Whittier

About

Tucked between the Chugach Mountains and the shimmering waters of Prince William Sound, Whittier is one of Alaska's most remarkable small towns. Nearly all of its roughly 200 year-round residents live in a single building, the Begich Towers, making it unlike any other community in the state. But don't let its tiny size fool you - Whittier is a major jumping-off point for some of Alaska's most breathtaking experiences.

Visitors come here primarily for the water. Prince William Sound boat tours and glacier cruises depart from the small boat harbor, offering close-up views of tidewater glaciers, sea otters, humpback whales, and bald eagles. Several tour operators run daily excursions during the summer season, typically from late May through mid-September. The Surprise Glacier and Blackstone Bay are among the most popular destinations.

Getting to Whittier is an adventure in itself. The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, at 2.5 miles long, is the longest highway tunnel in North America and shares its single bore with the Alaska Railroad. The tunnel operates on a scheduled alternating traffic pattern, so checking the schedule before you go is essential. You can also arrive by rail - the Alaska Railroad's Glacier Discovery train runs from Anchorage, and it's a stunning ride through mountain passes and along river valleys.

Once in town, things are refreshingly compact. The harbor area, a few restaurants, and the Portage Pass trailhead are all within a short distance. The Whittier Creek bed walk offers a gentle path near town with mountain views on all sides. For something more adventurous, kayak rentals and fishing charters are available at the harbor.

Whittier receives significant rainfall and cloud cover, so packing layers and rain gear is a must. Even on overcast days, the scenery is dramatic - waterfalls cascade down surrounding peaks, and the glacial waters have an otherworldly blue-green hue. The town's seasonal restaurants serve fresh local seafood, and a couple of small shops offer supplies and souvenirs.

Plan to spend at least a full day here. Many visitors combine a Whittier trip with stops in Girdwood or along the Seward Highway for a memorable multi-day Southcentral Alaska itinerary.

Accessibility

Whittier's compact layout means most services and attractions are clustered near the small boat harbor, reducing travel distances between key points. The harbor area and main roads are paved and generally flat, which is helpful for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.

The Alaska Railroad, which serves Whittier from Anchorage, provides wheelchair lifts at all stations, making the scenic rail journey a viable option for visitors with mobility needs. This can be a good alternative to driving through the tunnel for those who prefer accessible rail travel.

Several glacier cruise operators depart from Whittier's harbor. Accessibility varies by vessel, so it's worth contacting tour companies directly before booking to ask about wheelchair access, boarding ramps, and accessible restrooms on board. Some larger vessels are better equipped than others.

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is vehicle-accessible and does not require passengers to exit their cars, making it straightforward for visitors with mobility challenges. Parking is available near the harbor, though designated accessible spaces may be limited given the town's small infrastructure.

Trails in the Whittier area are generally unpaved mountain paths that may present challenges for wheelchair users. The flat areas near the harbor and along the waterfront are the most accessible spots for enjoying the scenery on foot or by wheelchair.

Public restroom facilities in Whittier are limited. Contact the Whittier city offices or the harbor master for current information about accessible restroom locations. Given the town's remote location and small size, visitors with specific accessibility needs should plan ahead - bring necessary supplies and medications, and confirm accommodations and tour accessibility before arriving.

More accessible places in Alaska

• Phillips 26 Glacier Cruise (Whittier)
• Alaska SeaLife Center (Seward)
• Alaska Aviation Museum (Anchorage)
• Alaska Botanical Garden (Anchorage)
• Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center (Fairbanks)
• University of Alaska Museum of the North (Fairbanks)