Approved CUA Services and Stipulations For Glacier Bay
The National Park Service will only issue CUAs for commercial activities and visitor services that:
are determined to be an appropriate use of Glacier Bay;
will have minimal impact on Glacier Bay’s resources and values;
and are consistent with Glacier Bay's purpose, management plans, policies, and regulations.
Air Taxi operator doing a gear drop off in Glacier Bay backcountry
photo/PSilke
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve only accepts CUA applications for the following activities and services:
Camping - frontcountry
Climbing/Mountaineering - overnight Fairweather Range
Ferry - passenger only Juneau-Bartlett Cove-Juneau
Fishing - spin or fly
Hiking/Walking - backcountry
Hiking/Walking - frontcountry
Photography Instruction
Rafting
Skiing/Snowshoeing Tours
Transport (non-tour) - air
Transport (non-tour) - ATV
CUA Conditions
Conditions are special regulations that apply to CUA permits. Every CUA permit issued for Glacier Bay NP&P will include conditions for the permitted service. National, Regional, and Glacier Bay General Conditions apply to all CUA permits.
NATIONAL CONDITIONS OF THIS AUTHORIZATION
False Information: The holder is prohibited from knowingly giving false information. To do so will be considered a breach of conditions and be grounds for revocation: [RE: 36 CFR 2.32(a) (3)].
Legal Compliance: The holder shall exercise this privilege subject to the supervision of the area Superintendent. The holder shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations of the area and terms and conditions of the authorization. The holder must acquire all permits or licenses of State or local government, as applicable, necessary to provide the services described above, and, must operate in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations, including, without limitation, all applicable park area policies, procedures and regulations. All vehicles/vessels/aircraft are required to be registered and the operators are required to have the proper licenses to operate them commercially, as required by law or regulation.
Rates: The holder shall provide commercial services under this authorization to visitors at reasonable rates satisfactory to the area Superintendent.
Operating Conditions: The holder shall provide the authorized commercial services to visitors under operating conditions satisfactory to the area Superintendent.
Liabilities and Claims: This authorization is issued upon the express condition that the United States, its agents and employees shall be free from all liabilities and claims for damages and/or suits for or by reason of any injury, injuries, or death to any person or persons or property of any kind whatsoever, whether to the person or property of the holder, its agents or employees, or third parties, from any cause or causes whatsoever while in or upon said premises or any part thereof during the term of this authorization or occasioned by any occupancy or use of said premises or any activity carried on by the holder in connection herewith, and the holder hereby covenants and agrees to indemnify, defend, save and hold harmless the United States, its agents, and employees from all liabilities, charges, expenses and costs on account of or by reason of any such injuries, deaths, liabilities, claims, suits or losses however occurring or damages growing out of the same.
Insurance: Holder agrees to carry general liability insurance against claims occasioned by the action or omissions of the holder, its agents and employees in carrying out activities and operations under this authorization. The policy shall name the United States of America as additional insured. Holder agrees to have on file with the park copies of the above insurance with the proper endorsements.
CUA Fees: At a minimum, the holder shall reimburse the park for all costs incurred by the park as a result of accepting and processing the application and managing and monitoring the authorized activity. Administrative costs for the application process must be paid when the application is submitted. Monitoring fees and any additional costs incurred by the park to support the commercial activity will be paid annually or on a more frequent basis as determined by mutual agreement between the Holder and the area Superintendent.
Benefit: No member of, or delegate to, Congress, or Resident Commissioner shall be admitted to any share or part of this authorization or to any benefit that may arise from this authorization. This restriction shall not be construed to extend to this Contract if made with a corporation or company for its general benefit.
Transfer: This authorization may not be transferred or assigned without the written consent of the area Superintendent.
Termination: This authorization may be terminated upon breach of any of the conditions herein or at the discretion of the area Superintendent.
Preference or Exclusivity: The holder is not entitled to any preference to renewal of this authorization except to the extent otherwise expressly provided by law. This authorization is not exclusive and is not a concession contract.
Construction: The holder shall not construct any structures, fixtures or improvements in the park area. The holder shall not engage in any groundbreaking activities without the express, written approval of the area Superintendent.
Reporting: The holder is to provide the area Superintendent upon request a statement of its gross receipts from its activities under this authorization and any other specific information related to the holder’s operations that the area Superintendent may request, including but not limited to, visitor use statistics, and resource impact assessments. The holder must submit annually the CUA Annual Report (NPS Form 10-660) and upon request the CUA Monthly Report (NPS Form 10-660A).
