My husband and I visited Valdez as part of our Wrangell St-Elias adventure. It is a beautiful and charming coastal town in south-central Alaska. It affords visitors a wide range of activities and attractions. We spent one epic day exploring Valdez, Alaska. This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure that will give you a taste of what Valdez offers in just one day. Of course, there are many other great things to see and do in Valdez, so if you have more time, you can explore the town and its surroundings in greater depth.
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Getting to Valdez, Alaska, for your Guided Adventure
Valdez is a small town with several modes of transportation that can reach it. By car, the Richardson Highway (Alaska Route 4) is the main road that connects Valdez to the rest of Alaska. The highway runs from Fairbanks (6hrs) in the north to Valdez in the south and is a scenic drive on the Glenn Highway that takes approximately 5-6 hours from Anchorage.
Ravn Alaska provides air service to Valdez Airport (VDZ) a small airport. Daily flights to and from Anchorage. The flight takes approximately one hour and offers stunning views of the Alaska wilderness.
The Alaska Marine Highway ferry system operates a ferry service that stops in Valdez. The ferry runs from Whittier to Valdez and is a scenic trip that offers stunning views of Prince William Sound.
Sample One Day Itinerary Seeing Valdez Alaska
Valdez is a beautiful town with a lot to offer visitors, even if you only have a day to explore. This itinerary covers some of the top activities and sights. Feel free to customize it based on your interests and time constraints. Keep in mind that the weather in Valdez can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to plan for some flexibility in your schedule. Here’s a suggested itinerary for spending a grand day in Valdez:
- Start your morning with breakfast at one of the local cafes, such as The Fat Mermaid or The Roadside Potato Head.
- Visit the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive to learn about the history of the town and the surrounding area. The museum has exhibits on the Alaska Native cultures, the gold rush, the 1964 earthquake, and the Exxon Valdez oil spill.
- Midday: Drive out to the Valdez Glacier for a scenic hike or take a kayak tour to get up close to the glacier and its surrounding wildlife.
- Grab lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants, such as Nat Shack or Old Town Burgers .
- In the afternoon, take a boat tour of Prince William Sound, where you can see sea otters, whales, sea lions, and other marine life. The tours offer stunning views of glaciers and fjords.
- Go on a fishing excursion in one of the nearby rivers or streams. We know Valdez for its salmon fishing.
- In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants, such as Valdez Brewing or The Fat Mermaid.
- Catch the sunset over the Chugach Mountains from one of the town’s many scenic viewpoints such as Duck Flats or the Overlook Trail.
Start your Journey at the Valdez Visitor’s Center
We always start our day with a stop at the Visitor Center. The Valdez Visitor Center provides information and resources for visitors to the area. It serves as a hub for tourism-related inquiries, offering assistance, maps, brochures, and suggestions for activities and attractions in Valdez and the surrounding region.
The staff here can offer you guidance and suggestions for planning your itinerary based on your interests, available time, and desired experiences in Valdez. There are few exhibits to view on the local history and wildlife local to the area.
Just a Few Must-do Activities for Your One Day Itinerary Learning About Valdez Alaska
The Chugach Mountains and Prince William Sound offer a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, from hiking and camping to kayaking and wildlife watching. These natural wonders are an integral part of the Valdez experience and should not be missed. We have listed just a few of the activities that we enjoyed during our stay in Valdez.
1. Stroll Around the Original Valdez Townsite
The site is a great place to learn about the history of Valdez and the challenges that the city has faced over the years. The city of Valdez is four miles from milepost 0, and the old town site of Valdez was abandoned following the Good Friday earthquake. The Old Valdez Townsite was once the center of the town of Valdez, which was destroyed by the Great Alaska Earthquake of 1964.
We followed the 1.7 mile winding trail for a self-guided tour. Interpretive signs provide information about the history, including the old Valdez town hall, the original Valdez post office, and the old Valdez jail. A downloadable guide is available at the Valdez Historical Museum. QR Codes on the interpretive signs are also helpful.
Among the interesting locations was the Pinzon Bar. Besides being a place to socialize, it was the unofficial headquarters of Alaska’s Democratic Party. Clinton J. Egan, the brother of Alaska’s first elected governor, owned the business. Ironically, he permanently closed the bar on the day the 1964 earthquake struck. There is a replica of the 40-foot bar in the Valdez Historical Museum, said to be the longest in Alaska.
