• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Everyday Alaska

Everyday Life in The Last Frontier

  • Home
  • Blog
    • Alaska
      • Anchorage
      • Seward
      • Valdez
    • Camping
    • Gear Reviews
    • Gift Lists
    • Hunting
    • Recipes
  • Shop
  • Rules and Regs

Uncategorized

Dad’s Mild Moose Chili

September 13, 2017 by Everyday Alaska

Two bowls of mild moose chili topped with Fritos and cheese.
Top this chili with whatever you’d like. I use cheese and Fritos.

Seeing as its moose season and we’re going to be headed out on our hunt soon, I think it’s only fitting that I share a moose recipe. Technically, though, this isn’t really a moose recipe. My dad actually made this to be used with regular burger, but we got a moose last year and that’s what I’ve been using to make this, so moose chili it is.

Before anyone starts wondering if I’m sharing a secret family recipe, I did get permission from my dad to post this, so thank you, Dad! My dad has been one of the most influential people in me gaining my love for the outdoors, so it makes perfect sense that this recipe would be one of my first few posts.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions from these qualifying purchases help support Everyday Alaska at no extra cost to you. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

Ingredients:

1/2 pound moose burger (or hamburger/elk burger/etc)
1/2 pound Jimmy Dean Maple Sausage (or whatever sausage flavor you desire)
1/2 bell pepper, chopped
1/2 onion, chopped
1 10 oz. can tomato soup
1/4 cup milk
1 19 oz. can kidney beans
1 15 oz. can chili beans
2 Tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp salt
1 dash pepper
2 dashes chili powder

Directions:

Brown meat with onion and green pepper. Drain fat. Add remaining ingredients and simmer on low heat for 1/2 hour.

That’s really all you do. I could drag this out into fifteen different steps of how to put it all together, but why not keep it simple and straight to the point. This tastes great with corn bread and you’ll always want seconds, although its really filling, so I usually make a double or triple batch and have some leftovers for lunch. It also freezes pretty well, so that’s a great option for leftovers, too. Happy cooking, friends!

Looking for some handy kitchen tools and gadgets to help you with meal prep and more? Check out this list here!

Simple chili recipe is served.
Dinner is served!

Filed Under: Hunting, Recipes, Section Two Articles, Uncategorized Tagged With: Recipe, Wildgame

How to Outfit Your Side by Side for Any Outdoor Adventure

August 27, 2017 by Everyday Alaska

2016 Polaris Ranger 6x6
The Polaris Ranger 800 6×6 out for a cruise.

With all of the accessories out there for side by sides its hard to decide what you need and what you can live without. Below, I’ll explain some of the must have items items and some helpful accessories that will help you enjoy your toys even more.

Before we start I should probably mention that the products below are geared to Polaris, but the idea behind the pros and cons of the accessories and gear are the same for any side by side, so if you have another brand of side by side stick around because this information might help you too.

The best way to explain how to outfit your Polaris Ranger or any side by side is probably to start from the bottom up. We’ll start with tires and tracks first, work our way up, and then move onto some smaller accessories.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions from these qualifying purchases help support Everyday Alaska at no extra cost to you. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

Tires

Our Ranger came with some great stock tires, but for going anywhere other then on solid trails you’ll need some better ones. We went with ITP Blackwaters and have been very impressed with them so far. The ITPs seem to get through everything and have done great during anything from hunting to trail riding.

Tracks

We got some used Polaris Big Boss tracks and decided to see if they’d fit on the Ranger 6×6. With a little bit of work and frustration they were on and ready to use. We tried them in the snow. They plowed right through. We tried them in the dirt. They did just fine. Buuuttttt then they broke….. There were some minor week spots and cracks in the tracks, and being that they were on a machine that they were not meant for must have put them over the edge, so one of the tracks ended up breaking. Then, after they had broken, someone stoled them so we didn’t get much of a chance to use them, unfortunately.

Tracks on a Polaris side by side
Ready to roll with the tracks.

While they worked great for bit, I would not suggest putting them on a Ranger. It’s best to stick with the ITPs so you don’t have to worry about having any problems with your rig while your out.

