Shoup Bay Trail

The feel

The trail starts at Shoup Bay Park at the very end of Egan Drive and runs through spruce and alder forest along the coast of Port Valdez. It crosses the West Mineral Creek flats at the base of the Chugach Mountains, where remnants of early mining operations from 1914 remain, and then several streams before opening into a meadow with views of Port Valdez.

Bears are often seen near the creeks, and boots are strongly recommended. It ends at the Gold Creek camping area, which has restrooms, food lockers and a firepit.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 6.5 miles round trip, with 485 to 680 ft of gain. A flat start across the Mineral Creek flats, several stream crossings, a meadow, then a steeper rise to Gold Creek. Expect mud and brush.

Time

About 3 to 4 hours round trip.

Parking

Parking is provided on site at Shoup Bay Park.

Hazards

Bears near the creeks. The Gold Creek riverbed can flood and stream routes change often, which can make reaching Gold Creek Bridge from Valdez challenging.

Mingo says

Dress for wet feet on the flats. Stream routes shift often, which can complicate the last leg.

Before you go

• Wear boots; mud and brush are part of the trail.
• Use the Gold Creek food lockers if you stop there.
• To reserve a State Park Cabin in Shoup Bay, call 907-269-8400.

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