Valdez is lucky to be one of the most beautiful places in Alaska. Lying on the southern coast of the main body of Alaska, Valdez lies in the temperate rainforest and the greenery is lush and alive. The Keystone Canyon Waterfall Hike, also called the Worthington Glacier Ridge Trail, will take you into the magnificent Keystone Canyon and lead you to a gorgeous waterfall. This area is so stunning it often is unimaginably beautiful, even with the frequent mist and brisk breeze. Take this canyon hike into a picturesque part of Alaska to experience natural beauty that you’ll never forget.
The famous Worthington Glacier is surrounded by the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site at 28 miles north of Valdez. Pull over off at the parking lot at 28.7 Richardson Highway high in the mountains.
The trail head is at the parking lot on the right. The trail leads up to the glacier and to the scenic waterfalls of clear mountain water, so close you can touch it.
Waterfalls line the hike, more when the rains have been heavy or the sun is melting the glaciers high up in the mountains. The clear, cool glacial water feels deeply refreshing splashed on your face.
The hike is 2.4 miles, out and back, lined with wildflowers and rich with wild birds to watch. Spend the day in this beautiful area and have a picnic at the waterfalls before you hike back.
This time of year the area is replete with wild blueberries! Be careful as the bears also love berries, so make sure to make lots of noise and carry bear spray.
This incredibly beautiful area will overwhelm you with the astounding beauty of Alaska. Take this canyon waterfall hike for an amazing memory of Alaska.