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Katmai National Park & Preserve
Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Tour
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The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Tour
On June 6th, 1912, a previously unknown volcanic vent (Novarupta) erupted in the largest volcanic eruption of the 20th Century. The lush, green Ukak river valley was buried beneath hundreds of feet of incandescent ash at temperatures of up to 2000°F! This caused the water underneath the ash to become superheated and work its way up through the ash to the surface. These discharges of steam escaped from thousands of cracks and fissures to become fumaroles, giving the valley its name. Today, the valley floor has cooled significantly since the eruption and the "smokes" have disappeared. However, the "Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes" is the only substantial ignimbrite sheet to have formed during recorded history. Besides its beauty, the size of the eruption, collapse of a mountain, and its continued scientific value make this a unique feature in the world. It was this eruption that inspired Robert Griggs & the National Geographic Society to campaign for the establishment of Katmai National Monument so that future generations could explore this natural wonder. During the operating season, daily tours are offered to this volcanic valley. Each day from June 1st to September 17th, you can take the bus tour from Brooks Camp out the 23 mile (36 km) park road to explore a tiny piece of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes with a Park Service Interpreter. The road to the valley travels through the boreal forest, crossing three streams, and into the alpine tundra before arriving at Griggs Visitor Center. After a brief break for lunch, there is time for an optional trip down to the valley floor to see the ash layer close up. The trail is three miles long and drops 800 vertical feet. However, keep in mind that once down on the valley floor to save enough energy for the arduous climb back to the top. Be sure to bring water, rain gear, warm clothing, and sturdy hiking boots for the trip. A fee is charged for the bus tour and reservations can be made from Katmailand, the park concessioner. Click here to go to the Katmailand website.
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Katmai Volcanoes (19 Photos)
A collection of volcanic images
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 Free Witness eBook! Download your free copy. more... | |  360º Interactive Panorama Click here for a 360º view from the edge of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Requires QuickTime more... | |
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Did You Know?
The world's largest run of Sockeye salmon occurs in Bristol Bay, Alaska each summer. Part of those salmon move into Katmai National Park using the Naknek drainage and end up at Brooks Camp. This is why so many bears gather in July on the Brooks River Falls.
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Last Updated: August 28, 2006 at 13:34 EST |