As I’ve mentioned before, Alaska can be an expensive place to live in and to visit. Still, it’s possible to find some bargain activities to enjoy. In fact, the town of Valdez hosts a few opportunities for free entertainment. I’ve outlined a few ideas that can help you get started in the right direction.
1. Swim! The Valdez swimming pool, located at the high school, is one place to stop for a free activity. The open swims are all free. There are two pools, the smaller is warmer. They can get somewhat busy with all of the families that show up, but it’s really not so bad. The larger pool is deeper, so a lot less kids hang out in it. Currently, the schedule includes open swims Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1:00-3:00 pm and 7:30-8:30 pm, as well as Tuesday and Thursday at 5:00-6:30 pm. Saturday’s open swims are from 1:30-2:30 pm and 7:30-8:30 pm. Sunday’s are 1:30-2:30 pm. For information on other activities or answers to other questions, call 907-835-5429.
2. Hike! I can not deny it; hiking is probably one of my most favorite activities in the Valdez area. Opportunities abound. They range from easy (Dock Point) to strenuous (High School). Both of these particular hikes are directly accessible from town. Dock Point is near the harbor, and High School is, of course, right behind the high school. However, if you are looking for longer hikes of varying difficulties, check out the city of Valdez’s webpage on hiking. It includes excellent trail maps. http://www.valdezalaska.org/maps/maps.html
3. Bike! This is a great activity because it is so healthful. Biking around Valdez offers excellent chances for viewing some amazing scenery. A smooth bike path has been created that runs from town out a few miles. However, since bears are often found near the path, it’s important to exercise extreme caution. Be noisy, and definitely do not approach the bears to take pictures.
4. See! Of course, hiking and biking are great ways to observe and study nature. However, as part of looking for free activities, consider taking a drive out to Solomon Gulch Hatchery. In the summer it is a fantastic way to check out some wildlife. Sea lions gobble up loads of salmon in this area. Bears can also be found, but once again, avoid them in person. Look at them from your vehicle.
5. Festival! Valdez hosts quite a few events throughout the year for the community. They are a great way to meet the people who live here and enjoy a taste of the local flavor. In the summer, check out Gold Rush Days, this year held July 29-August 2. It is a celebration of Valdez history and the gold rush that brought this area’s first boom. For a winter diversion, consider Frosty Fever. Since Valdez receives about 30 feet of snow each year, it only makes sense to celebrate it. Lots of activities to enjoy outside but also to get out of the cold.
So there you have it – five fantastic and free things to do in Valdez. In tough economic times, it’s important to know where you can get the deals.
