Wildlife

The Best Places to See Wildlife From Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula

April 26, 2023 by Everyday Alaska

Many people come to Alaska to see wildlife. Seeing moose, bears, sheep, goats, and an extensive list of other Alaskan wildlife are on everyone’s bucket list. The question is, where can you find these amazing animals? Don’t worry, I’ve got the scoop on the best places to see wildlife from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula. And, if you’ll be be traveling to other areas of Alaska, you can check out my Alaskan Wildlife Bucket List here to get more information about wildlife across our beautiful state.

Moose Denali National Park Alaska in the fall — A bull moose in Denali during fall.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions from these qualifying purchases help support Everyday Alaska at no extra cost to you. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

What animals will I be able to see from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula?

Obviously, I can’t guarantee that you’ll see all or any of these animals on your way from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula, but I would say you’ll have a good chance of seeing at least a few. Some of the wildlife you might see will be moose, eagles, bears, and swans. You may even see sheep, goats, puffins, and whales! A lot of this is right place right time, and knowing where to look, which I’ll walk you through below.

An eagle spotted along the Sterling Highway.

When can I see wildlife on my travels to the Kenai Peninsula?

Great question! This will depend a lot on the time of year you visit. You’re very likely to see moose and eagles any time of the year. Sheep and goat sightings will likely be more sparse during winter months, and bears will be hibernating from late fall until spring. Belugas may be seen during parts of July and August along the Turnagain Arm.

A group of Dall sheep just outside of Cooper Landing.

Where are the best places to see wildlife from Anchorage through the Kenai Peninsula?

Alright, let’s get to it, shall we? Below, we’ll make the trek from Anchorage down to Homer, and over to Seward as well, so we’ll cover a lot of territory and wildlife on our journey. Grab your binoculars and buckle up!

A Google Maps itinerary of the places mentioned below. A. Potter Marsh B. Beluga Point C. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center D. Bridge in Cooper Landing E. Cooper Landing F. Russian River Falls G. Sterling H. Homer I. Seward

Anchorage

The start of our journey, Anchorage. As you drive around town, you’ll likely see eagles perched on trees around the city. They are fairly common to see, along with one larger animal, the moose.

There are moose scattered all around Anchorage. I know it’s surprising that you could find such a big critter right in Alaska’s largest city, but they’re there! Along sidewalks, highways, and in parks, moose make themselves at home wherever they please. Which brings me to another point. You’ll need to watch out for moose when walking about and on the road when driving, along with other wildlife. And, as I’m sure you know, all of the wildlife is wild. Sadly, they do not want to be your friends, so keep your distance.

Another animal you may see while in Anchorage is the black bear. Check out Kincaid Park, where you might get a glimpse at these amazing critters, along with more eagles and moose.

Potter Marsh

Next up on our adventure, Potter Marsh. Located on the outskirts of Anchorage, this little oasis is an ideal spot for birdwatchers. You can also see salmon during certain times of the year, and if you’re lucky moose can be spotted at Potter Marsh as well.

Beluga Point

Beluga Point, the name says it all! During July and August, belugas are cruising along this area of the Turnagain Arm, not too far down from Potter Marsh. I’ve seen them there during mid August, and it was so exciting!

Turnagain Arm

As you continue down the Seward Highway, you’ll be right along the waters of the Turnagain Arm, as mentioned above. In the areas where you’re seeing more jagged cliffs on the other side of the road, be on the lookout for Dall sheep. Sometimes they’ll venture down the mountain right to the road, and other times you’ll likely see them best from a pullout using binoculars.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

I know I said there’s no guaranteed animal sightings, but this is quite close to a guarantee. I know this isn’t the “in the wild” viewing many people want to do, but the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is such an amazing stop that I had to add it in here. Learn more about it here!

Cooper Landing

You’ll see some turnouts as you head into and through Cooper Landing. These are worthwhile places to pull off at and glass for sheep and goats. They are always amazing to watch, as their agility and balance is unmatched in the rugged terrain. Just last weekend we saw both sheep and goats in the area, so it’s worth taking the time to try spot some on the mountains.

