Alaska

Ninilchik

Area: 207.6 square miles
Population: 772 (2000 census)
County: Kenai Peninsula

The view across Cook Inlet from Ninilchik takes in an active volcano range. On a clear day, Mt. Augustine is seen to the far left, with Mt. Iliamna, Mt. Redoubt, and Mt. Spur to the right

Today, the main industries are fishing and tourism. Be sure to enter the King Salmon Derby, If you are here between May 1 and June 15. This event raises money for volunteer services in the Ninilchik area.

Excellent clamming and beachcombing can be found at low tide, and the tide pools reached along the north entrance to Deep Creek are entertaining for young or old.

In August, Ninilchik is the site of the `biggest little fair in Alaska’ and you will find displays of berries, flowers, vegetables and crafts as well as animals of many kinds.

Whales, eagles and moose are frequently seen, and birdwatchers will delight at the wide variety that inhabit the area.

Mushrooms of many kinds can be found in the surrounding wooded areas, but be careful as there are many poisonous varieties found in this area.

Visitors to Ninilchik will find all of the services necessary for the perfect vacation. Motel, Bed and Breakfasts, cabins, fishing tackle, gift shops, restaurants, a library, video rental, camper parks, fishing charter services, grocery stores and service station.

History
Ninilchik was first settled in the early 1800's by Russian colonists. They subsisted on hunting, fur trapping, fishing, gardening and gold panning. At that time there were more than 200 people living in the little village. Some of the original buildings still exist and reflect the history and charm of those days. The old Russian Church and cemetery on top of the hill overlooking Ninilchik are great photo subjects and very interesting. Many descendants of those early families still live here.

Information/Emergency
Ninilchik Chamber of Commerce can be found in the library, 907 567-3571. PO Box 39164, Ninilchik, AK 99639. Stop in at the Log Visitors kiosk across from the fairgrounds. Information on local activities and businesses located at mile 137 Sterling Highway.
web: www.recworld.com/ncoc

Post Office is off the highway on Kingsly road.

ATM at the General Store.

Emergency only 911; Ambulance 567-3412.

Things To Do
One of many things to do would be a trip to the boat harbor to watch the fishing boats "off-load" their catch, or try the fishing in either the Ninilchik River or Deep Creek, two of the finest freshwater fishing areas in the state. Two boat launches provide easy access to the world-class salmon anmore than 400 pounds was taken off the Deep Creek entrance in recent years.

Excellent razor clams can be dug at low tide in several places in the area. Beachcombing for shells along Ninilchik Beach is fun and picking berries in the fall is rewarding.