Things To Do In Glacier Bay National Park
1. Get Out on the Water
With some of the world’s most impressive tidewater glaciers—backdropped by soaring peaks—the shimmering waters of Glacier Bay National Park serve up ideal sea kayaking opportunities. Grab a paddle and explore the Inside Passage’s only national park.
You can also spend the day cruising the breathtaking waters of Glacier Bay National Park aboard a heated catamaran. Watch for humpback whales, sea lions, and puffins as you glide past icy blue fjords and sheer cliffs.
Want to stay longer? You can explore the natural playground of this park on a sailing or private yacht tour.
Kayak or cruise by massive tidewater glaciers
2. Stay A Few Days in Gustavus
The only accommodations available inside the park, Glacier Bay Lodge sits between rainforest and beach and makes the most of its location. Clusters of rooms are built seamlessly into the landscape, and glorious views abound from around the property. Take advantage of tours and activities like a day cruise, whale watching, guided hikes, and more.
Nearby, the family-owned and operated 14-room Bear Track Inn sits serenely on the shimmering waters of Icy Strait in Gustavus, next door to Glacier Bay National Park. Featuring classic log construction, spectacular views, a welcoming environment, and lots of activities, it’s the perfect spot to experience authentic Alaska.
Glacier Bay Lodge
3. Go for a Hike
Be prepared to experience the magic of Alaska’s wildlife and views when you set out for a hike on one of Glacier Bay’s trails. Experience both shimmering ocean waters and lush rainforest as you keep an eye out for bears, moose, birds, porcupines, and more. (And be sure to check out our tips on viewing wildlife safely.)
Aerial view of Howling Valley and Granite Canyon. Photo by Johnny Chien
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Things To Do
Glacier Bay National Park Day Tours & Attractions View All
Guided sea kayaking in Alaska’s Southeast opens up the magical world of water-based touring. Glide through a marine environment with gorgeous views in every direction, and many opportunities to spot wildlife – from eagles and salmon to bears, whales and sea lions. Options include day tours for busy schedules and multi-day immersions, all under the expert guidance of naturalists who help you understand the complex workings of a unique and amazing ...more
Spend a full day on a catamaran exploring glaciers and wildlife with Glacier Bay Lodge and Tours — the only scheduled day tour permitted inside stunning Glacier Bay National Park. You’ll set off amid lush rainforest and sail the entire length of Glacier Bay’s West Arm, in the shadow of towering mountains. Your destination: two tidewater glaciers, Margerie and Grand Pacific.
Explore Alaska by chartering the 90-foot yacht Alaskan Story, out of Juneau. It’s the perfect way to see some of the state’s most stunningly beautiful areas, like Glacier Bay National Park, and enjoy lots of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing along the way.
Glacier Bay National Park Parks & Trails View All
This trail passes along an intertidal lagoon and through a forest of spruce and hemlock before ending at the Bartlett estuary. You may see coyotes, moose, bear, and river otter along the beach. Ducks, geese and other water birds concentrate in the intertidal area during migrations and molting. Salmon run up the river later in the summer that draws in hungry harbor seals. To reach the trailhead, park at the Glacier Bay Lodge/Visitor Center and… ...more
The Beach Trail departs from Glacier Bay Lodge in Gustavus and follows the shore for one mile, traversing beach meadows and forest habitats, home to porcupines, bears and moose.