Worthington Glacier
Hoonah, AK, 99686
Located near the Alaskan city of Valdez, the Worthington Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the United States accessible by vehicle and, therefore, is one of the most visited on foot. This 4-mile (6.4-kilometer) long glacier is part of the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site, which offers 113 acres (45.7 hectares) to explore.
The basics
You can visit the Worthington Glacier independently by driving to the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site via the Richardson Highway. Once at the glacier, there’s an easy 0.3-mile (0.5-kilometer) loop trail that offers views of the glacier and takes most visitors around 10 minutes. Alternatively, book an Alaskan highlights tour that stops at the glacier and handles all transport or a boat cruise from Valdez that offers the chance to see the glacier from the water. Going on your own gives you more time at the glacier for exploring, but a tour or cruise can be best for anyone short on time.
Things to know before you go
There is often heavy snowfall in winter, which can cause local roads to close.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots to walk the glacier’s trail.
There is a US$5 parking fee.
A paved, wheelchair-accessible trail starts from the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site car lot and leads to a viewing platform close to the glacier’s toe.
There are restrooms at the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site.
How to get there
If driving to the Worthington Glacier, take the Richardson Highway from Valdez over Thompson Pass, then continue for about 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) until you reach the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site. Alternatively, book a tour that includes round-trip transportation.
When to get there
It’s best to visit Alaska’s Worthington Glacier in the summer between June and August, when most snow has melted, it’s much easier (and safer) to hike the glacier trail, and you can spot wildlife. Be aware that these months can be the busiest with visitors.
Learn about local history at the Valdez Museum
About a 40-minute drive from the Worthington Glacier is the Valdez Museum, which explores local Alaskan history and culture. Located on Egan Drive in Downtown Valdez, the museum showcases art and history exhibits that tell the stories of Alaska Bush Pilots, the Gold Rush, the Trans Alaska Pipeline, the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill, and more.
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