Drives Alaska Anchorage, the Kenai and Southcentral Alaska
Richardson Highway: Thompson Pass
Richardson Highway, AK 4 · Tiekel River → Valdez
The drive
The last 54 miles of the Richardson Highway run into Valdez, the highway's southern end. The road climbs past Worthington Glacier at Thompson Pass, then drops through Keystone Canyon.
Worthington Glacier sits along the highway about 46 km east of Valdez, and is one of the few U.S. glaciers reachable by paved highway. Keystone Canyon is about 3 miles long. Horsetail Falls, 328 feet, can be seen from a turnout on the highway, and Bridal Veil Falls from a turnout 0.4 miles north of it.
Along the way
- Tiekel River
- Worthington Glacier
- Thompson Pass
- Bridal Veil Falls
- Valdez
Good to know
- Avalanches can close the road through the pass canyon area.
- Alaska DOT urges travelers to check 511 for current conditions.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Alaska 511 road conditions.
Questions about this drive
How long does Thompson Pass take to drive on the Richardson Highway?
The Richardson Highway from the Tiekel River to Valdez, over Thompson Pass, is 53.8 miles and takes about 1 hour.
Does the Richardson Highway close at Thompson Pass in winter?
Avalanches can close it, and Alaska DOT advises checking 511 before you go.
Where is Worthington Glacier?
Worthington Glacier is along the Richardson Highway near Thompson Pass, about 46 km east of Valdez, with a state roadside park for viewing.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.