- Valdez is a city located in Valdez-Cordova Census Area, Alaska, United States. It is situated at the head of the Valdez Bay, on the northeastern coast of Prince William Sound. The city is known for its picturesque setting surrounded by mountains, including the Chugach Mountains. It serves as a gateway for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, skiing, and snowboarding. Valdez also has historical significance as it was the embarkation point for the famous 1898 Klondike Gold Rush, where thousands of prospectors set off for the Yukon Territory. Today, the city has a population of around 3,900 residents and is a popular tourist destination for those seeking nature and adventure.