Alaska Southcental consists of the shores and lands of the central part of the
Gulf of Alaska.
Most of the Alaskans live in the greater
Anchorage area,
making a living from fisheries, tourism and the oil industry.
The region has many active volcanos and is prone to major
earthquakes,
sometimes followed by a tsunami.
The area between Anchorage and Valdez is dominated by water, mountains and glaciers
and is of a spectacular beauty but almost void of roads.
The best way to reach
Valdez from Anchorage is to drive along the Turnagain
Arm to Portage. Do stop at Alyeska and ride the arial tram up to the Girdwood ski resort. The views here are breathtaking..
The
4 km long
one-lane tunnel between Portage and Whittier is shared by cars and trains, normally not at the same time.
At
Whittier you take the ferry to Valdez which is a real treat with views of imposing snow-capped mountains and distant glaciers.
If
you are lucky you may spot whales or sea otters.
In Valdez you can book a full-day cruise on the Prince William
Sound to see the Columbia Glacier and the abundant marine wildlife of the Sound.