Valdez to Girdwood: Alaska's Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The drive from Valdez to Girdwood spans roughly 115 miles along the Richardson Highway (AK-4) and the Seward Highway (AK-1). One notable fact: the Richardson Highway was originally a gold rush trail, completed as a wagon road in 1899. Expect a driving time of about 2.5 to 3 hours without stops, but the journey deserves far longer for its staggering scenery. This guide provides a deep dive into the best stops Valdez, AK to Girdwood, AK, answering how long to drive, is it worth driving, and what things to do between these two iconic Alaska towns. For more on crafting your own adventure, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Quick Reference Table

The natural landscapes along this route are dominated by the Chugach Mountains, vast glaciers, and river valleys. Shortly after leaving Valdez, you'll climb Thompson Pass, offering panoramic views of the Lowe River valley. In summer, wildflowers blanket the alpine tundra. The Worthington Glacier, accessible just off the highway at milepost 28, is one of few glaciers you can walk up to (safely). For UNESCO World Heritage Sites, note that this route lies near the Kluane/Wrangell-St. Elias/Glacier Bay/Tatshenshini-Alsek park complex, though not directly accessed from the road. However, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a short detour via the McCarthy Road (rough gravel).

• Must-see: Worthington Glacier (hike the toe, but watch for crevasses).
• Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls in Keystone Canyon, visible from the road.
• Wildlife viewing: mountain goats, moose, black bears, and bald eagles common along the highway.

Culinary infrastructure is limited: in Valdez, try The Roadside Potatohead for halibut burgers; in Girdwood, the Bake Shop is famous for cinnamon rolls. For local culture, stop at the Copper River Native Association in Glennallen to learn about Ahtna Athabascan heritage. The town of Girdwood itself grew from a mining camp and now hosts the Alyeska Resort, offering year-round recreation. Best souvenirs: handmade qiviut (musk ox wool) items from local artisans.

Fuel stations are sparse: fill up in Valdez, then the next reliable gas is in Glennallen (about 55 miles up the Richardson Highway). After that, you'll find fuel at the Portage Glacier junction or in Girdwood. Carry at least one spare can if your tank is small. Road quality is generally good, but watch for frost heaves and gravel patches near construction zones. The route features several long, straight stretches through the Chugach Mountains, with limited cell service after leaving Valdez until you approach Girdwood. Download offline maps before departure.

• Recommended fuel stops: Valdez (BP or Chevron), Glennallen (several stations), Girdwood (Tesoro).
• Tire chains may be required from October to April, especially over Thompson Pass.
• Winter driving note: daylight hours are short, and snow can fall any month at high elevations.

Accommodation options include lodges and campgrounds near Keystone Canyon and Copper Center. For a unique stay, book a cabin at the Tiekel River Lodge, located at milepost 37 on the Richardson Highway. For families, child-seat laws are strictly enforced, and booster seats are required for children under 4 years, 9 inches in height. Pet-friendly accommodations are common, but always call ahead, especially in winter when many properties close.

Road safety requires vigilance for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. Moose can appear suddenly, and a collision is dangerous. Maintain speeds below the limit on curves. The route has few shoulders; use pullouts to let faster traffic pass. For family stops, the Valdez Glacier Park playground is a good break before departing. In Glennallen, the Copper River Valley has a visitor center with clean restrooms. The Girdwood area offers hiking trails like Winner Creek Trail (kid-friendly, suspension bridge).

• Fatigue management: alternate drivers every 2 hours, or plan stops at scenic pullouts every 30 minutes.
• Recommended rest zones: Thompson Pass overlook (milepost 26), Blueberry Lake state recreation site (milepost 23), Portage Valley (milepost 80 on Seward Hwy).
• Cell coverage: weak between Thompson Pass and Glennallen; last service before Glennallen is at Tiekel River Lodge.

Hidden off-route spots include the Knik Glacier, accessed via a long dirt road near Palmer (requires 4WD) or by air taxi from Girdwood. Also, the abandoned town of Portage (near Girdwood) was destroyed in the 1964 earthquake; a short interpretive trail exists. For families with pets, the Girdwood Dog Park is off leash. Always pack bear spray and know how to use it; black and grizzly bears are present.