Southeast Alaska is home to one of the most remote and breathtaking places in the United States, Glacier Bay National Park. About the size of the state of Connecticut, this national park encompasses 3 million acres of pristine wilderness.
While Glacier Bay National Park was once completely covered in ice, in the last 255 years the ice has receded, revealing a stunning landscape.
With a wide variety of wildlife, towering mountains, glaciers and enchanting forested islands, many unique adventures await you in this beautiful and unspoiled part of the world.
Don't leave home without:Lonely Planet Alaska (Travel Guide)
Index
Experience Glacier Bay by boat
Welcome to the land of a cruise ship lover's dream, where you can experience Alaska's famous "Inside Passage" while exploring Glacier Bay National Park by boat. It is an amazing experience through the best of Alaska.
Take in the beauty of Alaska while enjoying a touch of luxury on one of the many extravagant cruises, or hop aboard a small boat for a more private adventure.
No matter what size boat you are on, you will be able to hear the sound of the whales while enjoying the magnificent water and mountain scenery.
Keep an eye out for curious seals that suddenly appear just a few meters from the boat. Ships head into the heart of the Fairweather Mountains for a journey back to the Ice Age. Watch icebergs and glaciers calve as the ship sails through the pass.
You never know what wildlife you'll see: grizzly bears, mountain goats, sea otters, sea lions, seals, eagles, and a variety of seabirds will be on your watch list.
Alternatively, you can stay ashore in the park and take the boat for the day. You can find half day and full day tours departing fromAccommodation in Glacier Bayin Bartlett's Inlet. Boats are restricted in Glacier Bay National Park and require a permit to enter.
Boat use in Glacier Bay is regulated by the National Park Service to protect wildlife and other park resources. This is just one of many great steps being taken to ensure that this Alaskan gem is preserved for generations to come.
What to expect:
- You will receive a copy of the parking map.
- Cruise ships typically spend a full day (9-10 hours) in Glacier Bay, including a stop at the main tidal glacier.
- The National Park Service park is spread on board the ships to provide a narrative of the important aspects of the visit.
- Cruise ships do not dock at Glacier Bay National Park.
- Wild animals can be close, but they can also be far away. Expect Wales to be away.
Experience the Glacier Bay Walk
One of the best things to do in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is to explore this amazing Alaskan park while hiking. I know what you're thinking, Glacier Bay is all about marine nature and its glaciers, but only a handful of tourists visit the park on foot each year.
There are a variety of hiking options that allow you to explore the coastlines and the rainforest. Hiking trails are limited due to the massive size and wild surroundings.
Most hikers in these parts don't call it a hike but a hike. The foliage at Glacier Bay is very dense and very difficult to get through.
What to expect:
- Bushwhacking
- have a compass
- Dress up, check out oursAlaska's Ultimate Packing List
- Wild animals
- peaceful nature
- Pack what you pack
Kayak in Glacier Bay National Park
Kayaking is a popular way to experience the stunning beauty and nature of Glacier Bay National Park and it was a huge highlight of ours.travel to alaska.
Life can't get better than that. Enjoy nothing but the great outdoors with only the sounds of cold Alaskan water lapping over the edge of the kayak and your paddle hitting the water.
We have kayaked numerous places around the world and this continues to be one of the best kayaking spots we have experienced. The waters of Johns Hopkins Inlet perfectly reflect the Alaskan landscape as your kayak traverses through them.
No wonder this is among our top things to do in Glacier Bay National Park and Alaska Conservation List and should be added to your Alaska bucket list.
Kayak tours depart from Bartlett Cove, or the daily tour boat can transport kayakers via trailer delivery service. We got lucky and our cruise offered this as an option to explore Glacier Bay.
Book early as this is one of the best activities in Glacier Bay National Park and this adventure sells out quickly.
There are three companies licensed to offer guided kayak tours in Glacier Bay: Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks, Alaska Mountain Guides, and Alaska Discovery.
What to expect:
- All kayakers and campers must attend a camper orientation.
- The tides change from 20 to 25 feet and are strong and potentially dangerous.
- You can get up close to icebergs and wildlife.
- Stay away from all icebergs, they are larger underwater than above water and can roll or capsize your kayak
- This adventure is suitable for all types of adventurers and all ages, but requires a bit of paddling.
