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.

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.

For more information visit Explore Alaska! or nps.gov/glba

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