Lowell Point Beach - Image 1
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Lowell Point State Recreation Site Seward Alaska

4.7
·29 reviews·Seward, United States

Discover the enchanting rainforest trails and stunning coastal views of Lowell Point, a gem near Seward, Alaska.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, better parking

CrowdMedium
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Lowell Point Beach - Image 1

Lowell Point State Recreation Site Seward Alaska

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, better parking

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the enchanting rainforest trails and stunning coastal views of Lowell Point, a gem near Seward, Alaska.

4.7
(29 reviews)

"The hike to Tonsina Point is completely worth it, offering an amazing experience in Seward."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Fee Required

A $5 day parking fee is in effect. Pay at the machine near the restrooms. Arrive early!

🥾 Hike with Proper Footwear

Trails can be icy in winter. Bring appropriate shoes for hiking, especially if visiting outside of summer.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tonsina Point Hike

Tonsina Point Hike

Trailhead at Lowell Point

A rewarding 3-mile hike through rainforest to stunning Resurrection Bay views. Family-friendly with moderate elevation gain.

Lowell Point Beach

Lowell Point Beach

End of Lowell Point Road

A beautiful, often quiet beach offering great views of Resurrection Bay and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Alaskan Rainforest Trails

Alaskan Rainforest Trails

Various trails within Lowell Point

Wander through magical, moss-draped forests that feel like stepping into a fairytale. Perfect for nature lovers.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Lowell Point

Lowell Point is stunning year-round, but summer brings peak crowds, especially for the popular Tonsina Point hike. Consider visiting in late spring or early fall for fewer people and a more serene experience. Be aware of potential road closures due to landslides, as seen in recent TikToks,TikTok+1 and always check local conditions before you go.

Parking and Fees at Lowell Point

Parking at Lowell Point can be challenging, especially on sunny days or during peak season.Reddit A $5 day parking fee is required, with a machine available for payment. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot, particularly if you plan to hike or enjoy the beach.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better parking
Crowd
Medium
When
Late spring/early fall
Why
Serene, fewer visitors
Crowd
Low
When
Late winter
Why
Stunning empty beach
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

morning views in Lowell Point, Alaska. #traveltiktok #morningwithme #alaska
@schultzzie
2K likes • 25.6K views

🚗 Parking Fee Required

A $5 day parking fee is in effect. Pay at the machine near the restrooms. Arrive early! Reddit

🥾 Hike with Proper Footwear

Trails can be icy in winter. Bring appropriate shoes for hiking, especially if visiting outside of summer. Reddit

Things to do in Seward, Alaska 🐋🌲 From Exit Glacier hikes to Kenai Fjords boat tours, this is the ultimate guide to nature, wildlife & more! #SewardAlaska #KenaiFjords #ExitGlacier #LowellPoint #AlaskaItinerary #AlaskaCruise #WildlifeTour #AlaskaHikes #50StatesChallenge #AlaskaTravelTips
@mo_onthego1
1.2K likes • 20.3K views
Alaskan forests feel magical 🧚 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... #alaska #visitalaska #seward #lowellpoint #forest #moss #magical #nps #photography #earthfocus #discoverearth #travel #usa #earthoutdoors #hikingtheglobe #wildernessculture #nature #TLPicks #adventurenthusiasts #theoutbound #iflnps #folkscenery #earthcapture #nationalparkgeek #usparkpass #visitthestates
travisgoss
451 likes • 0 views

🎣 Beach Fishing & Drones

The public beach is popular with fisherfolk and drone users. Expect company, but enjoy the views. Reddit

🌲 Magical Rainforest Vibes

Explore the enchanting moss-covered forests. Perfect for photography and immersing yourself in nature. Instagram+1

Beautiful trail! Magical forest! ❤️ #alaska #alaskanature #seward #sewardalaska #alaskatrail #lowellpoint #lowellpointalaska #sewardtrail
ami.toys.ak
78 likes • 783 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Fee Required

A $5 day parking fee is in effect. Pay at the machine near the restrooms. Arrive early! Reddit

🥾 Hike with Proper Footwear

Trails can be icy in winter. Bring appropriate shoes for hiking, especially if visiting outside of summer. Reddit

🎣 Beach Fishing & Drones

The public beach is popular with fisherfolk and drone users. Expect company, but enjoy the views. Reddit

🌲 Magical Rainforest Vibes

Explore the enchanting moss-covered forests. Perfect for photography and immersing yourself in nature. Instagram+1

⚠️ Landslide Awareness

Recent landslides have caused road closures. Always check local conditions before heading to Lowell Point. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(29 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Lowell Point, particularly the magical rainforest trails and the rewarding hike to Tonsina Point with its breathtaking bay views. The beach is also a highlight, offering a serene escape. However, parking can be a challenge, and the area is popular, meaning it's not always a solitary experience.

