Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road

The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road is primarily a primitive, 22.3- to 23.2-mile-long gravel road. It has an average width of about 10 feet and features three river ford crossings, as there are no bridges along the route. While the road itself is generally less than a 1% grade, the surface can be challenging due to its gravel nature. If you venture off the main road onto trails within the Valley, the terrain becomes significantly more rugged, with deep ash flow, incised canyons, and often unmaintained paths.

Jogging the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road is classified as a 'hard run' requiring 'very good fitness'. The route is nearly 23 miles long with a total ascent that can reach up to 2,910 feet. The primitive gravel surface and the three river ford crossings add to the challenge. Trails beyond the main road are even more difficult, often unmaintained, and feature hazardous river crossings.

The route offers a dramatic landscape shaped by the 1912 Novarupta eruption, the largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century. You'll experience an otherworldly, 'desert-like moonscape' of ash-covered ground, ringed by glaciated volcanoes like Mount Katmai, Mount Griggs, and Novarupta. The road itself is designed to highlight these stunning views and vistas.

Yes, the road offers several points of interest. You'll pass by the Lake Brooks Seaplane Base and the Brooks Camp Visitor Center near the start. Further along, you'll cross the Bridge over Brooks River. The route also features a dedicated Viewpoint — Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road, offering expansive views of the volcanic landscape.

Despite the volcanic landscape, the Valley and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. You might spot brown bears, caribou, wolves, and various bird species. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow park guidelines for wildlife encounters.

The best time to visit Katmai National Park and jog this road is typically during the summer months, from June through September, when the weather is milder and the road is accessible. However, strong winds are common, and conditions can change rapidly. Always check current weather forecasts and park conditions before heading out.

Access to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road is typically from Brooks Camp, which is the main hub in Katmai National Park. Brooks Camp itself is usually accessed by air taxi or floatplane. From Brooks Camp, the road begins, and there are internal transport options within the park, often involving shuttle services, to reach the start of the road or specific points along it. Independent vehicle access is generally not available.

No, pets are generally not permitted on trails or in undeveloped areas of Katmai National Park and Preserve, which includes the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road. This regulation is in place to protect both the wildlife and your pet. Service animals are an exception, but specific regulations apply.

Katmai National Park and Preserve does not currently charge an entrance fee. However, you will need to arrange transportation to Brooks Camp, which is the primary access point for the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road, typically via air taxi or floatplane. There are no specific permits required for jogging the road itself, but always check the official National Park Service website for any updated regulations or backcountry permit requirements if you plan to venture off the main road for extended periods.

Yes, the route passes through sections of several other paths near Brooks Camp, including the Boardwalk Trail, Brooks Falls Trail, Brooks Bridge Trail, Brooks Camp Foot Trail, Campground Beach Trail, Camp Trail, Cultural Site Trail, Park Avenue, Ranger Station Trail, and Generator Trail.

Given the length, primitive nature, and remote location of the road, you should be well-prepared. Essential items include plenty of water (as it can be scarce in parts of the Valley), appropriate layers for changing weather conditions, sturdy jogging shoes suitable for gravel and potentially uneven surfaces, navigation tools, bear spray, and emergency supplies. Strong winds are common, so be ready for that. Always inform someone of your plans.