Accounting: The holder is to maintain an accounting system under which its accounts can be readily identified within its system of accounts classification. This accounting system must be capable of providing the information required by this authorization. The holder grants the United States of America access to its books and records at any time for the purpose of determining compliance with the terms and conditions of this authorization.
Visitor Acknowledgment of Risks (VAR): The holder is not permitted to require clients sign a waiver of liability statement or form, insurance disclaimer, and/or indemnification agreement waiving the client’s right to hold the CUA holder responsible for accidents or injury occurring on NPS property. The holder is permitted to request or require a client to sign a form or statement acknowledging risk and/or indicating that certain prerequisite skills may be needed to participate in the commercial activity. The holder must provide the park with the current copy of all forms and/or statements used for this purpose and obtain written approval by the park to use the form and/or statement. A sample Acknowledgment of Risk form may be obtained by contacting the CUA office at [insert phone number] or by going to the park CUA webpage at [Insert park CUA web address]
Intellectual Property of the National Park Service: Except with the written authorization of the Director of the National Park Service, the Holder shall not assert any legal claim that the Holder or any related entity holds a trademark, tradename, servicemark or other ownership interest in the words "National Park Service", the initials "NPS", or official name of any unit or part thereof, including but not limited to any facility, logo, distinctive natural, archaeological, cultural, or historic site, within the National Park System, or any colorable likeness thereof, or the likeness of a National Park Service official uniform, badge, logo, or insignia.
Nondiscrimination: The holder must comply with Applicable Laws relating to nondiscrimination in providing visitor services to the public and with all equal employment opportunity provisions of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, as amended.
Notification of Employee Rights: The holder must comply with all provisions of Executive Order 13496 of January 30, 2009, (Notification of Employee Rights Under Federal Labor Laws) and its implementing regulations, including the applicable contract clause, codified at 29 CFR part 471, appendix A to subpart A, all of which are incorporated by reference into this authorization as if fully set forth in this authorization.
INTERIOR REGION 11 - ALASKA CONDITIONS
Applicability: Current calendar year National, Region, and Park-Specific Conditions, as published at https://www.nps.gov/locations/alaska/stipulations.htm, are applicable regardless of the permit issue date.
As used herein and in any CUA, the term “employee” includes all of the CUA holder’s officers, employees and other representatives, including but not limited to interns or volunteers.
Engaging in a commercial visitor service or activity not authorized on a CUA permit (Form 10-115), signed by both the NPS deciding official and an authorized agent of the CUA, is prohibited.
Within the boundaries of the park unit(s) authorized on this permit, only the holder and their employees registered under this permit are authorized to provide the services specified on the permit. The holder may not subcontract or otherwise allow outside entities and/or non-registered employees to provide any services within the park unit, under the auspices of this permit.
The commercial visitor services authorized by an (out-of-park) CUA must originate and terminate outside of the boundaries of the park area (“outside of the boundaries of the park” to include an in-holding within the park). The CUA does not authorize the holder to advertise, solicit business, collect fees or sell any goods or services within the boundaries of the park area.
Unless authorized by park Superintendent, all personal property used in the operation of CUA activities must be removed from the park area after each trip. Leaving personal property within the park area between trips is prohibited.
Holder is responsible for ensuring that each employee complies with the terms and conditions of the CUA. The CUA holder shall ensure that each of its employees receives training in and reviews a copy of its CUA including all conditions and stipulations. The NPS reserves the right to request written certification that all employees have received training in and reviewed a copy of the CUA including all conditions, stipulations, and the park compendium.
Holder must provide a current employee list to the National Park Service annually prior to startup for seasonal operations, or at the beginning of the calendar year for year-round operations. The holder must inform the NPS of any additions to the employee list prior to the employee working in the park.
Holder and their employees must carry a current, signed, and approved CUA permit (Form 10-115) for the park unit in which they are operating. A reproduction or electronic copy on a mobile device is acceptable. The holder and their employees must present the permit to any park employee on demand.