- You'll see plenty of wildlife including grizzly bears, mountain goats, sea otters, sea lions, seals, eagles, and an abundance of seabirds.
- Enjoy solitude amidst the magnificent Alaskan wilderness
Rafting
Hop on a raft and cruise down Canada's Tatshenshini and Alsek rivers to Dry Bay in Glacier Bay National Reserve during your visit.
This world class rafting adventure takes you on a wild ride. As he traverses one of the highest coastlines in the world, he'll find it hard to focus on the rapids as his eyes won't want to take their eyes off the picture-perfect scenery.
With crystal clear Alaskan mountain water lapping at your face, you'll be awake in no time and your heart will be racing. This is one of Glacier Bay National Park's best kept secrets and you will find very few people on the river with you.
What to expect:
- Epic attractions in the middle of nowhere in Alaska
- animals everywhere
- Minimum two people and maximum 5 people
- One or more days of rain due to the duration of the trip
- Wear suitable wet clothing in case you get wet
- Leave the jewelry at home, I lost two balsa rings
- Flute between huge icebergs
- experienced guides
glacier observation
A visit to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve would not be complete without stepping on one of the 11 glaciers. Walk through the Ice Age and enjoy the sights and sounds of a glacier.
However, don't do it without an experienced guide. Glaciers are very dangerous and constantly changing, which means you can't trust them to be solid. You don't want to risk falling and getting stuck on a glacier.
What to expect:
- It is wet, damp and cold.
- Dress well even in summer
- Dress in layers!
- stunning blue colors
flight observation
You can capture the many incredible views of Glacier Bay National Park from the ground, but if you can, you'll have the chance to see even more incredible views from the sky.
Then, board one of the many planes or helicopters available, which will give you a panoramic view of Glacier Bay. The aerial view of the nearby communities offers an incredible bird's eye view of the park.
There are 4 different scenic flight options, giving you an unforgettable experience over the mountain peaks, rivers and glaciers of Glacier Bay National Park. You'll gain a new perspective on Alaska's ever-changing landscape that few tourists get to see.
What to expect:
- All flights are weather permitting.
- Depending on the route, flights last between 45 minutes and 2 hours.
- Each route offers you a different view of Glacier Bay National Park.
- Be careful when choosing low price over quality on Alaska flights
bird watching
One of the best things to do in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is to look for wildlife. People from all over the world come to Glacier Bay National Park to bird watch and it's no wonder why.
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is home to 281 different bird species. Its rich bird life is due to the small number of terrestrial predators and abundant food resources.
Each bird species has different seasonal patterns. The best time for birding in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is from May to mid-September.
Seabird colonies hatch in late June and are largely removed by September. Glacier Bay National Park has fifteen recommended birding spots.
What to expect:It is an animal observation, you see a lot, but also little.
see the whale
Another popular activity in Glacier Bay National Park and Alaska Preserve is a whale watching tour. It's just one of the many reasons people come from all over the world to see Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park.
There is plenty of wildlife, but some stars always steal the show and the whales are one of those stars. Alaska is full of great wildlife adventures, but whale watching in Glacier Bay National Parks is an absolutely thrilling experience.
You never know what wildlife will show up. Everyone's favorite humpback, gray, minke, orca, and other fascinating marine life are frequently seen in the waters of Southeast Alaska in Glacier Bay and around Icy Straits.
What to expect:
- It's game viewing. (You can see many or none).
- Only a few dozen humpback whales stay here year-round.
- June through September is the best time to see whales in Glacier Bay National Park.
- Tours last from 3.5 hours to full day tours.
- Group size is from 8 to 24 passengers. (We've had the best luck with small group tours.)
Husky ranch and dog sledding
You may think winter is the only time you can go dog sledding in Alaska again. This great Alaskan adventure is one of 49ºmost unforgettable things to do in the United States and it's something anyone can do all summer long on the Alaskan glaciers.
Your adventure begins with a mini flight observation tour that will take you to land on a glacier. Then his camp will be set up, complete with dogs and sleds, ready for his adventure.
As soon as the dogs see the helicopter, they know it's time to run! If you weren't excited before, you will be once you step out of the helicopter onto the glacier as the dogs jump up and back, eager to get started.
