The Right Glacier Bay Weather Conditions for Adventure

Glacier Bay has a maritime climate, heavily influenced by ocean currents. The result is mild winters and cool, moist summers near sea level. Summer visitors can expect highs between 50 and 60 degrees F (10 to 15 degrees C). Winter temperatures rarely drop into the single digits, with average nighttime lows of 25 to 40 degrees F (-2 to 5 degrees C). Bartlett Cove receives about 70 inches of precipitation annually. You may find yourself thinking it’s all coming down during your visit!

Good rain gear is essential here. April, May, and June are usually the driest months of the year. September and October tend to be the wettest. Be sure to dress appropriately and be aware that the risk of hypothermia is present at any time of year. But do remember - it’s all that rain and snow falling year after year that creates the lush rainforests and magnificent glaciers we love to see!

The weather in this coastal part of southern Alaska is mild. Storms that come into Alaska from across the Pacific Ocean are stopped by the mountain ranges (like the Fairweathers) and they lose their moisture, which leads to the abundance of glaciers and creates the northern rainforest ecosystem that makes this part of Alaska so green. Dress in layers that can come on off as needed, and have a top layer that sheds water – and you’ll be very comfortable!