Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve were created by President Calvin Coolidge. This small Alaska national park covers about 900 square miles and is one of the most beautiful in the country. President Coolidge designated the area surrounding Glacier Bay as a national monument. It is also one of the most visited national parks in the country. Glacier Bay has been named the number one natural tourist spot by the North America Nature Traveler magazine. The park was named this because of its abundant wildlife, glaciers and rare bird life.
The national park has a wide range of interesting sights for those who enjoy hiking or snowshoeing. There are sections that allow you to see signs of ancient glaciers that have been covered by the massive amounts of water during their annual melt. You will also find signs commemorating the passage of the Alaska National Petroleum Reserve, another world heritage site. Three glaciers that flow into and on the Peninsula provide views that are absolutely breathtaking.
In addition to all of the natural beauty found at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, the region has many recreational activities for tourists. There are boating and sailing firms that charter boats on the Waterfront. Summer concerts and festivals are held at the Ice Cave Resort and other sites throughout the region. A special summertime festival takes place at the Penokee Riverfront Park in Juneau.
Traveling to Glacier Bay National Park and preserve through Southeast Alaska is an excellent way to get to observe some of the most unique wildlife in the entire United States. There are a variety of wildlife species including an abundance of seals, whales and sea lions. You can also enjoy fishing and hunting on the Kenai Peninsula. The northern limit of this area is in Julyau.
Visiting Glacier Bay National Park and the Southeast Alaska Wilderness Management Area is the perfect way to experience an Alaskan wilderness without the crowds. Millions of migratory birds visit the region each year. There are opportunities to see the wildlife on the land or in the water. While you are here you can hike, bike, boat or camp on one of the many wilderness areas. There is also no shortage of lodging and restaurants in Juneau, Glacier Bay and everywhere else in the region.
The glaciers are melting. As they do, new wildlife habitat is opening up. It is possible to see why people have been brought to Alaska for generations to view these animals in their natural habitats. This is a very important area for wildlife preservation. If you visit Glacier Bay national park and the Southeast Alaska Wilderness Management Area, you can help to protect the remaining wildflowers and animals in the Everglades.
Here are some general rules and guidelines for visiting Glacier National Park:
- Stay on designated trails: Hiking trails are provided for visitors to enjoy the park safely and to minimize damage to the fragile ecosystems.
- Leave no trace: When hiking or camping, take all of your trash and belongings with you when you leave. Do not litter or disturb natural or cultural resources.
- Wildlife viewing: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and do not approach them. Feeding or harassing wildlife is prohibited and can be dangerous for both the animals and visitors.
- Camping: Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds, and campfires are only allowed in established fire rings.
- Fishing: A valid Montana fishing license is required to fish in the park, and fishing regulations must be followed.
- Firearms: Possession of firearms in Glacier National Park is allowed in accordance with Montana state law.
- Commercial activities: Any commercial activities, such as guiding or outfitting, require a permit.
- Pets: Pets are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash at all times.
These are just some of the basic rules and guidelines for visiting Glacier National Park. Always make sure to check for any specific regulations and restrictions before visiting.