Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most remote national parks in the US; it is only accessible by plane or boat. In fact, it feels like it is so far away that the reward could not possibly justify the effort. However, I am here to tell you, firsthand, that it does. From the famous boat tour to the surrounding rainforest to relaxing next to the water, any of the Glacier Bay tours you choose will be a demonstration of truly pristine nature. And, getting there, is not quite as tough as it seems!
Still looking for a reason to book this bucket-list vacation? Look no further, I present the top 10 sights from Glacier Bay tours in the summer:
1. Margerie Glacier
Easily one of the most majestic glaciers in Alaska, Margerie is a tidewater glacier and, due to her density, is one of the bluest glaciers in the area.
2. Glacier Bay in Alaska, view from the boat tour
The 8-hour boat tour, operated by the National Park Service is a barrage of glaciers, sea mammals, and rare birds. Consequently, it can be easy to overlook the raw, untouched nature, on which the park sits.
3. Bartlett Cove at sunset
Glacier Bay Lodge features a large, wraparound deck, which, consequently offers truly unbelievable views. In addition to enjoying a stunning sunset, you can also purchase a bottle of wine from the gift shop, topping off an already perfect day.
4. Alaskan Rainforest
Nourished by glacier melt and dating back almost 1000 years, the rainforests of Glacier Bay are a magical place. Moreover, the coastal location means there are (almost) no bugs.
5. Long-haired Mountain Goats
The wildlife is abundant in Glacier Bay, for example, this rarely seen Alaskan mountain goat seems to almost pose for a picture.
6. Hiking on Forest Loop Trail
This short trail, easily accessible from Glacier Bay Lodge, is filled with every shade of green you can imagine. In addition to the stunning flora, you’ll also find a wide variety of birds inhabiting the area.
7. Huna Tribal House, overlooking Glacier Bay in Alaska
The Huna Tribal House pays tribute to the original custodians of the land, the Huna Tlingit clans. During your visit, make sure to watch the short video inside the house, which explains the history of the land.
8. John Hopkins Glacier
A truly unique glacier, striped with sediment so it almost blends into the landscape. In addition to its colorful presence, this glacier is one of the largest in the bay, with a width of 1-mile and a height of 300 feet.
9. Bartlett River
As a result of the melting glaciers, you’ll notice an extra-blue tint to the Bartlett River, complimenting the various shades of green of its surrounding valley.
10. Stellar Sea Lions, guarding Glacier Bay in Alaska
These extra-large sea mammals flight for a spot in the sun, meanwhile overseeing all activities in Glacier Bay. Above all, they are the noble guardians of this national park.
In conclusion, a visit to Glacier Bay is a truly stunning visual experience; the flora and fauna are guaranteed to impress even the most jaded traveler.
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