Near Point Gustavus
The Beach Trail provides beautiful views of Bartlett Cove and some wonderful sunset glows. Photo credit: NPS Photo.
Near Point Gustavus
Pink mushrooms dot the groundcover in late August throughout Glacier Bay's moss forests.
Near Point Gustavus
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA
Near Point Gustavus
With constantly changing weather, views can be obstructed by clouds and fog. Here is a brief glimpse of the peaks from the dock at the Visitor Center.
Near Point Gustavus
The Beach Trail offers a lovely view of a place where the mountains meet the sea.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Point Gustavus

4.0 (1 Rating)
A coastal out-and-back to Point Gustavus with opportunities to spot whales and explore coastal zones.
12.5
mi
Distance
665
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyViewsWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
12.52mi
Distance
665ft
Elevation Gain
665ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
92ft
High Point
-7ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
Start at the parking area at the Glacier Bay Lodge and Visitor Center. Head south (left) toward the Bartlett Cove Campground and the start of the Beach Trail. Head onto the Beach Trail for just under a mile until just before the Campground Trail. Instead of turning east (left) and returning on the Campground Trail, continue south and west looking for the shore. This is the Point Gustavus Route. This route, though unsigned and unmarked, is relatively easy to follow as it uses the sandy stretch of coastline south to Point Gustavus. Along the way, explore tidal zones and gnarled driftwood all the while keeping an eye and ear alerted to the seas for whales and the shores for bears. As an informal route, this option can be tailored to all abilities and time constraints. Just turn around and follow your path back to the Beach Trail and Glacier Bay per the Point Gustavus.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Zander Gopfert