Valdez is one of Alaska’s most scenic small towns. Surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and Prince William Sound, it feels both remote and welcoming. Known for fishing, wildlife, and outdoor adventures, Valdez is also steeped in history, from the Gold Rush to the 1964 earthquake that reshaped the area.
For travelers, Valdez is more than a stop on an itinerary. It is a place to linger, enjoy the scenery, and take in activities you cannot find anywhere else. Whether you want to hike, kayak, or simply soak in the mountain views, Valdez has plenty to offer.
Visit Worthington Glacier
Worthington Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. Located along the Richardson Highway just outside of town, it can be reached by a short walk from the parking area. Trails take you closer to the ice, and interpretive signs explain its history and changes over time. It is an easy stop for families or anyone who wants to see a glacier up close without a long trek.
Explore Prince William Sound by Boat
Boat tours from Valdez are some of the best ways to experience the area. Day cruises take you into Prince William Sound to see tidewater glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Columbia Glacier and Meares Glacier are popular destinations. Along the way, you may see sea otters floating in the water, seals on icebergs, or whales surfacing in the distance.
If you prefer more independence, fishing charters are also available. Valdez is famous for salmon and halibut, and local captains know the best spots.
Hike in Keystone Canyon
Keystone Canyon is a narrow gorge just outside Valdez, known for its dramatic waterfalls and steep cliffs. Two of the most famous waterfalls are Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls, which are visible right from the road. Trails in the area let you stretch your legs and enjoy views of the rushing Lowe River.
For experienced hikers, the Goat Trail offers a more challenging route with historic significance, once part of the old Valdez Trail used during the Gold Rush.
Visit the Valdez Museum
The Valdez Museum tells the story of the town’s history, including the 1964 earthquake that destroyed the old town site, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and the Exxon Valdez oil spill. Exhibits include artifacts from the Gold Rush and Native Alaskan culture. Visiting the museum adds depth to the natural beauty you see outside, showing how people have lived and adapted here.
Go Kayaking in the Sound
Kayaking in Prince William Sound is an unforgettable experience. Paddling among icebergs, near waterfalls, or along the coast gives you a closer connection to the landscape. Guided tours are available for all levels, from short half-day trips to multi-day expeditions.
Wildlife sightings are common. Sea lions, puffins, and even porpoises might appear as you paddle. The calm waters of the Sound make kayaking accessible even to beginners.
Walk Along the Harbor
Valdez’s small boat harbor is the heart of town. Walking the docks, you see fishing boats heading out or unloading their catch. It is also the place to spot sea otters, which often float near the boats. Shops and restaurants line the harbor, making it a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.
See Solomon Gulch Hatchery
In summer, thousands of pink and silver salmon return to the Solomon Gulch Hatchery to spawn. It is fascinating to watch the fish gathering in the clear water. The hatchery has viewing platforms and interpretive signs explaining the salmon life cycle. Bald eagles often perch nearby, and black bears sometimes appear to fish.
Drive the Richardson Highway
The drive to and from Valdez along the Richardson Highway is an attraction in itself. The road passes through Thompson Pass, which is often snow-covered late into spring. Panoramic views, waterfalls, and alpine landscapes make it one of the most scenic drives in Alaska. Stop at viewpoints to take in the scale of the surrounding mountains.
Try Local Seafood
Valdez is known for fresh seafood, and trying it here is part of the experience. Halibut, salmon, and crab feature on many menus. Some restaurants prepare hearty Alaskan-style meals, while others focus on casual fish and chips. If you join a fishing charter, many local spots will even cook your catch for you.
Winter in Valdez
While most visitors come in summer, Valdez is also a winter destination. The town receives some of the highest snowfall in North America, averaging more than 300 inches a year. This makes it a haven for heli-skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing. Keystone Canyon’s waterfalls freeze into vertical walls of ice, attracting climbers from around the world.
Practical Tips for Visiting Valdez
- When to visit: Summer (June to August) is the most popular, with long days and active wildlife. Shoulder seasons in May and September are quieter but still rewarding. Winter is for experienced adventurers.
- Getting there: Valdez is accessible by road via the Richardson Highway, by ferry on the Alaska Marine Highway, or by air from Anchorage.
- Where to stay: Options range from campgrounds and RV parks to small hotels and inns. Advance reservations are wise in summer.
- What to pack: Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes. Even in summer, weather can change quickly.
Final Thoughts
Valdez combines the best of Alaska in a single destination. Glaciers, mountains, wildlife, and history come together in a town that feels both rugged and welcoming. You can spend a day walking the harbor, take a cruise to glaciers, or head out kayaking among sea otters.
For travelers who want a place that offers both adventure and quiet beauty, Valdez delivers. It is a reminder of how wild and varied Alaska can be, all within reach of a small coastal town.
