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Discover Glacier Bay - Alaska's Icy Wilderness & Wildlife Haven

Explore Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Witness towering glaciers, abundant wildlife, and pristine fjords. Plan your unforgettable Alaskan adventure with our comprehensive guide.

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Step into the awe-inspiring realm of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where colossal glaciers meet the sea, carving a dynamic landscape unlike any other. This breathtaking wilderness, sprawling across 3.3 million acres in Southeast Alaska, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness nature’s raw power, from actively calving tidewater glaciers to abundant marine and terrestrial wildlife. It’s a place of profound beauty and scientific significance, a living laboratory where the earth is constantly being reshaped before your eyes.

Prepare for an immersive journey into a pristine ecosystem, where the air is crisp, the waters are calm, and towering peaks pierce the sky. Every turn in the bay reveals a new marvel, promising awe-inspiring scenery and vibrant wildlife encounters that etch themselves into memory. Glacier Bay is not just a destination; it’s an experience that connects you to the untamed heart of Alaska, inviting you to witness a landscape in perpetual, dramatic motion.

Seasonal Weather Guide

Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.

Winter

Highs 20s-30s°F / Lows 10s-20s°F

Expect very cold temperatures and heavy snowfall, making travel challenging. Most services are closed, and access is severely limited due to winter conditions.

Spring

Highs 30s-50s°F / Lows 20s-40s°F

Temperatures slowly rise, snow begins to melt, and wildlife becomes more active. Weather can be unpredictable with a mix of sun, rain, and occasional snow.

Summer

Highs 50s-60s°F / Lows 40s°F

The warmest and most popular season, though still cool and often wet. Expect frequent rain and misty conditions, but also long daylight hours for exploration.

Fall

Highs 30s-50s°F / Lows 20s-30s°F

Temperatures drop quickly, and precipitation increases, often turning to snow towards late fall. Wildlife viewing can still be good, but services begin to close.

Glacier Bay: A Living Laboratory of Change

Glacier Bay is more than just a collection of stunning vistas; it’s a profound testament to the planet’s dynamic geological processes and an active center for scientific study. Here, the landscape is in perpetual motion, constantly sculpted by advancing and retreating glaciers, creating a unique environment where life adapts and thrives amidst profound change. This ongoing transformation makes it a prime location for understanding climate change, ecological succession, and ecosystem resilience in real-time.

The park’s pristine wilderness remains largely untouched by human development, fostering an atmosphere of profound tranquility and grandeur. This untouched quality provides a crucial sanctuary for an extraordinary array of flora and fauna, making every visit an educational expedition into one of Earth’s most vibrant and vital ecosystems, where the delicate balance of nature is both powerful and ever-evolving.

Things to Do

Unforgettable experiences await you.

Sightseeing

Glacier Bay Tour Boat Cruise

Embark on the official day boat cruise to witness spectacular tidewater glaciers like Margerie and Grand Pacific Glacier, often seeing them calve directly into the bay.

Nature

Wildlife Viewing & Photography

Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, harbor seals, brown bears, and bald eagles during your boat tour or from shore at Bartlett Cove.

Outdoor Adventure

Kayaking and Kayak Camping

Paddle through the calm waters of Bartlett Cove or venture deeper into the bay for multi-day expeditions, experiencing the wilderness up close and personal.

Cultural

National Park Ranger Programs

Participate in engaging educational programs led by park rangers, often offered on tour boats or at the Bartlett Cove Visitor Center, to learn about the park's ecology and history.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Margerie Glacier — One of the most famous tidewater glaciers, renowned for its dramatic calving events. Witnessing a chunk of ice, sometimes the size of a building, crash into the bay is an unforgettable spectacle. Your vessel will typically spend significant time here for prime viewing and photographic opportunities.

Other Iconic Tidewater Glaciers — Beyond Margerie, explore the immense scale and varying shades of blue at glaciers like Grand Pacific, Lamplugh, and Reid. Cruise ships and tour boats will navigate to various glacial fronts depending on ice conditions and weather, offering incredible views of these magnificent ice formations.

Wildlife Encounters — Glacier Bay is a haven for iconic Alaskan wildlife, so keep binoculars ready! Look for breaching humpback whales and patrolling orcas, playful sea otters floating on their backs, and harbor seals resting on ice floes. Ashore, brown bears forage along the coastline, mountain goats scale steep cliffs, and bald eagles soar majestically overhead.

