If you’re visiting Glacier Bay National Park, you’ll have to get out on the water. For those more adventurous and able, kayak into the bay. You can get to the bay’s drop off points with a shuttle from Glacier Bay Lodge. If you need to rent equipment or if you’re looking for a guided tour, contact Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks. If you’re staying in the lodge, you can explore beautiful Bartlett Cove. For those who aren’t interested in kayaking but still want to see the bay, you can take the Glacier Bay Boat Tour. The boat leaves from Bartlett Cove and travels about 130 miles over the seven hour journey. During the trip, a park ranger will be on board to point out important geological features and wildlife. You’re likely to see black bears, grizzly bears, moose and wolves from the safety of the boat.

Glacier Bay Lodge is the only lodging in the park, so if you want to stay in the park otherwise, you’ll need to camp. The only campground in the park is the Bartlett Cove Campground. To camp there, you’ll first need to obtain a permit and go through a brief orientation. It is only accessible by foot. It has some basic amenities, including bear-proof storage caches and composting toilets. For back-country camping, you’ll also need to obtain a permit (free) and go through the orientation program.

Glacier Bay is an international World Heritage Site and the home to a wide variety of marine life, including humpback whales, killer whales, sea lions and otters. The most popular tours leave from Gustavas and last about three and a half hours. They’ll also include snack and beverages, as well as binoculars to help you see better. Tours generally run between Memorial Day (late May) and Labor Day (early September). Make sure you plan in advance and be aware that the cost for an adult ticket can run in excess of $100.