Once you're outside, nothing beats the wind blowing through your hair, the sound of dogs running, and sleds skiing down the glacier.
This is a great way to experience the glacier and access limited portions. This epic expedition across the glacier is a great Alaskan adventure for all ages and fitness levels.
What to expect:
- temperatures can be cold
- Tours last 1.5 hours for full day tours.
- Tours run throughout the year.
ice climbing
Why not explore Glacier Bay National Park with a pair of ice climbing shoes and discover the true beauty up close?
The best things to do in Glacier Bay National Park start with a short scenic flight to a remote airstrip near the glacier, where you'll gear up. This terrain is among the best in North America for ice climbing.
Mount Fairweather is covered in moderate snow and ice, which can be a challenging route for ice climbing.
What to expect:
- Tours last 5-6 hours.
- it will be wet and cold
- It is challenging but suitable for families, first-time glacier hikers, and experienced climbers.
Climb
With towering mountain ranges dotting the landscape of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, it's no wonder rock climbing is one of the top activities. Mount Fairweather reaches 15,300 feet and is among the least visited mountains inNorth America.
What to expect:
- The weather in Alaska can change very quickly.
- Expect wet conditions
- For most climbing courses, the activity level is moderate to high.
- beware of bears
- Bring water and snacks (granola bars are always great).
sunset
After a day of great adventures in Alaska, enjoy the sunset along the shoreline of Glacier Bay National Park. You really can't go wrong with a sunset over the Alaskan countryside.
Wildflowers cover the meadows from May to July. You can also observe sea birds, eagles, whales, otters, porcupines, bears and sea lions in their activity at sunset.
Take your time to simply enjoy this touch of pure natural bliss. Some good places to watch the sunset are Halibut Point and Gustavus Beach.
What to expect:
- The weather in Alaska can change very quickly.
- beware of bears
- Bring water and snacks (granola bars are always great).
sport fishing
Glacier Bay National Park is known for having some of the best fishing in the world. The sensation of interacting with wild trout, Pacific salmon, halibut, cod, rockfish or a myriad of other species is unparalleled.
Glacier Bay National Park is the dream spot for sport fishermen in Alaska. For years, It's Icy Straits has supported many commercial fishermen who make their living catching various species of salmon, halibut, and dungeness crab.
Even for non-fishermen, it's amazing to see the fish in the streams and learn about their spawning and life cycle. There are several charter fishing companies that will take you on the epic Alaskan fishing adventure of your dreams.
What to expect:
- Fishing is strictly regulated. The operator and you must obey all rules and regulations. (Fisheries regulations are used as a tool to ensure that good fisheries continue to exist in the future.)
- Dress in layers.
- Expect rain, waterproof jackets and pants are recommended.
- Insects can be bad in late May to July.
Play golf at the 9-hole Gustavus Golf Course
When most people think of the best things to do in Glacier Bay National Park, they don't usually think of golf in Alaska, but the 9-hole golf course at Gustavus Plains changes that.
This 9 hole golf course is surreal surrounded by snow capped mountains on all sides, with several holes coming close to the ice road, it's no wonder it's one of the best golf courses in the world.
This 9-hole championship golf course is a must for golfers andVisit Alaska.
What to expect:
- The fairways are clean and trimmed and the greens are in excellent condition with challenging scenery.
- Clubhouse with bar/restaurant and driving range.
- From May to early June, flocks of Canada geese make the streets their favorite resting place.
- Expect to see some Alaskan wildlife while you golf.
- Without a crown, most golfers will find waiting times short.
- Handcarts are available.
- They are working on more holes in the future.
Other Glacier Bay Adventures
The few activities listed below are also acceptable fun things to try in Glacier Bay National Park. However, it should be noted that these activities are restricted due to weather or are not allowed in the park.
- Mountain bike:There are no trails in Glacier Bay National Park, there are some trails outside the park that you can mountain bike on. If you wanted to mountain bike, I hate to disappoint you, but it would be more or less a hike on the bike.
- Snow rackets:Most visitors visit Glacier Bay National Park starting May 1calle– 30.09º. Therefore, snowshoeing is not offered as the main tour. However, during the winter months, you can snowshoe with a park ranger on select dates. Space is limited and even if you have a set date, it's best to make sure it happens.
