Mouth of the Kenai River
Cannery Road

The road extends deep into the salt marsh, giving ground-level viewing for migrating birds and the gull colony that nests along the river. Access to the riverbank offers glimpses of harbor seals and rolling adult salmon during runs.

Historical Connection

The Libby Company Cannery was built on a southward bend of the river in 1912 and operated under various owners for more than 80 years.

Viewing Tip

In winter, watch for snow buntings in this area. During nesting season, watch for bald eagles, falcons and other predators. The low-tide mud spit just south of the river mouth has produced several rare bird sightings—including marbled godwit, red knot, brant, and emperor goose—in spring. Harbor seals sometimes haul out on the muddy beach northeast of the historic cannery waterfront.

Helpful Hints

Stay off the marsh during the spring and summer so you don’t disturb the nesting birds. Drive carefully if you enter any of the cannery complexes to turn around. They are private property and working industrial areas.

Getting There

Turn off Kalifornsky Beach Road on Cannery Road to Kenai Landing. Continue straight on the gravel road to a pullout a few hundred yards short of a modern cannery complex.