Glacier Bay National Park is a huge nature preserve famous for its glaciers, fjords, forests, and wildlife.
It’s considered a must-visit destination by many avid travelers and nature lovers.
If you’re curious about how to get to Glacier Bay National Park from Anchorage, there are a couple of straightforward options — specifically flying or ferrying.
Whatever option you choose, the journey to the park itself offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy Alaska’s breathtaking beauty.
Flying From Anchorage to Glacier Bay National Park
Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Glacier Bay National Park.
Step 1: Fly From Anchorage to Juneau
Start by flying from Anchorage to Juneau.
This flight takes about 1.5 hours and connects you to the gateway of Southeast Alaska.
Juneau, the State Capitol, is considered a hub for travelers heading to Glacier Bay.
Step 2: Fly From Juneau to Gustavus
From Juneau, book a flight to Gustavus, the closest town to Glacier Bay.
Alaska Airlines and other air taxis operate flights between these two points.
Total flight time is just around 30 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to settle in before exploring the park.
Step 3: Travel From Gustavus to Bartlett Cove
Once you land in Gustavus, you can take a free shuttle from Gustavus Airport to Glacier Bay Lodge.
Glacier Bay Lodge is near Bartlett Cove, and it acts as the park’s main point of entry.
This short 10-mile ride will take you right to the park’s entrance.
Glacier Bay Lodge is a great starting point for exploring Glacier Bay.
Taking the Ferry to Glacier Bay National Park
If you want to know how to get to Glacier Bay National Park from Anchorage via a scenic route, you can always travel by boat.
There are plenty of ferries that can take you from Juneau to Gustavus.
While this option is slower than flying, traveling by ferry offers stunning views of Alaska’s coastline.
Step 1: Ferry From Juneau to Gustavus
The Alaska Marine Highway ferry connects Juneau and Gustavus during the summer months.
The ferry ride takes about 4 to 6 hours, depending on weather conditions.
This is a popular option for travelers who want to bring a vehicle.
Step 2: Getting From Gustavus to Glacier Bay
Once in Gustavus, you can take a taxi or shuttle straight to Bartlett Cove.
There are even bicycles for rent if you want to travel the scenic 10 miles to Bartlett Cove at your own pace.
Direct Flights From Anchorage to Gustavus
If you want to know how to get to Glacier Bay National Park from Anchorage via air, you’re in luck.
Starting June 2024, Alaska Airlines has offered direct flights from Anchorage to Gustavus.
This seasonal service will run during the summer and make traveling between these two points even more convenient.
Things to Consider When Planning Your Trip to Glacier Bay
Best Time to Visit
Glacier Bay National Park is best visited between mid-May and mid-September.
During this time, transportation options are more frequent, and the park’s services are fully operational.
Transportation in Gustavus
The road system in Gustavus is limited to about 10 miles of paved roads.
Shuttles and taxis are the main ways to get around, though some lodges offer bike rentals for guests.
Activities in Gustavus Before Heading to Glacier Bay
If you have extra time to explore Gustavus, there’s plenty to do in this city before heading to Glacier Bay.
Kayaking
Take a guided kayaking tour to explore the calm waters and spot local wildlife.
It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Hiking
The Bartlett River Trail is a 5-mile trail that offers stunning views and wildlife sightings.
For a shorter adventure, the Forest Loop Trail is a great option for a quick walk.
Wildlife Viewing
Like Glacier Bay, Gustavus is a hotspot for birdwatching and marine life.
You may see whales, seals, and various bird species along the shore.
Why Visit Glacier Bay National Park?
Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning glaciers, majestic mountains, and incredible wildlife.
Activities like guided boat tours and hiking give you a chance to explore this natural wonder.
Whether you’re viewing glaciers or spotting marine mammals, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Let Travel by Maeghan Plan Your Glacier Bay Trip
If you still want help figuring out how to get to Glacier Bay National Park from Anchorage, give us a call!
At Travel by Maeghan, we believe trip planning shouldn’t be stressful.
We’ll handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.
Contact us to start planning your unforgettable Alaskan getaway today!