The Seward Highway — Native and Colonial History Along the Road

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**The Seward Highway — Native and Colonial History Along the Road**

The Seward Highway, a scenic 125-mile drive from Anchorage to Seward, winds its way through the Chugach National Forest and offers breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, and mountains. But this highway is more than just a pretty drive – it’s also a journey through Alaska’s rich Native and colonial history.

**A Brief History of the Seward Highway**

The Seward Highway was built in the 1950s as a vital transportation route between Anchorage and Seward, a major port city. The highway was named after William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. But long before the arrival of European settlers, this area was home to numerous Native American tribes, including the Dena’ina Athabascans and the Sugpiaq Eskimos.

**Native History Along the Seward Highway**

The Dena’ina Athabascans were the original inhabitants of the area now known as the Seward Highway. They lived in the region for thousands of years, relying on the abundant wildlife and natural resources for food, shelter, and clothing. Some notable Native American sites along the Seward Highway include:

* **Crow Pass**: Located at mile 105, Crow Pass is a scenic viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. This area was an important trade route for the Dena’ina Athabascans, who would travel through the pass to trade goods with other tribes.
* **Resolution Bay**: Located at mile 115, Resolution Bay is a picturesque bay that was home to numerous Native American settlements. The bay is named after the HMS Resolution, a British ship that explored the area in the late 18th century.

**Colonial History Along the Seward Highway**

The arrival of European settlers in the late 18th century marked the beginning of significant changes for the Native American tribes of the area. The Russian Empire, which controlled Alaska at the time, established several settlements and trading posts along the Seward Highway, including:

* **Kenai Fjords National Park**: Located at mile 110, Kenai Fjords National Park is a stunning park that offers breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, and mountains. The park was established in 1980 and is home to numerous colonial-era sites, including the Kenai Fjords Trading Post.

**Practical Tips and Safety Information**

Before embarking on your journey along the Seward Highway, be sure to:

* **Plan your trip for the best time**: The best time to drive the Seward Highway is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the days are long.
* **Pack the essentials**: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and warm clothing, as well as a first aid kit and a map.
* **Permits and fees**: There are no permits required to drive the Seward Highway, but you may need to pay fees for parking and camping.
* **Parking and camping**: There are numerous parking areas and campsites along the Seward Highway, including the popular **Alyeska Resort** campground.
* **Safety information**: Be aware of the following safety hazards:
+ **Bears**: Be sure to store food and trash properly, and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears.
+ **Weather**: Weather conditions can change quickly in Alaska, so be sure to check forecasts regularly.
+ **Tides**: Be aware of the tides when hiking or camping near the coast, as strong currents can be hazardous.
+ **Glacier travel**: If you plan to hike or camp near glaciers, be sure to hire a guide or join a guided tour, as glacier travel can be hazardous.

**Trails Along the Seward Highway**

There are numerous trails along the Seward Highway that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some notable trails include:

* **Crow Pass Trail**: A 23-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through the scenic Crow Pass.
* **Resolution Bay Trail**: A 5-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to the picturesque Resolution Bay.
* **Alyeska Resort Trails**: A network of trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

**Conclusion**

The Seward Highway is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, and mountains. But it’s also a journey through Alaska’s rich Native and colonial history. Be sure to take the time to explore the numerous Native American sites and colonial-era landmarks along the way, and to plan your trip carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

**Find More Guides and Resources**

For more information on hiking and camping in Alaska, be sure to check out our **Find a Guide** section, which offers a wealth of information on local guides, outfitters, and gear shops. We also recommend checking out our **Alaska Hiking 101** guide, which offers tips and advice for hiking in Alaska’s rugged wilderness.

**External Links**

* [Kenai Fjords National Park](https://www.nps.gov/kefj/index.htm)
* [Crow Pass Trail](https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/chugach/recarea/?recid=16388)
* [Resolution Bay Trail](https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/chugach/recarea/?recid=16389)
* [Alyeska Resort](https://www.alyeskaresort.com/)

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