There are tracks that are meant for the Ranger 900, but none specifically for the 6×6. These are the Prospector tracks that are made by Polaris. These can be modified for the 6×6, but we do not have these on that Ranger so I can’t vouch for how well they work.

Doors

What kind of doors you get mostly depends on what you’ll be doing with your rig. We have ProArmour half doors. The reason we went with these is because we usually end up in deeper swamps or areas with deep mud. If we have half doors, we can still get out even if the mud is too high to be able to open the doors. The negative with this, though, is that when its cold out the doors do not help much to keep you warm, except for keeping wind off of the bottom of your legs, so if your looking at getting doors for the warmth factor you may want to get full doors.

Having full doors is great because you stay warm, keep yourself from getting smacked in the face with brush, and can still have windows in it to keep you cool. But, just opposite from the half doors, if you get buried a little too deep you may not be able to get your doors open easily. There is an alternate way to get out by getting a different windshield, which I’ll tell you about in the next section. Also, it can get pretty hot having full doors if you have an enclosed cab, even with the windows open, unless you’re going fairly fast. Ideally, it would be best to have half doors for the summer and full doors for the winter, but that’s a little pricy.

Polaris Ranger 900 XP fully enclosed cab.
Fully enclosed Polaris Ranger 900 XP.

Windshields

There are quite a few options for windshields. One option is the poly half windshield. This is good to keep the cab a little warmer, but also keep some air circulating around so it does’t get too hot. Plus, if you did get this windshield and full doors, you would still have a way to get out of the cab if the the doors were buried too high.

Another option is the full windshield. We have the poly version of this and it works great. It’s a must to stay warm, but there is a downfall with the poly version of the windshields. You are not able to scrape off frost or use a brush for snow because it will scratch, and you have to take special care of it when wiping mud or water off by using a squeegee. After having the poly full windshield, I would have saved up some more money to buy the glass version and not worry so much about getting scratches in it.

Polaris Ranger 6x6 after moose hunting on a snowy highway in Alaska.
It took awhile for the windshield to thaw!

If you really want to get fancy, there is the flip down windshield. This is great because you get all the benefits of  the full and half windshield all in one. Plus, if you’re using your rig for hunting, you can just flip part of it down and have an open view of the area.

You can get a tip out windshield as well. This windshield does just what its called and the whole window tips out. This is also great for hunting since you can glass out of the front with an unobstructed view, and it can help you get out if your doors get stuck as well. This is what I would consider the ultimate windshield for the Ranger since it comes in a glass version and is versatile.

Wipers

While we’re on the subject of windshields, you can also get wipers for them. We don’t have them on ours, but Dad has them on the 900 (he’s got the fancy stuff on his!), and they work great. They’re awesome for when your cruising around and doing work in the rain. They even do pretty well in the snow and ice.

Koplin gun boots on a Polaris Ranger side by side fall hunting in Alaska.
Sinc we don’t have wipers a squeegee comes in handy in the pouring rain.

Rear Window

Having a rear window is a must. We received our rear window before the front one, and just having the rear one cut out a ton of the wind. Without it, the cab would still be cold, and the front windshield would only cut out a fraction of the wind.

Roof

The roof we chose for our Ranger is a poly roof. It is awesome and makes a huge difference when you’re in the rain, snow, or even for keeping the sun off your head. The one downside is that you can’t stand on it. You may be wondering why you’d want to do that in the first place, but if you’re scouting trails or looking for moose, you can get a much better vantage point from the roof, which is why I would suggest upgrading and going with a steel roof. Obviously any roof is better than none, but the steel roof really can change your trip and give you a great advantage compared to the poly version.

Racks

There are many racks to choose from for the bed of your Ranger depending on what you’ll be using it for. We have a handmade one on our Ranger that works fairly well, but doesn’t fit as good as one specifically made for it would. They’re great for packing more gear and getting everything organized for your adventures.

Polaris Ranger 800 6x6 side by side with rack.
Custom rack on the Polaris Ranger 800 6×6.

