Table Of Content
Valdez, Alaska: Where the Fun Never Melts – The Ultimate List of Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!
Welcome to Valdez, Alaska, a small town situated at the head of a fjord on the eastern side of Prince William Sound. If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, Valdez should be on your list of must-visit places. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundance of outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.
Valdez has a fascinating history, including a devastating earthquake in 1964 that resulted in the town being relocated to higher ground. Today, you can learn about the town’s history by visiting one of its many historic parks and sites, including a historic railroad tunnel. But Valdez isn’t just about its past. The town is surrounded by an abundance of natural wonders, including glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, kayaking, or skiing, Valdez has something for you. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!
Key Takeaways
- Valdez, Alaska is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Alaska.
- The town has a rich history, including a devastating earthquake in 1964, and plenty of historic sites to explore.
- Valdez is also surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers a wide range of outdoor activities for the adventurous traveler.
A Brief Walk Through History
Valdez, Alaska has a rich history that is both fascinating and tragic. Here’s a brief walk through history that will give you a glimpse into the past.
Old Valdez
Old Valdez was the original town site of Valdez, established in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush. It was a bustling port town and the gateway to the interior of Alaska. However, in 1964, a massive earthquake destroyed the town and forced its residents to relocate to the current town site.
1964 Earthquake
The 1964 earthquake, also known as the Great Alaska Earthquake, was the most powerful earthquake in North American history, measuring at a magnitude of 9.2. The earthquake triggered a massive tsunami that devastated the coast of Alaska and caused widespread damage and loss of life. The earthquake also caused a massive landslide that buried the original town site of Valdez.
Exxon Valdez Oil Spill
In 1989, the Exxon Valdez oil spill occurred in Prince William Sound, just outside of Valdez. The spill was caused by the grounding of the Exxon Valdez oil tanker, which released over 11 million gallons of crude oil into the pristine waters of Prince William Sound. The spill had devastating effects on the local environment and wildlife, and it took years for the area to recover.
Despite these tragedies, Valdez has persevered and become a thriving community with a rich history. Today, visitors can learn about the town’s past by visiting the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive, which houses artifacts and exhibits related to the town’s history.
Natural Wonders to Marvel At
Valdez, Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. From majestic mountains to tidewater glaciers, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to see. Here are some of the best natural wonders to marvel at in Valdez.
Glaciers Galore
Valdez is known for its glaciers, and for good reason. The town is surrounded by glaciers, including the Valdez Glacier and the Worthington Glacier. You can take a tour to get up close and personal with these massive ice formations, or simply admire them from a distance. And if you’re lucky, you might even see some icebergs floating in the Prince William Sound.
Majestic Mountains
The Chugach Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to Valdez, with their snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain. Take a drive up Thompson Pass to get a bird’s-eye view of the mountains, or hike one of the many trails in the area to get up close and personal with the scenery. Just be sure to watch out for bears and other wildlife!
Waterfalls and Lakes
Valdez is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls and lakes in Alaska. Keystone Canyon is a must-see, with its towering cliffs and rushing waterfalls. And Valdez Glacier Lake is a picturesque spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Wildlife Wonders
Valdez is teeming with wildlife, from harbor seals to puffins to bears. Keep your eyes peeled for these creatures as you explore the town and its surroundings. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a few whales out in the Prince William Sound.
So whether you’re looking to marvel at glaciers, hike majestic mountains, or spot some wildlife, Valdez has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!
Outdoor Activities for the Adventurous
If you’re the type of person who loves to get your heart pumping and your adrenaline rushing, Valdez, Alaska has plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained. From hiking trails to kayaking and rafting, here are some of the best outdoor activities for the adventurous.
Hiking Trails
Valdez has a variety of hiking trails that range in difficulty and length. You can take a leisurely stroll through the Keystone Canyon, or challenge yourself to a steep climb up the Worthington Glacier. Whichever trail you choose, you’re sure to be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and wildlife.
Fishing Fun
Valdez is known for its world-class salmon fishing, and there are plenty of opportunities to catch your own dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, you can hop on a fishing boat and head out to sea in search of salmon, rockfish, and other local fish.
Kayaking and Rafting
Take a kayaking tour around Valdez’s Prince William Sound and get up close and personal with sea lions, whales, and eagles. For the more adventurous, try rafting down the Lowe River and experience the thrill of Class III rapids.
