Glacier Bay, located in south-east Alaska, is a breathtaking wilderness area that forms a significant part of the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. The park is famous for its numerous tidal glaciers, dynamic fjords, and diverse ecosystems that span over 5,130 square miles. Visitors to Glacier Bay will be in awe of its immense ice formations, stunning marine wildlife populations, and lush coastal rainforests.
Glacier Bay is located west of Juneau. It is part of the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, which covers a vast area of 3.3 million acres, including rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforests, wild coastlines, and deep sheltered fjords. The park was established as a national monument in 1925 and later became a national park in 1980.
Whether you are drawn to the area for its remarkable biodiversity, its profound geological history, or the simple tranquillity of its vistas, Glacier Bay promises a visit full of discovery, awe-inspiring views, and thrilling adventures. It's no wonder that this stunning wilderness destination draws travellers from around the globe annually, each seeking their own unforgettable Glacier Bay experience.
Glacier Bay is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, serving as home to a diverse array of animal species. The bay is dominated by marine wildlife including humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, harbour seals, and a variety of fish species. Sea birds are also abundant, with species including puffins, gulls, and bald eagles. On land, visitors might spot bears - both black and brown - grazing in meadows or fishing along the bay's inlets. Moose, wolves, and mountain goats can also often be spotted in and around the park's forested areas. Smaller creatures, like red squirrels, porcupines, and a wide array of bird species add to the rich biodiversity that thrives in this unique Alaskan wilderness.
The bay boasts over 50 named glaciers, of which Margerie and Johns Hopkins are among the most popular, presenting majestic views of calving glaciers where colossal chunks of ice break off and crash into the bay. Visitors can experience these spectacular sights up close through boat tours that venture near the tidewater glaciers. For those keen on solitude and smaller-scale explorations, kayaking provides an intimate means to navigate amongst the floating icebergs. Whether from the deck of a boat or the seat of a kayak, viewing the glaciers in Glacier Bay feels like stepping back into the ice age, embodying a sense of wonder and humility in the face of nature's grandeur.
The only developed area in the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Bartlett Cove is home to the park headquarters, the park's visitor centre, a native tribal house, a public-use dock, and a few campgrounds. Visitors can enjoy a placid view of the cove's serene waters while exploring its lush ecosystems on foot or take part in water activities like kayaking. Wildlife sightings are common, including sea lions, otters, and a variety of birds. It is also the gateway for day boat tours to the tidewater glaciers deeper in the bay. Thus, Bartlett Cove serves as both an escape into Alaskan wilderness and a hub for explorations deeper into Glacier Bay.