National Park Ranger Programs — Enhance your understanding and appreciation with fascinating, engaging talks delivered by National Park Service Rangers. They board all authorized tour vessels, providing expert insights into the bay’s geology, ecology, and rich cultural history, making your journey even more meaningful.

Bartlett Cove & Visitor Center — Located in Gustavus, this is the park’s accessible hub. Here you’ll find the park headquarters, a comprehensive visitor center with exhibits, and short hiking trails. It’s also the launch point for guided walks and opportunities for calmer kayaking excursions in the sheltered waters of Bartlett Cove.

Essential Guide

Everything you need to know.

Must-Visit Spots

Margerie Glacier - Witness spectacular calving events as this active tidewater glacier sheds massive chunks of ice into the bay.

Bartlett Cove - The main visitor area and launch point, offering trails, kayak rentals, and ranger programs.

Grand Pacific Glacier - One of the largest glaciers in the park, providing an awe-inspiring view of its massive ice front.

Wildlife Viewing - Keep an eye out for breaching humpback whales, playful sea otters, and bears along the shoreline during your visit.

Local Cuisine

Glacier Bay Lodge Dining Room - Enjoy fresh Alaskan seafood and American cuisine with stunning views of Bartlett Cove.

Gustavus Inn at Glacier Bay - Famous for its farm-to-table dining, featuring local ingredients and fresh-caught seafood in Gustavus.

Salmon River Cabin Smokehouse & Cafe - Savor delicious smoked salmon and other local delights, a favorite among Gustavus locals.

Fairweather Foods (Gustavus) - A convenient stop for sandwiches, baked goods, and local products in the nearby town of Gustavus.

Where to Stay

Glacier Bay Lodge - The only lodging within Glacier Bay National Park, offering comfortable rooms right on Bartlett Cove.

Gustavus Inn at Glacier Bay - A historic and charming lodge in Gustavus, known for its hospitality and excellent dining.

Bear Track Inn (Gustavus) - A rustic-luxury lodge offering scenic views and proximity to outdoor activities near the park entrance.

Annie Mae's Bed & Breakfast (Gustavus) - A cozy and welcoming B&B offering personalized service and local insights in Gustavus.

Travel Tips

Book tours and lodging far in advance: Limited capacity means high demand, especially during the peak summer months.

Pack layers and rain gear: Expect cool, wet, and changeable weather, even in summer; waterproof outerwear is essential.

Bring binoculars and a good camera: Essential for spotting distant wildlife and capturing the majestic landscapes.

Prepare for limited cell service: Connectivity is sparse in the park, allowing for a true digital detox and wilderness immersion.

Planning Your Visit

Planning a trip to Glacier Bay requires foresight, as access is carefully managed to preserve its delicate ecosystem. The most common way to experience the bay is via cruise ship, with many large and small ship itineraries including a scenic day here. Alternatively, fly into Gustavus (GTS) via a scenic flight from Juneau (JNU) to access the daily tour boat service into the bay and stay at Glacier Bay Lodge or charming independent B&Bs. It is crucial to book cruises, flights, and accommodations at least 6-12 months in advance, especially for peak season, and private vessel permits are highly regulated and often book out far in advance through the NPS website.

Alaska weather is famously unpredictable, so essential gear includes packing layers, a waterproof and windproof outer shell, a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy waterproof footwear. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife spotting, a high-quality camera with a zoom lens, and extra batteries/memory cards. Inside the park, getting around is primarily by authorized cruise ships, the daily tour boat (e.g., the Baranof Blue), or guided kayaking excursions from Bartlett Cove. Be prepared to disconnect; internet and cell service are limited or non-existent, offering a true opportunity to immerse yourself fully in nature.

When to Visit

Choose the perfect time for your adventure.

Peak Season: Summer (June - August)

Pros

Warmest temperatures and most comfortable weather for exploration.
Best opportunities for wildlife viewing, including whales and bears.
All park services, tours, and lodges are fully operational.
Long daylight hours maximize sightseeing and activity time.

Cons

Highest prices for flights, lodging, and tours due to demand.
Most crowded, requiring bookings months in advance.
Frequent rain and misty conditions are still common.
Limited availability for tours and accommodations.

Shoulder Season: Spring (May), Fall (September)

Pros

Fewer crowds than peak summer, offering a more serene experience.
Potentially lower prices for some services and accommodations.
Good opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially spring migrations or fall foraging.
Beautiful transitional scenery with melting snow or changing foliage.

Cons

Cooler weather, with a higher chance of rain or snow.
Some services and tours may have limited availability or reduced schedules.
Unpredictable weather can make planning challenging.
Shorter daylight hours compared to the height of summer.

