You just got to Valdez, Alaska, and now you wonder what people are doing between the fish here. Why not grab a camera and check out the many routes that Valdez has to offer. These trails are one of the most valuable secrets of Valdez, because they are not very well known. The delightful landscapes that you will see are second to none! Valdez is often called "Little Switzerland". For directions to any of these routes, contact the Valdez Visitor Center or simply ask about one of our friendly places. We are always happy to help. So put on your walking shoes, take a camera and join me in a little walk in the wild beauty of Alaska.
Doc Point Trail
This short route is replete with photographic possibilities. Enough variety of plant life on this trail, so that the nature lover was happy. From the two rooms there is a beautiful view of the port of Valdez. To see the snowy mountains rising from the water is enough to take a breath. Give yourself at least 45 minutes to enjoy this three-quarter-mile ride. To find this trail, simply walk across the road from the ramp to launch the boat.
Mineral Creek
Mineral Creek Valley is a photographer’s dream with high mountains towering above the river and too many waterfalls to count. Most of this six-mile walkway is a really rough gravel road. Due to erosion and rocks you will not get very far in the vehicle. I would recommend mountain bikes that can be rented in the city if you haven't brought your own. The last eight tenths of a mile is a trail of dirt that leads to an old stamp mill where gold ore was previously processed. This is a golden country, and you can also see the recent signs of a search for gold on your hike. Bring a golden pot and try your luck in the river.
Solomon Gulcha trail
This beautiful trekking begins on Daveville Road next to Allison Point. This moderately difficult (has a couple of steep spots) will lead you through the spruce forests and along the short stretch of maintenance pipeline road. Sorry, the Transaly pipeline is buried along this stretch. Near the hotel there is a viewing area, offering a magnificent view of the port of Valdez. Valdez looks such a small tail on the mountains on the other side. A well-marked trail takes you all the way to the dam and Lake Solomon. One of the first things you notice is the unusual green color of the water. This is due to the large amount of copper in the area. In fact, even when the old copper mine was flooded, there was even an old copper mine.
Shop Bay Trail
This picturesque trail crosses Mineral streams and meanders along the base of the Chugach Mountains. Many varieties of Alaskan wildflowers will delight you. At the end of the summer you may lose time when you stop the fever on Salmonberries along the way. The first three miles will lead you to Gold Creek. This is a good twist for most of us. There is a bridge, but the floods in 2006 redirected the stream around it. You may need a good sense of adventure and rubber boots to get through. After passing through Golden Creek, the next six and a half miles will take you to Shoup Bay, where you can explore the Shaup glacier and Kittiwake rookery. This section of the trail can be difficult, but the views are worth it.
Keystone canyon
I personally believe that Keystone Canyon is one of the most beautiful places in Alaska. Keystone Canyon has two reconstructed paths: the Keystone Canyon Pack trail and the Goat trail. Flooding in 2006 knocked out at least one bridge on the Goat trail, so you will not be able to climb the length. I would recommend pulling parking in front of Bridal Veil Falls. Here begins the path of the Goat and rises to get through the canyon. In short, you'll find Pack Trail at odds with the Goat Trail. This will lead you to the top of Fors Horsetail and return to the Valdez side of Keystone Canyon. Along both trails will be in search of old artifacts, because it was the original route through the Keystone Canyon long before the road ran out.
For all these trails, remember that you are in Alaska. You can see bears or other wildlife. Be a noisy traveler so they know that you will come. Keep your distance if you notice wildlife. Wear strong walking shoes and bring plenty of water. Alaskan weather will always change sooner, so just in case, bring an extra hood or sweater. Make sure your camera is fully charged and enjoy hiking along the Valdez trails.
