How to Get to Valdez, Alaska: By Car, Ferry, Cruise Ship, Plane
Getting to Valdez, Alaska is an adventure in itself. This small town, tucked between towering mountains and surrounded by glaciers, offers some of the most stunning scenery in the state. But reaching this hidden gem can feel challenging if you don’t know your options. Whether you’re driving, flying, taking the ferry, or arriving on a cruise ship, I’ll break down the best ways to get to Valdez. This guide is designed to make your trip planning easy, stress-free, and enjoyable. I’ll cover everything you need to know—route details, travel times, and what to expect along the way. Let’s start making your journey to Valdez as smooth and exciting as possible!
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Getting to Valdez: Our Experiences
Chris and I have explored Valdez multiple times over the years. One memorable trip was driving from Fairbanks along the stunning Richardson Highway in our RV. We’ve also traveled from Anchorage via the Glenn Highway in a rented Jeep Wrangler with a rooftop tent, which gave us a fantastic camping experience.
One of our earliest visits to Valdez was during a big nine-month Alaska RV trip when we first entered Alaska through the Alaska Highway. We also have experience taking Alaska’s ferries, so we share tips about taking the ferry from Whittier, an incredible way to see Prince William Sound.
As seasoned Alaska cruisers, we’ve got some great tips on visiting Valdez as a cruise port. Each trip has given us unique insights, and we’re excited to share them with you.
Exploring the Best Ways to Travel To Valdez
Here’s a detailed preview of the travel options to Valdez we’ll cover in this article:
- Driving from Anchorage to Valdez: 300 miles via the Glenn and Richardson Highways, about 6 hours of scenic driving.
- Driving from Fairbanks to Valdez: 360 miles along the Richardson Highway, taking 7 to 8 hours with incredible views of Alaska’s wilderness.
- Traveling by Ferry from Whittier: A 6-hour ferry ride across Prince William Sound with stunning glacier views, wildlife spotting, and vehicle transport options.
- Flying from Anchorage to Valdez: A 45-minute flight offering breathtaking aerial views of the Chugach Mountains and Prince William Sound.
- Arriving by Cruise Ship: Valdez is a stop for smaller expedition ships like Holland America, Viking, and Scenic Cruises, giving you easy access to town and nearby attractions.
If you’re building your itinerary, our Valdez travel guide can help you connect all the highlights into one route.
How to Get to Valdez from Anchorage by Car
Driving from Anchorage to Valdez is one of Alaska’s most scenic road trips. The journey covers about 300 miles and takes 5,5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions. You’ll follow the Glenn Highway (AK-1) and the Richardson Highway (AK-4). Here’s a step-by-step guide and map:
Start on the Glenn Highway (AK-1)
Leave Anchorage heading north on the Glenn Highway, which takes you out of the city and into the wilderness. The road winds through lush valleys and alongside the Chugach Mountains. Make sure to stop at scenic overlooks like the Matanuska Glacier, which is a great spot for photos or a short hike.
Join the Richardson Highway (AK-4) at Glennallen
After about 180 miles, you’ll reach the small town of Glennallen. Here, you’ll merge onto the Richardson Highway. This stretch of road will take you south toward Valdez. The views are incredible, with mountains towering over the highway and waterfalls lining the route.
Pass by Worthington Glacier and Thompson Pass
As you get closer to Valdez, the landscape becomes even more dramatic. You’ll drive past the Worthington Glacier, which you can easily stop and visit. Shortly after, you’ll cross Thompson Pass, known for its deep snowfalls in winter and breathtaking views year-round. Be cautious here during the colder months, as road conditions can change quickly. The picture below was taken on May 27th.
Drive Through Keystone Canyon
The final stretch takes you through the stunning Keystone Canyon. This narrow gorge is home to towering waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls, which are visible from the road.
Arrive in Valdez
After a scenic descent, you’ll arrive in Valdez. The town is small but full of charm, and towering mountains and the waters of Prince William Sound will surround you.
