Although many of our visitors come to Alaska’s Gold Creek Lodge for fishing, they quickly find out there are several other excellent pastimes to enjoy in our neck of the woods. Our slice of beautiful King Salmon, Alaska, serves as the unofficial gateway to Katmai National Park and some of Alaska’s best hiking. As such, one of our most unique and memorable adventures is a trip to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. An excellent example of the immediate aftermath of a massive volcano, the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes was once a fertile valley transformed into a seemingly untrodden landscape. Although it has been safe to travel throughout the valley for over a century, such a dramatic eruption has left behind a sound reminder of nature’s power.
Katmai Adventures: The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes
The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes isn’t just a chance to walk amid the remains of the 20th century’s largest volcanic eruption. The sheer beauty, ruggedness, and size of such an area make it one of the most documented and studied volcanic sites globally. After arriving by floatplane, you will climb aboard a tour bus along with your trusty travel guide. From there, you’ll take a 23-mile drive to Overlook Cabin with a few stops along the way to check out the scenery and pay respects to the local wildlife. Once you’ve made it to the cabin, you’ll have an opportunity for a bite to eat and to check out the exhibits and historical displays. Your tour guide will offer to escort you through a somewhat strenuous hike that will generously reward you with a ground-level view of one of Alaska’s most breathtaking natural areas.
Some of the Most Unique Hiking in Alaska
The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes covers an enormous area and requires several days to explore adequately. Thankfully, inexperienced hikers who would like to investigate and observe the now defunct fumaroles are granted several hiking options starting near the Brooks River. Ranger-led hikes are also available. While navigating the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes isn’t overly burdensome for experienced hikers, ash and pumice make it hard to cross streams. Furthermore, the high altitudes and absence of potable water also give cause for caution. Be sure to do some research and plan for the worst if you want to go at it alone. Another useful tip that seems applicable no matter where you are in Alaska is to dress in layers as exercise and weather dictate, making a raincoat and comfortable hiking shoes a must.
Alaska Luxury Resorts: An All-Inclusive Vacation
One of the things we hang our hat on each night at Alaska’s Gold Creek Lodge is providing an opportunity for those who wish to explore places like the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes and the Naknek River. We pride ourselves on having adventures to match various budgets, so we’re confident that where there’s a will, there’s a way to the wilds. Please reach out to us online or call 907-246-GOLD (4653) today for more information or to speak with a reservationist.