Update: My husband has since made a new custom aluminum rack for our Ranger, and it works great. It’s perfect for glassing from when hunting, can hold gear and our guns, and is a great cover for the bed.

Polaris Ranger 6x6 side by side custom rack
Our new custom rack gives a great vantage point for glassing for moose when hunting.

D-Rings/Tie Downs

Aside from mounting a rack in the bed, you can also use many different accessories in the mounting holes located on the bed rail. There are different d-rings, tie downs and other attachement systems that can be mounted so you can use ratchet straps and nets to keep your cargo from falling out or moving around.

Gas Can

One handy thing to store on your Ranger rack is the flat gas can. They are convenient, easy to store, and can get you out of a bind if you run low on fuel.

Koplin gas can filling up the side by side
This gas can is handy for fill ups along the trail.

Gun Boots/Racks

There are a variety of gun boots and racks you can attach to your side by side. Which one (or ones!) you pick will all depend on where you want your guns, how many you’re brining, and what kind. We have Koplin ones that we store on the back rack.

Fall moose hunting in Alaska with the Polaris Ranger side by side.
Our gun boots have held up great for many, many hunts.

Fishing Rod Holder

We often take our Ranger out when ice fishing and needed a place to store some short poles. There didn’t seem to be any specific Ranger fishing rod holder, so we took a regular Berkley rod holder and mounted it to the roof  on the inside of the cab. This setup seems to work pretty well so far, and keeps the rods from getting tangeled up or broken. If you plan on bringing larger poles I’m sure you could mount a boat or truck rod holder in the back and it would do the job, but I haven’t tried that yet.

Plow

If you’re going to have a Ranger you can put it to work as well as use it for fun. One way to do this is with a plow. We have on of these on the 900 and it works great for the average snowfall. Plus, if you have an enclosed cab, along with the one of the next items on the list, you can do your winter chores and stay warm while doing it.

Winches

Two of the most important things to get you out of a tough spot are going to be your front and back winches. We have two 4,000 pound Warn winches that have been lifesavers. They can get you out of swamps, snow, and even help you gut and hang up your moose!

Warn winch on the Polaris Ranger side by side.
Warn winch on the back of the Ranger.

Heater

If you are older, tend to be cold, or like being toasty warm, a heater is a must. We don’t have one in our because we usually to wear warmer gear and stay warm with the heat of the motor most of the time, but Dad has one and loves it. It gets him out and about on days when he may otherwise have stayed in due to the cold.

Radio

Its always nice to have some tunes when you’re cruising around in your truck, and the same goes for your side by side when going on trail rides or just muddling around. We had a portable outdoor radio that we used for a few rides. It was secured in with heavy duty glue and Dual Lock, or so we thought, but after a few bumpy rides and few falls onto the floor, our portable radio was no more. Because there is really no good way to fully secure a generic portable radio in the Ranger, I would suggest getting a dash mounted one if you’re going to be using it frequently. This will ensure that you’re not spending $50 a month on ones that will just end up ruined on the first ride out.

Two Polaris Rangers at a cabin in Alaska.
A comparison of side by sides, or a side by side comparison?

Lights

One thing to consider buying for safety, and so you can get the most use out of your side by side any time of the day or year, is lights. We have RaceSport Gen 3 LED headlights, a 40″ Rigid SR2 Combo on the front, and a green 20″ Rigid Radiance bar on the back. By adding more and better lights people can see you, you can see people (and unexpected moose in the road!), and you can safely stay out long after it’s dark out.

Cover

If you don’t have a full cab, or even if you do, a cover is a great thing to get to protect your side by side and keep it in great condition. The other plus to covers is they come in camo which can keep your toys well hidden if you’re on a hunt or just checking things out off the trail.

If you plan on ordering any of these awesome items to help you enjoy your Ranger even more, check into getting an Amazon Prime 30-Day Free Trial. This will save you tons in shipping and is really handy to have.

Hopefully this information will help you get more out of your side by side and enjoy the great outdoors. The accessories linked are not necessarily the ones that will fit your exact year, make, and model. It is harder to find accessories for the 6×6 than other side by sides, but they are definitely out there as you can see in all of our pictures. Happy riding!

