From Valdez to Cordova: Alaska's Wildest 36-Mile Highway

Stretching just 36 miles along the rugged coast of Prince William Sound, the route from Valdez to Cordova is one of Alaska's most isolated highways—it ends at the Cordova ferry terminal and connects to no other road system. Opened in 1965 as part of the Copper River Highway, the road was originally a railroad bed for the Copper River and Northwestern Railway, which carried copper ore from Kennecott to Cordova until 1938.

The drive normally takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, but plan 2–3 hours with stops. The highway is paved for the first 12 miles, then transitions to gravel. Some rental car companies prohibit travel beyond the pavement; check your contract. For an expert approach to uncovering stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The Valdez–Cordova road is a corridor of superlative natural beauty: tidewater glaciers, braided rivers, and dense coastal rainforest. Key attractions include the Worthington Glacier (mile 28 on the Richardson Highway, just before Valdez), and along the route, Sheridan Glacier (visible at mile 18) and Mile 27 Creek (a salmon spawning stream).

• Sheridan Glacier: Park at the pullout (mile 18) and walk 0.5 miles on a gravel path to the glacier’s edge. Watch for calving ice and black bears.
• Copper River Delta: One of the largest wetlands in North America, a critical stopover for migrating birds—especially shorebirds like the western sandpiper.
• Childs Glacier: Near the Cordova end, accessed via a short spur road (high clearance needed). It's known for dramatic calving events.

Local commerce revolves around fishing and tourism. Cordova’s historic Cannery Row and the Cordova Museum tell the story of the Copper River salmon fishery. In Valdez, visit the Valdez Museum to learn about the 1964 earthquake and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Both towns have artisan galleries and seafood markets where you can buy fresh Copper River salmon.

Before embarking, note that there is no fuel between Valdez and Cordova—carrying extra is wise. Both Valdez and Cordova have gas stations, but hours vary seasonally. The road is maintained by the Alaska Department of Transportation, but after heavy rain, washouts can occur. Check road conditions via 511.alaska.gov.

• Fuel: Fill up in Valdez (Safeway or Chevron) or Cordova (Cordova Gas Dock, open seasonally). No fuel in between.
• Food & Water: Pack supplies; only a few picnic spots exist. No restaurants or stores en route.
• Cell Service: None for most of the route. Download offline maps and tell someone your plan.
• Ferry Alternative: If road conditions are poor, the Alaska Marine Highway ferries connect Valdez and Cordova (2.5 hours, year-round).

Accommodation is available in both towns, but there are no lodges along the highway. Camping is allowed at designated spots like the Copper River Highway Mile 12 rest area (primitive). For a seamless trip, consider staying overnight in Cordova—places like the Reluctant Fisherman Inn offer harbor views and convenience.

The gravel section can be dusty in dry weather and slippery in rain. Drive slowly—speeds above 30 mph risk losing control or chipping windshields. Pullouts are infrequent; use designated rest areas. For families, the Mile 12 Rest Area has picnic tables and a short nature trail suitable for kids. Children should be closely supervised near fast-moving rivers and glaciers (ice collapses without warning).

• Rest Zones: Mile 12 (paved lot, picnic tables), Mile 27 (gravel pullout with creek access), Cordova city park (after the bridge).
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed but must be leashed—bears and moose are frequent. No dedicated off-leash areas along the highway.
• Family Activities: In Valdez, take a glacier cruise; in Cordova, visit the Alaska Raptor Center and the aquarium at the Prince William Sound Science Center.
• Fatigue Management: The short distance reduces driver fatigue, but the winding gravel road requires constant attention. Stop every 15–20 minutes to stretch.

Hidden Off-Route Spot: At mile 15, a rough 4WD track leads to the Skookum Glacier viewpoint—a less-visited spot with panoramic views. Only attempt with high-clearance vehicle in dry conditions. Another secret: the abandoned railroad trestle at mile 24 (visible from the road) is a popular photography spot; walk carefully as the wood is rotten.