Collard cow moose with one of her twin calves. — A collared cow moose with one of her twin calves in the Swan Lake burn area near Cooper Landing.

Kenai Lake

You’ll cross over a bridge in Cooper Landing shortly after passing Wildman’s convenience store. Check around this area for swans, as there are a group of them that stay in the waters of Kenai Lake even during the winter.

Russian River Falls

This is one spot I haven’t been to, but it’s on my bucket list! Russian River Falls, just outside of Cooper Landing, is a well know spot to see bears. When the salmon are running in the Russian River, the bears head there for a feast, so you may get a chance to see them. But, well before you head out, view these bear safety tips!

Roadside Moose

There’s a chance you’ll see moose along your whole drive, but once you get to straighter stretches of road after Cooper Landing, your chances of seeing them really go up! Sighting of moose on and along the highway from Sterling down to Homer are quite frequent, so keep an eye out for them and drive safe.

A moose near Soldotna, Alaska along the Sterling highway in April. — A moose near Soldotna along the Sterling Highway.

The Homer Spit

Head on down to the famous Homer Spit to view sea otters in the harbor, and also get great opportunities to view eagles as well. We just saw sea otters in the harbor last weekend, and boy are they fun to watch! If you head out on a boat from Homer, chances are you’ll see other marine wildlife, and speaking of marine life, let’s head to Seward!

Alaska SeaLife Center

The Alaska SeaLife Center is the marine life equivalent to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. It’s a must-stop place in Seward. Once again, I know it’s not animals in the wild, but it’s such an informative, interesting, and interactive place to visit that I couldn’t skip it on our list of adventures. Learn more about it here!

Glacier and Wildlife Cruise

Ahoy, matey! Our last stop is in the beautiful waters outside of Seward. Hop aboard a glacier and wildlife cruise to see a plethora of marine wildlife. A variety of whales, seals, sea lions, puffins, and more are just some of the things you might see on one of these awesome adventures on the water.

Okay, ladies and gents, our tour has wrapped up! Time to head on back and visit any wildlife viewing areas you may have missed along the way down the Peninsula. But, with all this being said, wildlife is unpredictable. There are chances you’ll see black bears in Cooper Landing, no sheep on the mountains near the Turnagain Arm, have no eagle sightings, and see a huge pod of belugas at Beluga Point. You really never know, but what I’m hoping is that this Alaska wildlife guide will give you a better chance at seeing wildlife from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula.

Do you have any questions about Alaska travel? Feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!

Wildlife of Alaska: An Alaskan Wildlife Bucket List

June 17, 2022 by Everyday Alaska

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

Please follow all State and Federal laws regarding wildlife. Please practice good wildlife etiquette by not harassing, feeding, attempting to pet or otherwise bother wildlife. Although they maybe be adorable, they are not pets, and unfortunately they don’t want to be your friend. Be sure to give them space and follow all rules regarding wildlife viewing.

Hoping to see a variety of Alaskan wildlife while visiting Alaska? Chances are, you will! Alaska has an abundance of beautiful wildlife to see on land, in the sky, and in the water. If you’re looking for some of the best wildlife viewing, Alaska is the place for you!

If you were to ask me what my favorite Alaskan animal is, I probably wouldn’t have an answer for you. I love caribou because they look so majestic and beautiful in the tundra. I love swans because they are so graceful. I love otters because they’re adorable to watch. There is really no wildlife that I don’t love, and I hope as you see these animals on your Alaska vacation you’ll come to love them as much as I do.

Alaskan Wildlife on Land

Caribou

Caribou are neat animals to watch. You won’t often see them by themselves, so if you spot one be on the lookout for others since they travel in herds. Both male and female caribou have antlers. Males are called bulls, females are called cows, and their babies are called calves.

