About Glacier Bay
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.
Things to do: Arts and Culture · Cultural Demonstrations · Auto and ATV · ATV Off-Roading · Boating · Motorized Boating · Boat Tour · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Canoe or Kayak Camping · Car or Front Country Camping · Climbing · Mountain Climbing · Fishing
Trails
Glacier Bay has roughly 5 named trails. Log the one you hiked in the app — or just the park if you're not sure.
Camping
There are no NPS campgrounds inside the park. Lodging and private campgrounds are typically available nearby.
Best time to visit
Peak season: June – August. Access is seasonal — confirm opening and closing dates on NPS.gov before you go.
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.
Getting there
Nearest city: Juneau, AK. Park center: 58.660°, -136.000°.
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve lies west of Juneau, Alaska, and can only be reached by plane or boat. The only road in the area merely connects the small town of Gustavus and its airfield to park headquarters at Bartlett Cove (10 miles). Alaska Airlines provides daily jet service from Juneau to Gustavus in the summer months.
Year-round scheduled air service is also provided by a variety of small air taxis and charters. The Alaska Marine Highway ferries also provide regular service from Juneau.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Glacier Bay National Park?
Entry is Free. An America the Beautiful annual pass covers entrance fees at every national park.
When is the best time to visit Glacier Bay?
Peak season is June – August. Access is seasonal; check NPS.gov for opening dates. 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.
Can you camp in Glacier Bay National Park?
There are no NPS campgrounds inside the park; lodging and private campgrounds are available nearby.
What is the closest city to Glacier Bay National Park?
Juneau, AK is the nearest major city. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve lies west of Juneau, Alaska, and can only be reached by plane or boat. The only road in the area merely connects the small town of Gustavus and its airfield to park headquarters at Bartlett Cove (10 miles). Alaska Airlines provides daily jet service from Juneau to Gustavus in the summer months.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.