Glacier Bay National Park is a must-visit destination. Witness the magnificent tidewater glaciers and feel the connection with nature. It was declared as the UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992. Located in southeastern Alaska, the park is a natural area that stretches across 13,287 kilometers (over 8,256 miles).
Unlike most national parks in the U.S., Glacier Bay National Park is not accessible by road. Visit this park and preserve to witness the awe-inspiring glaciers and experience the wildlife. A three to four day trip to Glacier Bay will give you ample time to explore the area. The best time to visit the place is from May to September. Pre-book your travel and lodging to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Extreme weather conditions and low visitor infrastructure can call for trouble. Buy an insurance plan before traveling to enjoy your stay worry-free. Visitors medical insurance plans should cover you and your family in case of any emergencies.
Visitors Medical Insurance for Travelers in Glacier Bay National Park - FAQs
While traveling in the U.S., you might fall ill or receive an injury that causes you to seek medical treatment. A home medical insurance plan mostly does not protect you in a foreign land, and obtaining healthcare in the U.S. can be incredibly expensive. Visitors medical insurance can prevent you from paying hefty medical bills should the worst occur while on your trip.
Why buy visitors medical insurance before traveling to Glacier Bay National Park?
Predicting when an illness or an injury could strike is not possible. Dealing with it can be even worse when you are away from home. Alaska has good medical facilities for its visitors, but it is expensive. A visitors medical insurance plan can keep you covered from any approved charges in case of an emergency.
What should I look for in my Glacier Bay National Park visitors medical insurance?
Choose a visitors medical insurance plan that can cover emergency room charges, acute onset of pre-existing medical conditions if you or anyone in your traveling group have pre-existing conditions that could flare up while on the trip, and accidents so you are not stuck paying the medical bills. Emergency medical evacuation coverage would be wise in case transportation to the nearest medical facility for adequate treatment becomes necessary.
Things To Do In Glacier Bay National Park
- Glacier Bay Cruise - Taking a boat to the glaciers is the most common way to appreciate the natural wonder. The cruise usually is day-long (up to 4 hours) and covers 120 miles (over 193 kilometers). Enjoy glimpses of whales, otters, sea lions, sea birds, and bears as you sail through the saltwater. The naturalists from National Park Services are on board to share their knowledge. Eat, drink, and enjoy nature at its best.
- Fly over Glacier Bay - Another great way to experience the beautiful glaciers, wildlife, and flora are through the air. Fly in a small plane and enjoy the eagle’s-eye view of the magnificent ice land.
- Hangout in Gustavus - A small town in Alaska, Gustavus has spectacular scenic views, especially of the Fairweather range and Icy Strait. The only airport in the area lies in Gustavus and it stands as the gateway to Glacier Bay. Enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the quaint cafes while you are in town.
- Bartlett River trail - The trail stretches across the intertidal lagoon and passes through a forest. This two-mile-long (about 3.2 kilometer) trail is easy to walk. During your walk, you may witness coyotes, moose, bears, and river otters.
- Kayaking - Kayaking is a great place to start your trip. You can either start your trip from Bartlett Cove or further up the bay. Make reservations in advance. A free trip permit and orientation are provided to all backcountry users from May 1 to September 30.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Glacier Bay National Park
Visit Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska to see the glaciers up close. Lots of planning and research is required before booking the trip. Here we share a list of things to consider while booking your trip.
- Weather - Ocean currents influence the weather of Glacier Bay. It makes winters mild and summers moist. Pack good rain gear to stay dry in the bay area. Temperatures drop significantly in the mountain region, so it is good to wear layers when going up.
- Permits and reservations - Visitors need backcountry permits. Campers also need permits for the camping ground. With one lodge in the bay area, it is advised to reserve your room in advance. Visit the National Park Service’s website to know about permits and regulations required for activities like mountaineering, rafting, and private boating.
- Safety in Glacier Bay - When visiting Glacier Bay National Park, remember to prepare for the worst. Dynamic weather can be non-forgiving if not prepared well. Attend necessary orientation programs to know about the probable risks and safety measures. Wildlife in the bay area is dangerous.
- Medical Facility - Stay prepared for any medical emergency when visiting Glacier Bay. Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning is a common threat to visitors. It is smart to get a visitors medical insurance plan before traveling to Glacier Bay National Park.
- Prepare an itinerary - There are limited ways to experience the great glaciers and wildlife in Glacier Bay. Before you travel, schedule your days and prepare an itinerary. Include all the destinations you want to visit. Share your itinerary with your emergency contact for traceability.
Before You Travel To Glacier Bay National Park - Do This
We have curated a pre-travel checklist for those planning a trip to Glacier Bay National Park.
- Pre-book tours and lodging
Unless you are camping, Glacier Bay has only one lodge for staying. Book your stay in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. Select your activities in advance and book tickets for that too. Do not forget to check the permit rules for each chosen activity.
- Pack smart
Keep essentials handy when visiting the national park. Pack and carry rain gear, sunglasses, and common medicines. Carry binoculars for a clear view of the glaciers and wildlife. Also, pack an extra pair of camera batteries, as well as clothes in layers to stay warm.