Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Tidewater glaciers, snow-capped mountains, deep fjords, and freshwater lakes and rivers combine here in a marine wilderness where rapid glacial retreat returns life to a freshly scoured landscape.

Quick Links: Park Service Links -- Other Resources -- Tips for Visitors -- Natural Highlights -- Historical Highlight -- Cultural Highlight

Tips for Visitors

• Tour the exhibits, talk to a ranger, and watch a film at the visitor center.

• Cruise the bay on a tour boat or in your own kayak.

• Hike the Bartlett Lake Trail to really get away from it all.

• Explore the intertidal zone on a beach walk or from your kayak.

• Listen for the slaps, blows, and sounds of humpback whales.

Natural Highlights

• This World Heritage Site is part of the largest internationally protected biosphere reserve in the world

• Best known for its 16 active tidewater glaciers, the ice you see at the face of park glaciers is estimated to be 200 years old.

Historical Highlight

John Muir first visited Glacier Bay in 1879 to witness glaciers in action. He was the first of many distinguished naturalists and scientists to visit the park, conduct research, and bring the area to the world’s attention.

Cultural Highlight
Three hundred years ago, the tlingits watched as advancing glaciers overtook their homeland. Today, the glaciers are retreating but the park is still home to the Hoonah Tlingit who continue traditional activities on parklands.

National Park Service Links

Park home page
Park map
Contact Information
Scientific research in the park
Complete list of services in Gustavus, including air taxis and charter boats

Other Resources

Browse Glacier Bay books, maps, films, and logo products
Download The Fairweather, the official Glacier Bay trip planning guide
NWS weather forecast
Alaska ferry schedule
Camper drop-off service

Gustavus Trip Planning and Visitors Association

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