This route offers plenty of opportunities to pull over and enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty, so take your time and soak it all in. The roads are well-maintained, but always check conditions, especially if traveling in winter, or early spring and late fall.
How to Get to Valdez from Fairbanks by Car
Driving from Fairbanks to Valdez is a breathtaking 363-mile journey that takes approximately 7,5 to 8 hours, depending on road conditions. This route follows the Richardson Highway (AK-4), Alaska’s oldest highway, and offers stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and pristine wilderness. Here is a map and step-by-step guide:
Head South on the Richardson Highway (AK-4)
From Fairbanks, you’ll drive south on the Richardson Highway, which connects directly to Valdez. The first part of the trip takes you through rolling hills and forested areas, offering views of the Alaska Range to the west. This portion of the drive is smooth and straightforward, with opportunities to stop in small towns like Delta Junction for fuel or snacks.
Cross the Delta River and Trans-Alaska Pipeline
After Delta Junction, you’ll cross the Delta River, offering your first glimpse of the rugged terrain ahead. This section of the highway also runs alongside the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, an engineering marvel stretching 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez.
Pass Through the Alaska Range
As you continue, the scenery changes, and you’ll enter mountainous terrain. The Richardson Highway skirts the edges of the Alaska Range, with plenty of pullouts to stop and take in the breathtaking views. Keep an eye out for wildlife—moose, caribou, and even bears are known to roam this area.
Scenic Drive by Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
As you approach Glennallen, you’ll be treated to views of the Wrangell Mountains, part of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. The towering peaks and glaciated landscapes create a dramatic backdrop, making this portion of the drive particularly scenic. Glennallen is a good place to stop, refuel, and rest before continuing south to Valdez.
Continue South Toward Valdez
From Glennallen, the Richardson Highway leads you toward Valdez. You’ll eventually reach Worthington Glacier and Thompson Pass.
Driving from Fairbanks to Valdez is more than just a route—it’s a journey through some of the most impressive landscapes Alaska has to offer. Make sure to plan for stops and photo opportunities along the way, as this route is full of natural wonders.
How to Get to Valdez via the Alaska Highway
The Alaska Highway, often referred to as the ALCAN is a famous route that connects the lower 48 states with Alaska.
If you’re entering Alaska by road from Canada or the Lower 48, the Alaska Highway is the primary route that brings you into the state from Canada. From Dawson Creek, British Columbia, where the Canadian portion of the Alaska Highway (as Highway 97) begins, the drive to Valdez spans 2,431 miles. Without stops, it takes at least 27 hours.
We embarked on this incredible journey starting from Vancouver, and it was nothing short of a spectacular adventure. The diverse landscapes, from Canada’s majestic Rockies to Alaska’s rugged wilderness, made the long hours on the road an unforgettable experience. Every stretch of the route offered something new to discover, making the drive a highlight of our travels. Here’s how you can connect from the Alaska Highway to Valdez:
Start on the Alaska Highway (AK-2)
On the Canadian side, the Alaska Highway is known as Highway 97, and it starts in Dawson Creek, British Columbia. This historic highway spans beautiful, rugged landscapes through British Columbia and the Yukon. Once you reach Watson Lake in the Yukon, the highway becomes AK-2 and continues into Alaska. From there, you’ll follow AK-2 toward Delta Junction, where the Alaska Highway officially ends.
Merge onto the Richardson Highway (AK-4)
From Delta Junction, you’ll join the Richardson Highway (AK-4), which will take you all the way to Valdez. This part of the drive is incredibly scenic, passing through mountainous regions and offering views of Alaska’s untouched wilderness. Along the way, you’ll have chances to stop and take in the surrounding landscapes, from vast rivers to towering peaks and waterfalls.
Enjoy the Journey
The drive from Watson Lake to Valdez is around 1,300 miles, so plan for rest stops along the way. You’ll cross multiple climate zones, see diverse wildlife, and pass through some of North America’s most stunning natural scenery. Taking your time to appreciate the journey is key to making the most of this epic road trip.
