Canyoneering

The valley surrounding Alyeska is rich in heritage and natural transformation. Glaciers, avalanches, floods and placer gold hydro-mining all helped form the region's spectacular landscape. Gorges and boulders, carved smooth by glacial silt from the surrounding Chugach Mountains, accent the natural beauty. Volcanic eruptions deposited ash into the surrounding forests, encouraging the growth of mushrooms, blueberries and salmon berries. These riches feed the black bear and the occasional moose, who all call this lush region home.

Canyoneering in the rugged terrain of this valley is a very rewarding experience. Alaska Backcountry offers a multi-activity 1/2 day trip to the nearby Crow Creek Mine. The mine is now a historic site, open to the public for gold panning and interpretative tours. After the mine, the adventure begins with a combination of hiking and canyoneering.

The tour listed below can be booked through Alyeska's Concierge Desk: 907-754-2108. The Concierge Desk is located next to the Front Desk at The Hotel Alyeska.

Gold Rush Canyoneering

This trip combines all the natural wonders and rich heritage of the region into a half-day adventure. This trip tests your skills - hiking, cayoneering and gold prospecting - all-the-while exploring the history of the Crow Creek Gold Mine. Learn first-hand the challenges and successes of early pioneers out in the wild West in search of gold.  The rainforest hike uses ropes to descend a thundering 60 foot waterfall in the Jurassic-like setting.  Once down, the challenge is to ascend the dry canyon carved by thousands of years of tumbling glacial water.  These adventures require climbing ladders, gripping ropes and balancing around boulders in steep terrain.

• Departs: 9:30 am and 3 pm
• Trip is 3 hours in length
• Complimentary transportation from/to hotel

Offered by Alaska Backcountry Access