Polaris Ranger side by side Alaska
Happy riding!

Filed Under: Alaska, Gear Review, Hunting, Outdoors, Section Two Articles, Uncategorized Tagged With: Alaska, ORV, Polaris, Side By Side

10+ Great Gift Ideas for the Outdoorsman in your Life

June 12, 2017 by Everyday Alaska

onXmaps used in Alaska
Using onXmaps out on the trail.

Updated January 16, 2024

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for the outdoorsman or woman on your gift list, you’ve come to the right place. Below is a list of ideas that make great gifts for birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries, Father’s Day, or any occasion. These unique and useful gift ideas for the outdoorsman range from camping gear, to the ultimate outdoor snacks, to hiking and survival gear and more.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions from these qualifying purchases help support Everyday Alaska at no extra cost to you. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

1. Jetboil. If they don’t have one, they need one. This is great for hunting, camping, fishing, hiking, or any activity where you may want to stop and have some coffee or make up a delicious Mountain House or Peak meal. Check out my full review of the Jetboil here.

Check out my full Jetboil review here.

2. OnXmaps not only has clear and accurate maps, but they tell you where property lines are as well, which is a huge help if you’re hunting, hiking, or camping. There are specific maps for off-roading, hunting, and backcountry adventure. If you gift someone a subscription to OnXmaps it will definitely be one of their most used outdoor items.

3. Gift a pair of Crocs. These lightweight, comfy “house shoes” make for a nice break for your feet after camping, hiking, or hunting. They work great for around camp and at home as well.

4. Trekking poles are useful in a variety of situations. Whether it be on a short hike, snowshoeing, or climbing mountains, they make a great gift for outdoorsman who have a variety of outdoor hobbies.

5. The knives from Outdoor Edge are awesome. The first time we used one was on a moose and it was impressive how well it worked. My husband’s uncle even put down his ulu to use our Outdoor Edge knife! They have replaceable blades so you don’t need to worry about sharpening while skinning your animal, and there is a gutting blade on one side to make the process even easier. I highly recommend any of the Outdoor Edge knives as gifts (or even for yourself) because they greatly assist in the cleaning of any game and will hold up to whatever tasks they’re put through.

6. If they’re going to be shooting, they’ll need some good optics. For a gift they’ll have for a lifetime (literally, check out their warranty!), shop Vortex Optics.

Glassing for moose with our Vortex spotting scope in Alaska in fall
Glassing for moose with our Vortex spotting scope.

7. Getting hangry while out camping, hiking, or hunting can really put a damper on outdoor fun. Check out Peak Refuel and Mountain House meals for some great camp food ideas to give as a useful and necessary gift idea.

8. Check out this tripod. This is a great gift idea that can be used with a spotting scope or binoculars, or for wildlife photography! We’ve had ours for years now, and it has been extremely useful in many outdoor applications.

9. Not all outdoor experiences need to be strenuous. Give the gift of some outdoor R&R with a hammock.

10. Keep their hands, feet, body, and toes toasty while in the great outdoors with some HotHands. I have these with me constantly when I’m outside during the winter.

11. Needed for any overnight outdoor adventure, a sleeping pad makes a great gift for any outdoorsman.

Keeping my hands toasty warm while berry picking.

What are some gifts for outdoorsmen under $25?

If you’re looking for a great gift for an outdoorsy person under $25, check out this post here. With ideas ranging from LifeStraws to first aid kits, and the perfect camping pillow to dry bags, you’re sure to find a fantastic gift.

Any of the gifts listed above are sure to be a winner for any outdoor lover in your life. Whether it’s for a holiday, birthday, or just a gift to show your appreciation for someone, this list will help you pick a gift that will surely bring a smile to their face and be useful for any of their outdoor adventures.

Filed Under: Camping, Gear Review, Gift Lists, Hunting, Outdoors, Section Two Articles, Uncategorized Tagged With: Camping, Christmas gifts, Fathers Day, gift ideas, Gift List

21 Must Have Items to Save you from a Camping Catastrophe

May 29, 2017 by Everyday Alaska

 
Camping spot by lake reflection.
Camping spots have the best views.

