Cordova AK Alaska
Frequently Asked Questions
At the head of Orca Inlet, on the eastern side of Prince William Sound, right in the heart of town. Only small ships call here, and passengers step directly into the community.
By sea or air only. No road or railway connects Cordova to the rest of Alaska, which is what has kept it clear of mass tourism.
A walk around the fishing harbour to watch the seiners and gillnetters unload, a visit to the historical museum and the Ilanka cultural centre, then an outing to the Copper River Delta or Sheridan Glacier.
The fish that made Cordova's name. Each spring the first Copper River kings set off a small fever all the way to Seattle's best tables. In season, the town's restaurants serve it barely out of the water.
Yes. The road across the delta leads there, and a short trail brings you to a view of the terminal face, with icebergs stranded in the proglacial lake.
One of the largest coastal wetlands on the continent, nearly 300,000 hectares of sloughs, mudflats and soaked meadows east of town. Trumpeter swans, moose and bears frequent its edges.
May. Millions of migrating shorebirds land in the delta, including most of the world population of western sandpipers. A birding festival marks the event.
A centre presenting the heritage of the Eyak people and the region's Indigenous nations, including a complete orca skeleton reassembled and displayed by the community. It pairs well with the nearby historical museum.
US dollars and English. Cards work in town shops; keep cash for fish markets and small smokehouses.
May through September. May for the birds, summer for salmon and trails. Bring waterproofs and good boots: here, people work and walk outdoors in all weather.