"The hike out to Tonsina Point is a doable, family-friendly hike; however, it is quite popular so don't expect to find peace by yourself on the trail or easy parking especially on a sunny day. Additionally, although the public beach is nice, it is often overrun by fisher people set up for the whole day with long fishing poles (or drones), but it does afford a great view out over Resurrection Bay."

Maggie Wagner

"Awesome hike to tonsina. It starts off on a gravel road but quickly turns into a trail with some wonderful rainforest. The view at the end is completely worth it. The elevation gain is not too bad as it is spread out. There is a section in the middle that had me huffing but other than that it's easy. Just over 3 miles and maybe 800 elevation gain. Such an amazing hike in Seward."

Alex Monsrud

"Had a quick stopover here just to eat our food and use restrooms. There was a large picnic table next to two clean restrooms.

Requires the $5 day parking fee and there's a fee machine nearby."

Hiral

What People Like

Magical rainforest trails
Stunning bay views
Family-friendly hike

What People Dislike

Crowded parking
Popular beach

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lowell Point is located just south of Seward, Alaska, at the end of Lowell Point Road. It's a short drive from the main town, easily accessible by car. Many visitors use it as a base for exploring the Kenai Fjords National Park area.TikTok

Unfortunately, Lowell Point Road has experienced closures due to landslides.TikTok+1 It's crucial to check local road conditions and advisories from the Seward City or Alaska Department of Transportation before your visit.

Public transportation options directly to Lowell Point are limited. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle. Taxis or ride-sharing services from Seward might be available, but it's best to confirm in advance.

For kayaking, driving to Lowell Point is the most common method. If you're renting kayaks, confirm their location and any shuttle services they might offer from Seward. Guided tours often handle transportation.Reddit

The drive along Lowell Point Road itself offers beautiful coastal and mountain views. It's a scenic route leading to the recreation site and trailhead.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is a $5 day parking fee required for Lowell Point. You can pay at the fee machine located near the restrooms. Reddit

Lowell Point State Recreation Site is generally accessible year-round, but facilities like restrooms may have seasonal hours. The parking fee is typically enforced during daylight hours.

No, parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to its popularity, especially during peak season, arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.Reddit

No specific permits are required for hiking the trails within Lowell Point State Recreation Site, such as the Tonsina Point trail. However, always be aware of wildlife safety guidelines.

Lowell Point State Recreation Site itself does not offer overnight camping. However, there are various lodging options and campgrounds in the nearby town of Seward.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The most popular hike is to Tonsina Point, a moderate 3-mile roundtrip trail offering stunning views of Resurrection Bay.Reddit Other trails wind through the beautiful Alaskan rainforest.Instagram+1

Yes, the Tonsina Point hike is generally considered family-friendly, with moderate elevation gain spread out over the 3 miles. It's a popular choice for visitors of all ages.Reddit

You might spot bald eagles in the trees or fishing in the water.Reddit Keep an eye out for marine life in Resurrection Bay. While bear sightings are not common on the main trails, always be bear aware in Alaska.

Yes, Lowell Point is a great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, offering access to Resurrection Bay. Guided tours are available, or you can rent equipment in Seward.Reddit

Yes, there are clean restrooms and picnic tables available at Lowell Point, making it a convenient stop for a break or a meal.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Tonsina Point trail offers incredible vistas of Resurrection Bay. The beach itself provides dramatic coastal shots, and the moss-laden rainforest trails are incredibly photogenic.Instagram+2

Early morning or late afternoon light can create magical scenes in the rainforest and along the coast. Sunrise and sunset over Resurrection Bay can be spectacular.

Embrace the moody Alaskan atmosphere. Capture the textures of the mossy trees, the vastness of the bay, and the dramatic coastal landscapes. Wide-angle lenses are great for the scenery.Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. While some visitors have flown drones,Instagram it's essential to check current FAA and local park regulations before flying to ensure compliance and respect for others.

