You most likely have heard of Valdez, Alaska through the town’s namesake, the Exxon oil tanker that notoriously hit a reef in the region in 1989, leading to one of the worst environmental disasters in history.
What you might not know is that the town itself is actually set in one of the most beautiful locations in North America. The town has just over 4,000 residents about 5-6 hours by car from Anchorage (or you can take an equally scenic ferry from Whittier).
The town was completely destroyed in the Good Friday Earthquake of 1964, but was subsequently rebuilt on safer ground.
The Trans-Alaska Pipeline terminates in the town. Completed in 1977, the pipeline became the economic lifeline of the town.
The town is situated on a year-round ice-free port. It’s location is absolutely beautiful, at the end of a breathtaking fjord, with massive, snowcapped mountains as a backdrop.
In the summer, wildflowers predominate the area. It’s a mecca for outdoor activities, with a wide variety of options for visitors, including:
salmon fishing
hiking
sea kayaking
glacier and sightseeing cruises
The breathtaking ride from Anchorage, the beautiful town, and the wonderful variety of activities make Valdez a wonderful choice for a pre or post Alaska cruise trip.
