Worthington Glacier

The feel

Worthington Glacier is four miles long and descends almost to the pavement of the Richardson Highway in Thompson Pass. The state recreation site covers 113 acres, with a pavilion holding benches, interpretive panels and a model of the glacier.

A paved, wheelchair-accessible trail runs from the parking lot to a viewing platform a short distance from the toe of the glacier, with viewing scopes there. Once the seasonal snow has melted back, by late June or early July, the outline of the glacier's terminal fingers stands out against the bedrock and gravel. The surrounding terrain has good berry picking in season.

What to expect

What it is

A glacier four miles long and a National Natural Landmark, viewed from a paved trail and platform.

Time

A short walk from the parking lot to the viewing platform.

Crowds and best time

Late June or early July, once the seasonal snow has melted back.

Parking

A parking lot at the recreation site, at about milepost 29 of the Richardson Highway.

Fees and passes

$5 day use parking fee.

Kids

The paved, wheelchair-accessible trail is short.

Hazards

Viewing from the platform is the safest way to see the glacier. A mudslide has blocked a trail beyond the platform and it is closed.

Bathrooms and water

Pit toilets on site.

Season and access

Open until winter snow and ice close it. The site is 28 miles north of Valdez on the Richardson Highway; phone (907) 269-8400.

Mingo says

Time your stop for after the winter snow has gone. Stay long enough for berry picking nearby in season.

Before you go

• Bring the $5 day use fee for parking.
• Stay on the paved trail and platform; the trail beyond is closed after a mudslide.
• Pack your trash out with you.
• Call (907) 269-8400 with questions.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.