Best Things to Do in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, located in Southeast Alaska, is one of the most spectacular natural destinations in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s famous for massive tidewater glaciers, pristine fjords, abundant wildlife, and rich Indigenous culture. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise ship or planning a land-based adventure, here are the top things to do in Glacier Bay National Park.
1. Take a Glacier Bay Cruise
A Glacier Bay cruise is the most popular way to experience the park. Large cruise ships and smaller tour boats take visitors deep into the fjords, offering breathtaking views of glaciers like Margerie Glacier and Lamplugh Glacier. Witnessing a glacier calve into the sea — as huge chunks of ice crash into the water — is an unforgettable highlight.
2. Go Kayaking Among Glaciers
For adventurous travelers, kayaking in Glacier Bay is a must-do activity. Paddle through quiet coves and along icy shorelines where you’ll encounter harbor seals, sea otters, and seabirds. Guided kayaking tours are available, or experienced paddlers can obtain permits to explore on their own.
3. Wildlife Watching
Glacier Bay is a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep your binoculars ready for:
- Humpback whales breaching in summer
- Orcas patrolling the waters
- Sea otters floating in kelp beds
- Brown bears along the shoreline
- Bald eagles soaring above
This is one of the best places in Alaska to see marine mammals and birdlife.
4. Explore Bartlett Cove
Bartlett Cove is the only developed area in Glacier Bay National Park. Located near the town of Gustavus, it serves as the main entry point for independent travelers. Here you’ll find the Visitor Center, Glacier Bay Lodge, walking trails, and kayaking launch points. It’s the ideal base for land-based exploration.
5. Hike Scenic Trails
Though most of Glacier Bay is wilderness, Bartlett Cove offers a few accessible hikes:
- Bartlett River Trail – a 4-mile round trip through forests and meadows to a river known for birdlife.
- Forest Loop Trail – a short, easy walk under towering spruce and hemlock.
- Backcountry hiking – for experienced adventurers, permits allow trekking in remote areas of the park.
6. Learn at the Glacier Bay Visitor Center
Located at Bartlett Cove, the Glacier Bay Visitor Center features interactive exhibits on geology, glaciers, and local Tlingit culture. Rangers also offer talks, films, and evening programs that bring the park’s story to life.
7. Experience Huna Tlingit Culture
The Huna Tlingit people have lived in the Glacier Bay area for thousands of years. At Bartlett Cove, the Huna Tribal House showcases cultural demonstrations, traditional art, and storytelling, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Indigenous heritage.
8. Try Backcountry Camping
For those seeking solitude, backcountry camping in Glacier Bay is one of the most rewarding experiences. Camp along wild shorelines or venture into remote valleys where you’ll find complete silence and stunning views. Be prepared for rugged conditions and follow park guidelines for safety.
9. Join Ranger-Led Programs
National Park Service rangers lead guided hikes, interpretive talks, and boat-based programs throughout the summer. These experiences provide insider knowledge about Glacier Bay’s glaciers, wildlife, and cultural history.
10. Capture Stunning Photography
Whether it’s the blue glow of an iceberg, a whale breaching at sunset, or snowcapped peaks reflecting in calm waters, photography in Glacier Bay is spectacular. Bring extra memory cards — the scenery changes constantly, and every moment is photo-worthy.
Final Thoughts
From epic Glacier Bay cruises to kayaking, hiking, and cultural experiences, this Alaskan park offers adventure for every traveler. It’s a place where glaciers meet the sea, wildlife thrives, and nature remains truly wild. Visiting Glacier Bay National Park is not just a trip — it’s an unforgettable journey into one of the last great wildernesses on Earth.
