Glacier Bay Vacations — A UNESCO World Heritage Wilderness
USA
Glacier Bay National Park is one of the world's most extraordinary wilderness destinations — a UNESCO World Heritage Site where 16 tidewater glaciers calve into the sea, humpback whales breach in icy fjords, and brown bears roam pristine beaches. The park is one of the highlights of the Alaska Inside Passage cruise route and one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in North America.
Why Visit Glacier Bay?
- ✓Tidewater glaciers — 16 glaciers calving into the sea
- ✓Humpback whales — regularly seen in the bay
- ✓Brown bears — roaming pristine beaches
- ✓Margerie Glacier — the most spectacular calving glacier in the park
- ✓Kayaking — the most intimate way to experience the glaciers
Things to Do in Glacier Bay
Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.
Glacier Viewing Cruise
Take a day cruise to the glaciers — watch the extraordinary spectacle of Margerie Glacier calving into the sea.
Humpback Whale Watching
Watch humpback whales in Glacier Bay — the bay is one of the best places in Alaska to see humpbacks feeding.
Kayaking
Kayak through the extraordinary Glacier Bay — the most intimate way to experience the glaciers, wildlife, and wilderness.
Brown Bear Viewing
Watch brown bears on the beaches of Glacier Bay — bears are regularly seen fishing for salmon and foraging on the shore.
Bartlett Cove Hiking
Hike the trails around Bartlett Cove — the only developed area in the park, with beautiful forest and beach walks.
Flightseeing
Take a flightseeing tour over the extraordinary Glacier Bay — aerial views of the glaciers, mountains, and the Gulf of Alaska.
Ready to book your Glacier Bay trip?
Wendy handles flights, hotels, transfers, and experiences — all in one place.
Where to Eat in Glacier Bay
Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.
Lodge Dining
Glacier Bay Lodge Restaurant
The only restaurant in the park — good Alaskan cuisine with extraordinary views of Bartlett Cove.
Home-Style Cooking
Gustavus Inn
A beloved inn near the park — exceptional home-style cooking using local Alaskan ingredients.
Lodge Dining
Bear Track Inn
A beautiful lodge near the park — exceptional Alaskan cuisine and extraordinary hospitality.
Where to Stay in Glacier Bay
Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.
Glacier Bay Lodge
Mid-RangeThe only lodge inside the park — comfortable rooms, good restaurant, and extraordinary access to the glaciers.
Gustavus Inn
BoutiqueA beautiful inn in the small community of Gustavus — exceptional hospitality, excellent food, and a perfect base for the park.
Bear Track Inn
BoutiqueA beautiful lodge near the park — exceptional service, comfortable rooms, and extraordinary wildlife.
Planning Your Glacier Bay Trip
📅 Best Time to Visit
May through September — the park is only accessible by sea or air, and most visitors arrive by cruise ship or small boat.
🌤️ Climate
Subarctic with cool summers (10–18°C) and cold winters. The park is open year-round but most accessible from May to September.
✈️ Getting There
Fly from Calgary to Juneau (JNU), then take a small plane or boat to Gustavus (the gateway to the park). Most visitors arrive by cruise ship on the Alaska Inside Passage.
Wendy's Take on Glacier Bay
35+ years of travel expertise
Hello, fellow adventurers! With over 35 years of helping travelers discover their dream destinations, I can confidently say that Glacier Bay is truly a jewel of the Alaskan wilderness. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an absolute must-see for anyone who dreams of witnessing nature's grandeur up close.
What makes Glacier Bay so special? It's the sheer, breathtaking scale of it all. Imagine towering tidewater glaciers calving massive chunks of ice into the pristine waters, creating a thunderous roar that echoes through the fjords. It’s an experience that truly humbles you. Beyond the glaciers, the wildlife here is simply incredible. You might spot humpback whales breaching, seals lounging on ice floes, sea otters playing, and even bears foraging along the shore. Every turn offers a new, unforgettable encounter.
This destination is best for those who appreciate raw, untouched natural beauty and seek a profound connection with the environment. It's ideal for nature photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a serene yet awe-inspiring escape from the everyday. If you thrive on active exploration, whether it's kayaking among icebergs or hiking through lush coastal forests, Glacier Bay will captivate your spirit.
The best time to visit Glacier Bay is during the summer months, typically from late May through early September. The longer daylight hours provide ample opportunity for sightseeing, and the weather is generally milder, making for a more comfortable experience on the water and during shore excursions. This period also offers the highest chances of spotting diverse wildlife as they are most active.
My personal favorite thing about Glacier Bay is the profound sense of peace and wonder that washes over you as you cruise through its majestic waters. There’s a quiet reverence that settles in, a feeling of being part of something ancient and powerful. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural world.
For a specific booking tip, I always recommend booking your Glacier Bay cruise or lodge stay well in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak season. Accommodations and cruise berths within the park are limited to preserve its pristine environment, so securing your spot early ensures you won't miss out on this incredible journey.
Insider Tips — Glacier Bay
To maximize your wildlife viewing, spend time on the outer decks with a good pair of binoculars, especially during the ranger narration.
Pack waterproof layers, even in summer. Alaskan weather can change quickly, and staying dry will make your experience much more enjoyable.
Attend the onboard ranger presentations. The National Park Service rangers provide invaluable insights into the geology, wildlife, and history of Glacier Bay.
Consider booking a cruise that includes a full day in Glacier Bay, as some itineraries only offer a partial visit, which doesn't allow for as much exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions — Glacier Bay
Is Glacier Bay accessible without a cruise?
Yes — you can fly from Juneau to Gustavus and take a day cruise or kayak tour into the park. However, most visitors experience Glacier Bay as part of an Alaska Inside Passage cruise.
What is the best way to see the glaciers in Glacier Bay?
The best way to see the glaciers is from a boat — either a cruise ship or a day cruise from Bartlett Cove. Kayaking is the most intimate experience but requires more time and preparation.
Do Canadians need a visa to visit Glacier Bay?
No — Canadian citizens can visit the USA (including Alaska) without a visa, but must carry a valid passport or NEXUS card.
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Book Your Glacier Bay Trip with Wendy
As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Glacier Bay vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Book Your Glacier Bay Trip with Wendy
Tell Wendy about your Glacier Bay travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.