When operating in the backcountry, the holder must comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting: http://www.nps.gov/public_health/info/rms/rm83f.pdf
When conducting any multi-day guided backcountry or wilderness activity (such as but not limited to mountaineering, glacier travel, backpacking, or river travel) holder or their employees must carry some type of two-way electronic communication equipment, including a backup source of power, capable of communicating with NPS or other emergency responders. Acceptable communication equipment includes satellite phones, satellite messengers (i.e. Garmin inReach, Spot, or similar), VHF radios, or cell phones (only where service is known to be available). In addition, holder or their employees must carry a non-electronic method to supplement the electronic communication equipment such as mirrors or flares for signaling location. Each group participant/client must be instructed on the proper use of these devices.
Accidents involving personal injury, substantial aircraft or vessel damage, or threatening incidents involving wildlife where active hazing by spray, flare or firearm are used must be reported orally or in writing to the Superintendent of the respective park unit, as soon as possible. [36 CFR 2.33, 3.4, 4.4.] For the purposes of this paragraph, “substantial damage” means damage or failure, which adversely affects the structural strength, performance, or flight/operating characteristics of the aircraft/vessel.
Parks may contain private lands, it is the holder's responsibility to obtain prior approval from landowners for access to or across private lands within the park unit.
The holder shall inform clients of park regulations and safety concerns before beginning a trip (see park regulations at https://www.nps.gov/locations/alaska/park-regulations.htm).
Unmanned Aircraft are not allowed for use in units of the National Park System. Unmanned Aircraft is defined as a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Suspension, Restriction, Revocation, and Denial Policy: Further to National CUA Condition #2, NPS Interior Region 11 Policy (https://www.nps.gov/locations/alaska/revo.htm) states that a CUA may be suspended, restricted, or revoked when the holder/owner or employee commits a violation as defined by the policy (below).
Failure to comply with state or federal law, regulation or administrative action when conducting activities authorized by the CUA, including but not limited to federal and/or state health or safety codes.;
Failure to comply with state or federal law, regulation or administrative action where a link exists between the offense and the business activity authorized or to be authorized, regardless of whether the violation occurred in a unit of the National Park System;
Violation of 18 U.S.C. 1001, providing false information to any agency or department of the United States;
Failure to comply with the provisions and conditions of the CUA, including national, regional, and park-specific conditions (refer to: https://www.nps.gov/locations/alaska/stipulations.htm);
Failure to adequately and timely address material and documented operational concerns expressed by the National Park Service that may negatively impact visitor experience, park resources and/or staff and visitor safety.
Reporting Requirements:
Annual Report (Form 10-660) - Required for All CUA Holders in All Park Units
All Park Units (except Denali): Submit completed Annual Report (Form 10-660) on or before November 15th annually.
GLBA operators submit to: e-mail us. All other operators, submit to akro_cua_admin@nps.gov. Submission is required even if the CUA holder did not operate in a park unit. Information pertaining to all park units in Interior Region 11 - Alaska, for which the operator is permitted, should be included on one report.
Denali Operators: Submit to dena_cua@nps.gov on or before January 31st of the following year. Submission is required even if the CUA holder did not operate in the park unit.
The Annual Report for all park units is available at https://www.nps.gov/locations/alaska/activity-reporting.htm
Activity Reporting - Required for All CUA Holders in All Park Units
Certain activities require more detailed reporting. Refer to park-specific stipulations for additional detailed conditions related to your permitted activities.
The holder is required to use the online Visitor Use Reporting system (VURn) at https://irma.nps.gov/VURn/. The holder must use VURn to report all commercial activity for all park units in Interior Region 11 – Alaska. If the CUA holder did not operate in a park unit, the holder must use VURn to report no use/did not operate and meet the Activity Reporting requirement.
Activity Reporting in VURn, for All Park Units except Denali NP&P must be completed on or before November 15th annually. Denali Operators must enter prior year activity in VURn on or before January 31st of the following reporting year.
Further to Interior Region 11 Condition #14, the Suspension, Restriction, Revocation, and Denial Policy, failure to submit required activity and annual reporting in a timely manner may impact the holder’s ability to obtain a CUA in future years.
Commercial Use Authorization – General Conditions
By affixing their signature to this Permit, the Permittee explicitly agrees to be subject to all Provisions stated herein, and all Attachments and all Specific Conditions attached. Violation of, or noncompliance with these Provisions, Attachments and Specific Conditions is grounds for revocation. (Re: 36 CFR §5.3)
The Permittee must provide employee orientation and training on park regulations, requirements, and policies. The Permittee shall be responsible for all actions of their employees while conducting business under the CUA. Upon NPS request, the Permittee must provide written documentation of training and orientation.
