Glacier Bay, the Most Beautiful Place!
Why is this rather remote spot in our great big world so often visited, and how did it become so famous? I have visited Glacier Bay dozens of times as an Alaskan naturalist, and peoples’ responses are always the same. The Bay is awe-inspiriting; it is historic; it is mystical; it is spiritual; it is magical; it is beyond words. But, how did it become so well-known?
Personally, I believe that the name itself–Glacier Bay–is part of its charm. This name just sounds romantic and glamorous. Actually, there are other places in Alaska such as College Fjord and Hubbard Glacier that rival this bay’s beauty; however, no Alaskan glacial area attracts more attention or visitors than Glacier Bay. In fact, Glacier Bay is one of the top ten places in the world that you will find on peoples’ “bucket list.”
John Muir and the Bay’s History:
Undoubtedly, one of the reasons for the popularity of this particular Bay is the historic visits of the famed naturalist, Mr. John Muir. Both Captain in 1778 and Captain George Vancouver in 1794 noticed a “tongue of ice” extending into Icy Strait at the entrance to what we now call Glacier Bay.
But, John Muir’s 1879 visit to Alaska was the catalyst that brought Glacier Bay worldwide attention. At that time, the ice of the bay had retreated approximately 4 miles into the inlet. Ultimately, this retreat created the inlet that we see today. As a naturalist, Muir was intrigued, and he began to vigorously explore the Bay. In time, Muir led six more expeditions to Alaska. The rest–as they say–is history. To reach Marjorie and Grand Pacific Glaciers (the present terminus of the Bay) you must sail approximately 80 miles from the mouth of the inlet at Icy Strait.
Why “this” Bay?
Why is this rather remote spot in our great big world so often visited, and how did it become so famous? I have visited Glacier Bay dozens of times as an Alaskan naturalist, and peoples’ responses are always the same. The Bay is awe-inspiriting; it is historic; it is mystical; it is spiritual; it is magical; it is beyond words. But, how did it become so well-known?
Personally, I believe that the name itself is part of its charm. This name just sounds romantic and glamorous. Actually, there are other places in Alaska such as College Fjord and Hubbard Glacier that rival this bay’s beauty; however, no Alaskan glacial area attracts more attention or visitors than Glacier Bay. In fact, this remote loacation is one of the top ten places in the world that you will find on peoples’ “bucket list.”
Calving Glaciers:
Entering the Bay today, you sail into a virtual icy wilderness of limitless beauty. This beauty will leave you speechless and the memory of your visit will remain with you for the rest of your days! On a typical cruise ship visit, you will see several glaciers, but the high point of any glacier visit is witnessing a “calving.”
When the salt water of the sea meets the fresh water of glacial ice; ultimately, a section of ice will break away and calve. Basically, the glacier is giving birth to an ice birth. This calving is as fast as lightning and sounds like thunder. So, if you’re fortunate you will see the ice calve away, followed by the unmistakable sound of “white thunder.”
What Glaciers Will You See?
As you sail into the Bay you will see the glaciers in this order: Reid, Lamplugh, Marjorie, and Grand Pacific. The only glacier that you may not see is Johns Hopkins, because ships are only allowed to enter that particular inlet in early spring or late summer. If you are lucky enough to see Johns Hopkins, you will be enthralled!
Above are the main glaciers you will see in the bay.
What Else Will You See?
The entire Bay is a nature lover’s delight. If you crave purity and fresh air–this bay is definitely the place for you. In addition to glaciers, within the waters of the Bay are hundreds of varieties of fish. It is also common to see humpback whales either entering or leaving the bay. Indian Rock rookery can be seen on the south side of the Bay near its entrance. There you may see scores of sea lions. You will most likely see one or two seals on the ice, and sometimes dozens or hundreds of them. And, of course, the Bay is filled with a plethora of wildflowers in the summertime.
How do I Get to Glacier Bay Nat’l Park?
Annually, thousands of people from around the world visit this Bay on large cruise ships. Hands down, this is a wonderful way to see the park. In addition, there are smaller ships that cruise the Bay as well. These boats advertise that they get up closer and more personal–and they do. These smaller boats are more expensive than cruise ships, but their size and flexibility allow them to stop for animal viewings and spend more time at the face of the glaciers, etc.
Where to Stay when You Visit the Bay:
Many adventurers choose to spend more time in the park in order to camp, kayak or visit areas where cruise ships cannot go. Therefore, you will find The National Park Lodge and other hotels located in nearby Gustavus, Gustavus, a tiny community that is only open to tourists from April – Sept. In addition, Alaska Airlines flies directly into Gustavus. There, you can choose a hotel for a lengthier stay or take a day boat trip into the park.
Regardless whether you visit the on a cruise ship, in a tiny kayak, or whether you visit in early spring, fall, or a gorgeous Alaska summer, Glacier Bay will stay with you for the rest of your days. Once you hear the “white thunder” of a glacial calving, you will be hooked on glaciers and their might. A visit to “this” Bay is a must and a memory that you will take with you for your lifetime.
If you are enjoying Kathy’s Alaska blogs, you might also enjoy her Alaska books:
Click here to visit Kathy’s Alaska Bookstore; here you will find four different books and two discounted offers. These books are LOVED by thousands. Her two “Little House” books are true adventure stories from a bygone era. They contain NO profanity, NO sex scenes, and NO violence. In addition to these popular two books, Kathy also has an adorable and educational picture book for early readers and preschoolers, AND a great book about Alaska’s glaciers.
