If you’re planning a vacation and would like a quick comparison of Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and Badlands National Park, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll take a look at what they have to offer in terms of hiking and wildlife, plus what the best time of year to visit might be.
Let’s get started with an overview of Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.
Table Of Contents
- 1 Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Overview
- 2 Badlands National Park Overview
- 3 Hiking At National Parks
- 4 Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Hiking Trails
- 5 Hiking Overview at Badlands National Park
- 6 Wildlife at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
- 7 Wildlife at Badlands National Park
- 8 What’s the best time to visit?
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Overview
Covering 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines and deep sheltered fjords, Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of Alaska’s Inside Passage and part of a 25-million acre World Heritage Site—one of the world’s largest international protected areas. From sea to summit, Glacier Bay offers limitless opportunities for adventure and inspiration.
Badlands National Park Overview
Badlands National Park is an incredible natural landscape located in the US state of South Dakota. Founded in 1941, Badlands is known for its sweeping canyons, rolling hills, and dramatic rock formations. The park is renowned for its rich variety of plants and animals, ranging from prickly cactus plants to bighorn sheep. There are also a number of historic sites within Badlands National Park, including Native American settlements and homesteads that exemplify the adventurous spirit of early settlers in the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day hiking through scenic vistas or exploring the fascinating history of this iconic national park, Badlands has something for everyone!
Hiking At National Parks
Most national parks have some of the best hiking trails you’ll find anywhere in the US.
If you’re planning to take along your furry friend, double-check the rules before you go – as many of the parks have different rules about bringing animals along with you.
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Hiking Trails
Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the world. Located in Alaska, Glacier Bay is home to more than 100 glaciers, as well as an abundance of wildlife. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which hiking trail to take. However, there are a few trails that stand out above the rest. The Upper Muir Inlet Trail is considered to be the easiest hike in Glacier Bay, and it offers stunning views of glaciers and mountains. For a more challenging hike, try the Abra Windy Trail, which ascent nearly 3,000 feet in just over three miles. Glacier Bay is an incredible place for nature lovers, and these hiking trails are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Best Hikes At Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
The ratings below are based on user-submitted data at AllTrails.com
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bartlett Cove Forest Loop Trail | 33.8328 | 1 | loop | 4.5 |
| Bartlett River Trail | 266.7 | 1 | out and back | 3 |
| Bartlet Lake Trail | 141.732 | 1 | out and back | 3.5 |
| Tlingit Trail | 19.812 | 1 | out and back | 3.5 |
| Point Gustavus | 117.9576 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
Hiking Overview at Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is home to some of the best hiking trails in the country. For those looking for an easy hike, the one-mile Notch Trail is a great option. The trailhead is located near the park visitor center, and the trail itself is relatively flat and well-maintained. For those looking for a more challenging hike, the seven-mile Castle Trail is a great option. The trailhead is located near the high point of Badlands Loop Road, and the trail features a number of steep climbs. However, hikers are rewarded with stunning views of Badlands formations along the way.
Top 10 Hiking Trails at Badlands National Park
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sage Creek Loop | 245.9736 | 5 | loop | 4 |
| Sheep Mountain Table Road | 180.7464 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Notch Trail | 39.9288 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Castle Trail | 95.7072 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| The Door Trail | 10.9728 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Saddle Pass Trail | 65.8368 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Medicine Root Loop Trail | 102.7176 | 1 | loop | 4 |
| The Window Trail | 1.8288 | 1 | out and back | 4 |
| Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | 19.812 | 1 | loop | 4 |
| Fossil Exhibit Trail | 3.9624 | 1 | out and back | 3.5 |
Wildlife at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Glacier Bay National Park is home to an amazing array of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see everything from grizzly bears and bald eagles to seals and whales. There are also a variety of plant species to be found in the park, including Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and lodgepole pine. In addition to its diverse wildlife, Glacier Bay National Park also offers stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and ocean. Whether you’re looking for a chance to spot some rare animals or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery, Glacier Bay National Park is sure to exceed your expectations.
Wildlife at Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. The park’s landscape includes prairies, grasslands, and Badlands formations, providing habitat for many different species. Visitors to the park can expect to see bison, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer. Badlands National Park is also home to a variety of reptiles, including snakes and lizards. In addition, the park is home to more than 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. With such a diverse array of wildlife, Badlands National Park is an excellent place to enjoy the outdoors and observe some of America’s most iconic animals.
What’s the best time to visit?
A lot of times, weather can dictate when it makes the most sense to visit a particular national park.
Plus, depending on the types of activities you’re hoping to take part in, seasonality will be a huge factor in whether those things are even available.
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Weather Considerations
Glacier Bay National Park is a place of extremes. In the summer, temperatures can reach up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter they can drop as low as -40 degrees. However, the park is beautiful at all times of year. In the spring, Glacier Bay is a haven for migratory birds, and wildflowers blanket the landscape. Summer is the best time for hiking and kayaking, and in the fall, the leaves of the trees turn a stunning array of colors. Winter is Glacier Bay’s quietest season, when snow dusts the landscape and ice floes float in the bay. No matter when you visit, Glacier Bay National Park is sure to take your breath away.
Badlands National Park Weather Considerations
Badlands National Park experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year. Temperatures can vary widely, from below freezing in the winter to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. The park also receives a significant amount of rainfall, which can make hiking and camping difficult. As a result, the best time to visit Badlands National Park depends on what activities you want to do. If you’re interested in hiking and camping, the spring months are typically the best time to go, as the weather is milder and there is less chance of rain. However, if you’re simply looking to enjoy the scenery, any time of year can be a good time to visit. No matter when you go, Badlands National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.