National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS / T. VandenBerg
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Covering 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines and deep sheltered fjords, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is known as Homeland to the Huna and Yakutat Lingít, and is a highlight of Alaska's Inside Passage. From sea to summit, Glacier Bay offers limitless opportunities for adventure and inspiration.
Entrance Fees
No entrance fee. Other fees may apply for tours, camping, or transportation.
Activities
Top Hikes
1 mi · 50 ft gain · loop
A loop through temperate rainforest and beach environments at Bartlett Cove on surfaces of dirt, gravel, and boardwalk. Features benches and viewing platforms for wildlife observation.
Starts at: In front of Glacier Bay Lodge (or south of the boat ramp)
4 mi · 100 ft gain · out & back
Meanders along an intertidal lagoon through spruce and hemlock forest to the Bartlett River estuary. Wildlife viewing includes coyotes, moose, bears, otters, and migratory waterfowl.
Starts at: Bartlett Cove
8 mi · 800 ft gain · out & back
A full-day commitment through less-maintained terrain with climbing over moss-covered boulders to reach a remote moraine lake. Potential loon sightings at the lake. The most challenging maintained trail in the park.
Starts at: Branches off Bartlett River Trail after 0.25 miles
1 mi · 20 ft gain · out & back
An easy stroll along the forested shoreline featuring a traditional Tlingit dugout canoe, whale skeleton display, and the Huna Tribal House — connecting visitors to the rich cultural history of the Huna Tlingit people.
Starts at: In front of Glacier Bay Lodge
Upcoming Events
No upcoming events scheduled for Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. Events are updated daily — check back soon or visit nps.gov for the latest.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: January, February, March, April, June, July, August, November, December
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Summer temperatures average 50° to 60° F (10° to 15° C). Rain is the norm in lush southeast Alaska. It is best to be prepared to enjoy the park in any kind of weather, especially rain. Suggested clothing includes waterproof boots, rain gear, a hat, gloves, wool or pile layers or a warm coat. Good rain gear is essential here. April, May and June are usually the driest months of the year. September and October tend to be the wettest.