Glacier Bay National Park offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
As you explore the vast wilderness of this breathtaking national park, you will encounter towering glaciers, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife, all set against a backdrop of pristine blue skies and crystal-clear waters.
Get ready to pack your bags as we guide you through the best ways to explore Glacier Bay, from cruising through icy waters to hiking rugged peaks, and show you why this natural wonder is a must-see destination for any adventurer seeking to experience the majesty of the great outdoors.
Fascination Through Time
Glacier Bay is located on the northern boundary of the Inside Passage, an infamous route that stretches between the picturesque islands of Southeast Alaska. Unique to most southeastern Alaska destinations, Glacier Bay is not marked by a town, but instead covers over 3.3 million acres of rugged terrain, filled with glaciers and fjords.
Part of the United States’ National Park system, Glacier Bay has been a piece of art carefully carved for thousands of years. Over 10,000 years ago, continental-sized glaciers covered Alaska and Canada, carving out many of the dramatic valleys seen along the Inside Passage.
As many of the glaciers retreated, Glacier Bay continued to be shaped by ongoing glacier movement. Early Tingit accounts, dating back to as far as the 1600s, describe the advancement and retreatment of the glacier.
In the late 1700s, Captain George Vancouver sailed to Glacier Bay, creating the first European account of the dramatic fjord. His voyage inspired John Muir to take his own voyage to the bay in 1880. Muir’s enthusiastic writings led to a tourist boom in the area, and Glacier Bay has now played host to countless visitors over the last two centuries.
In 1925, Glacier Bay was declared a national monument, becoming a national park in 1980 and a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992.
Why You Should Visit
There are countless reasons why travelers should make the voyage to Glacier Bay. Home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, Glacier Bay National Park provides the unique opportunity for visitors to witness the beauty of the natural world up close.
This park is a living, breathing ecosystem that is home to an incredible array of wildlife, from bears and eagles to whales and sea otters. Within park boundaries, there are over 50 named glaciers, with many dipping down into the ocean to create massive walls of ice.
While visiting, you will have the opportunity for guided tours, solo hikes, tranquil kayaking, or jaw-dropping cruises. Each adventure offers its own unique perspective of one of Alaska’s most stunning natural areas.
Why to See and Do in Glacier Bay, Alaska
Glacier Viewing: Glaciers are the main attraction of the park, and no trip is complete without getting up close and personal with these majestic natural formations. Visitors can take boat tours along the fjord, hire kayak guides, or hike along one of the numerous coastal trails. For a more relaxed viewing experience, opt for a cruise to experience the majesty of the park from the comfort of your own suite.
Wildlife Watching: In the summer, Glacier Bay is home to a variety of wildlife, including humpback whales. Wildlife cruises are offered daily from Glacier Bay Lodge at Bartlett Cove.
Hike in the Rainforest: Glacier Bay is set against the backdrop of Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. Spend a day on the trails departing from Bartlett Cove. Trails are available for every skill level, from short family-friendly hikes to longer, multi-day adventures.
Attend a Ranger Program: Throughout the summer, the National Park service offers a variety of informative and engaging programs at the Visitor Center at Bartlett Cove. Check the national park website for an updated schedule, and attend a program to learn more about the fascinating ecological history of the area.
See the Glaciers from the Air: While Glacier Bay is visually stunning from the water, there is no comparison to seeing the glaciers from the air. With an aerial perspective, you can truly grasp the expansive reach of the glaciers, see the passage of time of the glacier’s path, and spot elusive wildlife along the coastline. Flightseeing tours are available from Juneau, Haines, and Yakutat – just be sure to check the weather ahead of time.
How to Travel to Glacier Bay
Lying just west of Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park is only accessible by plane or boat. In the summer, multi-day trips are offered out of Juneau and Haines, and many cruises will spend an entire day cruising through the fjord.
Flight options are also available for one-day tours out of Juneau. Accommodation is restricted to Glacier Bay Lodge or Bartlett Cove Campground.
Voyaging to the Heart of a Glacier
While not the easiest destination to get to, Glacier Bay National Park is worth the adventure. From stunning glaciers, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife, this park offers a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience remote Alaska. Whether you are traveling by plane or cruise, a trip to Glacier Bay is sure to leave a lasting impression for years to come.