A versatile camera with a good lens for landscapes and potentially a macro lens for forest details would be ideal. A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive views.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lowell Point is a fantastic spot for families. The hike to Tonsina Point is manageable for most children, offering a sense of accomplishment and beautiful views.Reddit The beach area provides space for kids to play and explore. Restrooms and picnic tables make it convenient for families to spend a few hours enjoying the outdoors.Reddit

When visiting with children, always prioritize safety. Keep a close eye on them near the water and be aware of your surroundings. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The short, accessible trails and the scenic beauty make Lowell Point a memorable stop for families exploring Seward.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

Solo travelers will find Lowell Point offers a great opportunity for peaceful exploration and connection with nature. The Tonsina Point trail provides a good workout and stunning rewards, and while it can be popular, there are often moments of solitude, especially outside peak hours.Reddit The beach is also a lovely place to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.

For hikers, Lowell Point is a gateway to the natural wonders of the Kenai Peninsula. The rainforest trails offer a unique hiking experience, and the proximity to Resurrection Bay opens up possibilities for kayaking or boat tours. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essential safety gear.

📸 Nature Photographers

Lowell Point is a photographer's dream, offering diverse subjects from dramatic coastal landscapes to intimate forest scenes. The moss-draped rainforests are particularly enchanting, providing a moody and atmospheric backdrop.Instagram+1 The expansive views of Resurrection Bay from Tonsina Point are ideal for capturing wide-angle shots of the Alaskan wilderness.

Golden hour light can transform the scenery, so consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon. Be prepared for variable weather, which can add to the dramatic appeal of your photographs. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as bald eagles, which are frequently spotted in the area.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Tonsina Point Trail

The hike to Tonsina Point is a highlight for many visitors to Lowell Point. This trail, approximately 3 miles roundtrip, offers a moderate challenge with rewarding scenery. It begins on a gravel path before transitioning into a well-maintained trail through the lush Alaskan rainforest.Reddit The elevation gain is manageable, spread out over the course of the hike, making it accessible for most fitness levels.Reddit

As you trek deeper into the forest, you'll be enveloped by the magical atmosphere of the Alaskan wilderness. Towering trees draped in moss create a surreal, almost enchanted environment, perfect for photography.Instagram+1 The trail is often described as peaceful, though it can become popular, especially on sunny days.Reddit

Upon reaching Tonsina Point, you're greeted with spectacular panoramic views of Resurrection Bay. This is an ideal spot to rest, enjoy a packed lunch, and soak in the breathtaking coastal landscape. While salmon sightings are possible in August, they are not guaranteed.Reddit Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the trail can be damp or icy depending on the season.Reddit

Kayaking and Water Activities

Lowell Point provides excellent access to Resurrection Bay for water-based adventures, particularly kayaking. The bay offers a chance to explore the coastline, observe marine life, and enjoy the stunning Alaskan scenery from a unique perspective.Reddit For those new to kayaking or unfamiliar with the area, a guided kayak tour is highly recommended. Guides can provide essential safety information, point out wildlife, and navigate the best routes.Reddit

If you prefer to rent your own kayak, several outfitters in Seward offer rentals. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season. When paddling, be mindful of weather conditions, tides, and boat traffic. The waters can be unpredictable, so always prioritize safety and be prepared for changing conditions.

Beyond kayaking, the waters around Lowell Point are popular for fishing. The public beach area is often frequented by anglers.Reddit Whether you're paddling or fishing, the views of the surrounding mountains and the vastness of the bay are consistently awe-inspiring.

The Impact of Nature: Landslides

Recent events have highlighted the powerful forces of nature in the Lowell Point area, with landslides causing significant disruption. These natural occurrences have led to road closures, impacting access to the recreation site.TikTok+1 While these events can be concerning, they are a reminder of the dynamic environment of Alaska.

Visitors planning a trip to Lowell Point should stay informed about current conditions. Local news outlets, the Seward City government, and the Alaska Department of Transportation are good sources for updates on road status and any potential safety advisories. Being prepared for unexpected closures or detours is part of traveling in such a wild and beautiful region.

Despite these challenges, the resilience of the area and the ongoing efforts to manage access mean that Lowell Point remains a sought-after destination. The stunning natural beauty continues to draw visitors, eager to experience its unique charm.

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