I love referring my clients to them! I know people think I get a commission, but for me a great experience enhances their trip and so it's a win-win! They have a great experience and of course they have a great agent! So I look forward to sharing this great locally-owned place to stay when I have clients who want an independent add-on, pre or post cruise!

 

By the way, I will be on the same cruise as Ladysail. I believe you graciously offered to show her Seward. I met her on an Eastern Caribbean cruise last fall, and she's a a super person! If you do meet her, I know you'll have a great time together!

 

Thanks for taking the time to help those of us who are researching in the hopes of making every minute count when we come to your beautiful state!

 

Sharon

[KentuckyWoman]

GlacierLady, thanks again for all the info. I think I've made up my mind now to drive from Anc right to Seward and not spend the night in Anc. Here are some of the points of interest I found on the web for the Seward Highway.

 

Beluga Point Scenic Overlook

 

Located at milepost 110.4, this turnout features panoramic views of Turnagain Arm. This spot is also a popular place for watching beluga whales and bore tides.

 

Windy Corner Scenic Overlook

 

This overlook is located at milepost 106.9 and is a place for watching Dall sheep and mountain goats as they cling to the rugged cliffs above the highway.

 

Bird Point Scenic Overlook

 

More views of Turnagain arm are available here. Located at milepost 96.5, this overlook is especially suited for viewing bore tides as they move up the arm. This overlook also includes displays, restrooms, and bike paths.

 

Kenai Peninsula Turnouts

 

From milepost 99.8 to 91, there are several turnouts along the highway with views of Turnagain Arm and the Kenai Peninsula. Travelers can also see the town of Hope on the shore. Visitors will find informational displays at this stop.

 

Twentymile River

 

The Twentymile River stretches northeast creating the view of a ribbon of water flowing throught the valley. The river itself offers excellent fishing opportunities since it is a habitat for eulachon and salmon. This stop is located at milepost 80.7.

 

Junction with Portage Valley Road

 

This five mile road leads visitors through Portage Valley where visitors will find a scenic valley full of glaciers and wildlife. The road is off of milepost 78.9 and visitors will find information there about the area.

 

Wetland Wildlife

 

At milepost 75.6, the area is covered in wetlands. Ponds are home to both fish and fowl, and sometimes they are visiting spots to moose and muskrats. With rich vegetation and wildlife, creatures gather here to feast.

 

Climb to Turnagain Pass

 

A six mile incline to Turnagain Pass provides scenic views of forests and meadows. Black Bear and wolverines have been seen darting across the road. Here, the byway parallels the old trail used by gold rushers who crossed Portage Glacier.

 

Turnagain Pass

 

Turnagain Pass is a beautiful alpine valley located at milepost 68. This stop offers breathtaking views in the summer and multiple recreational opportunities in the winter. During the summer, the meadows are carpeted with bursts of wildflowers.

 

Canyon Creek and Sixmile River

 

Rafters and anglers especially love to stop at milepost 57 where rivers rush through the area. Although salmon is what you'll find today, the river yielded gold in 1895. Information can be found here on mining history.

 

Scenic Viewpoint

 

At milepost 52.7, the highway beyond the Hope Highway Junction winds through mountainous area. Here, the road parallels an old ditch built in the early 1900's to provide water to sluice gold.

 

Lower Summit Lake Overlook

 

This turnout at milepost 47.2 is sprinkled with wildflowers in the summer and offers views of Lower Summit Lake that are worth photographing.

 

Lower Trail Lake

 

This lake is framed by Madson Mountain on the west. The mountains are adorned with spruce and hemlock forests. This overlook is located at milepost 26.

 

Kenai Lake Viewpoint

 

For 24 miles, the spectacular Kenai Lake stretches from the head of the Kenai River to the west to the mouth of the Snow River to the east. The water itself maintains a milky-blue color that is caused by meltwater from surrounding glaciers.

 

Snow River

 

The outlet of Kenai Lake, Snow River braids into two main channels as it crosses the Seward Highway. It is an important habitat for many animals, such as bears, moose, and salmon.

 

Which ones are the best and shouldn't be missed? Thanks again. Can't wait to book this cruise and airfare!

 

What do you do by driving? Are you a tour guide?

[GlacierLady]

YW on the info.Make sure you plan a trip to Exit Glacier.All those places are nice stops along the way.That's a great thing about Alaska roads,plenty of places to pull over and enjoy the views.Buy The Milepost. It will have all the rocks/stops/shops listed mile by mile,like what you've listed.You'll love the drive to Seward.One of the top 10 most scenic.Alaska Saltwater Lodge is a very nice place...Highly recommended!The only negative thing might be the road to it.2 miles of potholes(ok,they do grade it every now and then) but you can't drive any closer to the ocean!Sea otters,harbor seals,sea lions, jumping salmon,lots of birds all seen every day ...oh yeah...and great place to fish from shore. I do tours,shuttles,charters,drunks,kids,elderly,wherever anyone wants to go ect,enough hints? lol I sent my resume to drive in Antarctica this next winter which is summer there(Oct-Feb).I've heard there are cruises there too! :)

[KentuckyWoman]

GlacierLady, Antarctica, WOW! Where the heck would you live? So if someone wants to utilize your services, how would the be in touch other than this board?

 

 

P.S. How much colder/snowier is it in Seward vs. Minnesota?

[poolwife]

GlacierLady: Have you heard of a Kim's B & B outside of Seward? Looks nice on the internet.

[GlacierLady]

Poolwife...Yes,I've driven by Kim's B&B many times.Have never been in it but it does looks real nice from the outside.It's on a gravel road 7 miles out of town.Any particular reason on this place out of town? Just curious.We have 100's of B&B's all over Seward.I would say some have better locations/views/hiking trails ect than this one. Plus side is quiet rural residental area with not much traffic.... Kwoman..I know you found your answer. Most of the time Seward is milder than Minnesota. It loves to rain here all year around.It can get very nasty...50 mph winds -20 temps,snow waist deep overnight,but not usually,maybe once a winter.I wish we had more of that...heehee. I've seen 80-90's many times in summer,wind blowing is very common.

[GloriaF]

I do hope you have a lovely late May when we are there! No rain, warm, sunny weather.....

 

Thank you Glacier Lady for all the help you give to all of us!!