Winter Sports
Even in the winter, Valdez has plenty of outdoor activities for the adventurous. Try your hand at skiing or snowboarding at the nearby Thompson Pass, or go ice climbing and explore the frozen waterfalls. For a truly unique experience, go heli-skiing and get dropped off by helicopter at the top of a mountain for a thrilling ride down.
No matter what your outdoor interests are, Valdez has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!
Exploring the Town of Valdez
Valdez is a charming port town that offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just having fun, Valdez has something for everyone. Here are a few must-see spots to check out during your visit.
Valdez Museum
If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss the Valdez Museum. This small but fascinating museum offers a glimpse into the town’s past, from the gold rush era to the 1964 earthquake. You can explore exhibits on local Native culture, see artifacts from the early days of the town, and learn about the wildlife that calls the area home.
The Fat Mermaid
Looking for a fun spot to grab a bite to eat? Look no further than The Fat Mermaid! This quirky restaurant and bar is a local favorite, serving up delicious seafood dishes and refreshing drinks. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with colorful decor and live music on weekends.
Port Valdez
Take a stroll along the harbor and check out the boats at Port Valdez. This bustling port is the hub of the town’s fishing industry, and you can watch as the boats come and go. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea lion or two!
Solomon Gulch Hatchery
If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to check out the Solomon Gulch Hatchery. This state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to raising salmon and other fish, and you can take a tour to see the process in action. You’ll learn about the science behind fish farming and get a chance to see the fish up close.
Valdez is a town with a rich culture and history, and there’s plenty to explore. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or just having fun, you’ll find something to love here. So grab a map, hop on the ferry from Anchorage, or take a drive down the Richardson Highway, and get ready to experience all that Valdez has to offer!
Planning Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Valdez, Alaska, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your visit. Here’s what you need to know:
Getting There
First things first, you need to figure out how to get to Valdez. You could try walking, but we wouldn’t recommend it. Instead, you have a few options:
- Drive: If you’re feeling adventurous, you could take a road trip to Valdez. The drive from Anchorage takes about 5 hours, and you’ll get to enjoy some stunning Alaskan scenery along the way.
- Fly: If you’re short on time or don’t feel like driving, you can fly into Valdez. The airport is served by Ravn Alaska and Grant Aviation.
- Ferry: Another option is to take the Alaska Marine Highway ferry from Whittier to Valdez. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to travel, and you might even spot some whales on the way.
Weather
Valdez is located in a temperate rainforest, which means it can be rainy and cool year-round. However, the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is milder and the days are longer.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is the peak tourist season in Valdez, and for good reason. The weather is mild, the days are long, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. You can go hiking, fishing, kayaking, or take a boat tour to see the glaciers and wildlife.
If you’re visiting in the winter, you can still have a great time. Valdez is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, and there are plenty of other winter activities to enjoy, like snowmobiling and ice fishing.
No matter when you visit, be sure to pack for the weather and bring plenty of layers. And don’t forget your sense of adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s cooler than being cool? Valdez, Alaska!
You know what’s cooler than being cool? Valdez, Alaska! This small town is the epitome of coolness, with its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and endless adventure opportunities. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, kayaking, or just taking in the scenery, Valdez has something for everyone.
Why settle for one adventure when you can have them all in Valdez?
Why settle for one adventure when you can have them all in Valdez? This town is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. From hiking to fishing to kayaking to snowmobiling, Valdez has it all. So why limit yourself to just one adventure when you can have them all?
What’s the best way to experience Valdez? Hint: it involves glaciers.
What’s the best way to experience Valdez? Hint: it involves glaciers. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Valdez is by taking a glacier cruise. These cruises take you through the stunning Prince William Sound, where you can see glaciers up close and personal. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Ready to explore Valdez? Here are some must-see spots!
Ready to explore Valdez? Here are some must-see spots! Make sure to check out the Valdez Museum, which tells the story of this unique town and its history. The Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery is also a must-see, where you can see salmon up close and personal. And of course, don’t forget to take a hike on one of the many stunning trails in the area.
Why visit Valdez? Because life’s too short to not chase adventure!
Why visit Valdez? Because life’s too short to not chase adventure! This town is the perfect destination for those who want to get out and explore the great outdoors. With its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and endless adventure opportunities, Valdez is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace your inner adventurer. So what are you waiting for? Come check out Valdez and start chasing your next adventure!