Off-Peak: Winter (October - April)

Pros

Absolute solitude and a unique, stark beauty of snow-covered landscapes.
Potential for very low prices if any limited services are available.
Unique photography opportunities in extreme winter conditions.
A truly remote and untamed wilderness experience for adventurers.

Cons

Extremely cold temperatures and heavy snowfall.
Most park services, tours, and lodging are completely closed.
Limited to no access into the inner bay due to ice and weather.
Very short daylight hours and challenging travel conditions.

A journey to Glacier Bay is more than just a vacation; it’s a profound encounter with one of Earth’s last grand wildernesses. It’s where the majestic silence of ancient ice meets the vibrant symphony of life, leaving every visitor with a renewed sense of wonder and a deep appreciation for the untamed beauty of our planet.

Sample Itineraries

Glacier Bay Cruise Expedition

$5,000 for 2 people • 7 Days

Experience the majestic glaciers and abundant wildlife of Glacier Bay from the comfort of a luxury expedition ship, including daily ranger talks and Zodiac excursions.

Day 1: Gateway to Wilderness: Embarkation Day
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Your Glacier Bay expedition begins with arrival in Gustavus, Alaska, the gateway town to Glacier Bay National Park. You’ll be met by a representative from your expedition ship for a transfer to the dock. This scenic drive (approx. 10-15 minutes, 5-7 miles) offers first views of the surrounding Tongass National Forest. Upon arrival at the dock, board your luxury expedition vessel.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Check into your cabin and enjoy a gourmet welcome lunch on board. Participate in mandatory safety briefings and an introduction to the ship’s naturalists and expedition team. The ship will weigh anchor and begin its initial journey into the calmer waters leading towards Glacier Bay National Park, cruising past Pleasant Island. Get acquainted with the ship’s amenities.
- Evening Enjoy a Captain’s Welcome Reception, followed by your first exquisite dinner on board. The menu will feature fresh Alaskan ingredients, often including locally sourced seafood. After dinner, join an introductory presentation by a National Park Service Ranger, who will be on board for the duration of the cruise, detailing the history and ecology of Glacier Bay.
Day 2: First Glimpse: Entering the Fjord
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Awake as the ship officially enters Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. After breakfast, head to the observation deck for spectacular views. A National Park Service Ranger will provide live commentary as you cruise past iconic points like Bartlett Cove (home to the Park Headquarters and Huna Tribal House) and Russell Island, known for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and sea otters.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Following lunch, embark on your first Zodiac excursion. Depending on conditions, this might be a shore landing on a secluded beach, offering a gentle walk through temperate rainforest, or a Zodiac cruise around Lone Island for close-up wildlife photography of Steller sea lions and various seabirds. Total excursion time: approx. 2-3 hours.
- Evening Dine on a multi-course meal prepared by the ship’s chef. Afterward, join a presentation on “The Mammals of Glacier Bay” given by one of the ship’s naturalists, preparing you for upcoming wildlife encounters. Binoculars are highly recommended for optimal viewing.
Day 3: Echoes of Ice: Muir Inlet’s Retreat
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Today, the expedition ship will navigate into the historic Muir Inlet, a significant area for understanding glacial retreat, famously explored by John Muir. Enjoy breakfast as you cruise approximately 25 nautical miles deep into the inlet, observing dramatic changes in the landscape from forested areas to stark, glaciated valleys. Look for mountain goats on the steep slopes.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After lunch, participate in a kayaking excursion (if conditions allow, equipment provided by the ship). Paddle in the calm waters of a secluded cove within Muir Inlet, offering a silent and intimate perspective of the surroundings. Alternatively, join a guided shore walk to observe glacial rebound and unique plant life adapting to the newly exposed land. Excursion time: 2.5-3 hours.