The most moving is the Valdez Memorial at the Post Office site. It was erected to honor the victims of the 1964 earthquake and the subsequent tsunami. The memorial features a memorial plaque with the names of those who lost their lives in the disaster from Chenega and Valdez. Another plaque is at the Valdez Memorial Cemetery that honors the victims on the Richardson Highway at Dayville Road.
2. Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery
Whether you’re interested in learning about the life cycle of salmon or simply want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, a visit to the Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery is a must do. Make your way to the Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery, located just a short distance from Valdez on Dayville Road. Open May–October, the hatchery offers self-guided tours that tell the story of the salmon. Operated by the Valdez Fisheries Development Association (VFDA), it plays a significant role in the conservation and management of fish populations in the region.
Built in 1982, it is a great place to learn about Alaska’s fisheries and the important role they play in the state’s economy and culture. Each year, the facility can incubate, rear, and release 270 million pink salmon and 2 million coho salmon. In a single year, this capacity allows for the release of 250 million pink salmon fry and 1.8 million Coho salmon smolts. Salmon begin arriving in mid-June, entering the facility via the fish ladder. The number of pink salmon and Coho salmon returning in each year is approximately 15.8 million and 83,000, respectively. This draws an array of predators including sea lions, eagles, and bears. Binoculars can be handy for observing wildlife from a distance.
Walk the Self-Guided Tour of the Hatchery
The informative exhibits and displays about salmon and other fish species found in Alaska were excellent and we enjoyed walking through them. We learned the primary purpose of the Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery is to support the enhancement and restoration of various salmon species, including pink salmon, chum salmon, and Coho salmon. The hatchery collects eggs and milt (sperm) from wild salmon returning to the Solomon Gulch area to spawn naturally.
Once the eggs and milt are collected, they are carefully incubated and nurtured within the hatchery’s facilities. The fish undergo different stages of development, from hatching to fry and eventually smolt, before they are released into the adjacent Solomon Gulch stream and ultimately the ocean.
What I found most interesting is the thermal marking process used to identify the hatchery raised fish. With the ongoing controversy surrounding hatchery, raised salmon, all Alaskan hatcheries tag their fish. Salmonid origin can be identified using otolith (ear bone) thermal marking, which involves causing distinctive structural marks on incubating fish using short-term temperature fluctuations during incubation. This hatchery uses six rings to identify their fish.
3. Guided Kayaking at Valdez Glacier
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to paddle right next to a glacier? We booked a guided tour with Anadyr Adventures kayaking at Valdez Glacier. This is an excellent way to experience the beauty and majesty of Alaska’s glaciers. The guides will provide all the equipment, including kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. They will lead you on a safe and informative tour of the glacier. During the paddle, we discovered the kayaks were pretty stable and easy to maneuver. One thing to remember is you’ll need to paddle to navigate through the icebergs and around the glacier. I always think that the immense size of glaciers makes you feel tiny. Kayaking around and through the glacial tunnels is a completely different experience than taking a boat cruise. It was life changing. Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or a beginner, we found this to be a memorable experience.
Note: The water at Valdez Glacier is freezing, so it’s important to dress appropriately for kayaking. Wear warm, waterproof clothing, and bring a hat and gloves to protect against the cold.
4. Learn History Exploring the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive
This was our first stop after arriving in town. In the heart of downtown, the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive tells the story of this town’s history, culture, and people. The exhibits follow a timeline covering the native Alaskan communities that lived in the area for thousands of years through to the town’s development as a hub for the fur trade, gold mining, and oil exploration. The cost of a ticket will give you access to both locations (Egan Drive and Hazelet Ave) for a reasonable price.
Great Alaska Earthquake of 1964
We spent 2 hours exploring the exhibits that showcase Valdez’s maritime heritage, highlighting the town’s role as a vital port and its connection to the sea. Chronicled here is the story of the most devastating accidents in Alaskan history. The earthquake occurred on March 27, 1964, with a magnitude of 9.2, making it the second largest earthquake ever recorded. In Valdez, the earthquake triggered a series of destructive events. The city experienced severe ground shaking, causing buildings, infrastructure, and the waterfront area to suffer significant damage. The shaking also generated a series of tsunamis, which affected coastal communities, including Valdez.