The opportunities that I’ve had to see caribou have been in Interior Alaska and on the Kenai Peninsula, although you can spot them in many other areas as well. I’ve seen them during all seasons, so no matter what time of year you get to visit Alaska, you may get a chance to spot caribou!

Two caribou eating along the Kenai Spur Highway in Soldotna, Alaska. — Caribou having a snack along the Kenai Spur Highway in Soldotna, Alaska.

Moose

If seeing a moose is on your Alaska bucket list, then there is a good chance you’ll be able to check that off! Moose are in so many places in Alaska. Chances are you’ll probably see them in town walking around before you see them in the wild. Similarly to caribou, there are bulls, cows, and calves. Bulls are the only ones with antlers, which they shed and then regrow. If you’re here in spring and early summer you might see some new calves out with their mom, but stay far away and beware because mom is very protective!

Muskox

Muskox are one of the coolest looking animals. I don’t know if it’s their retro, shaggy hair, or their cool horns, but they just look neat and very unique. They are called bulls, cows, and calves as well, and their coats contain hair called qiviut. Qiviut is turned into a very coveted, high quality fiber for garment making.

Chances are, you won’t get to see these guys in the wild unless your travel plans include some more remote parts of Alaska, but read on for information on a spot where you’re guaranteed to see some of these groovy creatures.

Bison

You may have similar chances of seeing a bison as you would a muskox, so if you do get the opportunity you have really lucked out! You’ll have the best chances to see them if you visit the Delta Junction or Copper River Valley areas. Interesting bison fact: my parents collect the manure from bison to use in their garden as fertilizer! I’d say that’s about as organic as you can get.

Bears

Polar bears, brown bears, black bears; it’s quite the variety. Unless you make a trip wayyyyy up north and happen to be very lucky, you won’t be seeing any polar bears, but you do have a decent chance at seeing black or brown bears depending on where you visit.

If brown and black bears are in top spots on your Alaskan wildlife bucket list, I’d highly suggest visiting Valdez. I’m definitely biased, shoutout to my hometown, but if you visit Valdez in the summer you’ll have a great chance of seeing some bears. You may even see some in town, but you’ll have an even better chance of seeing them where they can get an easy and tasty meal, which is wherever fish are spawning. Just remember that these animals are not friendly, so even if you see other people getting close to them for a picture (which some crazies will do), does not mean you should. Stay safe, and view these amazing animals from a distance, as you should with all wildlife.

A brown bear looks out at the water while standing on rocks around fish carcasses. — A brown bear in Valdez, Alaska next to a pile of fish carcasses.

Sheep

I love watching dall sheep. My husband and I go to Cooper Landing on occasion to watch them, and they are incredible to see. They’re so agile, majestic, and can survive such a harsh climate, as all Alaskan wildlife must do. The males, rams, grow in large horns that can sometimes form a 360 degree circle or more if they get large enough. The females, ewes, also have horns that just stay fairly small. If you’re looking to see some lambs, they are usually born at the end of May or beginning of June, according to ADF&G.

I believe the best way to spot dall sheep is by grabbing some binoculars and/or a spotting scope and checking out the mountains around you. You never know what you’ll see!

These sheep look a little rough, but it’s not surprising considering the rugged territory they live in.

Goats

If you are on the lookout for sheep, chances are you may get to see goats as well, and vice versa. These shaggy dwellers of rugged mountains are also mesmerizing to watch as they climb, jump, and scale dangerous terrain. You may get to see billies, nannies, and kids (baby goats) if are looking for them in the summertime.

Lynx

Be on the lookout for these large, northern cats as you travel through Alaska. They are located in a variety of areas and not commonly seen, so a keen eye and a quick trigger on the camera is what you’ll need to snap a photo of these kitties.

Coyotes

Only recently have I had the chance to see these sly dogs. The first thing you’ll probably notice about them will be their large, fluffy tails. I’ve seen them in the fall and winter in both the Interior and the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, but you may see them in many different areas of Alaska during any season.

