Traveler's Guide to Whittier, Alaska
Whittier is located in the middle of South Central Alaska. It's isolated and central all at the same time. It's less than 100 miles from Anchorage, Seward, the Kenai Peninsula, and Valdez. Yet, it's tucked back into the Chugach mountains and on a fjord in Prince William Sound. It's a perfect jumping off point into the Alaskan maritime wilderness.
Transportation
The Alaska Railroad heading into Whittier, Alaska is a memorable trip. Photo:
Alaskan
Dude
- Alaska Rail Road
- The World famous Alaska Railroad provides land access to Whittier. You can catch the train in Anchorage or at Portage and ride through the tunnel into town. The ride is very scenic and worthwhile. You can also bring a car along, but unless you are taking the ferry, why would you.
- Whittier Tunnel
- Link has the tunnel schedule and tolls (starting at $12 for a car). Little known fact, the Whittier Tunnel is the longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel in North America. And, it's known at the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel
- Alaska State Ferry
- The AMHS (Alaska Marine Highway System) docks in the downtown of Whittier. This is the best way to access the town from the East and provides a beautiful trip from Valdez or Seward through Prince William Sound.
- Harley's Rent Alaska
- specializes in One Way Car, SUV, and Mini Van rentals between Anchorage Alaska and Whittier Alaska
- Avis
- Local & one way car rentals Tel:(907) 472-2277
- The Magic Bus
- Van shuttle from Denali to Seward / Homer. Makes a stop at the Pottage Tunnel for access to Whitter by train.
- Whittier Water Taxi
- Whittier Water Taxi offers water transportation service for up to six passengers to any back-country location throughout South Western Prince William Sound for camping, sea-kayaking, hiking, photography, birding and wildlife viewing hotspots.
Cruise ship at Whittier Alaska. Photo: Len@Loblolly
