The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Tiekel Road Grade, which is located between the towns of Valdez and Chitina, was once part of the Richardson Highway. The road follows the Tiekel River for about three miles, offering gorgeous views and many opportunities for wildlife photography. Because it was once paved, this is an excellent spot for mountain biking, and the road grade provides easy access to the river and many fishing options. The road grade is also located near several spectacular wilderness areas, including Wrangell St. Elias National Park, so there are many options for other recreational activities as well.
No BLM camping is available at the Tiekel Road Grade, but there are many other camping options nearby. To find BLM sites that have campsites, search for “BLM camping near me.”
Located outside of Chitina, one of the closest towns to the Tiekel Road Grade, this trail provides many challenges but rewards hikers with breathtaking views.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Difficult
This trail can be a bit steep in places, but it provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Length: 4.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located in the nearby Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site, this trail offers fantastic, up-close views of the glacier.
Length: 1 mile
Intensity: Difficult
This trail offers beautiful views all year, but it’s particularly lovely during the spring and summer when wildflowers are abundant.
Length: 1 mile
Intensity: Easy
This gorgeous trail leads through cottonwood trees and ends at the ocean, near the town of Valdez, which is almost exactly 50 miles from the Tiekel Road Grade.
Length: 1.2 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Tiekel River is very popular with fly fishers, who often catch trout in the area. Many anglers also catch grayling and salmon. Fishing enthusiasts can also head to the nearby Tonsina River, which offers excellent trout, grayling, and salmon fishing options.
The Richardson Highway Crags are located on the same road as the Tiekel Road Grade, and they offer some of the best rock climbing options in the area. Sport, traditional, and top-rope climbs of varying difficulty are all available. There are also about 30 sport route options at the Valdez Glacier Campground.
Anyone enjoying the Tiekel Road Grade will have an opportunity to spot several native animal species. Moose, caribou, porcupines, squirrels, and marmots are among the most commonly spotted wildlife, but bears also frequent the area. Many native and migrating birds also stop at the river. Visitors can also see wildlife in several nearby locations, including Wrangell St. Elias National Park.
One of the best spots for a picnic in the area is at the Liberty Falls State Recreation Site. The site offers several picnic tables and provides easy access to gorgeous views and many recreational activity options. The Ciechanski Day Use Area, located on the Kenai River, is another excellent option. Visitors can use one of the picnic tables, and fishing enthusiasts can walk to the river to catch trout or grayling.
Snowmobiling is very popular in Alaska, and the Tiekel Road Grade is an excellent option for a short jaunt. There are also many trail options in the area that are specifically designed for snowmobile use. Many people also enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or dog sledding, all of which can be done using many of the area’s hiking or OHV trails.
BLM RV camping is always an option in the area around the Tiekel Road Grade. The Eagles Rest RV Park offers electric hookups, an on-site dump station, laundry areas, and showers. Wrangell View RV Park offers full hookups and a dump station. The Blueberry Lake State Recreation Area also offers peaceful RV camping. There are 25 sites with no limit on RV size, and restrooms, water, and four picnic shelters are available.
Glacier View Park offers Bureau of Land Management free camping near the Valdez Glacier. The area is secluded and remote, and the views are incredible. Kendesnii Campground in Wrangell St. Elias National Park is also a fantastic option for dispersed camping, and restrooms are available.
The Tiekel Road Grade is somewhat remote, so always pack emergency supplies and carry a GPS or compass and map to keep track of your bearings. Carry basic first aid supplies and bring plenty of water. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you will be and when you’re expected to return.
The Tiekel Road Grade extends for three miles to the Tiekel River before it is blocked by avalanche debris. Bicyclists, snowmobilers, and OHV riders won’t be able to continue, but hikers can bypass the debris on foot.
The area around the road grade sees relatively mild summers, but rain is common, and nights can be chilly. Winter temperatures can drop quickly, and for most of the winter, the temperature is well below freezing. Always be prepared for sudden inclement weather, and if you plan to stay in the area overnight, dress and pack warmly. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When visiting Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, always familiarize yourself with Leave No trace policies. Always stay on trails as much as possible and don’t disturb the plants in the area. If you see a wild animal, observe it from a safe distance. Campfires can make camping even more fun, but be sure to only build fires in controlled, designated areas such as fire pits, and only use locally sourced wood.
Take AK-4, also called the Richardson Highway, south to milepost 47. The road grade is located on the west side of the highway.
Ready to visit Tiekel Road Grade? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
