Family Adventures in Valdez, Alaska
My Favorite Outdoor activities to do as a family in Valdez.
Family adventures come naturally in Valdez. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and wildlife, Valdez offers endless opportunities for kids to explore the outdoors while making unforgettable Alaska memories. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer summer adventure, there are plenty of family-friendly activities that keep both kids and adults entertained.
Here are some of my favorite outdoor things to do with my kids in Valdez, Alaska.
Mineral Creek
If you are looking for some free activites to do with your kids while you are visiting Valdez during the summer be sure to check out Mineral Creek. There are various access points to explore this area. Our personal favorite for ease of access is the bridge to nowhere access point, this area is accessible by vehichle so everyone in the family can join in on the water front fun.
My kids love to toss rocks in the water and run up and down the creek bed. We also have spent a few summer evenings enjoying a picnic on the rocks.
Glacier & Wildlife Cruises
A glacier cruise through Prince William Sound is one of the most memorable family activities in Valdez. Kids can see glaciers calving into the ocean while watching for whales, sea otters, puffins, seals, and bald eagles.
Many cruises are family-friendly and offer indoor seating for younger children when the weather changes.
Keystone canyon
One of the easiest and most scenic family adventures near Valdez is a drive through Keystone Canyon. Kids love spotting the massive waterfalls pouring down the canyon walls, especially the famous Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls.
Many pull-offs are easily accessible, making this a perfect activity for younger children who may not be ready for long hikes. Bring rain jackets because the mist near the falls can be part of the fun.
Allison point & Solomon Gulch Hatchery
Allison Point is a local favorite for families. During salmon season, kids can often watch fish swimming upstream and may even spot sea lions in the harbor area.
The open beach area gives children room to explore, throw rocks, and enjoy the views across the water toward the mountains.
Kids are often fascinated by the salmon runs at Solomon Gulch Hatchery. Depending on the season, families can watch thousands of salmon returning upstream while bald eagles circle overhead.
Sea lions are also sometimes seen feeding nearby, making it one of the best wildlife viewing spots in the area.
Enjoy a picnic with a view
Sometimes the simplest activities become the most memorable. Valdez has countless scenic spots where families can enjoy a picnic surrounded by glaciers and moutains.
Popular picnic areas include:
- Allison Point
- Civic Center overlook areas
- Small Boat Harbor
- Keystone Canyon pull-offs
Bring snacks, hot chocolate, and a camera because the scenery is incredible almost everywhere you stop.
Fishing with the family
Valdez is known for salmon and halibut fishing, and many families enjoy trying shore fishing or booking a beginner-friendly charter trip.
Even younger kids enjoy the excitement of spotting fish, learning about Alaska’s marine life, and spending time outdoors on the water.
Make Chugach NAswik Suites your family basecamp
After a full day of outdoor adventure, families appreciate having extra space to relax and recharge. Chugach Naswik Suites offers comfortable extended stay accommodations in Valdez with room for families, gear, snacks, and flexible travel plans.
Having a kitchen or kitchenette can also make traveling with kids easier after long days exploring Alaska’s outdoors.
Plan Your Family Adventure in Valdez
From glacier cruises and waterfalls to wildlife viewing and easy hiking trails, Valdez is packed with outdoor experiences kids will never forget. Whether your family loves adventure or simply wants to enjoy Alaska’s incredible scenery together, Valdez offers something for every age.