Wolves

If you’re very lucky, you may get the chance to see a lone wolf or a pack of these predators lurking about. Whether you come in winter, summer, or anywhere in between, these giant canines will be roaming about. They’ll likely be spotted in less populated areas, but are surprisingly not afraid to come into smaller neighbors and communities as well.

Wolverine

With beautifully colored fur and some ferocious fangs, this honey badger of the north is a small but mighty predator. They make many areas of Alaska their home, but are not frequently seen.

Smaller Wildlife and Critters

These critters might not be the largest in the land, but they are no less important. Squirrels, hare, porcupine, and beaver are just some of the smaller sized animals you’ll likely see on your vacation, as long as you’ve got your eye out for them. They, like many of the large animals, camouflage well so keep your ears and eyes open for them. And don’t forget to look up; porcupines can climb trees! And speaking of looking up, there’s plenty of wildlife to see in the sky as well.

This may look like just a mound of sticks and mud to people, but to a beaver this is home. If you see a beaver lodge like this with fresh branches, chances are there are beaver still living in it, and you may get the chance to see one!

Alaskan Wildlife in the Sky

Eagles

The all American eagle. You are almost guaranteed to see an eagle while in Alaska. Whether they’re perched in a tree waiting to swoop in on their prey or snacking on some salmon, eagles can be seen everywhere, and you’ll likely get some great opportunities to photograph them.

A bald eagle keeping an eye out on his meal below.

Cranes

Sandhill cranes are a very unique looking bird. According to ADF&G, they have a large red patch covering their forehead, which will help you distinguish them in the wild. If you spot these giant birds, they will likely be flying over you or hanging out in a swampy area.

Owls

There are a variety of types of owls in Alaska. I’ve been very fortunate to see owls in Alaska on a few different occasions. Most of those times have been in fall, likely because that’s the season we’re outside most. You have to keep your eyes peeled to find these wise guys and gals because they camouflage surprisingly well.

An owl perched up and scoping out the area.

Loons

You may hear the unique sound of a loon before you see actually see the bird itself. I’ve most often seen the common loon, which is dark black with a variety of white markings on its back. You can read about the entire variety of loons that can be seen in Alaska here. If you’d like to snap a photo of these beautiful birds, make sure you do it quickly as they will disappear by diving down beneath the surface of the water.

Puffins

Your best chance at seeing these fun and quirky species out in the wild is on a glacier and wildlife cruise. No promises that you will be guaranteed to see one flying about or hanging around on the rocks with your binoculars or through your camera lens, but if you do, consider yourself quite lucky.

Swans

If you’re on the lookout to check swans off your Alaskan wildlife bucket list, you may not need to look far. Swans can often be spotted in lakes and ponds next to the road, and are hard to miss due to their large size and white feathers. You’ll likely see them in most areas of Alaska that you visit, as long as they have not migrated south yet.

Two of these beautiful birds swimming around the ice.

Mosquitoes

Are these birds? Nope, but they’re Alaskan wildlife that you’ll unfortunately encounter in the air if you visit during any season other than winter. These pesky little insects can really leave an impression, so check out my ways to avoid getting bit and bite remedies here.

Alaskan Wildlife in Water

Fish

Between trout in lakes, salmon in rivers, and halibut in the ocean, you’re bound to see and catch a variety of fish on your Alaskan adventure. Some of these are not only neat to see, but are also delicious! Be sure you get a chance to try salmon and halibut while you’re here.

Sea Otter

For much of the marine life, your best bet for viewing them is on a glacier and wildlife cruise. As for sea otters, though, you may get to view them from walking around the harbor in Seward, Valdez, and other costal towns. These critters have the most dense fur per square inch, often can be found in large groups called rafts, and will very likely stick around for you to get a ton of photos of their adorable little faces.

Seals

There are a variety of seals in Alaska. If you are able to go on a fishing charter or wildlife cruise, keep your eyes peeled these for guys and gals as they zoom around the water.