- Cross-country skiing:This is another popular winter sport, but winter maintenance is extremely limited in Glacier Bay National Park. There are some options for all skill levels. In winter, cross country skiing is offered on some weekends and you must join a ranger.
- Massage service:After your big adventure in Alaska, why not treat yourself to a little luxury with a massage? It's a great way to unwind from kayaking, hiking, boating, and all the other major activities in Glacier Bay National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions about Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
- Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is open year-round, but winter services are extremely limited.
- The visitor center is open daily from late May to early September. Exhibits are open 24 hours a day, and the Information Desk and Alaska Geographic Bookstore are open daily from 10:30 p.m. m. to 8 p.m. m.
- The Visitor Information Station for Boaters and Campers at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is open May through September.
- May: 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 5:00 p.m.
- June, July and August: 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 7 clock
- September: 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- The Visitor Information Station is located at the beginning of the public pier at Bartlett Cove. This is where you get your permits and instructions for camping and recreational boating in Glacier Bay National Park. Maps and nautical charts are available here, as well as public toilets, drinking water, garbage and recycling bins.
- Glacier Bay National Park is a sanctuary for Alaskan wildlife and may not be the best place to bring a pet. Pets are only allowed on land in select areas and must not be left unattended. Your pet must be on a leash or physically restrained at all times. It is best to leave your four-legged family member at home.
We will spend the night in Glacier Bay National Park.
It is possible to spend the night in the park in an individual inn or in one of the campsites. The only inn is theAccommodation in Glacier Bay, offers rustic but comfortable accommodation.
Places are limited and must be reserved in advance. So plan ahead if you plan to stay here during your visit.
Alternatively, Glacier Bay National Park has 2 official campsites. The campsites have access to basic services such as drinking water, showers and toilets.
There are thousands of undesignated campsites everywhere. We do not recommend this, but it is also an option. Just don't expect baths or showers.
Things to keep in mind when going camping:
- You must obtain a license. Licenses are free and compulsory as of May 1calle– 30.09º.
- Permits are also required to travel back to the country.
- You must attend a 30 minute orientation.
- Camping outside of the campground within one mile of Bartlett Cove is prohibited.
- Permits are not required for areas outside the bay.
- Never leave food unattended, even when transporting equipment.
One of the best things to do in Glacier Bay National Park is to do nothing. That's right, enjoy the sights and sounds of pure nature. Many of us forget this.
When we travel, we always try to find some time to enjoy the surroundings without phones or cameras. Glacier Bay National Park is a true Alaskan gem, and we hope our top things to do in Glacier Bay National Park and Persevere inspire you to explore the great wilderness of Alaska.
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FAQs
What is the best way to see Glacier Bay National Park? ›
Visitors arrive by boat or plane. They stay at Glacier Bay Lodge or camp in one of the available Alaska campgrounds. Then hike through the rainforest and along the beaches, or kayak Alaska in the calm waters of Bartlett Cove and the Beardslee Islands. But, the best way to see the park is by high-speed catamaran.
What should people look out for at Glacier Bay? ›Glacier Bay is home to both black and brown/grizzly bears. They are wild animals and should always be considered potentially dangerous. When hiking, lessen your chances of an encounter by watching for bears and bear sign, making noise, traveling in groups, and avoiding travel at night.
What is the best time of year to go to Glacier Bay? ›For most people, late June through mid-September is the best time to visit Glacier, because they want to drive the Going to the Sun Road, raft and fish the rivers, hike the trails, visit the backcountry Chalets, and explore several areas of the park, on both sides of the Continental Divide.
How many days do you need in Glacier Bay National Park? ›How many days do you need in Glacier Bay National Park? Between getting to Gustavus from Juneau to visit the park and having the time to do a boat tour, you need at least 3 days to explore Glacier Bay National Park unless you are coming on a cruise ship.
What is the prettiest part of Glacier National Park? ›The main attraction in Glacier National Park is the Going-To-The-Sun Road. The Sun Road is 50 miles long from West Glacier on the West Side to Saint Mary on the East Side. The West Side encompasses 35 miles of this Road and will provide you with the more scenic and picturesque drive.