Guides are prohibited from accompanying clients in areas closed to CUA activities. Any guides accompanying clients in areas closed to CUA activities will be assumed to be conducting guiding activities and considered to be in noncompliance of the terms of the CUA.
A Permittee may not employ or become a partner with another Permittee/former Permittee whose Permit; (1) has been revoked and (2) involved the same or related services, within the last 5 years. Exceptions may be granted only through written permission of the Superintendent. Permission may be withheld in the Superintendent’s discretion. Similarly, an employee registered under this Permit who engages in unsafe operation, causes damage to the natural/cultural resources or facilities, violates these Provisions, Specific Conditions, demonstrates poor ethics, decorum, courtesy, or visitor service, or whose actions result in conviction of violation of the CFR and/or the United States Code may not continue to provide services within the park/preserve.
No NPS concession contract or commercial use authorization to conduct commercial services in a park will be issued to NPS employees or their spouses and minor children who are owners, partners, corporate officers or general managers of any business seeking such a contract in federal land managed by the Department of the Interior. (Re: NPS MP2001 – 10.2.8.3)
Permittee is required to provide current list of employees, vessels and aircraft to the Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Commercial Services Office, PO Box 140, Gustavus, AK 99826 or to e-mail us. An updated list must be provided any time employees, vessels or aircraft are removed or added.
Each group leader/guide must possess, at a minimum, current basic First Aid and CPR certification. Agencies that provide qualifying certifications include: American Red Cross, American Heart Association, American Safety and Health Institute, National Safety Council and National Ski Patrol. Documentation must be presented to the NPS upon request.
Each group leader/guide shall carry and be familiar with, at a minimum, a basic first aid kit appropriate for the area, activities and clientele.
Guides must be trained in, demonstrate through action and teach Leave-No-Trace etiquette as appropriate to their activity.
Guides must provide appropriate safety messages to all of their clients prior to each guided activity. This information is available on the park website at: http://www.nps.gov/glba/planyourvisit/safety.htm
All employees shall maintain the highest professional standards of conduct, treating clients and others with respect. Guides must also respect the freedoms and rights of other groups and individuals they encounter on federal lands.
Any food service provided must be provided in accordance with current U.S. Public Health Service Food Code.
a) Any food items provided by the Permittee to visitors/clients must originate from an approved food source (i.e. supermarket, grocery store, etc.).
b) Permittee is required to have a Food Handlers certification for each employee preparing, handling and/or providing visitors/clients any food items of a perishable nature. The Permittee must be able to provide a copy of certification upon request.
c) Serving or providing alcohol is prohibited.
The Permittee is required to notify the NPS, in writing of any change in business status (i.e., dissolution, changes in partnership, business name, address, telephone number, mailing address, type of corporation, etc.) as far in advance as possible, but no more than 15 days after any change.
This Permit is applicable only for the use of the area(s) and terms designated in the Permit. The Permittee must not construct any temporary or permanent structures of any kind anywhere within the boundaries of the park/preserve and will not be assigned any facilities or portions thereof, located within the park/preserve, except as allowed to the general public.
The area(s) authorized for use under this Permit must be left in substantially the same condition as it was prior to the activities authorized herein, with all refuse properly disposed of or otherwise as required by the Superintendent.
No personal or business property of any kind may be stored or left unattended on park lands for more than 24 hours without written permission from the superintendent.
The Permittee must pay the United States for any damage to any Government property resulting from the activities of the Permittee.
Permittee must ensure that current, correct copies of all permits and/or licenses are always on file in the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Commercial Services Office.
The Permittee and their employees under this Permit must immediately report life-threatening incidents, all accidents, and spills caused or observed, to NPS Dispatch on Marine Band Channel 16, or by telephone at 907- 697-2651. NPS Dispatch will contact the proper response entities.
The Permittee is required to formally report in writing all incidents involving an accident, collision, fire, injury, or other casualty to the Superintendent within 24 hours, regardless of the extent of damages. Filing this report to the Superintendent does not satisfy applicable United States Coast Guard, State, and County accident reporting requirements.
The Permittee must dispose of all waste and debris, associated with their activities authorized under this Permit, outside the park/preserve. Permittee is prohibited from using garbage collection facilities provided for the public within the park.
