Alaska Has A Grand Canyon And It’s Too Beautiful For Words

Every once in a while we are lucky enough to stumble upon a place that completely knocks the wind out of us, sweeps us off of our feet and makes us fall head-over-heels in love. Although some might think that this kind of love at first sight is nothing more than lust, we are here to prove all of those theories wrong. Keystone Canyon is (hands down) one of the most incredible displays of natural wonder in all of the last frontier.

It is a place for thrill seekers, adventure hounds and laid-back leisure travelers alike. There is so much that can be appreciated from an up close and personal level yet you will get the most epic dose of eye-candy from the comforts of your vehicle as you drive through. This grand canyon in Alaska is far too beautiful for words, and we’re sure that you’ll agree.

Flickr - J. Stephen Conn

As you drive into Valdez on the Richardson Highway you will pass through this spectacular place filled with soaring beauty, glorious geology, rich history and life-changing views.

Flickr - Jimmy Emerson, DVM

Inside the canyon, the old railroad tunnel is a very incredible piece of history that is simply awesome to explore.

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Flickr - Jimmy Emerson, DVM

It was hand cut in 1905 and for many years there were several different companies that were battling over rights to it as it provided a shortcut to "copper country" during the big mining boom.

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Facebook - Pangaea Adventures

Pangaea Adventures in Valdez offers epic whitewater rafting excursions on the Lowe River through the Keystone Canyon. Class I-II water winds it's way into roaring class III rapids. The experience is definitely once-in-a-lifetime and should be on everyone's summer bucket list.

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Flickr - Jimmy Emerson, DVM

Valdez's only land-route to the Alaskan interior is through the stunningly beautiful Lowe River. This five mile long river in the Valdez-Cordova Census Area is a great place to enjoy a guided excursion or to set out on a self-guided tour via kayak or raft (just make sure you're well experienced).

Flickr - Travis

15 miles west of Valdez in the canyon is this stunning waterfall. It's one of the most popular places in Alaska for ice climbing during the winter months and it is a true dose of eye-candy during the spring, summer and fall months. Hop on the Valdez Goat Trail for a two mile hike to view this huge booming beauty.

Flickr - J. Stephen Conn

Fed by snow melt and shooting down into the Lowe River is this approximately 330 feet tall waterfall that is truly a picturesque sight to behold. Best of all, you can pull to the side of the road and check it out without having to hike an inch.

Flickr - Kerry

Many come to Keystone Canyon to enjoy the incredible hiking. A couple popular spots are Bridal Veil Falls and the Valdez Goat Trail. Rock climbing on the canyon is also very popular and during the winter months this is an excellent spot for ice climbing.

So, are you totally intrigued? If so, you gotta check out this awesome video footage of a whitewater rafting trip down the Lowe River in the Keystone Canyon. Remember to add this to your bucket list before summer runs out and the midnight sun drifts away!

Do you love experiencing last frontier but can’t afford all of the guided excursions that are available out there? Check out these 20 awesome free things that you can do in Alaska without needing to open your wallet!