The drive to Valdez from Fairbanks, Tok, and Anchorage provides breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, towering mountains, and incredible scenery. The picturesque Glenn Highway and Richardson Highway converge along the nation’s largest national park - Wrangell-St. Elias - holding nine of the 16 tallest peaks in the U.S. Whether driving from Anchorage, Tok, or Fairbanks, the community of Glennallen provides gas, food and lodging needs before continuing on to the Richardson Highway.
Copper Center is located on a loop just off of Mile 100 of the Richardson Highway, near the confluence of the Klutina River and the Copper River. Gas and groceries are available in Copper Center and there is a small historical museum open during the summer. The National Park Service operates the Copper Center Visitor Center Complex for the Wrangell St. Elias National Park. The visitors center is located approximately 10 miles south of the intersection of the Glenn Highway and the Richardson Highway. The Ahtna Cultural Heritage Center is located next door.
As you approach Valdez, watch for the sign to Worthington Glacier, one of Alaska's most accessible glaciers, when driving through the breathtaking Thompson Pass. Be ready to pull over and take in the majesty of the awe-inspiring Keystone Canyon, where cascading waterfalls greet you from towering canyon walls just before entering Valdez.
There is a shuttle service that runs from Anchorage to Valdez, Soaring Eagle Transit. Make sure to be aware of their schedule changes per season.
*Before hitting the road, make sure to check Alaska 511 for all roadwork, closure, and travel information.
Alaska's Prince William Sound is ringed by the coastal mountains of the Chugach Range and situated in the midst of the Chugach National Forest. Its 2,700 miles of coastline is home to the towns and villages of Chenega Bay, Cordova, Tatitlek, Whittier and Valdez. Ferry services to Valdez to/from Whittier and Cordova is provided by the Alaska Marine Highway. Local operators offer water taxis to other communities, bays and islands in Prince William Sound.
Getting to Valdez by air is a short 45-minute flight from Anchorage. Daily air service provided by Ravn Alaska takes you over the Chugach Mountains. Fly through the towering peaks and across vast glacial ice fields. Private charters are also available. Once in Valdez, local vehicle rentals are available in town.
