Dock Point is actually a very short trail located within a park in downtown Valdez, Alaska. It's a 3/4-mile out and back hike with opportunities for good sightseeing overlooking Valdez's well known harbor area. The elevation gain is a few hundred feet to the top of a hill, and overall, it'll maybe take 45 minutes to complete. In my explorations of Valdez, I combined this Dock Point Park and Trail with simply walking around and discovering the amazing setting that makes it so worthwhile to visit this under the radar town located in southeastern Alaska. From the boardwalk section of Valdez where all the fishing trips embark from, if you walk towards the left-hand side extending upon the perimeter of town, you'll find Dock Point Park. There are picnic shelters and barbecuing grills for day-use if you desire, but the real winning aspect to hiking here are the surroundings of lush green mountains set in the distance, especially on a sunny summer day. If by chance the weather isn't cooperating (which happens often in Valdez since it's considered a rainforest climate), still, the sights are worthwhile regardless. And what I appreciated about the hike was viewing the colorful flowers in bloom like stepping into nature without leaving far from Valdez. From along Dock Point Park and Trail, I then walked a pathway around Valdez Harbor realizing how rewarding fishing can be here. And during your time in Valdez, at the very least you should take a fishing charter on the waters for the day or what I did was take an amazing boat excursion along Prince William Sound to witness Meares Glacier. Finally, this Dock Point Park and Trail is an easy activity to complete and provides nice perspectives throughout Valdez. I recommend it. read more

Dock Point Trail - This is Dock Point Park and Trail. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Valdez, Alaska

See all

The park at Dock Point has the potential to be really nice, but it appears to be a hangout for people to drink and potentially cause trouble. It's very pretty, but there is a ton of trash and not much respect for the wildlife and birds that are nesting there. There is a nice .8 mile loop trail with a VERY steep incline that takes you up a hill with a 360 view of the harbor and much of Valdez. It's definitely worth the walk. Bring a walking pole or an inhaler if you are asthmatic or need a little help with inclines. If you are unable to make the climb, you can walk about a third if the trail that is flat along the marsh, which has very nice views of the marshy bird breeding areas and the mountains. read more

See all

Dock Point Trail, is a loop of 3/4 mile total, but a fun little trail with nice views of the harbor. It is a very easy grade so it's good for kids as well as the elderly, the infirm, the lame, the sick, the weak, the injured, the smokers among us, and for those who are just plain disinterested in a hike but still want to stick with the group program. It is an easy stroll with just one short but steep hill (that can be avoided). However, it may be too much for the dying, but you are welcome to give it a shot also -- what's the worst that can happen? Part of the trail is comprised of two boardwalks that lead to viewing areas. The small beach is a great place to skip rocks, which is something kids used to do before cell phones were invented. The overlooks offer good views across Valdez Bay. A variety of plant life growing next to the trail makes the walk more interesting. See the wildflower meadow from the boardwalks, along with spruce trees and dogwood trees. Berries grow around the warmer months --- in a blinding winter snowstorm you probably won't be out here anyway. On the north side of the trail you can spot an eagle's nest located on one of the islands in view. SEE http://www.valdezalaska.org/discover-valdez-maps-trails/dock-point-trail-map The trailhead is close to the Best Western Valdez Harbor Inn, where we stayed, so it was very convenient for a short walk from the hotel. To get to Dock Point, drive or walk down Kobuk Drive to reach the parking lot, which is located across from the boat launch at the harbor. Facilities are restrooms and picnic benches. read more

See all

Perfect short hike for those that want something easy but still some good views!!! Trail can be done year round although depending on snow depth, it could be a little more challenging... read more

See all