Kayaking In Glacier Bay, Alaska         

Prior kayaking experience is not necessary. Unlike whitewater boats, sea touring kayaks are extremely stable and easy to paddle. Many visitors to Glacier Bay have never kayaked before. However, all multi-day rental customers should be experienced outdoors people, well prepared to spend their days and nights in a wilderness setting, and ready to learn techniques of Glacier Bay camping and small boat handling. Tides, winds, and rainfall can combine to make camping in this country challenging. Temperatures in the summer range from a dry, warm 70 degrees to cool, wet, and windy weather in the 50's.

We recommend that you do some pre-trip research. See your local library or bookstore. The Glacier Bay Alaska Natural History Association stocks a wide variety of maps and nautical charts as well as books on the history, topography, plants and animals of Glacier Bay. You might enjoy a map in advance to plan your routes and check out drop off sites. We recommend the combined topo/nautical chart of Glacier Bay National Park, Trails Illustrated Map #255. To find out prices and more information please write, phone or e-mail: Glacier Bay Alaska Natural History Association, P.O. Box 140, Gustavus, AK 99826-0140, (907) 697-2635, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it You may also purchase any of these items at the National Park Service Visitor Information Station upon arrival.

Think about the kind of kayaking experience you want and come prepared to follow a route consistent with your expectations and current drop off points. Feel free to call us for assistance in trip planning.

There is plenty of room to pack for a week or two, but kayaks can best be packed with several small day packs, team bags, or zipper duffels, about 10"X20". When packing a kayak, tents, pads and sleeping bags go in separately. A frame pack, and most internal frame packs, will not fit into a kayak. You can make arrangements to store in Bartlett Cove any gear you wish to leave behind while you are kayaking.

Print off the Gear List for detailed information on what to bring and how to pack a kayak. Be sure to follow the gear list closely and eliminate superfluous gear.