Best Things To Do in Valdez

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Best Things To Do in Valdez
Valdez is found at the head of Port Valdez which
is a natural fjord that reaches inland for
around 11 miles from Prince William
Sound.Originally home to the Chugach and Ahtna
native peoples the area was previously used for
fishing and trading the likes of copper, jade and
furs. Only one of the previous villages named
Tatitlek remains today.
With an interesting past involving English and
Russian exploration and the goldrush and
eventually the mass building of the railroads
across the US. Today the population of Valdez is
mostly involved in the oil industry, seasonal
tourism, fishing, and the transportation and
shipping industries.
The main reason tourists visit Valdez is for the
amazing wildlife and beautiful scenery. Whale
watching, skydiving , and glacier climbing are
just some of the things you can expect to do if
you are the adventurous type.
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Here are some of the top things to do on your
next visit to Valdez, Alaska.
1. COLUMBIA GLACIER
This is the largest tidewater glacier in Alaska,
you can get up close to this amazing natural
phenomenon by taking a tour with a knowledgeable
guide. You really need to see this to believe
it, the enormity of the glacier stretching 10,000
feet above sea level.
There are many different ways to explore the ice
fields and glacier face. You can take a cruise
or a boat tour, an air tour to see the area from
above, or if you are really adventurous take a
kayak out and get really close to the ice.You
will also get the opportunity to see local
wildlife as well as enjoy the natural scenery.
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2. THE VALDEZ MUSEUM AND HISTORICAL
There are two museums in one here at Egan Drive
in Valdez. Learn much about the history of the
area as well as recent events. The museum was
initially founded by Joseph Bourke in 1901, a
prospector showing a few curiosities from the
local area.
After 1964 the collection grew with artifacts and
historic documents and was relocated with the
help of local residents to the site it is found
today.See the exhibits showing scenes from the
past and different aspects of the areas history.
There is even a childrens section for
interactive learning funAfter 1964 the collection
grew with artifacts and historic documents and
was relocated with the help of local residents to
the site it is found today.
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There are exhibits showing scenes from the past
and different aspects of the areas
history.There is even a childrens section for
interactive learning fun.
3. KEYSTONE CANYON
The drive to this area is spectacular, but when
you reach the canyon you will be astounded by
the beauty. The deep gorge is surrounded by
waterfalls and there are plenty of places to
pull in and take photographs.It is best to visit
early before the crowds and get the best views,
but you can also visit by tour if you dont want
to drive yourself. You can also see the Keystone
Canyon Tunnel. This is an abandoned railroad
tunnel constructed in the early 1900s as part of
the Yukon-Valdez Railroad.The drive from Valdez
is around twenty minutes to the Canyon and there
are lots of sights to see along the way. So, if
you are planning to stop off for photos it might
take just a bit longer!
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4. THE SOLOMON GULCH HATCHERY
This hatchery is part of the fishing program
strictly controlled by the State of Alaska. A
visit to the hatchery can consist of a walking
tour which can be guided or self-guided.
Whichever you choose, youll learn a lot about
what goes on here.During the summer months is the
best time to see the salmon returning making
their way up the river. It is also a great place
to see the local wildlife. You may spot sea lions
and black and brown bears coming to feed on the
salmon.There is a viewing platform for visitors,
but you should check the tide schedule before
you go. It is best to visit just before high tide
for the best views.
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5. MAXINE JESSE WHITNEY MUSEUM
This Museum showcases one of the largest
collections of Native Alaskan art and artifacts
in the world. After assimilating the collections
over a number of years a new purpose-built
facility was opened in 2008. Today you will
find a wide range of exhibits including the
Natural History of Alaska, wildlife mounts which
include polar bears, Ivory and baleen items and
lastly an exhibit of masks, dolls and fur
clothing. All interesting in their own right and
together telling the story of the history of
Alaska.Youll find the museum on Lowe Street in
Valdez.
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6. RIVER RAFTING AND TUBING TOURS
You can take half, full or several day tours
exploring this beautiful and remote part of
Alaska. Think of icy waters, glaciers and fast
flowing rivers.
Choose from exploring the icebergs of Prince
William Sound whilst sea kayaking or white-water
rafting in the canyons of the Chugach Mountains.
Or perhaps combine both with some ice climbing
and hiking for an extra adventurous trip.
Booking with a reputable company such as Pangaea
Adventures will ensure you have the expert
guides to keep you safe and tailor your trip to
suit your needs.
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7. VALDEZ CONVENTION VISITORS BUREAU
The visitor center has plenty of information for
tourists and visitors in this area. There are
comprehensive lists of guides and things to do in
Valdez. You can find out what is happening
whilst you are here including any community
festivals, markets or events. Youll find the
center on Fairbanks Drive and its a good idea to
start here if you need information and advice
about your visit.
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8. DOCK POINT PARK TRAIL
If you are looking for a short easy hike whilst
in Valdez, the dock point park and trail is a
great place to start. Begin your walk straight
from town and enjoy harbor views and boards that
jut out for a better view over the water. You
may even spot eagles and other wildlife during
your walk. Moose and bears can be found here so
it is advised to make noise and never hike alone
to keep yourself safe. The whole trail will only
take about thirty minutes and is less than a mile
in length on a small incline.
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9. DOLPHIN WHALE WATCHING TOURS
In Prince William Sound you are able to see both
humpback whales and orca pods as well as
dolphins and porpoises. Humpbacks frequent the
area, diving for fish and are most likely seen
on their own. Whereas Orcas will hunt in pods for
the plentiful salmon. From Valdez, the cruises
to Columbia and Meares glaciers will most likely
give you the chance to see whales and porpoises,
whilst on a sightseeing tour. But you can also
take tours that are specific to the wildlife you
are looking to view and photograph. Most tours
begin at the Small Boat Harbor, Valdez. Dont
worry if you havent booked ahead, you can book
a tour whilst in the area at short notice if need
be.
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10. SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING TOURS
Heli skiing and snowboarding tours are not
uncommon in Valdez and there are daily drops
to runs by way of helicopter. Booking in advance
is essential for the experience, whether you are
planning on just a day trip or a longer ski or
snowboarding adventure. Valdezs Church
mountains are the place you will be dropped and
here there are many different runs to try. From
easy warm up routes to some difficult
exhilarating runs you will never forget.