Can you see the northern lights in Glacier Bay? ›The phenomenon, also known as aurora borealis, is rare in many parts of the world, and it can only be seen when the conditions are just right. At Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, however, park rangers captured the moment the sky came alive.
Do I really need bear spray in Glacier National Park? ›Do I really need bear spray? Yes. We highly suggest that visitors carry bear spray in the park as Glacier is home to the largest numbers of both grizzly and black bear in the lower 48.
What to avoid at Glacier National Park? ›Water is the number one cause of fatalities in Glacier National Park. Please use extreme caution near water. Swift, cold glacial streams and rivers, moss-covered rocks, and slippery logs all present dangers.
When should I avoid Glacier National Park? ›May through September is the busiest part of the year, with about three million people visiting during each summer season. The parking areas at popular destinations, like Logan Pass and Avalanche Creek, begin filling before sunrise and remain congested for most of the day.
Will I see whales in Glacier Bay? ›Between May and September, humpbacks stay in the northern parts of the Passage to feed. They mostly stay in the same area for 15 weeks or more, mostly in Glacier Bay or Icy Strait. Most tours start from Juneau and Gustavus. Ketchikan, Petersburg and Sitka further south are also possible starting points.
Are there bears in Glacier Bay? ›
Glacier Bay National Park is home to both brown bears,Ursus arctos, and black bears,Ursus americanus. Black bears are primarily creatures of woodlands and are found among the forested areas of the lower bay, including Bartlett Cove.
How many nights should you stay at Glacier National Park? ›Come for at least five days.
A weekend trip just won't do. There is so much to see and do in the park that many visitors come back year after year and still find new places to explore. To maximize your time, consider a four-night visit: two nights in West Glacier and two nights in East Glacier.
Best Time to Hike in Glacier National Park
Iconic trails like the Highline Trail, Hidden Lake Overlook, and Ptarmigan Tunnel are only accessible in the summer. However, expect heavy crowds on hiking trails in the summer. To avoid crowds, arrive at trailheads before 8 AM.
The east side of Glacier National Park is generally drier, cooler and windier than the rest of the park. The base elevation is higher and the valleys are wider. That makes for some epic scenery and outstanding adventuring. Here are some of our favorite spots on the east side.
What is so special about Glacier Bay? ›Glacier Bay is a homeland, a living laboratory, a national park, a designated wilderness, a biosphere reserve, and a world heritage site. It's a marine park, where great adventure awaits by boating into inlets, coves and hideaway harbors.
What is the most photographed place in Glacier National Park? ›Lake McDonald is one of the most famous photo spots in Glacier National Park, and it's for good reason. From the lake you can get gorgeous reflections, amazing sunrises and sunsets, and stunning mountain views.
What is the most scenic drive in Glacier National Park? ›Going-to-the-Sun Road is a highlight not to be missed during your Glacier visit. The Road spans 50 miles and crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. During your traverse you will see impressive glaciers, beautiful valleys, cascading waterfalls, towering mountains and colorful wildflowers.
What town is closest to Glacier National Park? ›Columbia Falls is the closest legitimate town near Glacier National Park, and the number of options for Columbia Falls hotels has grown a lot within the past few years.
Are there mosquitoes in Glacier National Park? ›The known mosquito fauna of Glacier National Park, Montana, and Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, is reported with new records, including a list of the species of Chaoboridae known from both parks. Ochlerotatus nevadensis (= Aedes nevadensis) from Glacier National Park is a new record for the state of Montana.
How cold does Glacier Bay get? ›Weather and Climate
The result is mild winters and cool, moist summers near sea level. Summer visitors can expect highs between 50 and 60 degrees F (10 to 15 degrees C). Winter temperatures rarely drop into the single digits, with average nighttime lows of 25 to 40 degrees F (-2 to 5 degrees C).
Can you walk around Glacier Bay? ›
Explore The Shore:
The long stretch of shoreline south of the Bartlett Cove docks allows for a pleasant stroll. You could walk for miles. An extended hike to Point Gustavus (six miles one way) can be completed in a full day.
Just to keep things in perspective, though, bear encounters are very rare. Consider that roughly two million people visit Glacier each year, and more than one million venture into the backcountry. On average, there are only one or two non-lethal bear "incidents" in a given year.
