Where to Hike in Valdez, Alaska
- Dock Point Trail
Easy ~1 mile loop on a peninsula between the Duck Flats and Port Valdez—great views, lots of birds, and close to town.
Trailhead: 195 Kennicott Ave, Valdez, AK 99686
-
Homestead Trail
Gentle, family-friendly path to the beach along Mineral Creek; wildflowers and birding in summer, snowshoeing in winter.
Trailhead: Homestead Rd, Valdez, AK 99686
-
Goat Trail (Historic Pack Trail)
Classic Keystone Canyon route with Bridal Veil/Horsetail Falls viewpoints and canyon panoramas; moderate with exposure in spots.
Trailhead: Mile 13.5 Richardson Hwy, Valdez, AK 99686
-
Mineral Creek Trail
Historic gold-rush corridor on a rough gravel road through waterfalls and ruins; hike, bike, or drive portions depending on conditions (long day if done end-to-end).
Trailhead: Mineral Creek Dr, Valdez, AK 99686
-
Shoup Bay Trail
Two options: Section A (moderate, ~6.5 mi RT) to Gold Creek; Section B (difficult, ~12.6 mi RT) to Shoup Glacier views—wilder and overgrown; experienced hikers only.
Section A Trailhead: 1600 Front St, Valdez, AK 99686
-
Solomon Gulch Viewpoint (John Hunter Memorial Trail)
Steady climb through coastal spruce to the spillway overlook above Solomon Gulch—big water and hatchery country; moderate effort with rewarding views.
Nearby hatchery (landmark for access): 1561 Dayville Rd, Valdez, AK 99686
-
Thompson Pass Area Routes
Alpine rambles on and around the historic “Trail of ’98” corridor; tundra meadows, lakes, and glacier views—choose length/route based on conditions and ability.
Access: Thompson Pass, Richardson Hwy, Valdez, AK 99686