Whittier Tunnel

Stretching 2.5 miles, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, also known as Whittier Tunnel, is the longest highway tunnel on the continent—and it leads to some of the best sights of Alaska! As a dual use tunnel, Whittier Tunnel functions as both a railroad and a highway that creates a passageway under Maynard Mountain. A marvel of engineering, traveling through Whittier Tunnel is a truly unique Alaskan experience.

About Whittier Tunnel

A one-lane tunnel built in a distinctive A-shape to withstand avalanches, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel fluctuates between allowing vehicles to pass and trains to make their way through the tunnel. While traveling Whittier Tunnel takes planning (with expected delays), it is a highlight for visitors to the area, and Whittier on the terminus end offers plenty of opportunities for exciting Alaskan experiences.

Visiting Whittier Tunnel

When you want to get to Whittier and the fun of Prince William Sound, you need to go through Whittier Tunnel—which takes some planning ahead! The tunnel operates on a strict schedule, and cars only pass through each way once per hour. Tunnel schedules can be found online, and you’ll want to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled opening.

History & Geography

Whittier Tunnel was first built as a rail-only tunnel in 1941-1942. Between the years of 1998 and 2000, it was upgraded to bimodal use—allowing both trains and vehicles to use the tunnel at scheduled times throughout the day.

Known as the gateway to Prince William Sound and the popular Whittier area, the Whittier Tunnel allows for easy access through the impassable surrounding mountains. Now a toll tunnel for vehicles, the average toll for cars and motorcycles to use the tunnel is $13.

Interesting Facts

The Whittier Tunnel isn’t just an essential passageway for visitors and local residents—it is also a wonder of engineering that was built to withstand the harsh reality of Alaska. Built from 1,800 texturized concrete panels, the railroad tracks were then sunk into the road to allow for dual use, making Whittier Tunnel an experience you won’t find anywhere else in North America.

• The Whittier Tunnel is built to withstand 150 mph winds and temperatures down to -40° F.
• Several safe-houses, or small buildings, are built within the tunnel that can be used in the event of emergencies, fire, or natural disaster.
• It takes less than 10 minutes to travel the length of the tunnel by car, and the speed limit is set at 25 miles per hour.
• Two computer-based systems coordinate the timing of when vehicles can enter or when railroad gates need to be lowered for an approaching train.
• Every summer, the town of Whittier hosts the “Walk to Whittier”—the only time of year when pedestrians are allowed in the tunnel.
• The tunnel is named for Anton Anderson—a chief engineer on the rail access project to Whittier. It was dedicated to him in 1976 for his years of service to the state.

Points of Interest

Whether you’re traveling to Whittier for glacier cruises, hiking, and kayaking or you simply want to say that you’ve been through North America’s longest bimodal tunnel, Whittier Tunnel is an experience you won’t forget. While you need to plan ahead and delays are expected, you’ll enjoy scenic Alaskan views from the highway and a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

View all of our Whittier tours.