Visit Valley of 10,000 Smokes, Katmai National Park

What: An epic valley in Katmai National Park that was at the center of the Novarupta eruption of 1910. Touring the valley offers a stunning experience of stepping back in time and understanding how this eruption has impacted the area since then.

When to go: Ideally accessed in the summer months between June and September.

How to get there: Touring the valley typically requires getting to Brooks Camp first, and most people do this tour as part of a visiting to see the bears fish off Brooks Falls. From here, you can book a day trip to explore the valley with Katmailand via an offroad bus. Alternatively, you can take a flight tour over the valley or book a multi night backpacking trip.

Tips:

• The day tour is likely the easiest way to access the valley. The tour involves riding on a lifted offroad bus for about 20 miles while enjoying epic views of Katmai. The tour then arrives to a hut that overlooks the stunning volcanic valley, and offers various signs describing the eruption of 1910. You can then choose to participate in a hike that takes you down to the valley floor – this is well worth doing to see how the landscape changed as a result of the eruption.
• The area can see significant rain all summer round, so pack accordingly.
• For those that want to truly experience the valley, the best way to do so is via a multi night backpacking trip. Book early since these spots can get taken up well in advance.