What To Know
- Nestled in the southeastern corner of Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park is a breathtaking wilderness teeming with towering glaciers, pristine fjords, and abundant wildlife.
- The most popular way to access Glacier Bay National Park is by ferry from the towns of Gustavus or Juneau.
- What is the cost of a ferry ticket to Glacier Bay National Park.
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park is a breathtaking wilderness teeming with towering glaciers, pristine fjords, and abundant wildlife. With no road access, reaching this remote park requires planning and a multi-modal approach. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get to Glacier Bay National Park Alaska:
By Ferry
The most popular way to access Glacier Bay National Park is by ferry from the towns of Gustavus or Juneau.
From Gustavus:
- Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS): Operates a daily ferry service from Gustavus to Bartlett Cove, the park’s main visitor center. The trip takes approximately 3 hours.
From Juneau:
- Fast Ferry Juneau: Offers a high-speed ferry service from Juneau to Bartlett Cove. The journey takes about 2 hours.
By Floatplane
For a more scenic and adventurous approach, consider taking a floatplane from Gustavus or Juneau.
From Gustavus:
- Gustavus Seaplanes: Provides daily flights to Glacier Bay National Park. The flight time is approximately 30 minutes.
From Juneau:
- Temsco Helicopters: Offers floatplane tours and charter flights to Bartlett Cove. The flight time is about 1 hour.
By Cruise Ship
Multiple cruise lines offer itineraries that include visits to Glacier Bay National Park. These cruises typically depart from ports in Seattle, Vancouver, or Seward, Alaska.
By Private Boat
If you have your own boat, you can access Glacier Bay National Park through the park’s designated entrance at Bartlett Cove. Keep in mind that you will need to obtain a permit and follow all park regulations.
Once in the Park
Bartlett Cove:
- The main visitor center and gateway to the park.
- Offers ranger-led programs, exhibits, and boat tours.
Glacier Bay Lodge:
- The only accommodation within the park.
- Provides guided hikes, kayak tours, and wildlife viewing.
Camping:
- Several campgrounds are available in the park, including Bartlett Cove Campground and Adams Inlet Campground.
Planning Your Trip
- Book accommodations and transportation in advance: Glacier Bay National Park is a popular destination, especially during peak season (May-September).
- Check the weather forecast: Be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions in Alaska.
- Bring rain gear and warm clothing: Even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate and rain is common.
- Pack binoculars and a camera: Capture the breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters.
- Respect park regulations: Follow all rules and guidelines to protect the park’s fragile ecosystem.
Tips for Saving Money
- Travel during the off-season: Consider visiting Glacier Bay National Park in spring or fall for lower rates on accommodations and transportation.
- Take advantage of discounts: Some operators offer discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel.
- Pack your own food: Eating at restaurants in the park can be expensive.
- Look for package deals: Some cruise lines and tour operators offer packages that combine transportation, accommodations, and activities at a discounted rate.
Final Thoughts
Getting to Glacier Bay National Park Alaska is an adventure in itself. With its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, it’s a destination that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you choose to arrive by ferry, floatplane, cruise ship, or private boat, the journey will be as memorable as the destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Glacier Bay National Park?
A: The best time to visit is during the summer months (May-September) for the most favorable weather and wildlife viewing.
Q: Can you drive to Glacier Bay National Park?
A: No, there is no road access to the park. You must access it by ferry, floatplane, cruise ship, or private boat.
Q: What is the cost of a ferry ticket to Glacier Bay National Park?
A: Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the departure point, time of year, and type of ticket. Check with the Alaska Marine Highway System or Fast Ferry Juneau for up-to-date pricing.
Q: Are there guided tours of Glacier Bay National Park?
A: Yes, ranger-led tours and guided boat tours are available through the park’s visitor center and Glacier Bay Lodge.
Q: What wildlife can I expect to see in Glacier Bay National Park?
A: Glacier Bay National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including whales, sea lions, seals, bears, wolves, and birds.