This route offers a true wilderness experience, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Always check road conditions, especially in winter, as sections of the highway can be affected by snow and ice.
Traveling to Valdez by Ferry
One of the most scenic ways to reach Valdez is by ferry. The Alaska Marine Highway System offers regular ferry service to Valdez from Whittier, allowing travelers to experience the stunning waters of Prince William Sound. This route is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, picturesque journey without the long drive.
Alaska Marine Highway Ferry
Ferries to Valdez depart from Whittier, about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, via the Whittier Tunnel. The ferry crosses the calm waters of Prince William Sound, a breathtaking journey that takes approximately 6 hours. Onboard, you can relax in comfortable lounges, enjoy the fresh air on the observation decks, and watch for wildlife like whales, sea lions, and seabirds.
Scenic Highlights of the Ferry Ride
The ferry route offers stunning views of glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and dense forests that line the shoreline. You’ll pass by several impressive glaciers, including Columbia Glacier, one of the largest tidewater glaciers in Prince William Sound. The peacefulness of the water and the dramatic scenery make this ferry ride one of the most beautiful in Alaska.
Taking Your Vehicle on the Ferry
The Alaska Marine Highway ferry can accommodate cars, RVs, and even motorcycles, making it an excellent option if you want to bring your vehicle to Valdez without the long drive. Be sure to reserve a spot for your vehicle in advance, especially during peak travel months, as spaces fill up quickly.
How to Book and Plan
You can book tickets for the ferry through the Alaska Marine Highway System website. Schedules vary by season, so it’s essential to check departure times and availability before your trip. It’s also a good idea to book early if you’re traveling during the busy summer months.
Arriving in Valdez
Once you arrive in Valdez, the ferry terminal is conveniently located near the town center, so you’ll have easy access to local attractions, restaurants, and accommodations (RV campgrounds and hotels). From here, you can start your exploration of the surrounding area, including nearby glaciers, hiking trails, and fishing spots.
Taking the ferry is not just a way to get to Valdez, but a memorable part of your Alaskan adventure. The beauty of Prince William Sound, coupled with the convenience of bringing your vehicle, makes this a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Flying to Valdez
Flying to Valdez is the quickest and most convenient option for travelers who want to skip long drives or ferry rides. Daily flights are available from Anchorage, offering a scenic 45-minute journey over some of Alaska’s most stunning landscapes.
Flights from Anchorage
Ravn Alaska operates regular flights between Anchorage and Valdez, making it the primary carrier for this route. The flight provides spectacular views of the Chugach Mountains, expansive glaciers, and the pristine waters of Prince William Sound. This short flight is not only convenient but also offers a unique aerial perspective of Alaska’s rugged beauty.
Booking Your Flight
It’s a good idea to book your flight in advance, especially during the busy summer months. Ravn Alaska typically has several flights per day, so you can choose a time that best fits your schedule. Private charters are also available for those looking for a more personalized or flexible option.
What to Expect at Valdez Airport
Valdez Pioneer Field (VDZ) is a small, easy-to-navigate airport located just a few minutes from the town center. The airport’s proximity to Valdez makes it easy to start exploring the town and surrounding area as soon as you land.
Flying to Valdez saves time compared to driving or taking the ferry, and the journey itself is part of the adventure. The flight offers breathtaking views that you can’t experience from the ground, making it an ideal option for travelers who want both convenience and a memorable travel experience.
Arriving In Valdez by Cruise Ship
Valdez is an increasingly popular stop for cruise ships, offering passengers a unique blend of small-town charm and dramatic natural beauty. While not as frequently visited as larger and more popular Alaskan ports of call, like Juneau, Skagway, or Ketchikan, Valdez provides a more intimate and off-the-beaten-path Alaskan experience. Here’s what you need to know about arriving by cruise ship:
Valdez as a Cruise Port
Valdez welcomes a variety of smaller cruise ships and expedition vessels, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a quieter, more personal experience in Alaska. The town’s port is centrally located, so you’ll be within walking distance of local restaurants, shops, and attractions as soon as you disembark.
