Valdez, Alaska, offers breathtaking fjords, towering mountains and rich history as the terminus of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. This picturesque town provides access to Prince William Sound's stunning glaciers and marine wildlife, making it a paradise for adventurers, nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Worthington Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska and a must-see for visitors to Valdez. Located approximately 30 miles from town along the Richardson Highway, the glacier offers a unique opportunity to experience Alaska's glacial landscapes up close. As you approach the glacier, you are greeted by the sight of its massive ice field, sparkling in shades of blue and white. The surrounding area is dotted with interpretive signs that provide insights into the glacier's formation, its movement and the broader impact of climate change on these ancient ice masses. Hiking trails around the glacier allow visitors to explore the area at their own pace. One popular trail leads to a viewing platform that offers spectacular vistas of the glacier and the surrounding peaks. For the more adventurous, guided ice climbing and glacier hiking tours are available, providing an unforgettable experience of walking on the glacier itself.
The Valdez Museum and Historical Archive is a treasure trove of artefacts and exhibits that chronicle the rich history of Valdez and its surroundings. Located in the heart of Valdez, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the area's past, from its indigenous cultures to its role in the Gold Rush and the development of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. One of the museum's standout exhibits is dedicated to the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, which devastated Valdez and led to the relocation of the town. Through photographs, personal accounts and interactive displays, visitors can gain a deep understanding of the earthquake's impact and the resilience of the Valdez community. The museum also features exhibits on the Exxon Valdez oil spill, one of the most significant environmental disasters in U.S. history. Artefacts, videos and personal stories help visitors grasp the scale of the spill and its long-term effects on the environment and local communities. Additionally, the museum showcases the area's maritime heritage, including exhibits on fishing, shipping and the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline.
A wildlife and glacier cruise in Prince William Sound is one of the most popular and breathtaking activities in Valdez. These cruises take you through the pristine waters of the sound, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. The highlight of any cruise in Prince William Sound is the opportunity to see the majestic Columbia Glacier, one of the largest tidewater glaciers in North America. Watching massive chunks of ice calve off the glacier and crash into the sea is an awe-inspiring sight. The sound is also home to a diverse array of wildlife. Passengers on these cruises can expect to see sea otters lounging on ice floes, harbour seals sunbathing on rocks and playful pods of dolphins and porpoises. The waters are also frequented by humpback whales and orcas, which often surface near the boats, providing incredible photo opportunities. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the sight of puffins, bald eagles and numerous seabirds that inhabit the area.
Which cruise lines sail to Valdez?
