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[2025] 9 Best Things to Do in Glacier Bay (With Tips!)

By mi2748514@gmail.com Jul 14, 20250

9 Best Things to Do in Glacier Bay

Planning your Alaskan adventure? If Glacier Bay National Park isn’t on your bucket list yet, you’re about to change your mind. What if I told you this icy paradise is home to ancient glaciers, playful humpback whales, and some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on Earth? From serene kayaking sessions to wildlife sightings straight out of a documentary, Glacier Bay offers more than just cold air and ice—it’s a life-changing experience.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the 9 best things to do in Glacier Bay in 2025, along with insider tips to make the most of your trip. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or someone seeking tranquility, this untouched Alaskan jewel will leave you speechless.

Let’s begin your journey into the wild!

1. Cruise Through the Ice-Carved Fjords

[2025] 9 Best Things to Do in Glacier Bay (With Tips!)

If there’s one thing you absolutely cannot miss in Glacier Bay, it’s the breathtaking cruise through its glacier-filled fjords. Towering ice cliffs, calving glaciers, and reflections of snowcapped peaks in the icy blue water—it’s a cinematic experience.

Insider Tip:

Choose a smaller cruise ship or a day boat tour for a more intimate experience. These vessels get closer to the glaciers and wildlife without disturbing the ecosystem.

Why is this worth it? Because the calm waters and dramatic scenery offer postcard-perfect views all day long. Plus, you’ll likely spot sea otters, harbor seals, and bald eagles along the way.

2. Visit Margerie Glacier – The Icon of Glacier Bay

Among the dozens of glaciers in the park, Margerie Glacier steals the spotlight. It’s one of the most active and photogenic glaciers in the region. At 21 miles long and 250 feet high, watching it calve—massive chunks of ice breaking off and crashing into the sea—is simply unforgettable.

Insider Tip:

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photography.

Margerie Glacier represents the dynamic life of this park. You’ll hear the thunder before you see the splash—a natural performance you’ll never forget.

3. Explore Bartlett Cove – A Land-Based Gem

While most of Glacier Bay is water-based, Bartlett Cove offers a rare chance to explore the park on foot. Located near the park headquarters, it’s the only developed area in Glacier Bay National Park.

You can walk peaceful forest trails, paddle on calm waters, or simply relax in nature’s lap. If you love being grounded (literally), Bartlett Cove is your go-to spot.

Insider Tip:

Don’t miss the short Forest Loop Trail, where you’ll stroll through towering spruce and hemlock trees while listening to the melodic chirping of native birds.

4. Go Kayaking in Glacier Bay’s Quiet Waters

Ready to feel the serenity of Glacier Bay up close? Kayaking is your golden ticket to solitude and adventure. Paddle at your own pace, explore untouched coves, and maybe even glide alongside a curious seal or two.

Insider Tip:

Start from Bartlett Cove and stay close to the shoreline for safety. If you’re inexperienced, guided kayak tours are available and highly recommended.

Kayaking allows you to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythms of this icy wilderness. It’s as close as you’ll get to nature without a motor.

5. Join a Ranger-Led Program

Want to dig deeper into the park’s history, geology, and wildlife? Join a ranger-led walk or talk. The National Park Service offers free educational programs in Bartlett Cove and on some cruise ships.

These rangers are full of stories—from native Tlingit heritage to climate change effects on glaciers—and they’re passionate about sharing them.

Insider Tip:

Check the schedule posted daily at the visitor center. Programs usually run during summer (May to September).

This is a perfect activity for families and anyone curious about what makes Glacier Bay so special beneath the surface.

6. Watch Humpback Whales Breach in Icy Strait

Imagine hearing a giant splash and turning just in time to see a 40-ton humpback whale rise from the ocean and crash back down. Welcome to Icy Strait—the feeding grounds for these majestic mammals.

Every summer, whales migrate to Glacier Bay for a seafood feast. Lucky visitors might even witness bubble-net feeding, a rare and cooperative hunting technique among whales.

Insider Tip:

Peak whale-watching season runs from June to August. Book a guided tour from Gustavus or Bartlett Cove for your best chance.

Whale watching is more than a photo op—it’s a soul-stirring reminder of how magical the natural world can be.

7. Hike the Tlingit Trail and Learn Native History

Glacier Bay isn’t just about ice—it’s also a living cultural landscape. The Tlingit Trail connects you with the rich Indigenous history of the area, where the Huna Tlingit people lived for centuries.

Walking this trail, you’ll find interpretive signs, totem art, and traditional stories that give voice to the original stewards of this land.

Insider Tip:

Visit the Huna Tribal House near Bartlett Cove. It’s a beautifully carved structure that honors the deep connection between the Tlingit people and Glacier Bay.

Understanding this cultural dimension adds depth and meaning to your Glacier Bay adventure.

8. Camp Under the Midnight Sun

For those craving a wilder experience, camping in Glacier Bay is as raw and rewarding as it gets. Bartlett Cove Campground is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll fall asleep to the sound of rustling leaves and distant whale songs.

Insider Tip:

Pack bear-proof food containers and follow Leave No Trace principles. Rangers are strict about safety—for good reason.

Few things compare to sipping hot cocoa while watching the sun barely dip below the horizon. It’s an Alaskan summer dream come true.

9. Visit Gustavus – Glacier Bay’s Gateway Town

While Glacier Bay has no roads leading in, the tiny town of Gustavus serves as the charming entry point. It offers cozy lodges, local eateries, and even art galleries. Flights from Juneau make it accessible, yet remote enough to feel undiscovered.

Insider Tip:

Stay at a family-run B&B for a warm, authentic experience. Don’t forget to try the local wild salmon dishes!

Gustavus may be small, but it provides all the essentials—and a touch of Alaskan hospitality you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

Final Travel Tips for Glacier Bay in 2025

Before you pack your bags, here are a few important tips to make the most of your Glacier Bay adventure:

Best time to visit: May to early September.

How to get there: Fly from Juneau to Gustavus, or arrive by cruise ship.

Weather: Expect cool temps (40°F–65°F) and occasional rain—layers and waterproof gear are key.

Permits: No entrance fee required, but overnight backcountry campers need a permit.

Connectivity: Cell service is very limited. Bring maps, and prepare to unplug!

Why Glacier Bay Should Top Your 2025 Travel List

Glacier Bay is not just a destination—it’s a humbling encounter with raw nature, vibrant wildlife, and ancient icefields. With this guide to the best things to do, you’ll be well-equipped to craft an unforgettable trip.

Whether you’re standing in awe of a glacier’s rumble, paddling peacefully through a quiet cove, or learning from Indigenous stories passed down through generations—Glacier Bay will change how you see the world.

So what are you waiting for?

Make 2025 the year you explore Glacier Bay.

May you like

When is the best time to visit Glacier Bay National Park?

The best time to visit is between late May and early September, when the weather is mild and most activities like kayaking, hiking, and cruises are available.

Can I visit Glacier Bay without a cruise ship?

Absolutely! You can fly into Gustavus from Juneau, stay at a local lodge, and explore Glacier Bay via day boat tours or kayaks.

Do I need a permit to visit Glacier Bay?

No permits are required for day visitors. However, backcountry campers must attend an orientation and obtain a permit from the Visitor Center.

Are there any land activities in Glacier Bay?

Yes! Bartlett Cove offers forest hikes, ranger programs, and kayaking. It’s the best spot for land-based exploration in the park.

Will I see wildlife in Glacier Bay?

Chances are high! You may see humpback whales, sea otters, seals, bald eagles, puffins, and even bears during your visit—especially on cruises or kayak tours.