Shoup Bay State Marine Park

Located five miles southwest of Valdez, Alaska, Shoup Bay State Marine Park is famous for its haunting landscapes. Here, visitors enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hunting, fishing, hiking and wildlife-watching.

Landscapes

During a massive earthquake in 1964, a 150-foot tidal wave crashed against the coast, drastically altering the appearance of Shoup Bay. During this time, the Shoup Glacier receded more than a mile, exposing craggy landforms and creating a brackish lagoon. The uplands of the park consist of new growth alder and spruce forests. This variety of plant life supports a diverse population of wildlife.

Activities on the bay

Fishing in the lagoon is exceptional for those in small boats; there are opportunities to bring home salmon, yelloweye and halibut. The lagoon is only accessible during high tide, and fishermen must use relatively flat-bottomed boats. Watch out for icebergs and plan your trip to avoid changing tides. The park is a paradise for avid wildlife watchers. Here, you can spot bald eagles, arctic terns, geese, pelicans and abundant black-legged kittwakes, which nest on the rocky outcrops. If you are lucky, you may even spot a whale in the distance. Upland areas are popular for hunting and support large populations of moose, elk and bears. Primitive camping is available around the perimeter of the bay and there are three large public access cabins that are reservable for overnight stays.

Discover exciting adventures on trails or in the bay at Shoup Bay State Marine Park. Camp overnight and explore miles of trails and water.