Important Information For Kayakers    

Unlike canoes, kayaks must be put into the water before getting in or out. Therefore, you must have calf length or knee high rubber boots to kayak. (Neoprene whitewater booties are generally considered insufficient). In Glacier Bay's gray, foggy. frequently rainy climate, you will be very thankful for your rubberized raincoat and pants, fiberfill bags (not down) and ample tarps and waterproof materials. Bring along a supply of plastic Ziploc and garbage bags.

When camping in southeast Alaska, you must use your best "bear country camping techniques." It is especially important to never store food or cooking gear overnight in boats, or near tents and other gear. Ask the NPS staff about other bear safety advice if you are uncertain. For more information on bear country camping and bear biology you may also look up the Park's web page on bears.

The use of bear-resistant canisters for food and garbage storage is mandatory. Plan your menus carefully, using convenient, lightweight compact foods to keep the number of canisters you require to a minimum. Canisters may be checked out free of charge at the ranger station when you pick up your backcountry permit. Please refer to our Bear Canisters page for more information.

Awareness of daily tides is necessary for any kayak trip. The National Park Service will provide tide tables so that you can note twice daily the time and height of each tide, and pitch your tents and camp accordingly. Kayaks must be carried (never dragged) every time you come ashore to a location above the high tide line. To obtain a tide table for advance planning, be sure to look at our Tides page, which will provide a link to NOAA's tide table for this area.

There is one general store, the Bear Track Mercantile, in Gustavus approximately a mile from the airport and 10 miles from the Glacier Bay/Bartlett Cove campground. The store carries a more limited amount of fresh food, camping type food, and camping supplies than you might find down south.  We suggest you purchase these items prior to your arrival according to suggestions provided in Bear Canisters and Packing Tips. Maps and charts for Glacier Bay may be purchased at the National Park Service Visitor Information Station in Bartlett Cove.  See our Bear Spray & Fuel page for details on getting these materials.

There is one ATM machine in Gustavus and none in Bartlett Cove. You may want cash for taxi fares, restaurant meals, miscellaneous purchases, and tips. If so, be sure to stop at one of the many cash machines in downtown Juneau or the Juneau airport before departing for Gustavus, or plan to take a taxi to the Gustavus ATM.