The best walks and hikes around Gustavus
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7
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Hikes around Gustavus Alaska are located on a flat plain at the entrance to Glacier Bay National Park. The landscape was formed by retreating glaciers, resulting in a mix of spruce and hemlock forests, coastal wetlands, and river estuaries. Most routes feature minimal elevation gain, making the area's trails accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Gustavus
- The most popular hiking route is the Nagoonberry Loop — Glacier Bay National Park, a 2.3 mile (3.6 km) trail…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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hikers
7.19km
01:50
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Bartlett River Trail, a 4.5-mile (7.2 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. You will gain a gentle…
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hikers
3.64km
00:55
0m
0m
Embark on the Nagoonberry Loop, an easy hiking route spanning 2.3 miles (3.6 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 13 feet (4 metres). You can comfortably complete this…
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14.8km
03:49
70m
70m
Embark on the Bartlett Lake Trail, a moderate hike spanning 9.2 miles (14.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 231 feet (70 metres). This route guides you through the…
1
hikers
9.50km
02:24
20m
20m
Embark on the Bartlett Lake/Towers Trail for a moderate hike spanning 5.9 miles (9.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 55 feet (17 metres), typically completed in about 2…
20.4km
05:08
20m
20m
Embark on a challenging coastal adventure along the Point Gustavus Trail, a difficult 12.7-mile (20.4 km) hike that takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes to complete. You will gain…
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Tips from the Community
The Nagoonberry Loop trail travels through prime terrain for wildlife encounters. Make sure to follow best practices for wildlife safety. This link has information on the basics of bear safety: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/?adfg=livingwithbears.bearcountry
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Watch for a split in the trail, clearly marked by a big brown sign. Turning left will put you on the Bartlett River Trail. To stay on the Bartlett Lake Trail, bear right at the sign.
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Once you've passed the campground, the maintained footpath gradually fades out. However, you can keep walking on the shore itself. It's best to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and be ready for uneven, slippery footing; you'll probably find yourself walking over barnacle-covered rocks for much of the distance. No matter how far you go, look for animals and birds both in the water and on shore. You might see sea lions or sea otters playing in the water, bears and other smaller wildlife on land, and birds of all sorts abound in the forest and on shore — sometimes in the near-shore waters too.
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Point Gustavus is a worthy final destination for this hike, but hiking almost six miles on slippery, barnacle-covered rock to get here isn't for everybody. Even if you only go partway, keep an eye out on the water, shore, and land. You might see some of Glacier Bay's abundant wildlife, including humpback whales spouting in the distance, sea otters playing or resting in the water, shorebirds and waterbirds, and even bears or their tracks.
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The second of two benches along the Nagoonberry Loop Trail, this looks out over a young beach meadow full of "early colonizing" plants like cow parsnip, wild strawberries, purple lupine and paint brush. You can access a trail guide, and read more about this small but lovely protected area, called the Gustavus Forelands Preserve, on the Nature Conservancy website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/gustavus-forelands-preserve/
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An aerial view of the Bartlett River Estuary, which marks the endpoint of the maintained portion of this trail. Many people do continue walking farther along the river, but be very careful about bear encounters when the salmon are running.
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This is an aerial view of Bartlett Lake, frozen and covered with snow in the winter. During the summer, listen for the haunting sounds of loons swimming on the lake's open water. The lake is bordered by spruce and hemlock trees, and on clear days you might see the Beartrack Mountains in the distance.
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The first of two benches along the Nagoonberry Loop Trail, this looks out over a mature meadow bordered by spruce trees. You might even see nagoonberries on the fringes of the meadow. Be careful and "bear aware" on the entire trail, because bears like this area — and nagoonberries — too. You can access a trail guide, and read more about this small but lovely protected area, called the Gustavus Forelands Preserve, on the Nature Conservancy website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/gustavus-forelands-preserve/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy, family-friendly hikes in Gustavus?
Yes, Gustavus is well-suited for families. The terrain is mostly flat, a result of glacial rebound. A great option is the Nagoonberry Loop — Glacier Bay National Park, an easy 2.3-mile (3.6 km) trail through forests and meadows that's perfect for a leisurely walk.
What are the trail conditions like, especially on the Bartlett River Trail?
Trails in Gustavus can be wild and muddy, particularly in the temperate rainforest sections. The Bartlett River — Glacier Bay National Park trail is known for being wet, so waterproof boots are highly recommended for a comfortable hike.
Can I go for a long day hike near Gustavus?
Certainly. For a more challenging day out, consider the Point Gustavus — Glacier Bay National Park hike. It's a demanding 12.7-mile (20.4 km) route that offers a remote experience along the coast.
Are there any circular walks or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several loop trails. Besides the popular Nagoonberry Loop, you can explore the Bartlett Lake & Towers Trail — Glacier Bay National Park. This moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) loop takes you through the scenic rainforest environment.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The area is rich in wildlife. While hiking through the forests and coastal wetlands, you have a good chance of spotting moose, black bears, coyotes, and various bird species. The river estuaries are great for seeing waterfowl, and you might even spot seals or salmon during their run.
What is the terrain like for hiking around Gustavus?
The landscape around Gustavus is unique for Southeast Alaska. It's a large, flat plain created by retreating glaciers. This means most trails have minimal elevation gain, winding through spruce and hemlock forests, coastal meadows, and along river estuaries.
Are there any hikes that go along a beach?
Yes, you can hike along the coast. The trail to Point Gustavus follows the shoreline, offering expansive views of Icy Strait. Be prepared for a mix of sand and rocky sections.
What are the hiking options inside Glacier Bay National Park itself?
Several key trails start in the Bartlett Cove area of Glacier Bay National Park. These include the rugged Bartlett Lake Trail — Glacier Bay National Park, which is a 9.2-mile (14.8 km) journey through temperate rainforest. There is also the easy, one-mile Forest Loop Trail near the lodge.
What should I pack for a hike in Gustavus?
Dressing in layers is key. Be sure to bring:
Waterproof gear: A rain jacket and pants are essential, as weather can change quickly.
Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended. Rubber boots are a good idea for muddier trails like the Bartlett River Trail.
Safety: Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Also bring water, snacks, and a map or GPS device.
Can I see glaciers while hiking from Gustavus?
The trails immediately around Gustavus and Bartlett Cove do not offer direct views of the large tidewater glaciers the park is famous for. These trails explore the rainforest and coastal ecosystems on land created by past glacial retreat. To see the active calving glaciers, you will need to take a boat tour or flightseeing trip deeper into Glacier Bay.
How many hiking trails are featured in this Gustavus guide?
This guide features a curated selection of 7 hikes around Gustavus. These routes cover a range of difficulties, from easy walks suitable for most visitors to more difficult treks for experienced hikers, showcasing the best of the region's unique landscape.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Pets are not permitted on any trails within Glacier Bay National Park, which includes the popular Bartlett River, Bartlett Lake, and Forest Loop trails. For specific regulations regarding pets in the area, it's best to check the official National Park Service website.
Most popular routes around Gustavus
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