- Evening Relish a delightful dinner featuring seasonal ingredients. The evening program includes a captivating lecture on “Glacier Bay’s Geologic History and Glacial Dynamics,” explaining the powerful forces that shaped this landscape.
Day 4: Giants of Ice: Margerie & Grand Pacific Glaciers
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Today is a highlight as the ship cruises deep into Tarr Inlet, aiming for the magnificent Margerie Glacier and Grand Pacific Glacier. Margerie Glacier is renowned for its active calving, where immense chunks of ice break off and crash into the sea. The ship will position itself for extended viewing, allowing ample time for photography and experiencing the thunderous sounds of calving.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Following a memorable lunch with glacier views, embark on a Zodiac cruise around the ice-filled waters of Tarr Inlet. This allows for closer inspection of intricate ice formations (bergy bits and growlers) and opportunities to spot harbor seals resting on ice floes, as well as various seabirds like Black-legged Kittiwakes and Pigeon Guillemots. Excursion time: 2-2.5 hours.
- Evening Enjoy a specially prepared “Glacier Day” themed dinner. Later, join a casual “Photography Tips for Glacier Bay” session with the ship’s photographer or naturalist, where you can share your best shots and learn techniques for capturing the bay’s dramatic beauty.
Day 5: Wilderness Heart: Johns Hopkins’ Pristine Beauty
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) The ship will carefully navigate into Johns Hopkins Inlet (access is generally restricted before July 1st to protect pupping harbor seals). This inlet is one of the most pristine and visually stunning areas of the park, offering views of the tidewater Johns Hopkins Glacier and five other glaciers descending from the Fairweather Range, including Mount Fairweather (15,325 ft).
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After a gourmet lunch, enjoy another immersive Zodiac excursion. This time, the focus will be on the rich wildlife of Johns Hopkins Inlet. You may witness hundreds of harbor seals hauled out on icebergs, and potentially observe brown bears foraging on the shoreline, making this a prime wildlife viewing opportunity. Excursion time: 2.5-3 hours.
- Evening Delight in another superb dinner on board. The evening’s program will feature a lively “Glacier Bay Trivia Challenge” or a presentation on “Marine Life and Conservation in Glacier Bay,” led by the naturalists and ranger.
Day 6: Last Frontier: Reid Glacier’s Serenity
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) As the journey begins its gentle turn south, the ship will anchor near Reid Inlet. After breakfast, you’ll have the opportunity for a shore landing near the receding Reid Glacier. Enjoy a guided hike on the moraine, exploring the unique ecosystem of a land recently unveiled by the glacier’s retreat. The hike offers incredible panoramic views and photo opportunities. Distance covered: 1-2 miles, gentle terrain.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After lunch, enjoy your final organized activity, which could be an extended kayaking session in the calm waters of Reid Inlet or a Zodiac cruise exploring a different section of the inlet, searching for a final glimpse of sea otters or other elusive wildlife. This is often a favorite for its quiet beauty. Excursion time: 2-3 hours.
- Evening Prepare for the elegant Captain’s Farewell Dinner, a multi-course culinary event featuring the finest Alaskan specialties, often with a celebratory toast. Following dinner, relive the week’s incredible memories with a “Voyage Highlights” slideshow or video presentation, often compiled from guest and staff photos.
Day 7: Farewell to the Bay: Disembarkation
- Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) Enjoy a final breakfast on board as the ship cruises out of Glacier Bay National Park and makes its way back towards Gustavus. Take this last opportunity to enjoy the serene coastal views and reflect on your expedition.
- Morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) Disembarkation in Gustavus. The ship’s crew will assist with luggage and provide transfers to the local airport for your departing flights, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Glacier Bay’s majestic glaciers and abundant wildlife.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM onwards) Continue your journey home or to your next Alaskan adventure. (Costs for flights and pre/post-cruise accommodations are not included in the $5,000 cruise budget).

