There are some pretty spectacular places to see in the Last Frontier, and Worthington Glacier in Alaska is high on top of that list. This huge, 5,774-acre glacier is a stunner to see in person. Pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and head out on the Richardson Highway to explore this famous Alaskan landmark.

Worthington Glacier is a huge glacier right off the Richardson Highway, outside of Valdez.
Alexa Flores / AllTrails
This impressive natural feature was made a National Natural Landmark in 1968. When you have the chance to visit it in person, it’s easy to see why! It’s one of the best glaciers to visit in Alaska.
It’s a 5,774-acre valley glacier, located right outside of Thompson Pass.
Xian Li / AllTrails
The glacier itself is over four miles long! There are a couple of hikes in the Worthington Glacier State Recreational Site that allow you to get closer to this mammoth ice feature.
All require a little bit of effort, and although they’re short hikes, some only one mile long, they all include at least a little bit of rock climbing.
Connie Plumley / AllTrails
The easiest way to view the glacier is to follow the path to the viewing platform. It’s paved the entire way, and is handicap accessible, offering beautiful views of Worthington Glacier.
The Worthington Glacier State Recreation Area is one of the most visited sites along the Richardson Highway.
Michael Lawrence / AllTrails
The entire park is 113 acres, and open to be explored by the public. If you go off trail, just remember to be careful out in Alaska’s backcountry.

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Visiting Worthington glacier is best mid June through the middle of September.
Haley Rue / AllTrails
Heavy snowfall during the winter time can obscure good views of the glacier when it’s covered with up to dozens of feet of fresh snow! But spring, summer, and fall can be great opportunities for exploring, depending on the weather.
There’s a day pass to park and visit the area.
Xian Li / AllTrails
The recreation area has public outhouses, picnic pavilions, and plenty of parking. This makes a great stop on your trip to or from Valdez.
Go on a cloudy day; I’ve found that the blues in the glacier really pop on a darker, rainy day.
Megan McDonald / Only In Your State
The glacier itself is so majestic standing near it.
The ice is a cool blue color that is absolutely stunning. Make sure you don’t duck under the ice, as people have been trapped in glacier cave-ins in Alaska before.
Megan McDonald / Only In Your State
The next time you’re on the Richardson Highway, save enough time to see this amazing glacier in person.
Cosmic 46 / AllTrails
This is one item that belongs right at the top of your bucket list. You will love every minute of it!

Have you ever visited Worthington Glacier in Alaska? What did you think? Did you hike any of the trails? Let us know in the comments below!

If you want to visit the glacier in person, make sure to Hike This Easy Trail Out To One Of Alaska’s Most Beautiful Glaciers. Make sure you gear up from REI!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Worthington Glacier

Megan McDonald | December 14, 2023

Can you hike to Worthington Glacier?

Yes, you can hike to Worthington Glacier. Worthington Glacier is located in the Thompson Pass, about 29 miles northeast of Valdez, Alaska, and it's one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. The glacier is part of the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site, providing visitors with hiking opportunities and stunning views.

The most popular way to experience Worthington Glacier is through a short hike. The Worthington Glacier Trail is a relatively easy, well-maintained path that allows visitors to get close to the glacier. This hike is approximately a half-mile long and leads to a viewing platform where you can see the glacier up close. The trail provides excellent opportunities for photography and observing the glacier's features.

What are the most accessible glaciers in Alaska?

Alaska is renowned for its abundant and magnificent glaciers, many of which are relatively accessible to visitors. Some of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska are:

  • Mendenhall Glacier: Near Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska's most famous and easily accessible glaciers. There's a visitor center with excellent views, and several hiking trails offer closer access to the glacier.
  • Exit Glacier: Part of Kenai Fjords National Park, near Seward, Exit Glacier can be reached by a short drive from the town. There are several hiking trails, including one that leads up to the Harding Icefield.
  • Matanuska Glacier: Located along the Glenn Highway, this glacier is about a 2-hour drive from Anchorage. It's the largest glacier in Alaska that can be reached by car, and guided hikes are available.
  • Worthington Glacier: Near Valdez, on the Richardson Highway, Worthington Glacier is part of a state recreation site. A short, easy trail leads to a viewpoint close to the glacier.
  • Portage Glacier: South of Anchorage, Portage Glacier can be accessed via the Portage Glacier Road and is part of the Chugach National Forest. The best view is from Portage Lake, where boat tours are available.

These glaciers offer a variety of experiences, from easy viewing from visitor centers or boat tours to more adventurous glacier hiking and ice climbing. Each glacier has its unique features and is a testament to Alaska's natural beauty.

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Worthington Glacier, Alaska, USA