Wet and rainy weather can be a good time if you're prepared.
NPS Photo
The weather at Kenai Fjords is difficult to predict and can change rapidly.
The area generally enjoys a relatively temperate maritime climate, primarily due to the influence of the Japanese current that flows through the Gulf of Alaska.
Summer daytime temperatures range from the mid 40s to the low 70s (Fahrenheit). Overcast and cool rainy days are frequent. It is not unusual to get several long periods of continuous rain in the summer months, but we do have some glorious sunny days as well. Snow often remains in the higher elevations through June or July.
Winter temperatures can range from the low 30s to -20. The Exit Glacier area averages close to 200 inches of snowfall annually, but conditions vary greatly. Storms dumping several feet of snow are common, as are rainy mid-winter days with temperatures hovering in the mid-upper 30s.
Forecasts
As your visit gets closer, check out the various forecasts for the area.
A marine forecast is best to see wind, wave, and weather conditions for the coastal areas that are visited by most commercial boat tours.
"Cape Cleare to Gore Point" covers the open Gulf of Alaska, which is crossed on most Park tours, Glacier Tours, or to reach Aialik Bay.
"Resurrection Bay" is the area visited by Bay tours or Wildlife tours.
Research
Kenai Fjords National Park is actively involved in the research and monitoring of the climate. This includes weather stations positioned throughout the park where current (and historical) temperature and precipitation amounts can be tracked.
