Whittier, AK

Board a day cruise from the Whittier Harbor to explore the icy wonders of Prince William Sound. See massive tidewater glaciers like the 26 Glacier Cruise route, watch for calving ice, and spot marine wildlife including sea otters, seals, and humpback whales.

Paddle through some of Alaska's most stunning fjords with local outfitters. Experienced guides lead trips past towering waterfalls, alongside icebergs, and into quiet coves where you might see sea lions resting on rocky outcrops.

Visit the haunting remains of this massive Cold War-era military structure, once called the 'City under one roof' before Begich Towers. The decaying concrete fortress offers a glimpse into Whittier's strategic military past, though interior access is restricted.

Join a charter from the small boat harbor to fish for halibut, salmon, and rockfish in the rich waters of Prince William Sound. Local captains know the best spots for both seasoned anglers and beginners looking to catch their Alaska dinner.

Hike this moderately challenging 4-mile roundtrip trail that begins near the tunnel entrance. The reward is stunning views of Portage Glacier and Passage Canal, with opportunities to continue to Portage Lake for closer glacier views.

When deep snow blankets Whittier, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. Rent snowshoes to explore trails around town or join guided trips to experience the quiet beauty of the sound's frozen shoreline and snow-laden forests.

The heart of Whittier where nearly all residents live. This vertical neighborhood includes condominiums, the school, medical clinic, police station, grocery store, and mayor's office—all connected by indoor corridors that eliminate the need to go outside in harsh weather.

The bustling working waterfront where fishing boats, tour vessels, and the Alaska Marine Highway ferry dock. This is where you'll find charter offices, the harbor master, and constant activity as boats come and go between the dramatic mountain backdrop.

A compact grid of streets between the harbor and Begich Towers containing most of Whittier's businesses. Here you'll find restaurants, the historic Anchor Inn, souvenir shops, and the museum documenting the town's military and railroad history.

The functional heart of Whittier's transportation network where the Alaska Railroad meets the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. Watch freight operations, see the unique train-tunnel scheduling system, and understand how this infrastructure sustains the isolated community.

A scenic area along Passage Canal with RV sites, tent camping, and picnic areas offering stunning views of the sound. Popular with visitors arriving by ferry or road, this is where many experience their first night under the midnight sun in Whittier.