Sea Lions

These giant and boisterous mammals are hard to miss when you’re out on the water. You’ll spot them lazing around in rocky areas as pictured below.

Dolphins and Porpoise

You may see a group of these speedy animals jetting through the water next to your boat. Check their markings to determine if they’re a dolphin, or to see which type of porpoise it is.

Whales

Belugas, humpbacks, orcas and more, whales are really a sight to see. It is more common to see belugas up north, but there is also an opportunity to see them in late summer along the Turnagain Arm. Humpback whales and occasionally orcas can be spotted on wildlife cruises. To spot them, keep an eye out for mist coming from their blowhole and gatherings of birds which will flock together over where whales are feeding.

This is definitely not a 100% comprehensive list of Alaskan wildlife, but it’ll give you a great starting point. While there’s no guarantee that you’ll see all of the Alaskan wildlife listed here, there’s a very good chance you’ll see at least a few of the animals on this list in the wild. And if you don’t see them in the wild, there are many other great opportunities to see them.

There are so many ways to see wildlife in Alaska, even if it’s not necessarily in the wild, so be sure to check out those options as well. Looking to see big game, little critters, and birds? Check out the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center! Interested in viewing marine wildlife? Take a trip to the Alaska SeaLife Center! Hoping to learn about muskox? Visit the Muskox Farm! And don’t forget to visit The Alaska Zoo!

Let me know what’s on your Alaskan wildlife bucket list in the comments!

Our Visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

September 4, 2021 by Everyday Alaska

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise noted. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items.

The first time I visited the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center was on our 4th grade field trip. It seemed like an amazing place at the time, with such a variety of close up animal encounters and a location with an picturesque backdrop. I had wanted to go back ever since, but have never made the time to go until this past weekend, and it did not disappoint!

With the abundant amount of things to do and see in Alaska, I’m sure you’re trying to figure out if you should add AWCC to your vacation checklist. I would say “Yes!”, but you can read further and see if you agree!

What is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center?

You can basically think of AWCC as a tour of Alaska’s wildlife, all in one spot. It’s like you hit the wildlife jackpot, and somehow this whole variety of animals congregated in one area, just for you to see. Now, obviously that is not the case, but it sure feels like it.

I feel like the best way to explain it is to just quote directly from their website and sum it up. “The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, education, research, and quality animal care.” It has a large loop that you can drive, bike, or walk through, and along this loop you will see a variety of animals that I really don’t think you will find anywhere else. You can choose to have a tour, or do the loop yourself, which is what we did.

What will I see at AWCC?

There is really a vast variety of animals that you will encounter at AWCC. We came across a bull moose first, and shortly after saw muskox, brown bear, black bear, and more! There are many animals, big and small, located at the center. These include elk, wolves, fox, owls, and more.

Brown bears AWCC Alaska — Bears viewed from above on the viewing bridge.

Where is the center located?

AWCC is in a very convenient location. It is about an hour from Anchorage, so it can be an easy day trip if that is where you are heading from. If you’re staying at The Hotel Alyeska, or anywhere in Girdwood, you’re even closer at about a twenty-minute drive. It is a definite must see if you plan on driving down to the Kenai Peninsula, as you will be passing AWCC on your way there.

Who would enjoy visiting AWCC?

Anyone and everyone! Young, old, and everyone in between, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a must for all wildlife lovers. If you are visiting with someone who is elderly, has a disability, or even if its just raining, you can drive the loop, and do your wildlife viewing from the comfort of your vehicle.

AWCC Bear Viewing Bridge — Great views from the bear viewing bridge.

When should I visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center?

Anytime! Just be prepared for whatever weather you may come across during your visit by wearing weather appropriate gear, and check the AWCC website or call for hours before going.

What should I wear?

