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Caines Head - Tonsina Trail

Seward, Alaska · Kenai Peninsula County · Alaska Department of Natural Resources

Caines Head - Tonsina Trail is a easy hiking trail near Seward in Kenai Peninsula County, Alaska.. The surface is ground. Managed by Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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60.06793, -149.44284
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Caines Head - Tonsina Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High44°F
Avg Low33°F
Peak Rain Chance86%
Humidity89%
UV (avg)1
Air Quality32 · Good
Today
🌨
Snow Showers
44°/31°
💧 16%🌬 6mph
↑ 8:04 AM ↓ 7:29 PM
Fri
☁️
Overcast
44°/25°
🌬 7mph
↑ 8:06 AM ↓ 7:26 PM
Sat
🌨
Snow
41°/30°
💧 47%🌬 10mph
↑ 8:08 AM ↓ 7:23 PM
Sun
🌦
Rain Showers
46°/40°
💧 74%🌬 6mph
↑ 8:11 AM ↓ 7:20 PM
Mon
🌧
Rain Showers
46°/40°
💧 86%🌬 6mph
↑ 8:13 AM ↓ 7:17 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Caines Head - Tonsina Trail

Caines Head - Tonsina Trail is a easy hiking trail near Seward in Kenai Peninsula County, Alaska.. The surface is ground. Managed by Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 🧥
    Light insulated jacket
    Fleece or light puffy you can stash if you warm up.
  • 👖
    Hiking pants
    Quick-dry softshell or fleece-lined.
  • 🧤
    Light gloves + beanie
    Especially if you start before sunrise.
  • 🥾
    Sturdy hiking boots
    Wool or synthetic-blend socks.
  • ☔
    Rain jacket / shell
    86% chance of precipitation in the forecast.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Alaska

Trail conditions in Alaska change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Caines Head - Tonsina Trail?

Caines Head - Tonsina Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on Caines Head - Tonsina Trail?

No — this trail is closed to bicycles.

Are horses allowed on Caines Head - Tonsina Trail?

No — this trail is closed to horses.

What is the trail surface on Caines Head - Tonsina Trail?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Caines Head - Tonsina Trail?

Alaska has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages Caines Head - Tonsina Trail?

Caines Head - Tonsina Trail is managed by Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.