Steamer Clams and Hiking

Side Tracks

Who? You.

What? Steamer Clam Digging on Kachemak Bay.

Where? Steamer clams can be found on any number of the rocky beaches across from Homer, in Kachemak Bay.

Steamer Clams

When? All summer but only on minus tides.

How? Getting to the steamer beaches across from Homer requires the services of a water taxi ($40). Your captain can usually recommend an ol' favorite beach and he'll drop you off at low tide and return in a few hours. The digging is strenuous but rewarding. You'll find these nice sized clams 3-4 inches below the surface and generally in groups of two or three. A three prong rake is the tool to use. You are allowed far more than you really need and a five gallon bucket half full is typically enough for even the heartiest of clam lovers. Just boil in your favorite broth and serve.

Who? You again.

What? Hike to the top of a small mountain.

Where? Skyline trail, at the base of the Kenai Mountains. Milepost 61 on the Sterling Hwy. Park on the south side of the road, trail on the north side.

When? All summer.

How? Just a heads up, this is one steep trail. It is only one mile but a long one for sure. The first half of the hike goes through boreal forest with the final quarter mile completely above tree line. Up on top your view is awesome. You can see the vast Kenai Wildlife Refuge and the Kenai River watershed to the south, and to the north, more valleys, mountains and eventually Anchorage. On top, the vegetation is soft and spongy and very conducive to a nap. If you're willing to conquer a relatively steep but well marked trail, this one is well worth the effort.

This site developed
by Philip R. Gantt