Valdez, located at the head of a fjord in Prince William Sound, is an adventure hub in south-central Alaska, nicknamed the “Switzerland of Alaska.” Prince William Sound is home to about 150 glaciers, including the Columbia Glacier, the second-largest tidewater glacier in North America. Popular activities here include glacier cruises, kayaking, fishing, and rafting. It is the terminus of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Best time to visit: June through August.
Valdez lies at the head of a deep fjord on the eastern shore of Prince William Sound, flanked by the Chugach Mountains. Founded in 1898 during the gold rush, it is now the northernmost year-round ice-free port in the Western Hemisphere and the terminus ofthe Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Its spectacular setting has earned it the nickname “the Switzerland of Alaska.”
The city serves as the gateway to Prince William Sound, a mosaic of islands and glaciers that is among Alaska’s richest in marine wildlife. Glacier cruises, kayaking, fishing, and rafting are the highlights of any visit. This page details activities, seasons, access, and lodging.
Why visit Valdez?
Valdez offers one of the easiest ways to access Alaska’s tidewater glaciers. Prince William Sound is home to about 150 glaciers, about 20 of which calve directly into the sea. The Columbia Glacier, North America’s second-largest tide glacier, can be explored by cruise ship or kayak amid the icebergs.
The town combines this glacial wealth with abundant marine wildlife (otters, seals, sea lions, humpback whales, and orcas), world-class fishing, and a backdrop of mountains and waterfalls. Keystone Canyon and its waterfalls line the highway. In winter, Valdez becomes a hub for heli-skiing. A wealth of adventure accessible right from the road.
What to Do in Valdez?
Here are the experiences that make a trip worthwhile, from glaciers to fishing.
1. Cruise to the Columbia Glacier
The Columbia Glacier, located about 40 miles from the port, can be reached on a day cruise. Since it calves heavily, boats navigate among the icebergs in the bay rather than at the foot of the glacier front. The route runs alongside the oil pipeline terminal and offers plenty of opportunities to spot marine wildlife.
2. Kayaking Among the Icebergs
Sea kayaking lets you get up close to the glaciers of Prince William Sound, such as the Shoup Glacier, or paddle among the icebergs in Valdez Glacial Lake. The sheltered waters of the fjord, which are often calmer than the exposed coastline, are suitable for both beginners and experienced kayakers.
3. Fishing in Prince William Sound
Valdez is a renowned fishing destination. The main catches include coho salmon, halibut, and ling. Day trips depart from the harbor, sometimes combined with wildlife viewing. The city hosts the Valdez Fish Derbies, the oldest fishing competitions in the state.
4. Rafting in Keystone Canyon
Keystone Canyon, just east of Valdez, features a series of waterfalls visible from the road, including Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls. In summer, the Lowe River is raftable here, with Class III rapids between the canyon walls. In winter, the frozen waterfalls attract ice climbers.
When to go?
From June through August, the peak season offers full access to glacier cruises, kayaking, fishing, and rafting, with long days. May and September offer a more peaceful atmosphere and lower rates, while wildlife remains abundant.
Winter transforms Valdez into the heli-skiing capital: the Chugach Mountains receive heavy snowfall. Keystone Canyon then hosts an ice climbing festival. Check out our guide on when to visit Alaska.
| Period | Terms and Conditions | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| June through August | High season, long days | Boat tours, kayaking, fishing, rafting |
| May and September | Quiet, low rates | Glacier cruises, wildlife |
| October through April | Heavy snow, cold | Heliskiing, ice climbing |
How do you get there?
Valdez is accessible via the Richardson Highway, which connects it to Anchorage (about 6 hours) and Fairbanks. The highway passes through Keystone Canyon and runs alongside the Worthington Glacier—a spectacular drive in its own right. The town also has a small airport with flights from Anchorage.
The Alaska Marine Highway ferry connects Valdez to Whittier and Cordova across Prince William Sound, offering a scenic alternative. Once there, cruises and kayaking tours depart from the marina in the heart of town.
Where to stay in Valdez?
The town of Valdez offers hotels, lodges, and B&Bs within walking distance of the harbor, where cruises and kayaking trips depart. Advance reservations are recommended during peak season, as the town is relatively small.
Campgrounds and campsites near Prince William Sound are ideal for independent travelers. Our team can include Valdez in a road trip itinerary that combines Anchorage, Wrangell-St. Elias, and the Kenai Peninsula. Check out our suggested itineraries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is this city located in Alaska?
Valdez is located in south-central Alaska, at the head of a fjord on Prince William Sound. It can be reached via the Richardson Highway from Anchorage or Fairbanks, or by ferry from Whittier and Cordova. It is the northernmost year-round ice-free port in the Western Hemisphere.
What is there to see in Prince William Sound?
Prince William Sound is home to about 150 glaciers, about 20 of which flow into the sea. The Columbia Glacier, North America’s second-largest tidewater glacier, is the area’s star attraction. Visitors can spot sea otters, seals, sea lions, humpback whales, and orcas.
How do you get to the Columbia Glacier?
The Columbia Glacier can be reached by cruise ship or kayak from Valdez, about 40 miles from the port. Because it calves heavily, boats navigate among the icebergs in Columbia Bay rather than at the foot of the glacier front. Helicopter tours also fly over the glacier.
Why is this city famous?
Valdez is the terminus of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, which stretches 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay. The city is also marked by the 1964 earthquake and the 1989 oil spill. Founded in 1898 during the gold rush, it is now a fishing port and an adventure hub.
Is fishing possible in the area?
Yes. Valdez is a renowned fishing destination in Prince William Sound. The main catches include coho salmon, halibut, and ling. Charter trips depart from the harbor, and the city hosts the Valdez Fish Derbies, the state’s oldest fishing competitions.
When is the best time to visit?
June through August for glacier cruises, kayaking, and fishing, with full access. May and September offer a more peaceful atmosphere. Winter attracts heli-skiing and ice climbing enthusiasts, with frozen waterfalls in Keystone Canyon.
What to see in Keystone Canyon?
Keystone Canyon, just east of Valdez on the Richardson Highway, features waterfalls visible from the road, such as Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls. You can raft down the Lowe River in the summer—which features Class III rapids—and go ice climbing in the winter.
Can you go kayaking there?
Yes. Valdez is a popular starting point for sea kayaking in Prince William Sound. Trips take you to the Shoup and Columbia glaciers, among the icebergs, or out onto Valdez Glacial Lake. The sheltered waters of the fjord are suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Last updated: August 18, 2026.
About Terra Alaska
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Sources
Travel Alaska (Valdez); Discover Valdez; The Milepost (Prince William Sound); Alaska Marine Highway System.
