Nestled between the towering Chugach Mountains and the pristine waters of Prince William Sound, Whittier, Alaska, is a small town with a big reputation for adventure and unique charm. With a population hovering around 200 residents, this hidden gem offers a rare blend of natural beauty, rich history, and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a casual traveler, Whittier promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s why you should consider adding this enchanting destination to your travel bucket list.
I thought this picture summed up the feeling here in Whittier at this time of year.
A Town Like No Other
Whittier is famous for being accessible primarily through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the longest combined rail and highway tunnel in North America. This 2.5-mile marvel is an adventure in itself, taking you through a mountain and delivering you into a town that feels like it's perched on the edge of the world.
Most of Whittier's residents live in a single building, Begich Towers, a 14-story structure that houses not only apartments but also a school, post office, grocery store, and medical clinic. This unique living arrangement is a testament to the town’s close-knit community spirit.
This is the building that 80% of the locals live in. I couldn't imagine.
Outdoor Adventures
For nature lovers and thrill-seekers, Whittier is a dream come true. Here are some must-do activities:
Kayaking and Boating
Whittier’s location on Prince William Sound makes it an excellent base for kayaking and boating. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, past glaciers, and alongside wildlife such as sea otters, seals, and even whales. For an unforgettable experience, join a guided tour that takes you to the serene Blackstone Bay, where you can witness the majesty of tidewater glaciers calving into the sea.Fishing
The waters around Whittier are teeming with fish, making it a paradise for anglers. Charter a fishing boat and try your luck catching salmon, halibut, and rockfish. The thrill of reeling in a big catch amidst breathtaking scenery is something every fishing enthusiast should experience.Hiking
The rugged terrain surrounding Whittier offers some incredible hiking opportunities. The Portage Pass Trail is a popular choice, providing a relatively easy hike with spectacular views of Portage Glacier and Portage Lake. For those seeking more of a challenge, the longer and more strenuous Horsetail Falls Trail rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of Prince William Sound.
Beautiful waterfall that I could see from the road out to Emerald Cove. I had to do a little bushwhacking to get closer to take this long exposure shot.
Historical and Cultural Insights
Whittier’s history is as captivating as its landscape. Originally established as a military port during World War II, remnants of its past are still visible today. The Whittier Museum, located in the former military barracks, offers a fascinating glimpse into the town's history, showcasing artifacts and stories from its wartime days to its evolution into a quirky tourist destination.
This is the old Buckner Building. The town was originally built as a secret wartime base during WWII, as it is an ice-free port all year round. 1000 military soldiers lived in this building, the largest in Alaska at the time.
Unique Experiences
Whittier Tunnel
No visit to Whittier is complete without experiencing the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. Timing your entry is key, as the tunnel operates on a strict schedule for one-way traffic. Driving through this engineering marvel is a thrilling start to your Whittier adventure.Wildlife Viewing
The surrounding wilderness is a haven for wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles soaring overhead, bears foraging along the shoreline, and a variety of marine life in the waters. Whale watching tours are also available, offering the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.
Practical Tips for Visiting Whittier
Best Time to Visit: The summer months (June to August) offer the most favorable weather and the longest daylight hours, perfect for exploring. However, winter brings its own charm with opportunities for snow sports and a quieter, more serene environment.
Getting There: Whittier is a 60-mile drive from Anchorage. The drive includes passing through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, so check the tunnel schedule in advance.
Accommodations: Options range from cozy bed and breakfasts to waterfront lodges. For a truly unique experience, consider staying in Begich Towers and get a taste of the local lifestyle.
Whittier, Alaska, may be small in size, but it offers a wealth of experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path. From breathtaking natural scenery and exciting outdoor activities to rich historical insights and unique living arrangements, Whittier is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and discover the wonders of Whittier, Alaska.
The town is serviced by the Alaska state ferry system, as well as the Alaska railroad.
This raven took off a second later.
You drive through a long, one way tunnel under a mountain to get here, then in town you walk through another long tunnel to go under the train tracks. Kinda creepy.
Down at the shoreline in a secluded bay. Crystal clear water tumbled out of the streams into the salty ocean waters of Prince William Sound.
The waterfront of Whittier. Our boat is the one with the green hull and white top.
I can't wait to check out other hikes around town...once the snow clears.
You can check out the location of Whittier, Alaska on pinmapples interactive map here:
[//]:# (!pinmapple 60.77550 lat -148.68002 long Whittier d3scr)
And as always, Keep Traveling!
- Dai Mar