July 11 – Valdez, Alaska

When thinking of Valdez what jumps to mind? The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill? Maybe the disaster tsunami that destroyed the town back in 1964? Those were two huge events placing Valdez on the map, but there is so much more to this town. As Alaskan towns go it is larger than most with roughly 8,000 residents. Employment includes the oil industry, fishing industry, and tourism. The port accommodates some Alaskan bound cruise ships but not many, so the town is not overcome with each new docking.There are two glacier/wildlife sightseeing cruises out of Valdez. There are plenty of adventure activities available as well.

We are here for a full week so don’t expect a new posting for each day. We arrived on Sunday. Monday was a workday including getting the truck oil changed. With the dusty road into McCarthy and back the truck’s tailgate latch gummed up and would not open. We cleaned and lubricated it so it’s working fine for now. Who knows once we hit another dusty road. We explored town on our bikes plus checked out a few places outside of town.

Here are a few photos from earlier today.