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A coastal out-and-back to Point Gustavus with opportunities to spot whales and explore coastal zones.


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Map Key

13.0

Miles

20.9

KM

Lollipop

42' 13 m

High

1' 0 m

Low

158' 48 m

Up

158' 48 m

Down

0%

Avg Grade (0°)

5%

Max Grade (3°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views · Wildlife

Family Friendly As an out-and-back, this route can be shortened to accommodate all abilities, just turn back whenever you want! Exploring the beach and all the things that wash ashore makes for endless entertainment.

Overview

A popular, off-trail route that uses the sandy stretch of beach south of Glacier Bay to Point Gustavus.

Need to Know

Be aware of your surroundings and prepare for all types of weather and wildlife.

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.

Contacts

Shared By:

Zander Göpfert

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 1 vote

#4550

Overall
  4.0 from 1 vote
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Recommended Route Rankings

#63

in Alaska

#4,550

Overall
4 Views Last Month
583 Since May 25, 2017
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

The Beach Trail provides beautiful views of Bartlett Cove and some wonderful sunset glows. Photo credit: NPS Photo.
Jun 1, 2017 near Juneau, AK
Pink mushrooms dot the groundcover in late August throughout Glacier Bay's moss forests.
Jan 9, 2017 near Juneau, AK
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA
Apr 1, 2020 near Juneau, AK
The Beach Trail offers a lovely view of a place where the mountains meet the sea.
Jan 9, 2017 near Juneau, AK
Enjoy great views from the Beach Trail toward the boat dock and towering peaks in the background.
Jun 1, 2017 near Juneau, AK
An interesting mushroom pops through the undergrowth along the Forest Trail.
Jan 9, 2017 near Juneau, AK

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Jan 1, 2018
A C
Aug 13, 2015
Jerry Fioretti
Oct 25, 2006
Daniel Smith
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