Bear Glacier Lagoon
Paddle among colossal icebergs in a surreal turquoise lagoon, witnessing the raw power of a calving glacier in Kenai Fjords.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Bear Glacier Lagoon
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Paddle among colossal icebergs in a surreal turquoise lagoon, witnessing the raw power of a calving glacier in Kenai Fjords.
"An awesome sight to see, with massive icebergs as big as a building!"
Book Guided Tours Early
Popular jet boat and kayak tours for Bear Glacier Lagoon sell out fast, especially in summer. Book ahead! :ticket:
Dress in Layers
Alaska's weather is unpredictable. Bring waterproof gear and layers for a comfortable experience on the water. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayaking Among Giants
Bear Glacier Lagoon
Paddle through a surreal world of turquoise water and icebergs as large as houses. An unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
The Spectacle of Calving Glaciers
Bear Glacier Lagoon
Witness the awe-inspiring power of nature as massive chunks of Bear Glacier break off into the lagoon.
Wildlife Encounters
Bear Glacier Lagoon shores
Keep an eye out for majestic eagles perched on the shore or other local wildlife in this pristine environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Iceberg Views
Book Your Adventure in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours Early
Popular jet boat and kayak tours for Bear Glacier Lagoon sell out fast, especially in summer. Book ahead! :ticket:
Dress in Layers
Alaska's weather is unpredictable. Bring waterproof gear and layers for a comfortable experience on the water. :cloud:
Capture the Iceberg Colors
The range of colors in icebergs depends on ice density. Get your camera ready for stunning shots! :camerawithflash:
Listen to the Lagoon
Experience the unique sounds of the underwater world and the ice. It's a surreal auditory experience. :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours Early
Popular jet boat and kayak tours for Bear Glacier Lagoon sell out fast, especially in summer. Book ahead! :ticket:
Dress in Layers
Alaska's weather is unpredictable. Bring waterproof gear and layers for a comfortable experience on the water. :cloud:
Capture the Iceberg Colors
The range of colors in icebergs depends on ice density. Get your camera ready for stunning shots! :camerawithflash:
Listen to the Lagoon
Experience the unique sounds of the underwater world and the ice. It's a surreal auditory experience. :microphone:
Consider a Helicopter Tour
For a different perspective, a helicopter tour offers breathtaking views of the glacier and lagoon. :helicopter:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking beauty of Bear Glacier Lagoon, with many describing the icebergs as 'massive' and the experience as 'unforgettable.' The chance to see wildlife like eagles adds to the magic. Some find the tours pricey, and weather can impact visibility.
"Bear Glacier is georgoous. We saw massive ice bergs as big as a building behind the trees. An eagle was perched on the shore the day we were there. Its an awesome sight to see."
Justin Pinchback
""
Jianwei Shi
""
Mohit Daga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bear Glacier Lagoon is primarily accessed via guided tours departing from Seward, Alaska. Options include jet boats, kayaks, and helicopters. There is no direct road access to the lagoon itself. 
Seward is accessible by car via the scenic Seward Highway from Anchorage, or by the Alaska Railroad. Many visitors fly into Anchorage International Airport (ANC) and then drive or take a shuttle to Seward.
Yes, the Alaska Railroad offers a scenic route from Anchorage to Seward, providing a comfortable and picturesque journey.
The travel time to Bear Glacier Lagoon from Seward varies depending on the tour type. Jet boat tours can take around 1.5-2 hours one way, while helicopter tours are much quicker.
Private boat access to Bear Glacier Lagoon is generally not recommended due to the dynamic ice conditions and potential hazards. Guided tours are the safest and most common way to experience the lagoon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't buy tickets directly for the lagoon itself, but rather for the guided tours that take you there. Booking these tours in advance is highly recommended.
Costs vary significantly by tour type. Kayak tours might range from $150-$250, jet boat tours from $200-$300, and helicopter tours can be $400+. Prices are subject to change.
The summer months, from June to August, offer the best conditions for visiting Bear Glacier Lagoon, with more stable ice formations and accessible tour operations.
While Bear Glacier Lagoon is within Kenai Fjords National Park, most tour operators include any necessary park access fees in their pricing. Check with your specific tour provider.
Independent access to Bear Glacier Lagoon is challenging and not recommended due to safety concerns with ice and water conditions. Guided tours are the safest and most practical option.
📸 📸 Photography
The most stunning photo opportunities include the vibrant turquoise icebergs, the massive glacier face, wildlife like eagles, and the dramatic landscapes during your boat or kayak journey.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the lagoon and icebergs. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A waterproof camera or protective casing is advisable due to spray. :camerawithflash:
Yes, helicopter tours offer unparalleled aerial perspectives of the glacier and lagoon, providing unique and dramatic photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting conditions. However, the dramatic blues of the icebergs are often visible throughout the day.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of your surroundings and any instructions from your tour guide, especially when near the glacier or wildlife. Respect the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kayaking can be suitable for older children who are comfortable in the water and can follow instructions. Some tours may offer tandem kayaks or have specific family-friendly options. The sheer scale of the icebergs and the potential for wildlife sightings will captivate young minds. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and dress everyone in warm, waterproof layers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider booking a tour during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for softer light and more dramatic shadows. The unique turquoise hues of the icebergs, caused by their density, provide stunning color contrasts. Don't forget a waterproof camera or protective casing as spray from the water and ice is common.
🛶 Adventure Seekers
+1For an even bigger thrill, consider a helicopter tour with a glacier landing. This allows you to stand on the ancient ice and experience the raw power of the glacier firsthand. Combining a jet boat tour with a kayak excursion can also provide a diverse range of adventure activities in one trip.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Bear Glacier Lagoon: Tours and Activities
+1For a more intimate encounter, kayaking or paddleboarding in the lagoon is an unforgettable experience. Paddling among icebergs the size of houses, surrounded by the serene Alaskan wilderness, offers a unique perspective. Many guided kayak tours also include opportunities to hike towards the glacier's terminus.
+2Helicopter tours provide a breathtaking aerial view of Bear Glacier and the surrounding Kenai Fjords National Park. This option allows you to grasp the sheer scale of the glacier and its impact on the landscape, often including a glacier landing for a truly immersive experience.
+1The Science and Spectacle of Glacial Calving
These calving events are a natural part of a glacier's life cycle, driven by factors like melting, tidal forces, and the glacier's own weight. The size and frequency of calving can vary, and each event reshapes the lagoon and its iceberg population. The vibrant turquoise color of the icebergs is a result of the ice's density, with less air trapped within.
+1While witnessing calving is a highlight for many visitors, it's also a stark reminder of the ongoing changes in our planet's climate. The retreat of glaciers like Bear Glacier is a visible indicator of global warming, making a visit to this natural wonder both spectacular and thought-provoking.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit