Glacier Bay · month by month

Glacier Bay in October

Verdict: Good — October ranks 7 of 12 here

January: effectively closed February: effectively closed March: effectively closed April: Good May: Excellent June: Good July: Good August: Good September: Good October: Good November: effectively closed December: effectively closed October — this page
Excellent Good Tough Closed Sunburst marks the sweet spot

October is a good month at Glacier Bay — it ranks 7th of the twelve here. Expect about 62% fewer visitors than July, the park's peak — 43,949 visits on average. Days run around 48°F by afternoon and 34°F at night, with 10.1 hours of daylight.

October against the park's best

Month Verdict Avg. visits vs. peak High Low Snow Daylight
October (this page) Good 43,949 −62% 48°F 34°F 10.1 h
May (best) Excellent 82,478 −30% 57°F 35°F 16.8 h
July (peak crowds) Good 117,153 peak 63°F 47°F 17.6 h

Weather figures are for the Bartlett Cove area — the Gustavus 2 Ne station. Visits are 2021–2025 averages; climate normals cover 1991–2020. Conditions vary across the park; check current status before you go.

Common questions

Is October a good time to visit Glacier Bay?

It is a reasonable month — the park has stronger ones, but the records don't argue against it. October ranks 7 of 12 at Glacier Bay on crowds, weather, daylight, and access together.

How crowded is Glacier Bay in October?

About 43,949 recreation visits on average — 62% below July, the park's peak.

How warm is Glacier Bay in October?

Average highs around 48°F and lows around 34°F at the Gustavus 2 Ne station.

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