Surrounded on three sides by steep snow-capped mountains, Valdez offers the most dramatic mountain views we've seen in any of the port towns we've visited. And I always thought it was just the southern terminus of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline with oil tanks! With all this beauty around there was bound to be some good hiking and I think we found the best scenic hike although the trail wasn't in the best of shape because of all the rain and the Alder that covers the sides of the mountains. The trail, when it began to climb the side of the mountain was created by some type of giant weed-wacker that used red licorice-sized plastic rope to cut through the tangle of Alder.
The first mile and quarter of the trail was along the the shore of the Valdez Arm of Prince William Sound.
It was muddy and yucky, but we came upon a number of streams flowing down from the surrounding mountains that had spawning Silver Salmon.
Huge fish, about 24 to 30 inches, in a small stream. They make a tremendous thrashing in the water.
The trail also led to access points along the shore where there were lots of active birds.
They were making quite a bit of noise.
Magnificent views down the Sound.
Same view a little further down the Sound. We are about 500 ft. above the water at this point.
Even though the trail continued, our goal was the Gold Creek bridge at Mile 3.5. When we arrived at the bridge we found that the access stairs had been washed away and there was a make-shift log in their place.
When we got to the other side we looked back and saw the stairs a little further down the creek.
When we crossed over the bridge we came upon a rather primordial forest with a trail that led to Gold Creek Falls.
Because of all the rain, Gold Creek Falls, and the creek were quite high and full.
Our lunch spot near the camp sites at Gold Creek Bridge.
Our lunch view.
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