Discover Cordova: Nature, Glaciers, and Culture

Cordova combines impressive nature experiences with regional history and unusual cultural discoveries. In spring and fall, the Copper River Delta becomes a resting place for millions of birds and waterfowl. There are also glacier trails, waterscapes, winter sports, and guided excursions. Those looking for a vacation rental or vacation home can therefore tailor their travel plans according to whether hiking, wildlife watching, culture, or water-based activities are the main focus.

Birdlife and Landscapes Along the Copper River Delta

In spring and fall, 7 million Western Sandpipers and the entire population of Western Sandpipers stop to rest in the Copper River Delta. This natural spectacle makes Cordova especially appealing to visitors who want to watch birds and experience a vast, wildlife-rich landscape. The Copper River Highway provides access to the delta. An important practical consideration for planning: Most of the highway is a gravel road. In the delta, there are opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

There are also suitable destinations for shorter or more clearly defined nature experiences. The Sheridan Glacier Trail leads 1.5 miles to the edge of a lake and offers views of Sheridan Glacier. The Saddlebag Glacier Trail begins at Mile 25 of the Copper River Highway on a signposted gravel road. From there, an easy 3-mile trail leads through stands of deciduous trees and spruce to Saddlebag Lake, where icebergs calved from the glacier can be seen.

Water, Mountains, and Trails for Active Days

Orca Inlet, north of Cordova, is suitable for kayaking. Outfitters in Cordova rent kayaks, offer transportation services, and organize guided tours in Orca Inlet and other bays around Cordova. Those who prefer a guided river excursion can book half-day or multi-day rafting adventures on the Copper River with outfitters in Cordova.

The Ski Hill Trail is accessible directly from Cordova and leads through the meadows and forests of the Mount Eyak Ski Area in summer. Along the way, there are views of Orca Inlet and the surrounding mountains. In winter, the Mount Eyak Ski Area can be reached on foot from the town center in a short time. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy 800 feet of vertical drop there while skiing and snowboarding; the slopes receive 118 inches of snow annually. These different starting points can help you choose accommodation: For excursions in the surrounding area, the planned route matters, while for winter sports, proximity to the town center may play a particularly important role.

Culture, History, and Unique Traditions

The Ilanka Cultural Center displays a fully articulated whale skeleton in its two-story entrance atrium. The Cordova Historical Museum dedicates its exhibitions to local marine life, Cordova’s early history, and its railroad history. It also features a three-seat bidarka kayak made of spruce wood and seal skins. This allows you to complement an active stay with cultural impressions.

Another special feature is the annual Iceworm Festival, held every February since 1961. The program includes, among other things, a parade and the Survival Suit Race. In May, the Copper River Delta Shorebird Festival takes place in Cordova on the first weekend. If you want to plan your trip around a particular experience, these dates provide a clear reason for planning your journey.

Places to Compare Further

If you would like to compare other places in addition to Cordova, you can also look at Copperville, Tonsina, Tatitlek, Copper Center, Slana, Valdez, and Glennallen.

For the higher-level travel overview: Valdez-Cordova Census Area.