Seward, Alaska: Edging the Kenai Peninsula and framed by the glacier-covered Kenai Mountains that run along its southeastern spine, Seward is a rustic port town whose grand terrain will leave you breathless. Discover the wonder of the Kenai Peninsula on a Seward cruise. The pristine wilderness is home to nesting seabirds, countless islands, wetlands, and breathtaking views. And, as the gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park, the Harding Icefield — an expanse of ice and snow created over 23,000 years ago — is easily within reach and culminates in 40 glaciers that dramatically calve into the sea. The throngs of wildlife that course below, and glide above the glacial waters, are legion. Pods of humpback whales are known to breach when hunting, seals and sea lions lounge on rocky outcroppings and bald eagles hover overhead. The rugged landscape suits Seward’s hardy locals well. Every July 4th, Seward’s runners race 1.5 miles up and down Mount Marathon. Starting at sea level, the race rises 3,000 feet in elevation over very steep terrain. Runners race over gullies, ice, and snow, using their hands to haul themselves to the finish line. And, when not racing up mountains, you can find stalwart locals at city watering holes and dining spots, where you can savor fresh Alaskan seafood, filleted and flayed straight from the ocean to your plate. Situated at a grand natural intersection where bays and fjords stretching south to the Pacific meet the crested wilderness — and connected to communities extending northwards via the famously scenic Seward Highway — Seward is emblematic of the wildly beautiful state that is Alaska.