Katmai National Park in Alaska is home to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, which is a geologic feature formed from one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in history.
The eruption of Novarupta volcano was in 1912, and it put out ash and volcano clastics over a large area, thus changing the physiography of the area. The avalanche of lava and pyroclastic materials buried the valley with ashes up to 200–700 feet deep and formed thousands of fumaroles, or steam vents, hence the appropriate name.
However, despite the fact that the fumaroles are pretty much extinct, the valley is a rather fascinating place to visit. Its plains, rocky formation, and desert like structure give it a renegade resemblance to the surface of the moon With all its barrenness, it sets up a complete contrast with the rich flora of the Alaskan region around it. The valley lies in a fairly isolated location and can only be reached by foot or a small aircraft for several hours through guided tours which means that those who enjoy their tour are actually roughing it.
This valley is one of the few volcanic regions that can attract many tourists, but even more than that it is a place that has a lot to offer. The brown bears are the main attraction at the Katmai National Park and these bears are seen in large numbers during the time of salmon run. People usually come to visit the Ten Thousand Smokes and the Brooks Falls where you can see the fishing of bears in mid-air.
Due to its accessibility and lack of amenities in the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, hiking and camping there means that one has to be fully prepared and be a little more independent. Still, the sort of loneliness and the strange scenery make the effort rewarding.
The valley is a unique region that is filled with the energy and power of the earth that nature provokes in man.
Mark