Discovering the stories of brave fishermen, intrepid explorers, and the devastating impact of the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake and subsequent tsunami. One of the most interesting display was on the 1964 earthquake, which was the second-largest earthquake ever recorded. The interactive includes photos, artifacts, and personal accounts from those who experienced the earthquake and its aftermath.
We Didn’t Know it Couldn’t Be Done-Alyeska Pipeline
The museum features a fascinating array of artifacts and exhibits related to the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill. The spill ravaged the Prince William Sound ecosystem and had a profound impact on the town of Valdez and coastal communities. There is also an exhibit at the museum dedicated to the Alyeska pipeline. The construction of the Alyeska Pipeline began in 1974, and it was completed in 1977. The pipeline stretches approximately 800 miles and traverses diverse terrains, including tundra, forests, and mountains. It was a monumental engineering feat that required innovative techniques to overcome challenges, such as permafrost, earthquakes, and harsh weather.
Whether you’re interested in the town’s native Alaskan heritage, its role in the oil industry, or its recovery from natural disasters, there’s something for everyone at this museum.
5. Trolley Tour Around Downtown Valdez
If you’re interested in learning about Valdez’s history, a guided trolley tour of the downtown area can be a great option. We boarded the charming trolley and settled into ours seat. As the tour began, the knowledgeable guide provides an informative commentary, sharing interesting facts, stories, and historical anecdotes about Valdez. The trolley tour will make stops at key points of interest, such as the Valdez Small Boat Harbour, the historic town center, and other notable landmarks. The trolley tour also includes visits to attractions like the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive or other notable sites, providing an opportunity to delve deeper into Valdez’s history and culture.
You can get off to explore historic buildings like the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum and learn about the town’s past as a gold rush boomtown and fishing hub. A hidden gem that showcases an incredible private collection of Inuit artifacts and taxidermy Alaskan wildlife. The museum is on the campus of Prince William Sound College.
Walking around the campus, we found the Whispering Giant statue. Peter Toth has been creating his iconic “Whispering Giants” since 1971, and has now carved over 70 of these amazing sculptures in 50 states. Standing 30 feet tall, 10 feet wide and weighing 85,000 pounds. He carved this impressive sculpture out of Sitka Spruce. It was the 40th “giant” when it was completed in October 1981. Peter Toth’s work has touched many hearts and will be remembered for generations to come.
6. Valdez Waterfront Promenade & Small Boat Harbor
Consider taking a stroll along the Valdez waterfront promenade. Start at the Marine Ferry terminal, walking toward the small boat harbor. Taking a leisurely walk along the Valdez Waterfront Promenade gave us a chance to immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of this coastal town. Adding this to your itinerary, you enjoy scenic views, encounter local artwork, and embrace the relaxed ambiance of Valdez. The first thing you notice is the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Valdez Bay. We began our excursion along the boardwalk, following the paved pathway to the small boat harbor. As you walk, keep an eye out for interpretive signs that provide interesting information about the local history, wildlife, and geography of the area.
Kelsey Dock is a commercial and recreational dock. The dock area is also a popular spot for anglers looking to cast their lines and try their luck at catching local fish species. We watched a few locals catch rock fish before moving on. The newly constructed interpretive center provides information for cruise shop passengers with several small exhibits.
New Kelsey Dock Interpretive Center
There is an awe-inspiring collection of public art installations on the waterfront. The wood carvings of Jellyfish and a mermaid are located at the Kelsey Dock. Most impressive is the Alaska Pipeline Memorial (Workforce) by Malcolm Alexander. It is a memorial dedicated to the construction and completion of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) that runs from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez. Located beside the Alyeska Pipeline Terminal, the statue depicting five workers who helped build the pipeline. The most notable workers represent a woman teamster, and an Alaska Native worker. The statue contains a plaque that has the motto of the pipeline workers: “We didn’t know it couldn’t be done,” a testament to the thousands of people who built a project that helped build the Alaska we know today.
7. Book a Fishing Charter Excursion
When booking a fishing excursion in Valdez, it’s important to choose a reputable charter company that provides experienced guides and all the necessary equipment. You should also consider the time of year, weather, and your own skill level when selecting a fishing trip. Valdez has excellent halibut fishing, and there are many charter companies that offer halibut fishing trips. You can expect to catch fish that weigh anywhere from 20 to 300 pounds. Many fishing charters offer salmon fishing trips during the summer. There is also remarkable fishing for rockfish and lingcod, which are found in the deeper waters off the coast.
