Many people have heard of Thompson Pass, but plenty continue on their drive after passing through it to reach the valley below and the small seaside town of Valdez. But this overlook in Alaska is worth stopping for; with views for miles in every direction, there’s something breathtaking to be seen, no matter where you look.
Many people are familiar with the famous Thompson Pass.
Alan Majchrowicz via Stockbyte Collection / Getty Images Rising all the way to 2,678 feet, this high mountain pass resides in the Chugach Mountain range between Valdez and Glenallen. 82.5 miles long, it finishes with a view of the valley below that will absolutely blow you away.
The pass is one of the snowiest places in the state, but it’s open all year long.
John Elk / The Image Bank / Getty Images The pass is home to waterfalls, glaciers, and plenty of things to see and do. But the overlook, once you emerge, is something truly special.
If you’re driving the Richardson Highway towards Valdez, when you make it through the last couple of curves through the pass, the view opens up to a stunning scene.
Alan Majchrowicz via Stockbyte Collection / Getty Images A vast valley below you divides the next mountain range across the way. Depending on the time of year, you might see snow-capped mountain tops or rolling green landscapes.
There are a couple of unofficial places to pull over once the view appears.
John Elk / The Image Bank / Getty Images Pull over into any of the dirt or sandy pull-outs to sit and enjoy the view. After a long drive this is a great place to take a break.
There’s a hidden campground nearby, too.
John Elk / The Image Bank / Getty Images The Blueberry Lake State Recreation Area has a stunning lake and a couple of campsites. And it offers the same views that you get from the overlook right above you.
Many people choose to spend the day here exploring.
Alan Majchrowicz via Stockbyte Collection / Getty Images There’s a couple of trails, and plenty of room to wander around. Because you’re up above the tree line, you won’t need to worry about getting lost.
Make time in your trip to pull over and soak in the views.
Alan Majchrowicz via Stockbyte Collection / Getty Images Pack a picnic, stretch your legs, and be prepared to be wowed. This is one special spot you’ll want to soak in for awhile.
Have you ever stopped at this overlook in Alaska? What did you think? Was it absolutely breathtaking? Let us know in the comments below!
Alan Majchrowicz via Stockbyte Collection / Getty Images
Rising all the way to 2,678 feet, this high mountain pass resides in the Chugach Mountain range between Valdez and Glenallen. 82.5 miles long, it finishes with a view of the valley below that will absolutely blow you away.
John Elk / The Image Bank / Getty Images
The pass is home to waterfalls, glaciers, and plenty of things to see and do. But the overlook, once you emerge, is something truly special.
A vast valley below you divides the next mountain range across the way. Depending on the time of year, you might see snow-capped mountain tops or rolling green landscapes.
Pull over into any of the dirt or sandy pull-outs to sit and enjoy the view. After a long drive this is a great place to take a break.
The Blueberry Lake State Recreation Area has a stunning lake and a couple of campsites. And it offers the same views that you get from the overlook right above you.
There’s a couple of trails, and plenty of room to wander around. Because you’re up above the tree line, you won’t need to worry about getting lost.
Pack a picnic, stretch your legs, and be prepared to be wowed. This is one special spot you’ll want to soak in for awhile.
After you cruise down into the valley and the famous Keystone Canyon, don’t forget that You Can Practically Drive Right Up To The Beautiful Horsetail Falls In Alaska.
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Address: Thompson Pass, Alaska 99686, USA