Adventure Guide To Worthington Glacier State Recreational Site

1. Glacier Viewing and Short Hiking Trails

• Why It's Special: Easy access trails with steps and boardwalks lead to vantage points overlooking the glacier’s toe and surrounding mountain peaks.
• Features: Viewing platforms, interpretive signs, and photographic viewpoints.
• Local Insight: The glacier is a living ice mass still advancing and retreating, offering a chance to appreciate active glacial geology.
• Visitor Tips: Visit in late spring through early autumn for the clearest trail access. Bring layered clothing and sturdy shoes for icy or wet patches.

2. Photography and Wildlife Watching

• Why It's Special: The area’s contrasting colors of ice, rock, and greenery make it ideal for nature photography. Wildlife sightings often include marmots, mountain goats, and varied bird species.
• Features: Multiple scenic overlooks near the parking area.
• Local Insight: Early morning or late evening light captures the glacier’s vibrant blues best.
• Visitor Tips: Bring binoculars and a zoom lens. Be mindful to keep a distance from wildlife.

3. Scenic Drive from Valdez

• Why It's Special: The journey to Worthington Glacier along Richardson Highway is renowned for its dramatic mountain views and wilderness ambience.
• Features: Well-paved highway with roadside pullouts to enjoy vistas.
• Local Insight: Winter brings snow-capped peaks; summer reveals wildflowers.
• Visitor Tips: Drive time from Valdez is approximately 30-40 minutes. Make sure to fill your gas tank before leaving town as services are limited.

Getting There: From Valdez, head north on Richardson Highway (AK-4) for about 20 miles. Look for the turnoff signs to Worthington Glacier. A $5 parking fee applies at the site. The site is best visited between May and October when trails are most accessible, although winter visits offer spectacular snowy views but require caution and preparation.