Driving the road into Valdez is like stepping into another world. Just before the port town comes into view, the Richardson Highway winds through Keystone Canyon, a narrow gorge carved by the Lowe River, where towering rock walls rise straight up on either side. And spilling down those cliffs are some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Alaska.

Bridal Veil Falls

Perhaps the most iconic, Bridal Veil Falls tumbles nearly 600 feet in delicate, lacy streams that live up to its name. In the spring and early summer, when snowmelt is at its peak, the falls roar to life, mist drifting across the canyon. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Valdez, and it’s easy to see why this natural wonder is visible right from the roadside.

Horsetail Falls

Just around the bend is Horsetail Falls, another towering cascade that streams gracefully down the rock face. Unlike the fine spray of Bridal Veil, Horsetail has a steady, curtain-like flow that catches the light beautifully, especially in the long summer evenings. The two falls together create a dramatic “twin gateway” effect as you drive through the canyon.

Other Hidden Gems

While Bridal Veil and Horsetail take the spotlight, Keystone Canyon holds many smaller waterfalls that appear seasonally along the rock walls. After a good rain, you’ll often see dozens of thin ribbons of water trickling down the cliffs, turning the drive into a living postcard.

A Journey Through Time

The canyon itself is steeped in history. Early gold seekers once tried to blast a railroad route through the canyon, leaving behind the remnants of old hand-cut tunnels carved into the rock. These tunnels are still visible today and some can even be reached and explored right from the roadside, offering a fascinating look into the rugged determination of Alaska’s early pioneers. Just remember to take care when exploring, as the rock can be loose and the terrain uneven.

Lush greenery clings to the canyon walls, and the sound of rushing water fills the air. Between the waterfalls, the tunnels, and the sense of wild history, Keystone Canyon captures the raw beauty that defines Alaska.

Experience Keystone Canyon with Denali Backroads

Whether you’re cruising into Valdez for a weekend getaway or connecting it with a larger Alaska road adventure, Keystone Canyon is a must-see. With waterfalls cascading on either side of the road and historic tunnels waiting to be explored, it’s one of the most unforgettable stretches of highway anywhere in the state.

Book your Denali Backroads journey and let Alaska’s waterfalls be your welcome into Valdez, nature’s grand entrance to the Last Frontier.