Wasilla to Cordova Drive: Routes, Highlights, and Pit Stops

From the shores of Wasilla to the coastal town of Cordova, this scenic drive covers roughly 300 miles and takes 7-9 hours of pure driving time (without stops or ferries). The route isn't a simple straight shot; it involves a scenic drive along the Glenn Highway (AK-1) to the Richardson Highway (AK-4), then eventually onto the Copper River Highway (A-8), which ends at Cordova. Because Cordova is not connected to the road system by land, the final leg requires the Alaska Marine Highway ferry from Valdez or Whittier.

Along the way, you'll traverse a landscape shaped by glaciers, rivers, and rugged mountains, passing through the famed Matanuska Valley with its dramatic glacier views, the copper mining ghost town of Kennicott (near McCarthy), and the wild Chugach National Forest. The route offers a mix of well-maintained highways and remote gravel roads, demanding careful planning around fuel, food, and weather.

This route offers diverse natural wonders. The Matanuska Glacier, easily accessible from the Glenn Highway, is one of Alaska's most reachable glaciers; you can walk to its edge, but do so with a guide. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nearby—the vastest national park in the US. Visiting Kennicott requires a turnoff onto the Edgerton Highway and then a gravel road; you'll see the abandoned Kennecott Copper Mines, an eerie historical site. Beware: the road is rough with some potholes and steep drop-offs, and it's not recommended for RVs.

Local commerce thrives on tourism and fishing. In Glennallen, families run small cafés and gift shops; in McCarthy, you'll find artists and guides. Cordova depends on commercial fishing, especially salmon; you can watch fishing boats at the harbor. The Copper River Highway provides access to the Million Dollar Bridge, built in 1910 to connect Cordova to the copper railroad, now a decayed but photogenic landmark.

Hidden off-route spots: The Tonsina River Lodge (Mile 80 on Richardson Hwy) serves hearty meals with homemade pies; on a clear day, take the Edgerton Highway for the 12-mile detour to the Chitina River, where dip-netting for salmon is legal for locals. The Childs Glacier, at Copper River mile 49, often calves into the river; the viewing platform offers an epic close-up (but stay behind the barriers).

For those looking to plan better, here's a tool: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Safety-wise, be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in mountain passes. Carry an emergency kit with warm clothes, food, and a spare tire; cell service is spotty or nonexistent on many stretches. Wildlife collisions are a risk—watch for moose and bears, especially at dawn/dusk. The road to Cordova (Copper River Hwy) has several one-lane bridges with no guardrails; take it slow.

To manage fatigue, plan stops at designated rest areas along the Glenn and Richardson highways; notable ones include the Matanuska Glacier viewpoint (Mile 102), the Long Rifle Lodge (Mile 102) with a cafe, and the Copper Center Lodge (Mile 106). The best stops along this drive include the Wrangell-St. Elias Visitor Center, the Old Town in Valdez, and the Mt. Eyak Ski Area in Cordova. If you're wondering is it worth driving Wasilla to Cordova, the answer is a resounding yes—the unique blend of glaciers, ghost towns, and coastal beauty is unforgettable.

For families, consider a picnic at the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site (Mile 30 on Richardson Hwy) where there's a short trail to the glacier toe. In Valdez, the downtown has a playground and ice cream shops; the ferry ride itself is an adventure, with chances to spot otters and seals. Pet owners should note: on the ferry, pets are only allowed on the deck, so dress your furry friend for the cool wind and bring a blanket. Also, many lodges have pet policies; book ahead.

Fatigue can also be countered by staying overnight in Glennallen (about halfway) at the Caribou Hotel or the Northern Nights Lodge. The drive from Wasilla to Glennallen takes 3 hours, then Glennallen to Valdez 2.5 hours. Returning to your car in Valdez after exploring Cordova? You'll need to park at the ferry terminal—it's safe but unpaved. Remember that ferry schedules are infrequent (a few times a week), so plan your return day accordingly. If you're tight on time, consider flying from Cordova to Anchorage (Alaska Airlines) instead of backtracking.

Ultimately, the answer to 'how long to drive Wasilla to Cordova' is about 7-9 hours without stops; with the ferry, you need at least a day. If you're asking 'things to do between Wasilla and Cordova', the list is endless: glacier hiking, mine tours, historic museums, and wildlife viewing. So pack your bags, double-check the ferry timetable, and hit the road—the wilderness awaits.

Fuel and Supplies: The most critical logistics concern is fuel. Gas stations are sparse; the last reliable station before heading east from Wasilla is in Palmer (10 miles away). After that, there's fuel in Sutton, Chickaloon, and Glenallen. Once you turn onto the Edgerton Highway toward McCarthy and Kennicott, there's no gas until McCarthy (only seasonal). The same applies on the Copper River Highway to Cordova: no services along the 50-mile stretch, so fill up in Cordova or at the airport (limited hours).

Food and Lodging: Dining and lodging options are limited but adventurous. You'll find family-run lodges and restaurants in Glennallen, a few in Valdez, and the famous McCarthy Lodge in Kennicott. In Cordova, the Alaskan Hotel and the Reluctant Fisherman Inn are known spots. But beyond these towns, you'll rely on packed picnics and campsites. There are developed campgrounds at Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site, and rustic cabins at Mile 27 on the Copper River Highway (offered by the US Forest Service).

• Weather & Road Conditions: The climate varies drastically: the Wasilla area is continental, with cold winters and warm summers; Valdez is maritime, with heavy rainfall (over 100 inches annually) and mild temps; Cordova is coastal with similar wet, cool conditions. The best driving months are June through September, when snow is gone. Roads can be icy in winter, but the Glenn and Richardson Highways are kept plowed. The gravel roads to McCarthy and Cordova are usually graded but can be muddy in rain.
• Pet-Friendliness: Most ferries allow pets in kennels, and many lodges and campgrounds are pet-friendly, but always call ahead. The road itself is fine for dogs, but remember to carry water and a leash, as wild areas have bears and moose.
• Family Suitability: Long stretches of no services make bathroom breaks challenging; plan stops at the few visitor centers and lodges. The drive itself might be tedious for kids, but the spectacular views (like the Worthington Glacier) and chances to spot wildlife can keep them engaged. In Valdez, there's the Solomon Gulch Hatchery, which is kids' favorite for sea lions and salmon.