“Hey, did we forget the…”

That’s one of the last things you want to hear when you’re out camping. You’re usually far away from stores, have no neighbors to borrow that can opener from, and you need it for your next meal. We’ve all been there, but you never have to be there again! Below, I’ve compiled a list to save you from another camping catastrophe.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions from these qualifying purchases help support Everyday Alaska at no extra cost to you. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

1. Cans are good. Cans are great. You can pack ’em, stack ’em, and best of all they can have food in them! They’re perfect for your camping adventures. The unfortunate thing is that the essential can opener is often forgotten, and you end up using a bottle opener to try poke holes all around the edge to open it (Come on, I know I’m not the only one who has done this!), which then leads to you cutting your finger, throwing the can down, the dog licking up the chili that spilled out, and it’s just a bad time for everyone (Except the dog!). So save yourself the hassle and the bandaid by putting a can opener on your packing list.

2. Pizza cutter. Whether it’s frozen or you create you’re own over the campfire, your pizza will need to be cut, so packing this is strongly suggested.

3. Bottle opener. Refer to #1. If you forget that, or just don’t have the room, this can still do the trick.

4. If you plan on grilling while you’re out, don’t forget the tongs. It’s a little hard to flip ribs or steaks with two sticks, but tongs will do the trick.

5. Another must-have camping kitchen utensil is the spatula. Camping breakfast is the best, but it can’t be made without a spatula, so be sure to bring one.

6. Ok, so maybe these aren’t necessities, but they are awesome. These red drink cups are sturdy, fun, and massive. Most importantly, they can hold a ton of tang, which is my go-to camping drink.

7. If you like tea, hot chocolate, coffee, Mountain House, or Peak Refuel, you need a Jetboil. They’re compact, lightweight, and can heat up water in no time. My mom got one for a camping trip so she could have her coffee fix, and I ended up getting hooked on it too, so now we have one. Just remember to buy the Jetboil fuel canisters so you’ll be all set to use it for your trip. You can check out my full Jetboil review here.

Jetboil and Peak Refuel Time on a hunt
Jetboil and Peak Refuel: two of the best things to bring with for a great meal outdoors.

8. On the same note, don’t forget to bring propane canisters for your grill or other items.

9. Other essential items are matches and/or a lighter. You can’t go camping without having a fire, so these are must-haves. And don’t forget the s’more ingredients!

S’mores camping desert
My favorite camping dessert.

10. One very important thing to have with you when camping and in general is a first aid kit. There are some great pre-made kits out there, or you can build your own. It may get a little expensive, but the peace of mind is worth it.

11. Many people forget to pack their medications when camping. This could lead to a pretty shortened camping trip, so it’s best to have at least a couple days of medications packed in a pill organizer ahead of time, that way if you do forget the others you’ll at least have a backup.

12. Getting a sunburn can really ruin your trip, so add sunscreen to your list and save yourself the pain.

13. Bug bites can be a real camping buzz-kill (sorry, I couldn’t help it), so keeping those guys away to begin with is essential. Some things I suggest are Ben’s bug dope, a Thermacell, coils, or if you’re really serious about getting rid of those pests, a propane mosquito vacuum. If you still end up getting bit, try After Bite. I’ve been using it since I was little, and let me tell you it works fast. The initial sting is worth it to get rid of the itch. You can check out other mosquito bite remedies here.

The Thermacell keeping the bugs at bay.

14. It’s always helpful to have a flashlight or lantern around when camping. Even though we all have lights on our phones now, its good to have options so you don’t kill your battery and can see a bigger area.

15. Where there’s gear, there’s batteries. Make sure to grab enough batteries to power your Thermacell, flashlights, and other camping supplies.

16. If you’re bringing your phone, camera, tablet, or other electronics with you don’t forget your chargers for your vehicle, or even bring a solar charger with you.