Glacier Bay Day Trip & Coastal Exploration

$3,500 for 2 people • 4 Days

Combine a scenic flight into Gustavus with a full-day boat tour into Glacier Bay, exploring nearby Icy Strait Point and local wildlife by kayak.

Day 1: Arrival & Gustavus Welcome
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Your adventure begins with a scenic bush plane flight from Juneau (JNU) to Gustavus (GST), the charming gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. You’ll fly with a regional carrier like Alaska Seaplanes or Wings of Alaska, enjoying stunning aerial views of the Inside Passage. (Estimated cost for 2 people, round trip JNU-GST: $600-$700). Upon arrival at the small Gustavus airport, take your pre-arranged lodge shuttle or pick up a rental car to your chosen accommodation. Consider a local B&B like Annie Mae’s B&B or Bear Track Inn for a cozy, budget-friendly stay (Estimated cost for 3 nights: $600-$750 for 2 people). Check in and settle into the serene surroundings.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After lunch at your lodge or a local eatery, head to the Glacier Bay National Park Visitor Information Station, located at Bartlett Cove near the Glacier Bay Lodge (approx. 10-15 minute drive, ~7 miles, from most Gustavus accommodations). Collect maps, learn about the park’s history and ecosystems, and enjoy the tranquil views of Bartlett Cove. Take a leisurely stroll along the temperate rainforest trails or the beach, keeping an eye out for local birds and intertidal life. Bike rentals are often available in Gustavus for exploring the flat roads at your own pace.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Indulge in a delicious, casual dinner at a local Gustavus establishment. Consider the dining room at Gustavus Inn for a classic Alaskan meal focusing on fresh, local ingredients (reservations often recommended, ~ $60-80 for 2 people). Alternatively, explore other local spots for fresh seafood or pub fare. Enjoy a quiet evening, savoring the peaceful atmosphere and preparing for your grand Glacier Bay expedition tomorrow.
Day 2: Glacier Bay’s Icy Majesty
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Rise early for your full-day Glacier Bay National Park tour. Make your way to the Glacier Bay Lodge dock at Bartlett Cove (shuttle service is usually provided by local accommodations, or a short drive if you have a rental car). Board the Spirit of Adventure tour boat (Estimated cost for 2 people: $500, includes park entrance fee). The boat typically departs promptly at 7:30 AM (confirm exact time with your booking). Settle into a comfortable seat, grab a coffee, and prepare for breathtaking scenery as you cruise into the heart of Glacier Bay. National Park Rangers will be on board to provide insightful narration and answer questions about the park’s natural and cultural history.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:30 PM) Continue your deep immersion into Glacier Bay’s pristine wilderness. The vessel typically travels into the dramatic West Arm, allowing close-up views of iconic tidewater glaciers like Margerie Glacier and Grand Pacific Glacier. Marvel at the spectacle of calving ice, listen for the thunderous cracks, and watch for abundant marine wildlife such as humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, harbor seals, and various seabirds. Lunch is available for purchase on board, or you can pack a picnic from your accommodation to enjoy amidst the stunning landscapes. The boat makes several stops for prime viewing and photography opportunities.
- Evening (5:30 PM onwards) After a full day of awe-inspiring sights, the boat returns to Bartlett Cove around 4:30 PM. Take your shuttle or drive back to your accommodation. For dinner, enjoy a well-deserved relaxed meal at a local Gustavus restaurant, perhaps trying out a different spot from the previous evening. Reflect on the day’s incredible glacier and wildlife encounters, soaking in the memories of one of Alaska’s most iconic natural wonders.
Day 3: Icy Strait Point & Coastal Kayak Serenity
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Today you’ll embark on an exploration of “nearby Icy Strait Point.” This involves a picturesque journey across Icy Strait. A chartered water taxi provides the most direct and scenic transfer from Gustavus to Hoonah, where Icy Strait Point is located (Estimated cost for 2 people, round trip: $400-$500). The scenic boat ride takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours each way, offering excellent opportunities for marine wildlife viewing along the way. Once at Icy Strait Point, you’ll have a few hours to explore its unique attractions. Walk through the historic Hoonah Cannery, visit the Tlingit cultural center, or browse local shops for unique Alaskan crafts and souvenirs.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Take your chartered water taxi back to Gustavus. Upon returning, get ready for a different kind of coastal exploration: a guided sea kayaking tour! Meet your local outfitter, such as Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks (Estimated cost for 2 people, half-day guided tour: $250-$300). They will provide all necessary gear and instruction. Paddle the calm, protected waters near Gustavus and Bartlett Cove, offering intimate encounters with intertidal life, marine birds, and potentially seals or sea otters in their natural habitat. This offers a serene and personal contrast to the previous day’s large boat tour.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Enjoy your final Alaskan dinner in Gustavus. Perhaps try a casual pizza or burger joint, or revisit a favorite restaurant from previous nights to celebrate your adventure. Pack your bags and prepare for departure tomorrow, savoring the memories of glaciers, abundant wildlife, and unique coastal explorations.
Day 4: Farewell to Glacier Bay
- Morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM) Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your B&B or a local cafe. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for one last short nature walk. Consider the Forest Loop Trail near Bartlett Cove, an easy and beautiful path through the temperate rainforest, offering a final chance to spot forest birds and appreciate the quiet majesty of the land before your departure. Take a moment to breathe in the crisp Alaskan air.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM) Check out from your accommodation and take your shuttle or rental car back to Gustavus Airport for your scenic bush plane flight back to Juneau (or your next destination). Reflect on the incredible wilderness experience, the majestic glaciers, abundant wildlife, and the unique coastal charm of Glacier Bay and Icy Strait Point that you’ve explored over the past four days.

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