How many grizzly attacks are there in Glacier National Park? ›There have only been 10 fatal bear encounters in the park since 1967. A couple of million visitors enter the park every single year. Not all of those people hike the trails, so let's just say that an even 1 million people hit the trails in Glacier each year. 1967 was 55 years ago, so that makes 55 million hikers.
What time is best to see grizzly bears in Glacier National Park? ›If you're here to see Glacier wildlife, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep and grizzly bears, you should be here either well before 8 am or well after 4.30 pm anyway. Get here at or before sunrise or about an hour before sunset for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What are problems in Glacier National Park? ›The preservation and maintenance of Glacier's natural resources is a daunting task for park managers given the growing list of threats, including some that are global in scale such as a warming climate. The introduction of invasive, nonnative (exotic) plant and fish species are major issues too.
What do they need to wear to walk on a Glacier? ›A waterproof hardshell is essential gear not just for a glacier walk in Iceland, but for your whole trip! You will need good shoes in order to get the crampons on, so having good boots, above-ankle is pretty important. This one is important, but not absolutely necessary.
What is the most popular entrance to Glacier National Park? ›Glacier's West Side: West Glacier
West Glacier, Montana is the most popular entrance to Glacier National Park. Its proximity and easy access to Glacier International Airport in Kalispell makes it the best place to start or end your trip.
While bear sightings in Glacier are very common, negative or violent bear encounters are very rare. There have only been 10 fatalities in over 100,000,000 visits to the park between 1910 and 2022. There are steps you can take to avoid a negative bear encounter, and I'll cover those next.
Is Glacier National Park good for seniors? ›Hiking Tips for Seniors
Many seniors choose walking as their method of exercise and hiking the trails of Glacier National Park is an excellent way to get moving and take in fantastic views of nature.
Be Aware of Surroundings
Look for scat and tracks. Bears spend a lot of time eating, so be extra alert when hiking in obvious feeding areas like berry patches, cow parsnip thickets, or fields of glacier lilies. Always keep children close. Avoid hiking very early in the morning, very late in the day, or after dark.
What is the best month to see whales? ›
Summer Whale Watching (June, July, August):
The Summer months are the best months to witness the world's largest animal…the BLUE WHALE!
Gray whales are the first to arrive, typically in April when they're often spotted off of Seward. By May, we start to see more orcas, then humpback whales come June. Alaska's peak whale season is considered to be May through September, and it's during this time that the boat tours operate.
What time of day is best for whales? ›Whales are never diurnal, but they can be crepuscular. This means they are most active during twilight hours which are both before sunrise and after sunset.
Are there sharks in Glacier Bay? ›From the smallest forage fish like Pacific herring and sandlance to deepwater giants such as 500 pound Pacific halibut and 14-foot sleeper sharks, fish play critical roles in Glacier Bay's rich ecosystems.
Are there wolves in Glacier Bay National Park? ›Wolves are a common predator in Glacier Bay, as they are known to prey on deer, moose, mountain goats, birds, salmon, and even sea otters in some areas.
Are there dolphins in Glacier Bay? ›Marine species that are found in the waters of Glacier Bay include humpback whale, minke whale, white-sided dolphin, sea lion, harbor seal, sea otters, and the most exciting orca or killer whales.
Can you sleep anywhere in Glacier National Park? ›There's a camping spot for everybody in the Glacier area. Some visitors enjoy the option to have a few campground amenities while others prefer to pitch their tent wherever they may land, whether alongside the riverbanks of the North Fork River or Fish Creek campground right in Glacier National Park.
How long does it take to drive the loop in Glacier National Park? ›Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is 51 miles long and runs from West Glacier to St. Mary. It takes approximately 2 hours to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road without traffic or stops. However, plan to spend at least 4 to 5 hours exploring the scenic drive.
How often can you see the northern lights in Glacier National Park? ›You can see aurora borealis any time of year in Glacier National Park, of course. But in the spring, the nights are a bit longer and darker than in summer, and so it is prime time to catch an incredible light show!
Can you drive in Glacier National Park daily? ›...
A Whole Day in Glacier for a Sightseer.
Is Yellowstone or Glacier better? ›
If you're hoping to do more hiking to reach areas of the park, Glacier is the best choice for you. You'll most likely encounter less people and have more opportunities for exploring the backcountry here too. On the other hand, if you want a wide variety of landscapes to explore, plan a trip to Yellowstone.
