June is the perfect time to take advantage of the Kenai River, and Soldotna Creek Park is a favorite destination to start your adventure. Right off of Sterling Highway, you’ll instantly feel immersed in the Alaskan wild. With five acres to explore, it’s a fisherman’s paradise, but you certainly don’t need to be looking for a big catch to take advantage of the park.

Dubbed the jewel of downtown, there are ample picnic areas with barbeques so you can pick up a picnic basket in town and enjoy Alaska dining al fresco. Enjoy the shade of the big trees, and let the kids enjoy the well-kept Soldotna Community Playground. Benches along the river allow for comfortable gazing and daydreaming.

Come to Paradise

Stroll the generous trails, which are ADA accessible, and discover more than 500 feet of elevated boardwalk with stairs to access the Kenai River. The day-use park is an oasis for locals and visitors alike. For special events, you can reserve a pavilion via the Parks and Recreation Department.

Winner of the state award for facility excellence, the park is a venue for year-round public events. From June 9 – 11, check out the Kenai River Festival with the Run for the River at 8 a.m. on Saturday. With an Alaskan Artisans Market, live music, festival food booths, beer garden and recycling demo, it’s the summer event of the year.