Great question! This will depend a lot on what season you visit Alaska in. As I’m sure you’ve heard and read in many other places, Alaska is a place of rapidly changing weather. I’d say check the forecast, but always be prepared for inclement weather with sweatshirts, hats, lightweight gloves, and waterproof layers. Bringing along some HotHands, especially when visiting any time other than summer, will keep you warm and comfortable. If you’re going to walk to loop, you may also want to consider bringing rain boots as the trail may be muddy when you go.

AWCC Wildlife Observation Deck — This wildlife observation deck is a great reprieve from the rain.

Why should I visit AWCC?

Why shouldn’t you! This may be a common question though, as you will likely see animals while you’re out and about in Alaska, and may think you don’t need to make the trip to AWCC to see wildlife. You won’t see wildlife like you will at the conservation center, though! The variety of Alaskan wildlife that you will experience here is much more than you’ll see on your average tour of the state. I’m a born and raised Alaskan, and I can tell you that I haven’t seen all of these Alaskan animals in the wild in all my years here, so your chances to see this scope of wildlife outside of AWCC are rare.

In addition to all you will see, you’ll have epic photo opportunities of these animals. There is also an array of free educational programs to further your knowledge about the wildlife, and paid tours where you can even feed an animal!

AWCC mom and baby muskox — A mother and calf muskox; something rare to see!

How do I support the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center?

By visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center you are supporting the care of these animals and the programs that AWCC participates in, such as the Wood Bison Reintroduction Project. You can support AWCC by visit their gift shop as well, and you can even “adopt” an animal from them, which would make a great gift idea!

Wood Bison Reintroduction Information — Conservation and wood bison reintroduction information.

You can read this post, watch videos, and look at pictures all you want, but until you’ve been there and seen it, nothing will really compare to the experience you’ll get by visiting AWCC yourself. Almost two decades after my first visit, it is still an amazing place to explore and learn.

Have you been to AWCC before, or did this post encourage you to go? Please leave a comment of your experience below! If you have questions about visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, or any Alaska activities, please leave a question in the comments!

Valdez, Alaska: A Local’s Guide to the Sights and Wildlife

May 4, 2017 by Everyday Alaska

Fireweed in Old Town Valdez, Alaska. — Fireweed in Valdez, Alaska in all its glory.

Updated January 15, 2024.

Hi everyone, and welcome to my first blog post. I thought it might be good to tell you all a little bit about myself, and what better way to do that than to share my hometown of Valdez, Alaska with you.

I grew up in beautiful Valdez, a small town located in Southcentral Alaska, neighboring Prince William Sound. Its countless activities, including fishing, kayaking, skiing, and snowmachining, draw people from around the world, but what brings many people to Valdez is the wildlife and amazing scenery.

I’m hoping you’re reading this post because you plan on visiting Valdez (or hopefully you will be after you read this!), to take in some of those activities and snap some shots of the wildlife. If you are, you’re in luck! Below I’ve compiled a list of the best places and ways to see all Valdez has to offer, by land, air, and water.

Land

Driving

If you plan on driving to Valdez, the first major landmarks you’ll see as you get closer to town are Worthington Glacier and Thompson Pass. If you turn off to head up to the glacier, you’ll end up in a large parking area. Once in the parking lot you’ll be met with restrooms (whew, you made it to one!) and paths that meander around by the glacier where you can get amazing pictures and even dip your feet in the chilly glacier runoff. This is a great chance to get out, stretch your legs, and take in the majestic views of Worthington.

Worthington Glacier near Valdez, Alaska. — Worthington Glacier.

Chances are if you ski, snowboard, or snowmachine you’ve heard of Thompson Pass before, but if not, you should definitely check it out. There are places for you to turn off and take pictures, and you will get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains on clear days. There’s even a campground by a lake in the pass if you want to stay awhile and enjoy the view, which I recommend so you can see the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

A sunset in Thompson pass. — Sunset in Thompson Pass on the way to Valdez, Alaska.

As you get further on, you’ll come to Keystone Canyon. You’ll have some great photo opportunities here as well. Waterfalls line both sides of the road, and there are turnouts here too, which are large enough to fit any vehicle or rv, so be sure to stop and enjoy the view.

