Things To Do in Valdez
Take time to explore scenic Valdez at the eastern end of Prince William Sound.
Things To Do in Valdez
Take time to explore scenic Valdez at the eastern end of Prince William Sound.
Things To Do in Valdez
Take time to explore scenic Valdez at the eastern end of Prince William Sound.
Things To Do in Valdez
Take time to explore scenic Valdez at the eastern end of Prince William Sound.
Things To Do in Valdez
Take time to explore scenic Valdez at the eastern end of Prince William Sound.
Valdez Things to Do
Valdez is located at the foot of towering mountains that seem to reach the sky, earning it the nickname of "Little Switzerland." The town sits at the head of Port Valdez, a fjord that complements the mountain peaks above. With the Richardson Highway providing road access in and out of the community, many visitors choose to drive to Valdez from Anchorage or Fairbanks, passing through stunning alpine country along the way.
An excellent way to become acquainted with Valdez is to stop at one of the community museums. Valdez has a fascinating history. These museums provide insight into those stories, including the gold rush, trans-Alaska pipeline, and the Good Friday earthquake of 1964, which was centered only 75 miles from the city.
Valdez is a mix of mountains and sea, with many massive glaciers filling the deep channels in between. A popular Valdez activity is the Columbia Glacier Cruise to one of the world's most rapidly retreating glaciers. You'll also spot seals, sea lions, and whales cruising around the sound. Interested in aerial views? Check out the Columbia Glacier Spectacular helicopter tour. Both the day cruise and heli tour are an excellent options for those staying locally at a Valdez hotel or farther afield at the Copper River Princess Lodge, which is two hours north by car.
With such natural beauty to explore, walking or hiking is a must in Valdez. The Valdez Visitor Center can provide guests with trail maps. Try the Dock Point trail for a view of Valdez Harbor, Old Town Valdez for a history lesson at the original town site prior to the 1964 earthquake, or the biking path from downtown toward the Chugach National Forest's Crooked Creek Information Center. Salmon frequent the creek and forest service staff are on hand to answer questions about Alaska's wild salmon populations.
Valdez is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a kayak tour around the Valdez Harbor to spot otters, seals, and an abundance of bald eagles feeding near the shore. Salmon fishing is plentiful in Valdez, so dropping your line into the cold, deep bay water can often yield big rewards.
Alaska Marine Highway System ferries call in Valdez on a regular basis, and regional airlines serve its small airport. Independent travelers can make the drive from Anchorage (six hours) or Fairbanks (five hours), stopping at the tiny community of Copper Center along the way.
