You’ve just arrived in Valdez, Alaska, and now you’re wondering what people do here besides fish. Why not grab your camera and check out the many trails that Valdez has to offer? These trails are one of Valdez’s best kept secrets because they are not highly publicized. The stunning scenery you will see is second to none! Valdez has frequently been called “Little Switzerland” for good reason. For directions on how to get to any of these trails, check with the Valdez Visitor Center or just ask one of our friendly locals. We are always happy to help. So put on your hiking shoes, grab your camera, and join me on a little hike into the wild beauty of Alaska.
Dock Point Trail
This short trail abounds with photographic opportunities. The variety of plant life that abounds on this trail is enough to keep any nature lover happy. Two lookout points offer great views of Port Valdez. Seeing snow-capped mountains rising from the water’s edge is enough to take your breath away. Give yourself at least 45 minutes to enjoy this three-quarter-mile round trip. To find this trail, just walk across the street from the boat launch ramp.
Mineral Creek Trail
Mineral Creek Valley is a photographer’s dream with towering mountains towering over the river and too many waterfalls to count. Most of this six-plus mile trail is actually a rough gravel road. Due to mudslides and rock slides, you won’t get very far in a vehicle. I would recommend mountain bikes, which can be rented in town if you don’t bring your own. The last eight tenths of a mile is a dirt road that leads back to an old stamp mill where gold ore was processed. This is gold country and you may also see recent signs of gold prospecting on your journey. Bring a tray of gold and try your luck on the river.
Solomon’s Gulch Trail
This beautiful hike begins on Dayville Road near Allison Point. This moderately difficult one (has a couple of steep spots) will take you through spruce forest and along a short section of pipe maintenance road. Sorry, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline is buried along this stretch. There is an observation area near the top that offers a great view of Port Valdez. Valdez looks so small against the mountains on the other side. A well marked trail will take you the rest of the way to the dam and Solomon Lake. One of the first things you’ll notice is the unusual green color of the water. This is due to the large amounts of copper in the area. In fact, there is even an old copper mine submerged when the valley was flooded.
Shoup Bay Trail
This scenic trail traverses the flats of Mineral Creek and winds along the base of the Chugach Mountains. The many varieties of Alaskan wildflowers will amaze you. In late summer, you can lose track of time when you stop to feast on Salmonberries along the way. The first three miles will take you to Gold Creek. This is a good turning point for most of us. There is a bridge, but the 2006 floods have diverted the creek around it. You may need a good sense of adventure and rubber boots to get across. Once you cross Gold Creek, the next six and a half miles will take you to Shoup Bay, where you can see Shoup Glacier and a colony of Kittiwake. This section of the trail can be tough, but the views are worth it.
trapezoidal barrel
I personally think Keystone Canyon is one of the most beautiful places in Alaska. Keystone Canyon has two restored trails: the Keystone Canyon Pack Trail and the Goat Trail. Our flood in 2006 brought down at least one bridge on the Goat Trail, so you may not be able to hike the entire length. I would recommend parking at the retreat across from Bridal Veil Falls. The Goat Trail starts here and heads up to wind through the canyon. A little further on you will find the Pack Trail which branches off from the Goat trail. This will take you to the top of Horsetail Falls and back to the Valdez side of Keystone Canyon. Along both trails, keep an eye out for ancient artifacts, as this was the original route through Keystone Canyon long before the trail even existed.
On all of these trails, remember that you are in Alaska. You may see bears or other wildlife. Be a loud hiker so they know you’re coming. Keep your distance if you see wildlife. Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring plenty of water. Alaska’s weather is always prone to change, so bring an extra hoodie or sweater, just in case. Make sure your camera is fully charged and enjoy your hike on the Valdez trails.