Making a stop with our Fuzion 416 in Keystone Canyon near Valdez, Alaska. — Make time to stop in Keystone Canyon.

The next spot to check out is down Dayville Road. If anyone recommends that you go “across the bay” to see sea life, bears, or go fishing, this is what they’re talking about. This road is to your left as you are coming into Valdez, right after the weigh station. It will take you to the Alyeska Pipeline Terminal if you go all the way down the road, but you’ll want to stop before that. There is a large parking lot along the way where you can stop and check out the sea life or go fishing, and there are also spots to camp further down the road. You will often times see seals and sea lions out there feeding and can get some great pictures of them enjoying their catch. With so many fish, though, there are usually bears near by, so please be cautious.

A brown bear in Valdez, Alaska near the hatchery. — A bear hanging out after dinner across the bay.

Once you leave your new seal friends, you’ll probably be heading into town. When you get very close you’ll end up on the “duck flats”. You’ll know you’re there when you can see town, and there’s mountain on one side and water on the other. You can sometimes see bears at the base of the mountain when you’re cruising by.

Last, but not least, I suggest heading to the Valdez Small Boat Harbor. As you pull into Valdez, signs will guide you to it, and once you’re close you can’t miss it. It’s a beautiful spot to take some photos of the boats and sea otters, and just relax after your journey to Valdez.

The Valdez Harbor. — Peaceful day at the Valdez Harbor.

Air

Plane

If you end up flying into Valdez you can get some great pictures as well. During the short 45-minute flight from Anchorage to Valdez, you’ll fly over some impressive scenery and even get a glimpse at the whole town as you prepare to land.

Helicopter

Another amazing viewing opportunity is by helicopter. With Vertical Solutions Helicopters you can get aerial views of waterfalls, glaciers, sea life and more. You can even land on a glacier, get some glacier water to drink, and walk around a bit. If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime photo opportunity, this would be it!

Water

Kayak

Another way to experience the beauty of Valdez is by water. One way to do this is by kayak. If you’re feeling a little stiff after sitting awhile on your way to town, this is a good way to work your muscles and shake off the jet lag (or driving lag). Even if you have no experience kayaking this is a perfect opportunity to learn and enjoy some of the sights at the same time.

Cruise

If you’re looking for a bit more of a leisurely tour of Prince William Sound, a glacier and wildlife cruise might be right up your alley. You’ll have the opportunity to see whales, glaciers, otters, and more.

Ferry

One more way to get around the Sound is with the Alaska Marine Highway System, aka the ferry. If you plan on driving to Valdez and want to take a different way back to Anchorage, or visa versa, this is the perfect way to do it and see something a little different on the way there. You can just load up your vehicle on the ferry and be on your way to or from Whitter. From there, it’s a fairly short drive into Anchorage.

On the way to or from Valdez on the ferry, you can often see many otters, seals, and other wildlife. This is a good way to continue your trip and still get to see Prince William Sound if you’re short on time. You can even take the short jaunts over to Tatitlek or Cordova from Valdez if you want to explore some more. Another bonus of the Marine Highway System’s fleet is that they’re all fairly large and have bathrooms on board, so if you have children or just need to walk around to stretch your legs, this might be a perfect option for you.

This is just a short list of spots to check out, but there are so many more. You’ll never stop somewhere without having a beautiful view, so have your camera ready at all times. Feel free to comment or email me with any questions, or let me know about your Valdez experience. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tip, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have.

P.S. Just a heads up, be sure to bring extra SD cards, and have your battery charged because you’ll be snapping shots like paparazzi!

Please note that many of these places, businesses, activities, and views may vary greatly with the seasons. For any activities that require booking, I would highly recommend doing it ASAP since they tend to fill up quickly. Also, as with anything in Alaska, or any state, please be cautious of the wildlife and be sure to obey all Alaska Department of Fish and Game rules and regulations if you plan on hunting or fishing during your visit.