17. If you’re camping in louder areas it helps to bring ear plugs to get a good nights sleep.

18. Whether you’re camping in a tent or a camper, you’ll need toilet paper. If you’re in a camper, fifth wheel, or rv, just remember to bring the septic safe kind.

19. You may not have a way to shower while you’re camping, but baby wipes can do the trick for awhile.

20. While we’re on the subject of camping hygiene, hand sanitizer is something you definitely don’t want to forget.

21. To help keep your camper/tent/campsite clean, bring lots of inexpensive towels. It’s good to have some for muddy kids, muddy dogs, muddy boots, showers, or for yourself if you have an impromptu dive in the lake!

This is where those extra towels come in handy.

Adding at least some of these items to your packing list will help you be more prepared for your next wilderness getaway. Happy camping!

P.S. If you plan on ordering any of these items from Amazon, be sure to check out the Amazon Prime 30-Day Free Trial to get free shipping on items that are Prime.

Filed Under: Camping, Uncategorized Tagged With: Alaska, Alaska Travel, Camping, Travel Alaska

Valdez, Alaska: A Local’s Guide to the Sights and Wildlife

May 4, 2017 by Everyday Alaska

 
Fireweed in Old Town Valdez, Alaska.
Fireweed in Valdez, Alaska in all its glory.

Updated January 15, 2024.

Hi everyone, and welcome to my first blog post. I thought it might be good to tell you all a little bit about myself, and what better way to do that than to share my hometown of Valdez, Alaska with you.

I grew up in beautiful Valdez, a small town located in Southcentral Alaska, neighboring Prince William Sound. Its countless activities, including fishing, kayaking, skiing, and snowmachining, draw people from around the world, but what brings many people to Valdez is the wildlife and amazing scenery.

I’m hoping you’re reading this post because you plan on visiting Valdez (or hopefully you will be after you read this!), to take in some of those activities and snap some shots of the wildlife. If you are, you’re in luck! Below I’ve compiled a list of the best places and ways to see all Valdez has to offer, by land, air, and water.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions from these qualifying purchases help support Everyday Alaska at no extra cost to you. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

Land

Driving

If you plan on driving to Valdez, the first major landmarks you’ll see as you get closer to town are Worthington Glacier and Thompson Pass. If you turn off to head up to the glacier, you’ll end up in a large parking area. Once in the parking lot you’ll be met with restrooms (whew, you made it to one!) and paths that meander around by the glacier where you can get amazing pictures and even dip your feet in the chilly glacier runoff. This is a great chance to get out, stretch your legs, and take in the majestic views of Worthington.

Worthington Glacier near Valdez, Alaska.
Worthington Glacier.

Chances are if you ski, snowboard, or snowmachine you’ve heard of Thompson Pass before, but if not, you should definitely check it out. There are places for you to turn off and take pictures, and you will get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains on clear days. There’s even a campground by a lake in the pass if you want to stay awhile and enjoy the view, which I recommend so you can see the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

A sunset in Thompson pass.
Sunset in Thompson Pass on the way to Valdez, Alaska.

As you get further on, you’ll come to Keystone Canyon. You’ll have some great photo opportunities here as well. Waterfalls line both sides of the road, and there are turnouts here too, which are large enough to fit any vehicle or rv, so be sure to stop and enjoy the view.

Making a stop with our Fuzion 416 in Keystone Canyon near Valdez, Alaska.
Make time to stop in Keystone Canyon.

The next spot to check out is down Dayville Road. If anyone recommends that you go “across the bay” to see sea life, bears, or go fishing, this is what they’re talking about. This road is to your left as you are coming into Valdez, right after the weigh station. It will take you to the Alyeska Pipeline Terminal if you go all the way down the road, but you’ll want to stop before that. There is a large parking lot along the way where you can stop and check out the sea life or go fishing, and there are also spots to camp further down the road. You will often times see seals and sea lions out there feeding and can get some great pictures of them enjoying their catch. With so many fish, though, there are usually bears near by, so please be cautious.

A brown bear in Valdez, Alaska near the hatchery.
A bear hanging out after dinner across the bay.

