Glacier Bay National Park weather is very wet and often overcast, receiving over 70 inches of precipitation each year.
The park, located at the upper end of Alaska’s Inside Passage, is truly one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and the frequent rain (and winter snow) only enhances its lush beauty, creating literally thousands of waterfalls cascading down the steep walls of the park’s fjords.
Summer is definitely the most popular time of year to visit the park, as the place virtually shuts down in winter, when it averages over 115 inches of snow.
While the park is frequently overcast and rainy during the summer months, sunshine is also common, often breaking through thick coastal clouds, creating a spectacular show.
Summer temperatures average in the low 60’s, which makes for reasonably comfortable glacier viewing weather.
If you are going on a cruise that stops in Glacier Bay, definitely be prepared with a raincoat, and dress in layers, as a cold, rainy day can suddenly become pleasant and sunny (and vice versa).
GLACIER BAY MONTHLY AVERAGES
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Maximum temperature
31
34
38
46
54
61
63
60
54
45
38
34
Minimum temperature
22
25
28
33
38
43
47
46
42
37
30
25
Monthly precipitation
6.22
4.84
3.85
2.98
3.62
2.76
4.00
6.00
9.82
11.56
7.47
6.97
Monthly
34.5
23.3
14.1
1.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
1.4
15.5
24.9
The "driest" month in the park is June, during which less than 3 inches of rain generally falls.
Winter months are moderately cold and snowy. Most of the rangers leave the park during the winter, and few visitors brave the elements during this season.
Overall, Glacier Bay National Park weather is wet but temperate, and the mist, clouds, and waterfalls all help to enhance the park’s mystical beauty.
