Dock Point Trail

The feel

Boardwalks lead through a wildflower meadow with spruce trees, ferns, skunk cabbage and ground dogwood. Two boardwalks lead to the East and West Overlook platforms, which look out over Harbor Cove and the Port of Valdez.

An eagle's nest on one of the islands can be seen from the north side of the trail, and many bird species gather in the adjacent Duck Flats. It is an easy loop that suits families and pets.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 0.83 miles round trip, with about 50 ft of gain. The trail stays flat on a lower road back to the gate.

Time

About 30 minutes.

Parking

Gravel lot at the trailhead, at the end of a large parking and picnic area off Kennicott Ave and Kobuk Drive, across the road from the Valdez Small Boat Harbor.

Dogs

Suits pets as well as families.

Kids

Easy and family-friendly.

Hazards

A steep ascent on part of the loop. Some of the peninsula is bear habitat. Wild celery may cause skin irritation, and Devil's Club is prickly.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms, picnic tables, a pavilion, a BBQ grill and a fire pit are at the trailhead.

Season and access

Berries and mushrooms can be seen on the trail in late summer.

Mingo says

Walk the loop clockwise to skip the steep hill. Late summer adds berries and mushrooms along the way.

Before you go

• Wear good footwear, since parts of the trail are inclined.
• Stay on the marked trail, because some of the peninsula is bear habitat.
• The eagle's nest can be seen from the north side of the trail.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.