Hunting

The Kenai Peninsula is internationally famous for its brown bears, which come to the rivers each summer to feed on migrating salmon. In addition to brown bear, hunters come here for a variety of other large game, including moose. Formerly known as Kenai National Moose Range, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge was once managed primarily to protect the breeding and feeding ranges of the giant Kenai moose. Moose populations on the peninsula were declining in the early to mid-1900s until a large wildfire in 1947 produced excellent habitat that supported high moose numbers in the northern portion of the refuge. Today, hunters benefit from this wildlife management, as they have a chance to take a moose with antlers that can exceed 6 feet in spread. 

There are several cabins on the refuge that may be rented, or hunters may camp in other areas after being delivered by air taxi. Many hunters here choose a guided hunt.

Much of the refuge’s two million acres is open to hunting. Areas on the refuge that are closed to hunting and trapping include areas around our administrative, visitor center, and educational facilities; hiking trails on Ski Hill Road; and the Moose Research Center on Swan Lake Road. Discharge of firearms is not permitted within ¼ mile of all refuge facilities, including trailheads, parking lots, cabins, campgrounds, roads, waysides, and buildings. Hunting in the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area has its own set of rules and regulations. For current guidance, see the rules and policies page or contact refuge headquarters for more information at 907-743-9145