East Arm

Paddle the East Arm for access to coves and inlets boasting some of the most spectacular scenery in the park.

Plan Around East Arm

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East Arm Details

The East Arm of Glacier Bay offers unbelievable paddling, with less boat traffic than the West Arm but still plenty of tidewater glacier scenery. You can paddle all the way from Bartlett Cove, or get a drop-off with the park tour boat near the entrance to the East Arm. The East Arm provides access to both Muir Inlet and Wachusett Inlet, two spectacular destinations for paddling through a surreal landscape speckled with floating icebergs -- prime locations for wildlife viewing. Once you leave Bartlett Cove, you are in the undeveloped wilderness area of the park and camping options are nearly unlimited. However, as with all paddle trips, tides and weather can dictate what is possible and what is safe at the time, particularly for open-water crossings. The park service broadcasts the weather via VHF radio twice daily. Be alert for calving glaciers and rolling icebergs, and keep your distance from glaciers and floating ice. Permits and an orientation video are required for all backcountry travel and boating, so stop by the Visitor Center at Bartlett Cove before your trip to register and to get vital safety information. Make reservations for a kayak rentals, drop-offs, and guided trips well in advance of your visit. Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks (907-697-2257) is located at the boat dock in Bartlett Cove and offers both outfitting and guide services.

Difficulty

Low

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