7. A Must-Do Glacier Boat Tour of Prince William Sound
One of the most prominent activities in Valdez is a tour of Prince William Sound. There are several tour operators to choose from in Valdez that offer boat tours of Prince William Sound. This area has a rich in history and ecology. We used Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises to see the Columbia glacier. The early tour begins at 7:30am. During the 6-hour tour, the guides gave us an informative commentary on the area’s natural and cultural history. We also were told about glacial formation, and calving events. Prince William Sound is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea otters, seals, whales, and bald eagles. So be sure to bring your camera to capture the incredible views of glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and wildlife. Truly the highlight of Valdez!
8. Go on a Hike at Dock Point Park & Trail
The Dock Point Trail is on Dock Point, a small peninsula jutting out into the Prince William Sound near downtown Valdez. It is easily accessible from the town center, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. The Dock Point Trail is one-mile loop. It typically takes around 30-minutes to complete at a leisurely pace. The trail is well-maintained, with a combination of gravel and boardwalk sections. The Dock Point Trail is a relatively short and easy hike, suitable for all skill levels. The trail loop offers panoramic views of the harbor, Duck Flats, and the Chugach Mountains.
NOTE: Dock Point is directly next to the small boat harbor and South Harbor Road. There are picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and ample parking.
Along the trail, you’ll find interpretive signs that provide information about the local flora, fauna, geology, and history of the area. These signs offer educational insights, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the natural environment. Keep an eye out for wildlife during your hike. The surrounding waters and forests are home to a variety of animals, including bald eagles, sea otters, seals, and occasionally even whales. Binoculars can be handy for observing wildlife from a distance.
TIP: It’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as conditions in Valdez can be variable. Bringing water, sunscreen, and insect repellent is also advisable, especially during the summer months.
One Day Itinerary Exploring Valdez, Alaska-Richardson Highway Stops
The Richardson Highway is the main highway into Valdez. It stretches from the city of Valdez on the southern coast of Alaska, through the interior of the state, and ends in Fairbanks, the second-largest city in Alaska. Much of the drive from Glenallen to Valdez is scenic with snow-capped mountain vistas, waterfalls, and ample opportunities to view wildlife. It really takes your breath away. The vistas are stunning!
1. Explore Worthington Glacier (MM 29)
Situated 28-miles east of Valdez, is the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site. From the park you can hike up to the glacier or view it from a viewing platform. It is a beautiful yet fascinating natural wonder. It gives you a chance to experience the awe-inspiring power of nature firsthand. The Worthington Glacier is approximately 4 miles long and 1 mile wide. Sitting at an elevation of about 4,000 feet, cars can easily reach it. It is a relatively accessible as it is right next to the Richardson Highway. The trail up to the glacier is a 2.3-mile loop. Paying our parking fee, we had the trail all to ourselves. Lots of snow still covered the trail. The only sound was the from birds. It was solitude at its best.
Note: There is a $5 day use/parking fee for this site. There are picnic tables, a visitor’s center, and restrooms here.
2. Drive Over Thompson Pass (MM 26)
Thompson Pass is a 2,600 foot-high gap named after explorer and prospector Frank Thompson, who discovered the pass in 1899 while searching for gold in the area. The pass is said to have the highest snowfall accumulation in Alaska. Snowfall at Thompson Pass averages 550 inches a year. A record-breaking 62 inches of snow fell on this city in 1955. We could see lots of snow remaining at this high elevation. The cold spring limited the amount of melting usually seen at this time of the year. It was still quite beautiful to look at.
3. Discover the Spectacular Keystone Canyon (MM 12)
The canyon is known for its stunning natural beauty, including towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. It is also historically significance. During the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century, the canyon was a major transportation route for miners and prospectors traveling to and from the gold fields in the Yukon. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable destination.
Captain W.R. Abercrombie of the US Army named the canyon after the “Keystone State” of Pennsylvania in 1898. Abercrombie and his men cut a trail through the canyon and over Thompson Pass that same year. The Richardson Highway, which passes through Keystone Canyon, offers several designated roadside pullouts where you can stop and admire the magnificent views.
View the Incredible Waterfalls in Keystone Canyon
This canyon is incredible in the spring, with a multitude of waterfalls flanking the canyon. We lost count as waterfalls cascade down almost every mountainside. Chasing waterfalls, we made the pullouts to both Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls.
