Driving
Driving to Valdez.
The drive from Anchorage is spectacular and takes about 6 hours without stops. The roadway is, for the most part, one lane undivided highway for the 300 mile trip, with snow-packed roads most of the way. The Richardson Highway dramatically crosses Thompson Pass and descends into the narrow valley where Valdez lies.
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From Anchorage, take the Glenn Highway north through Palmer and into Glennallen (about 190 miles). When you get the to the “T” intersection after going through the town, make a RIGHT turn onto the Richardson Highway south to Valdez (115 miles).
As you reach Valdez, the Richardson Highway turns into Egan Street. It is hard to miss our bright yellow office on the left hand side as enter town (most rental car companies will provide you a map).
Try to do the trip in daylight, in clear weather, and stop at the Worthington Glacier in Thompson Pass on the way in.
A word of caution: You will be driving though mountains! Thompson Pass records over 700 inches of snow annually. Be prepared, and check the weather before you go (Alaska Road Conditions are available by Dialing “511” on a cell phone).
The road is maintained year-round, and Valdez–based road crews do their best to keep the roads passable. If the weather is bad, however, you should be comfortable driving in winter conditions.
If you would rather not fly and don’t want to drive yourself, a shuttle service may be a good alternative for you.
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