The Port Town of Valdez: A Gateway to the Prince William Sound
Valdez was devastated by the 1964 Great Alaska earthquake. The town has since rebuilt and serves as a vital hub for Alaskan oil transportation via the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. Despite its industrial importance, Valdez boasts panoramic views of the Prince William Sound and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. I witnessed a group of kayakers paddling through calm waters alongside playful sea otters. The local museum showcases the town's history and the impact of the Exxon Valdez oil spill disaster in 1989. I highly recommend the helicopter tour that takes you to nearby glaciers.