Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park Travel Guide:

Attractions:

Inside Glacier Bay National Park:

• Glacier Bay Basin: Home to numerous glaciers and diverse ecosystems.

• Margerie Glacier: A tidewater glacier known for its dramatic calvings.

• Johns Hopkins Glacier: Another spectacular glacier offering stunning scenery.

• Mt. Fairweather: A towering mountain providing picturesque views and climbing opportunities.

• Tarr Inlet: Offers stunning vistas of the Grand Pacific and Margerie Glaciers.

  
  

• Lamplugh Glacier: Known for its striking blue ice, it's a visual spectacle.

• Geikie Inlet: A less-visited inlet featuring wildlife and beautiful landscapes.

Surrounding Areas:

• Skagway: A nearby town known for its gold rush history and the starting point for the scenic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.

• Juneau: The state capital offers the Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska State Museum, and a range of outdoor activities.

• Sitka: Known for its rich history and Sitka National Historical Park, showcasing Tlingit and Russian heritage.

• Haines: Offers the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve and opportunities for outdoor adventures like rafting and hiking.

• Admiralty Island: Known for its dense brown bear population and Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area.

Other Natural Attractions:

• Icy Strait: Provides excellent whale watching opportunities.

• Tracy Arm Fjord: Known for its icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife, it’s a popular destination for cruise ships.

• Endicott Arm: Another stunning fjord featuring the Dawes Glacier and opportunities for spotting wildlife.

Activities:

Within Glacier Bay National Park:

• Mountaineering: The Fairweather Range offers opportunities for experienced climbers.

• Photography: The stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and dramatic glaciers offer countless photographic opportunities.

• Bird Watching: With over 280 bird species recorded in the park, it's a birder’s paradise.

• Ice Exploration: Experience the glaciers up close with guided ice exploration tours.

• Interpretive Programs: Attend ranger-led programs at the Glacier Bay Lodge to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history.

• Flightseeing: Take a small aircraft tour to witness the extraordinary landscapes from above.

• Kayaking and Boating: Explore the bay's waters and get up close to glaciers.

• Hiking and Camping: Explore the rugged landscapes and camp in the wilderness.

• Wildlife Viewing: Sightings may include whales, sea otters, seals, bears, and various bird species.

• Fishing: Enjoy freshwater and saltwater fishing experiences.

In the Surrounding Areas:

• Ziplining: Experience the thrill of ziplining through the stunning Alaskan wilderness in nearby areas.

• Cultural Tours: Explore the rich history and culture of the local Tlingit people through organized tours.

• Art and Museums: Discover local art galleries and museums showcasing the heritage and artistic expressions of the region.

• Dining: Enjoy fresh, local cuisine, including seafood, in nearby towns.

• Whale Watching Tours: Beyond the park, nearby towns offer specialized tours focusing on whale watching.

• Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs found in some neighboring areas.

• Cruises: Many cruises offer routes with breathtaking views of the glaciers and wildlife.

  
  

Areas to Stay:

Gustavus:

• Known as the “Gateway to Glacier Bay,” it is accessible by plane or ferry.

• Offers a range of lodging options, including hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts.

• Services, amenities, and dining options are available in the town.

Bartlett Cove:

• Located inside the park, it is the only developed area within Glacier Bay National Park.

• Offers the Glacier Bay Lodge, which has rooms and a restaurant.

• The Bartlett Cove Campground is available for those preferring to camp, and it is free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.

Glacier Bay Lodge:

• Rooms: The lodge provides comfortable rooms, usually with simple, rustic decor reflecting the natural surroundings.

• Dining: The lodge features a restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, often including local seafood and other Alaskan specialties.

• Amenities: Common areas for guests to relax and enjoy the view, gift shops, and sometimes, organized activities or tours.

• Location: It is strategically located close to the water, allowing easy access to boat tours and other water-based activities in the park.

• Booking: It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as the lodge can fill up quickly.

Additional Information:

• Backcountry Camping: For more adventurous travelers, backcountry camping is also an option within the park, but it requires permits.

• Nearby Towns: Some visitors choose to stay in nearby towns like Juneau and take day trips or cruises to the park.

• Booking in Advance: Accommodations, especially within Bartlett Cove, can fill up quickly during the peak season, so it’s advisable to book as early as possible.

Campgrounds:

Bartlett Cove Campground:

• Location: Situated near the park's headquarters.

• Facilities: It is a walk-in campground with tent sites only. There are no RV facilities or hookups.

• Amenities: Offers basic amenities including fire pits, bear-proof food storage containers, and restrooms.

• Cost: Camping is usually free, but a permit is required.

• Accessibility: Accessible by foot; it’s a short walk from the drop-off point.

• Availability: Operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and it can fill up quickly during peak season.

• Duration of Stay: Typically, there is a limit on the number of consecutive nights one can stay.

Considerations:

• Pack-In/Pack-Out: Visitors are responsible for packing out all trash.

• Bear Safety: Proper food storage and awareness of surroundings are crucial as the area is inhabited by bears.

• Weather: Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including rain.

Accessibility:

• By Air: Regular flights are available to Gustavus from Juneau.

• By Boat: Daily tour boats and ferries operate from Gustavus to Bartlett Cove.

Park Services:

• Visitor Information: The park's visitor center is located at Bartlett Cove.

• Ranger Programs: Rangers offer various educational programs and guided activities.

Safety and Wildlife:

• Wildlife Encounters: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, particularly bears and moose.

• Weather Conditions: The weather can be unpredictable; check the forecast regularly.

  
  

Packing and Clothing Guide:

• Layers: Pack layers, as temperatures can vary.

• Waterproof Clothing: Essential due to the high likelihood of rain.

• Sturdy Footwear: Suitable for rough terrain and hiking.

• Camping Gear: If camping, bring high-quality, weather-resistant gear.

• Food Supplies: Bring enough food, especially if staying in remote areas or camping.

Other Important Information:

• Permits: A permit is required for camping within the park.

• Leave No Trace: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to minimize your impact on the environment.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September is considered the best time to visit due to milder weather conditions.

Glacier Bay National Park is a majestic place, offering unparalleled experiences amidst glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. A well-planned visit, respecting both safety considerations and environmental conservation principles, will ensure a rewarding and unforgettable experience in this Alaskan wonderland.