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Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve adventures

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Adventures

Known for its dramatic tidewater glaciers and rich marine life, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve offers a unique Alaskan wilderness experience accessible mostly by boat or plane.

3,283,000
Acres Protected
5
Miles of Trails
About 500,000
Annual Visitors
1980
Year Established

About Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
 

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, located in southeast Alaska, spans over 3.2 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforests, and deep fjords. The park is part of a 25-million-acre World Heritage Site and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including humpback whales, sea lions, and black and brown bears. The area is a living laboratory of glacial activity; its massive tidewater glaciers are continually advancing and retreating, offering spectacular sights of ice calving into the sea. The park is largely accessible only by water or air, providing a remote wilderness experience for visitors who come to explore its pristine landscapes, whether through kayaking expeditions, cruise tours, or guided hikes. Historically, the area was first inhabited by the Huna Tlingit, and today, it continues to hold significance for indigenous peoples. Its geological formations and ecological diversity attract scientists and nature lovers alike, making it a prime destination for studying glacial and ecological processes.

Highlights

Highlight

Margerie Glacier - a striking tidewater glacier known for frequent calving events.

Highlight

Marine Wildlife - opportunities to see humpback whales, orcas, and sea otters.

Highlight

Bartlett Cove - the park's headquarters and starting point for many water-based adventures.

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Johns Hopkins Inlet - a protected area with breathtaking views of surrounding glaciers.

Notable Natural Features

Grand Pacific Glacier

One of the largest glaciers in the park, known for its massive size and historical retreat.

Tlingit Culture

Explore the cultural history through stories and exhibits at the park headquarters.

Marble Islands

Rich in birdlife, these islands are a nesting site for puffins and auklets.