2024 Valdez, Alaska

June 15, 2024 to June 22, 2024

While we thought Denali National Park was our favorite, it was quickly replaced by the port town of Valdez, Alaska. At every turn on the ride to Valdez, the sight was spectacular. We had taken so many pictures on the way and while we were there! I finally narrowed it down to the many you’ll see in this post.

This town has so much history from its beginnings for mining then to trade, and salmon canning then to the major 9.2 earthquake in 1964. Snowcapped mountains surround the town. An eagle even visited us in the campground!

The road to the town goes through the Keystone Canyon where we stopped to see Horsetail Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

We also made a stop to check out the abandoned hand cut Keystone Canyon Railroad Tunnel.

Our dinner of fresh Alaskan halibut at the Fat Mermaid was delicious! To our surprise, sitting at the table next to us was Santa! We had a great visit and intriguing conversation. Before we parted ways, he gifted me with a book he had written of stories that answers many questions that children ask. He hopes to publish this book soon.

Our day on the water on the Lu-Lu Belle was spectacular!

During our 9 hours in Prince William Sound, we saw humpback whales, orca whales, sea otters, sea lions and puffins!

Captain Fred (boat owner) also took us out to the Columbia Glacier while dodging icebergs and floating ice. This wildlife cruise was the highlight of our stay!