Overview
Bear Glacier is a stunning glacier located in the Kenai Fjords National Park, offering breathtaking views and incredible hiking opportunities. It's one of the largest glaciers in the Kenai Mountains.
Bear Glacier is significant for its size, beauty, and the unique ecosystem it supports. It's a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Location
Address
Seward, Alaska
Neighborhood: Resurrection Bay
Coordinates
60.117600, -149.435600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
May - September
Best Time of Day
Late morning to early afternoon
Better weather and lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Cool to cold
- • Wildflowers
- • Calving glaciers
summer
Warm to cool
- • Wildlife viewing
- • Glacier tours
autumn
Cool to cold
- • Fall colors
- • Calming waters
winter
Very cold
- • Northern lights
- • Snowshoeing
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tours in advance
- Bring appropriate gear
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high (depending on activity)
- • Altitude sickness
- • Cold weather hazards
Medical facilities: First aid available, but distant medical facilities
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Warm, weather-appropriate clothing, Layered clothing, waterproof jacket, Hiking boots or sturdy shoes, Open-toed shoes, Inappropriate clothing for weather
Booking Tips
- • At least 1-2 weeks for tours
- • Official tour operator websites
- • Varies by tour operator, typically 48 hours
- • Pre-booked tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Kenai Fjords National Park App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Maps, Tour information, Wildlife guides
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, some tour boats
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
Distance: 120 miles
Travel Time: 2.5 - 3 hours
From City Center
Distance: Varies by starting point
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty, sense of adventure
Historical Significance: Part of the Kenai Fjords National Park, significant for its geological features
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best photography
- Book tours with local guides for a more authentic experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local seafood at Seward restaurants
- • Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Bear Glacier Overlook
Best Time: Late afternoon (around 6:00 PM)
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the full view
Result: Stunning glacier and mountain views
Bear Glacier Lakes
Best Time: Early morning (around 6:00 AM)
Tips: Low-angle shots for reflections
Result: Beautiful reflections of the glacier
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Exit Glacier Nature Center
Distance: 2 miles
Walking: 30 minutes
Type: Nature Center
Alaska SeaLife Center
Distance: 3 miles
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Aquarium
Seward Museum
Distance: 1 mile
Walking: 20 minutes
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tours in advance"
- "Bring warm layers"
- "Visit early for the best experience"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (5)
Full-Day Tour in Turnagain
Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Small-Group Excursion
Alaska Wildlife Center and Turnagain Arm Tour w/Alyeska Tram
Matanuska Glacier Summer Tour
Stikine River Wilderness Tour
Quick Info
Available Tours
10
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$0 (free entry, tours cost extra)