Once you leave your new seal friends, you’ll probably be heading into town. When you get very close you’ll end up on the “duck flats”. You’ll know you’re there when you can see town, and there’s mountain on one side and water on the other. You can sometimes see bears at the base of the mountain when you’re cruising by.

Last, but not least, I suggest heading to the Valdez Small Boat Harbor. As you pull into Valdez, signs will guide you to it, and once you’re close you can’t miss it. It’s a beautiful spot to take some photos of the boats and sea otters, and just relax after your journey to Valdez.

The Valdez Harbor.
Peaceful day at the Valdez Harbor.

Air

Plane

If you end up flying into Valdez you can get some great pictures as well. During the short 45-minute flight from Anchorage to Valdez, you’ll fly over some impressive scenery and even get a glimpse at the whole town as you prepare to land.

A view of Valdez, Alaska via plane.
Taking in the town from high above.

Helicopter

Another amazing viewing opportunity is by helicopter. With Vertical Solutions Helicopters you can get aerial views of waterfalls, glaciers, sea life and more. You can even land on a glacier, get some glacier water to drink, and walk around a bit. If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime photo opportunity, this would be it!

Water

Kayak

Another way to experience the beauty of Valdez is by water. One way to do this is by kayak. If you’re feeling a little stiff after sitting awhile on your way to town, this is a good way to work your muscles and shake off the jet lag (or driving lag). Even if you have no experience kayaking this is a perfect opportunity to learn and enjoy some of the sights at the same time.

Cruise

If you’re looking for a bit more of a leisurely tour of Prince William Sound, a glacier and wildlife cruise might be right up your alley. You’ll have the opportunity to see whales, glaciers, otters, and more.

View from Stan Stephen’s Cruise out of Valdez, Alaska.
Beautiful views on a glacier and wildlife cruise out of Valdez.

Ferry

One more way to get around the Sound is with the Alaska Marine Highway System, aka the ferry. If you plan on driving to Valdez and want to take a different way back to Anchorage, or visa versa, this is the perfect way to do it and see something a little different on the way there. You can just load up your vehicle on the ferry and be on your way to or from Whitter. From there, it’s a fairly short drive into Anchorage.

On the way to or from Valdez on the ferry, you can often see many otters, seals, and other wildlife. This is a good way to continue your trip and still get to see Prince William Sound if you’re short on time. You can even take the short jaunts over to Tatitlek or Cordova from Valdez if you want to explore some more. Another bonus of the Marine Highway System’s fleet is that they’re all fairly large and have bathrooms on board, so if you have children or just need to walk around to stretch your legs, this might be a perfect option for you.

This is just a short list of spots to check out, but there are so many more. You’ll never stop somewhere without having a beautiful view, so have your camera ready at all times. Feel free to comment or email me with any questions, or let me know about your Valdez experience. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tip, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have.

P.S. Just a heads up, be sure to bring extra SD cards, and have your battery charged because you’ll be snapping shots like paparazzi!

Please note that many of these places, businesses, activities, and views may vary greatly with the seasons. For any activities that require booking, I would highly recommend doing it ASAP since they tend to fill up quickly. Also, as with anything in Alaska, or any state, please be cautious of the wildlife and be sure to obey all Alaska Department of Fish and Game rules and regulations if you plan on hunting or fishing during your visit.

Fireweed blooming at Allison Point in Valdez, Alaska.
A beautiful day across the bay.

Filed Under: Alaska, Section Two Articles, Travel, Uncategorized, Valdez Tagged With: Alaska, Alaska Travel, Travel Alaska, Valdez, Wildlife

« Previous Page

Primary Sidebar

Search

Recent Posts

  • 7 Reasons You Should Visit Alaska During Winter
  • Valdez, Alaska Itinerary: The Best Things to Do and See
  • 11 Things You Must Have on a Summer Vacation in Alaska
  • An Alaskan’s Guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy
  • How to Layer Clothes for Winter Weather







Before Footer

Search

Footer




  • Home
  • Blog
  • Shop
  • Rules and Regs

Copyright © 2025 · Wellness Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in