Glacier Bay National Park

Most people who have experienced Alaska's Inside Passage have done so from the deck of a cruise ship: a visit to Glacier Bay National Park can get you off the shore and exploring 3.3 million acres of mountains, glaciers, temperate rainforest, and fjords.

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Glacier Bay National Park Details

Glacier Bay National Park, located in southeastern Alaska, is a stunning natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. The park covers an area of 3.3 million acres and includes glaciers, fjords, rainforests, and mountains. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its exceptional beauty and biodiversity. What makes Glacier Bay National Park unique is its unparalleled glacial landscapes. The park is home to 12 tidewater glaciers, which means that they flow directly into the ocean. These glaciers are constantly changing and calving, creating a stunning natural spectacle. Visitors can witness the sight and sounds of massive chunks of ice falling into the water, creating waves and spraying mist into the air. There are many activities available at Glacier Bay National Park, including hiking, kayaking, wildlife watching, and glacier viewing. Visitors can explore the park's many trails, which offer breathtaking views of the glaciers, mountains, and forests. Kayaking is a popular way to explore the park's many fjords, where visitors can get up close and personal with the glaciers and the park's diverse marine life. The area was covered by ice during the Little Ice Age, which lasted from the mid-16th century to the mid-19th century. As the glaciers receded, they left behind a landscape that is constantly changing and evolving. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including brown bears, moose, mountain goats, and bald eagles. The Tlingit people have lived in the area for thousands of years and have a deep connection to the land and the sea. The park also has a rich history of exploration and discovery, with many famous explorers, such as John Muir, having visited the area. There are many facilities available at Glacier Bay National Park, including campgrounds, lodges, and a visitor center. The park has a shuttle service that takes visitors to different areas of the park, making it easy to explore all that the park has to offer. Travel tips for Glacier Bay National Park include dressing in layers, bringing rain gear, and being prepared for changing weather conditions. Visitors should also be mindful of wildlife and follow all safety guidelines when viewing animals. Nearby attractions include the town of Gustavus, which is the gateway to the park, and the Tongass National Forest, which is the largest national forest in the United States. Visitors can also take a scenic flightseeing tour over the park to get a bird's eye view of the glaciers and the surrounding landscape.

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Alaska