Gustavus between Icy Strait and Glacier Bay

Gustavus lies on the shore of Icy Strait and combines a broad plain formed by the retreat of glaciers with rivers, wetlands, forests and beaches. The Salmon River runs through the community, which is considered the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. Those planning a trip with nature observation, water-based experiences and cultural discoveries will find various points of interest here when choosing a suitable vacation rental or vacation home.

Landscape between River, Beach and Wetlands

The Gustavus Forelands Preserve protects a distinctive landscape of forests, wetlands and beaches on the edge of Glacier Bay National Park. The Dude Creek Critical Habitat Area adjoining Gustavus is also significant in landscape terms: it encompasses the largest contiguous area of undisturbed wet meadow habitat in the region. During the fall migration, cranes stop there; their numbers can reach into the thousands. For travel planning, it is important to note that Dude Creek has no facilities for public use and no developed trails.

Those looking for an accessible hiking idea can put the Nagoonberry Loop Trail on their list. The 2.5-mile loop passes through forests, meadows and wetlands and brings hikers back to the parking area. Gustavus is mostly flat, making it suitable for cycling and walking. The Gustavus beach can also be explored, without implying any particular route or length of stay.

Whale Watching, Birds and Excursions on the Water

At Gustavus Dock, humpback whales and killer whales can be observed in Icy Strait. Nearby marine mammals also include seals, sea lions and sea otters. The dock is also interesting for birdwatching because tidal zones and beach meadows provide many birds with feeding and resting areas.

The Salmon River estuary lies five minutes west of Gustavus Dock and is suitable for wildlife observation. In May, sand lance attract numerous bald eagles, harbor seals and other predators there. Those who want to plan their trip around this natural experience can take the May season into account when choosing their stay.

For days on the water, guided and unguided kayak tours depart from Gustavus Dock or Bartlett Cove. Excursions are offered for half a day or a full day, as well as overnight stays and multiday tours. Marine excursions also begin at Gustavus Dock or Bartlett Cove. Sportfishing charters in Gustavus target king salmon, coho salmon, herring and large Pacific halibut. The protected wilderness group of the Beardslee Islands lies near Bartlett Cove and is known for its abundance of wildlife.

Glacier Bay and Cultural Impressions

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve can only be reached by plane or boat. Those arriving in Gustavus by plane or ferry may need ground transportation to reach Bartlett Cove, the park visitor center, Glacier Bay Lodge or park headquarters. Bartlett Cove is about 10 miles from Gustavus. In summer, park rangers offer evening programs, educational videos and walks in the surrounding area at the Glacier Bay Visitor Center.

The Huna Tribal House on the Łingít Trail lies about a quarter mile northeast, beyond Glacier Bay Lodge. Four totem poles there each represent one of the clans of the region. Special presentations and guided programs on Tlingit culture are sometimes offered in summer. In Gustavus itself, the Gateway Gallery in the Community Center displays works by local artists and changes its exhibitions monthly.

The community’s history also adds a distinctive note to the trip: Gustavus began in 1914 as a homestead. Because of the many wild strawberries on the plains, the area around Gustavus was once known as Strawberry Point. Wild harvesting in Gustavus includes picking wild strawberries, blueberries and mushrooms on the beach as well as on conservation and state lands.

Which Location Suits Your Trip?

A vacation rental in Gustavus suits travel plans that aim to combine nature observation, walks, cycling and excursions on the water. If Bartlett Cove and the offerings in the national park are the main focus, you should factor the distance of about 10 miles and the possible need for ground transportation into your planning. For a trip focused more strongly on the community itself, Gustavus Dock, the Salmon River, the gallery and the cultural offerings provide different points of focus, without requiring you to commit to just one activity.

For additional places within the broader travel area, you can also include Angoon and Skagway in your research.

For the broader travel overview: Hoonah-Angoon Census Area.