Hiking

There are several enjoyable walks in the Bartlett Cove area. The mile-long Forest Loop Trail connects the lodge, boat dock, and campground, providing an excellent introduction to the area. Bartlett River Trail (4 miles round-trip) leads from park headquarters to the mouth of the river and has opportunities to observe wildlife. Salmon can be seen moving up the river in August.

For a satisfying beach walk, head south along the shore from the campground. If you’re ambitious, it is possible to walk to Point Gustavus (6 miles) or on to Goode River (13 miles). Follow the river upstream 1 mile to Gustavus [1], where you can walk or hitch back along the road.

Beach walking is easiest at low tide; the backcountry office has tide charts. Note that none of these trails goes anywhere near the tidewater glaciers for which Glacier Bay National Park [2] is famous, and there are no developed trails anywhere in the park’s backcountry.