Viking Ocean Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Holland America, and Lindblad Expeditions are cruise lines that offer stops in Valdez in their Alaska cruise itineraries.
Valdez appears on cruise itineraries that both start and end in Seward and Whittier.
For example, cruises departing from Seward often include Valdez as a key stop, along with other destinations like Hubbard Glacier, Skagway, and Juneau. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Spirit is one such example, offering a 7-day cruise that begins in Seward and stops in Valdez before continuing to other Alaskan ports and concluding in Vancouver.
Additionally, some cruises departing from Whittier, such as those by Un-Cruise Adventures, also include Valdez on their itineraries. These cruises typically explore Prince William Sound, Icy Bay, Cordova, and Valdez, offering a more intimate, expedition-style experience.
What to Expect Upon Arrival
When your ship docks in Valdez, you’ll immediately be surrounded by towering mountains and the pristine waters of Prince William Sound. The port area is well-equipped for cruise passengers, with a visitor center nearby to help you plan your time in town. Whether you want to explore on foot or join a guided tour, everything is easily accessible.
Our Tip: If you are cruising to Valdez, check out our detailed article: One Day in Valdez: itinerary for cruise passengers.
Popular Excursions and Activities
Valdez offers a variety of shore excursions that let you fully experience the area’s natural beauty. Popular options include glacier cruises, kayaking tours, and wildlife viewing trips. You can also visit nearby Worthington Glacier, take a scenic hike, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through town.
For those interested in history, the Valdez Museum offers insights into the region’s rich past, including the story of the 1964 earthquake and the original townsite.
Comparing Travel Options: Which Is Right for You?
When planning your trip to Valdez, it’s essential to choose the travel option that best fits your needs and preferences.
- Driving from Anchorage (300 miles, ~6 hours)
Best for: Adventurers who love scenic road trips and flexibility.
Pros: Stunning mountain and glacier views, with opportunities for stops and hikes along the way.
Cons: Requires longer travel time and can be challenging during winter, early spring, and late fall due to weather conditions. - Driving from Fairbanks (360 miles, 7-8 hours)
Best for: Road trippers wanting to experience Alaska’s rugged interior and scenic highways.
Pros: Incredible views of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and chances to explore small Alaskan towns.
Cons: Longer travel time, especially if weather impacts road conditions. - Ferry from Whittier (6-hour ferry ride)
Best for: Those looking for a relaxed journey with panoramic water views.
Pros: Majestic views of Prince William Sound, glaciers, and wildlife. Great option for bringing vehicles without driving long distances.
Cons: Limited schedule, requires planning ahead. - Flying from Anchorage (45 minutes)
Best for: Travelers short on time or those wanting a quick, scenic flight.
Pros: Fast and convenient, with beautiful aerial views of the Chugach Mountains and glaciers.
Cons: Less flexibility, and flights can be weather-dependent. - Arriving by Cruise Ship
Best for: Cruise enthusiasts or travelers looking to combine Valdez with other Alaskan ports.
Pros: Valdez offers a quieter, more intimate port experience compared to larger cities.
Cons: Limited shore time for exploring, depending on the cruise itinerary.
Getting to Valdez: Final Thoughts
No matter how you choose to get to Valdez, the journey is sure to be an unforgettable part of your Alaskan adventure. Whether you’re enjoying the scenic drive through mountain passes, sailing through Prince William Sound on the ferry, or taking in breathtaking views from the air, each option offers something unique. Valdez is remote yet accessible, and getting there can be as thrilling as the destination itself.
If you love the flexibility and freedom of the open road, driving offers unmatched scenic beauty. If you prefer a relaxed, nature-filled approach, the ferry is perfect for you. And for those with limited time, flying gets you there quickly without sacrificing stunning views.
Whichever route you choose, Valdez awaits with its glaciers, waterfalls, and quiet charm. Plan your travel with the tips provided here, and enjoy the breathtaking experience of arriving in this Alaskan gem.
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