Our first pullout was to Bridal Veil Falls (MM 14). It is one of the most prominent attractions in Keystone Canyon. So named after its resemblance to a bride’s veil as the water tumbles down from a height of approximately 1,000 feet. The waterfall is a spectacular sight, especially when the snowmelt swells the flow of water. Even in the misty cloud covered day, it was easy to appreciate the falls.
Our next pullout was only a short distance down the highway. Right beside the road, Horsetail Falls is a gorgeous waterfall that resembles the flowing tail of a horse, hence its name. Again, this waterfall was quite impressive because of snowmelt. A short trail allows visitors to scramble up the mountainside for better pictures;
The Keystone Canyon Trail, a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
4. The Old Railroad Tunnel (MM 18.9)
We stopped at the tunnel location on our way out of town. Just off the Richardson highway, it is easy to miss. The parking lot is beside Rundleston Falls, at the bridge crossing the Lowe River. Hand-drilling through solid rock makes the tunnel a significant engineering feat. The tunnel measures approximately 360 feet and was completed in 1910. Sadly, people have vandalized the rock with graffiti. (I removed most of it from the image).
At the entrance is an interpretive sign that explains the tunnels origin. Worker’s hand-cut this tunnel into the solid rock of Keystone Canyon, and it’s the only remaining piece of the “railroad era.” Nine companies battled to claim the quick route from the coast to the Copper Country. However, a feud interrupted progress. A gun battle broke out, and nobody finished the tunnel. You can read about the tunnel and these events in Rex Beach’s novel, The Iron Trail (free for kindle).
Note: Visitors should know the tunnel is unlit, and there may be water on the ground inside the tunnel, so it’s important to bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes
Best Places to Dine in Valdez
When in Valdez, one must partake of some of its fresh seafood. So if you’re visiting the town, be sure to try some of the local seafood restaurants. Here are some of the best places to eat in Valdez:
- Old Town Burgers has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a casual dining area and outdoor seating available in the summer months. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and is a great spot to grab a quick and satisfying meal in Valdez.
- The Roadside Potato Head. is close to the harbor in a small shack. We discovered its sister location in McCarthy earlier in the week. They serve up tasty potato-based dishes and delicious burritos. This location has a casual and friendly atmosphere, with outdoor seating available in the summer months.
- The Fat Mermaid is right on the waterfront. This funky place is great for fresh seafood and a cold beer while taking in the harbor views. The menu features classic fresh Alaskan salmon or other local specialties, savoring the flavors of the region. We indulged in a delightful fish & chip lunch-delicious!
- The Nat Shack is a popular food truck that serves up delicious and unique dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Some of the most delicious items include the salmon poke bowl, Korean-style beef tacos, and the Baja fish tacos. We just stumbled upon the food truck near the harbor as it is open only during the summer months, from May to September.
Best Places to Play and Stay in Valdez
Valdez offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best accommodation options in Valdez:
- The Best Western Valdez Harbor Inn in the heart of Valdez offering stunning views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. Their rooms are spacious, making them super comfortable. The hotel provides a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center.
- Thi locally owned and operated, the Totem Hotel & Suites are well-appointed. The rooms are spacious. Lots of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a complimentary breakfast.
- The Keystone Hotel is a historic hotel with cozy rooms. Amenities including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a lounge area with a fireplace.
- The Robe Lake Lodge is a rustic lodge 10 miles from Valdez. Set beautiful wilderness location. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
- The Eagle’s Rest RV Park and Cabins have a variety of accommodations. These include cabins, RV sites, and tent sites. Amenities including free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a picnic area with barbecue grills.
Final Thoughts on Our Epic One Day Journey Learning about Valdez
Valdez, Alaska, is a remarkable place with a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. Exploring the city and its surroundings offers a range of exciting experiences and opportunities to connect with the region’s past and present. If you only have one full day to spend in Valdez, there are a myriad of activities to explore that everyone can enjoy. We loved our fascinating glimpse into the history of Valdez and the challenges that the city has faced over the years. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery of Alaska, Valdez is definitely worth a visit.
We hope you get a chance to journey through Valdez, as it is truly rewarding, and I encourage you to continue your exploration of this fascinating part of Alaska whenever you have the opportunity. Safe travels!
What will you do with an Epic One Day Itinerary Discovering Valdez Alaska? What activities did you like best in Valdez? Let us know in the comments below.
