One of the best road trips in Alaska is the route from Anchorage to Valdez. This drive is like diving head-first into a natural wonderland, full of endless views and amazing wildlife. In September 2023, I had the pleasure of taking this drive with my family. I’ve heard amazing things about Valdez, and almost every Alaskan local has told me that the best way to experience Valdez is by driving there.
So, I rented a large SUV in Anchorage, and spent the day enjoying the drive along the Glenn Highway. While we didn’t have the best weather (typical Alaskan rain), the clouds and rain only added to the autumn beauty that surrounded us.
Journeying with two young toddlers meant frequent stops, which turned out to be delightful discoveries in themselves. Below, I've chronicled some of the standout spots from our trip and offered tips to inspire and guide your very own Valdez adventure!
Read more: Things We Learned on Alaska Road Trip As Locals
How long is the drive to Valdez?
While a straight drive takes about 6-7 hours, to truly absorb everything along this road trip, I recommend splitting the trip into two days, with an overnight near Glennallen. We did the trip in one day, and by the end of it, we were very ready to get out of the car and never go back in.
Starting Point: Anchorage
We started our trip from Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. Here you can easily find a rental car and shop for essentials for your trip. We rented a large SUV from Turo to save on rental prices, but our Turo was restricted to only paved roads. If you’re interested in driving part of the Denali Highway or Hatcher’s Pass on this trip (definitely recommend), you will need to rent from a rental agency that allows for off-road driving. Be sure to grab groceries for lunch and snacks before you leave Anchorage, as there are few restaurants or grocery stores along this route.
Stop 1: Eagle River Nature Center (30 minutes from Anchorage)
Make your first stop at the Eagle River Nature Center, a sanctuary for nature lovers. The trails here offer varying levels of difficulty, so whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or something more challenging, there's something for every traveler.
We visited in the fall, when the salmon were running up the Eagle River and the trees were awash in hues of golds and reds. We spent over two hours walking the trails around the nature center, before heading out on our road trip.
Stop 2: Thunderbird Falls (40 minutes from Anchorage)
A short detour from the highway, Thunderbird Falls offers a tranquil, scenic hike leading to a spectacular 200-foot waterfall. The viewing platform provides a great spot for photos and relaxation. It's a relatively easy hike, suitable for families (our two toddlers handled it well, but keep an eye on little ones due to steep drop offs at the end of the trail).
Stop 3: Matanuska Glacier (2 hours from Anchorage)
As you head east on the Glenn Highway, you'll encounter the massive Matanuska Glacier. Stretching over 27 miles long, this glacier's blue ice and vast size make it a photographer's dream. This is a great place to get out to stretch your legs and grab a hot drink at the visitor center. If you have time, there are guided tours available that allow you to walk on the glacier.
Read more: Alaska’s must-see glaciers
Stop 4: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Visitor Center (3 hours from Anchorage)
This national park, the largest in the United States, is often termed the 'Mountain Kingdom of North America,’ and it is top on my bucket list. While the park itself is off the road, you can stop at the visitor center to explore the interactive displays and learn about the park. We really enjoyed learning about the history and geological significance of the area. This is also a great place to stop for lunch, if you didn’t pack a picnic.
Stop 5: Thompson Pass (5 hours from Anchorage)
En route to Valdez, the Thompson Pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. We were mostly in the clouds when we drove over the pass, but you could still see the stunning scenery that surrounded us. Here, you'll also find the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site. A short hike leads you to Worthington Glacier, a massive river of ice carving its way through the valley.
Two notable waterfalls, Horsetail Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, are also right by the road, making this a great place to stop for photos. On sunny days, Thompson Pass is a perfect picnic spot or a basecamp to head up one of the numerous hiking trails. Be sure to check the road condition before heading up, as the pass can quickly be covered in snow. Unlike many passes in Alaska, Thompson Pass is maintained year round, so it will be regularly plowed.
Stop 6: The Old Railroad Tunnel (20 minutes before Valdez)
Before reaching Valdez, make a stop at this historic site. The Old Railroad Tunnel is a remnant of days gone by and a symbol of human ingenuity and perseverance. This tunnel, although never completed, offers a peek into the ambitious plans of early 20th-century engineers. We stopped to explore into the tunnel and take pictures. This was our last stop before heading into Valdez, and was our first stop without rain!
Tips for the Drive
While the road to Valdez is paved the whole way, there are a couple tips to help make your trip go smoothly.
Seasons Matter
Summer (June-August) offers the best driving conditions and most amenities – but with crowds. Each season brings its own charm. We traveled in mid-September, when the fall foliage was peaking across the tundra. We faced fewer crowds than found in the summer, but many of the stops along the way were already closed for the season.
If you do this drive in the winter, consider having snow or studded tires and carrying chains, as conditions can deteriorate rapidly in very remote areas.
Stay Alert for Wildlife
Alaska's wildlife is diverse and dense. Moose, bears, ermine, deer, and elk are all incredibly common on this route. Be very alert when driving in the morning or the late evening, as animals will often cross directly in front of your vehicle. If you do spot wildlife, be sure to pull entirely off the road and turn on your hazards.
Accommodations
There are only a handful of hotels and AirBnBs along this route, so be sure to book ahead to ensure there is a room for you, if you plan on stopping overnight. Alternatively, you can bring a tent, and camp at the countless public campgrounds along the route.
Fuel Up
Gas stations are few and far between on the road, and there are even fewer in the winter. Be sure to top off your gas tank at every opportunity.
Pack Smart
Weather in Alaska is unpredictable. Layered clothing, rain gear, snacks, and a basic emergency kit are essential, especially if you are driving in the winter. Also pack extra snacks and water for the drive, in case restaurants are closed or you get delayed.
Stay Informed
Roads can get tricky, especially in off-seasons. Always check conditions at 511.alaska.gov/ before embarking on your trip. This site provides regular updates on road closures, road conditions, and construction.
