Experience the coastal rainforest on foot.
Immerse yourself in peaceful surroundings on the network of forest trails at Shearwater Cove.
Beyond the wooden boardwalks linking yurts and common spaces, you’ll find a variety of paths to guide you through the landscape. Head out for a wander to encounter rushing waterfalls, a secluded rocky beach, and sweeping views of Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Fjords.
all trails are accessible right from the yurts.
A glimpse into an old growth forest
Our location on the steep slopes of the Resurrection Peninsula has never been logged, so the landscape here has remained nearly unchanged for hundreds of years. Enjoy the sights and sounds of an old growth forest during your stay and join the community of people who have moved lightly through this terrain on foot.
With three trails of varying lengths and steepness, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Your host can provide information about trail conditions to help you plan you adventures on foot. It can get muddy, so we recommend bringing a sturdy pair of shoes or boots to maximize your comfort on the trails.
Alpine trail
This trail is short and steep, leading you to an alpine meadow above Shearwater Cove that overlooks Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Fjords. Plan this into your day as the ultimate picnic lunch destination, or enjoy the stunning views and soft evening light after a full day of adventuring.
Forest Walk
This trail meanders back into the valley behind Shearwater Cove and brings you to a stunning waterfall. Moving away from the ocean, leave behind the sounds of the gulls and lapping water and enter the stillness and greenery of the old growth forest. The air is filled with the sound of rushing streams and birdsong.
South beach path
This path brings your through the forest to a secluded, rocky beach. Facing south, enjoy the late-day sun and see Fox Island stretching towards the Gulf of Alaska on the horizon. This rocky coastline has great tidepools to explore, and opportunities to spot Humpback whales and Steller sea lions as they cruise in the deep water just off the beach.
A nature-lover’s paradise
The forest at Shearwater Cove is home to many species of plants & animals
This coastal rainforest is mainly composed of Sitka Spruce tress with some Western Hemlocks. There are also wild high-bush blueberries, Dwarf Dogwood, Old Man’s Beard lichen, Sphagnum moss, Devil’s Club, salmon berry bushes, and many more types of greenery to enjoy.
Depending on the time of year, you may see also mountain goats, black bears, and river otters. Many species of birds call this forest home for at least part of the year, including Bald Eagles, Rufus Hummingbirds, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Ravens, Varied Thrush, Northwestern Crows, Steller Jays, and many more!