How much does it cost to go to Glacier National Park? ›| Glacier National Park | ||
|---|---|---|
| Per Vehicle | Per Person | |
| Current Summer Rates | $30 | $15 |
| New Summer Rates as of June 1, 2018 | $35 | $20 |
| Current Winter Rates | $20 | $10 |
...
In addition to your usual active vacation attire, be sure to bring:
- Sunscreen.
- Insect repellent.
- Rain jacket.
- Synthetic layers.
- Hiking boots and/or comfortable shoes.
- Extra socks.
- Camera.
- Refillable water bottles.
Lofty mountain peaks, ice-sculpted fjords, an abundance of marine wildlife, and massive tidewater glaciers have made Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve one of Alaska's most spectacular settings. The 3.3-million-acre park is a must-stop for every cruise ship sailing through the Inside Passage.
Can you see Northern Lights in Glacier Bay? ›The phenomenon, also known as aurora borealis, is rare in many parts of the world, and it can only be seen when the conditions are just right. At Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, however, park rangers captured the moment the sky came alive.
How do most people visit Glacier Bay? ›Most people who come to the Park—and there can be 400,000 of them a year—come by way of a cruise ship, and most of those ships head up the West Arm, towards the Margerie Glacier.
How do most people visit Glacier Bay National Park Preserve? ›Most visitors to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve arrive on cruise ships and do no disembark while visiting the area. The nearby town of Gustavus is accessible by air or passenger ferry.
What is the cheapest way to visit Glacier Bay National Park? ›Cheapest Transportation to Glacier Bay National Park
As mentioned, Glacier Bay National Park can only be accessed by boat or plane. The cheapest way to get here is to take a ferry on the Alaska Marine Highway.
Glacier Bay is located west of Juneau, Alaska. It is on a peninsula that is surrounded by water and icefields and there are no roads in or out! You can only access Glacier Bay National Park by boat or by plane. You can NOT drive to Glacier Bay!
What is the busiest time of the year at Glacier National Park? ›May through September is the busiest part of the year, with about three million people visiting during each summer season. The parking areas at popular destinations, like Logan Pass and Avalanche Creek, begin filling before sunrise and remain congested for most of the day.
What is the least crowded time to visit Glacier National Park? ›
Least Busy Time to Visit Glacier National Park
If you want to sidestep the biggest crowds and enjoy the park at a slower pace, go during May or September through October. May is the start of the peak summer season, but it's much less crowded than June, July, and August.
Glacier Bay National Park is home to both brown bears,Ursus arctos, and black bears,Ursus americanus. Black bears are primarily creatures of woodlands and are found among the forested areas of the lower bay, including Bartlett Cove.
Is it better to stay in Glacier National Park or outside? ›From many of these lodges, you can walk to some of the best hiking trails in the park. However, to stay along Going-to-the-Sun Road or in Many Glacier, you need to book six months to a year in advance. Most visitors to Glacier National Park choose to stay outside the park in hotels, cabins, or private rentals.
Why is Glacier Bay so popular? ›It's a marine park, where great adventure awaits by boating into inlets, coves and hideaway harbors. It's also a land park, with its snow-capped mountains, spectacular glaciers, and emerald–green forests. From the summit to sea, Glacier Bay's wildness is remote, dynamic and intact.
Why is Glacier Bay so special? ›Covering 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines and deep sheltered fjords, Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of Alaska's Inside Passage and part of a 25-million acre World Heritage Site—one of the world's largest international protected areas.
How much does it cost to drive through Glacier National Park? ›$35.00
This is a entrance fee for all persons traveling in a single, private, non-commercial vehicle (car/truck/van). The pass is non-transferable. Visitors can enter the park at any time, if the entrance station is not staffed, a self-registration area is available for purchasing a 7-day park pass.
Glacier Bay, Alaska: Why You Should Choose a Glacier Bay Cruise. Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many glaciers to see; the scenery includes tidewater glaciers, glassy water, mountains and wildlife such as whales, harbor seals, otters and brown bears.
How much does Glacier Bay cost? ›Unlike most national parks, there is NO entrance fee to enter Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.