The Permittee and their employees must comply with all laws and regulations applicable to hazardous materials, discharge or pollutants, and the general disposal of wastes, and shall take all measures necessary to prevent any hazardous material from entering the lands and water of the park/preserve.
The CUA holder and their staff are required to exercise courtesy and consideration in their relations with the public and with NPS employees, volunteers or other park agents. The NPS will notify the CUA holder of conduct concerns in writing. The CUA holder must review the conduct of any of its employees whose actions or activities are considered by the NPS to be inconsistent with the experience, enjoyment, protection of visitors, and stewardship of the public land. The CUA holder must take corrective action and send a written corrective action plan to the park within five business days of receiving NPS notice.
The holder is required to use the online Visitor Use Reporting system (VURn) at https://irma.nps.gov/VURn/. The holder must use VURn to report all commercial activity. If the CUA holder did not operate in a park unit, the holder must use VURn to report no use/did not operate and meet the Activity Reporting requirement. Activity Reporting in VURn, must be completed on or before November 15th annually.
Service Type Specific Conditions
Group Camping (Bartlett Cove Campground Group Camp Site only)
Group Camping is defined as overnight use of improved campground facilities by commercial groups.
The Bartlett Cove Campground is the only location that is authorized for Group Camping.
Group Camping is authorized only in designated campground sites.
Group Size is limited to 12 people per site including guides.
Group Camping is limited to thirty (30) total nights annually and cannot exceed fourteen (14) consecutive days. After a camp has remained in one location for 14 consecutive calendar days in a given season (whether it is an entire calendar day or only a portion thereof), the same CUA holder may not reestablish a camp in the same location for at least 24 hours.
The holder is required to use the online Visitor Use Reporting system (VURn) at https://irma.nps.gov/VURn/. The holder must use VURn to report all commercial activity. If the CUA holder did not operate in a park unit, the holder must use VURn to report no use/did not operate and meet the Activity Reporting requirement. Activity Reporting in VURn, must be completed on or before November 15th annually.
A maximum of two trips among all permittees, combined, will be authorized in the Fairweather Range per season.
This area includes the area west of the Brady Glacier, west of Lamplugh Glacier and west of the ridge between Tarr and Rendu Inlets.
Applications for up to two trips per operator will be accepted from November 1-November 30 for the following year. If more than two requests are received by November 30, a random drawing will be held on the first business day in December. If requests for two trips are not received by November 30, two trips will be allocated on a first come-first served basis.
Prior to beginning operations, the Permittee must provide the Superintendent with the following:
Itinerary of all climbs scheduled within Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (routes, drop off/pick-up dates and locations, planned campsite locations, scheduled summit date(s).
List of all guides that the permittee plans to employ during the season. The list must include the following: name, role of the guide, and certifications.
Name of transportation service providing drop-off and pick-up services; all trips that will use an aircraft for transportation into and out of the park must use an authorized air taxi permit holder.
Communication capabilities of the guides (cell, satellite, InReach, spot device, etc.; types of radios carried, monitoring or call-in schedule).
The Permittee shall ensure that all guides leading trips are fully qualified and experienced.
The Permittee must provide employee orientation and training on park regulations, requirements, and policies. The Permittee shall be responsible for all actions of their employees while conducting business under the CUA. Upon NPS request, the Permittee must provide written documentation of training and orientation.
All human waste must be carried out. All trash must be carried out and removed from the park.
The total group size for trips shall not exceed a total of 12 persons. This includes guides, staff and clients.
A client must never be left unattended.
Guides must carry a communication device capable of establishing two-way communication both with the holder of the CUA and the NPS.
The Permittee’s base of operation shall be outside the boundaries of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.
If access via marine waters to an area within the park is necessary, it must be provided by a company authorized to provide that access in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, i.e. an authorized charter boat, tour vessel or air taxi operator.
The permittee must obtain a Backcountry Permit for each overnight backcountry trip and all guides must complete a park backcountry orientation prior to the trip. The orientation, which normally occurs at the park Visitor Information Center in Bartlett Cove, may also be arranged by calling (907)-697-2627 from May 1 to September 30 and (907)-697-2230 during the remainder of the year.
The permittee must submit a trip report within fifteen (15) days after the end of each trip. The trip report must include the following information:
map of the route showing all campsites and bivouacs; notes on any wildlife sightings;
a description of any evidence of human use (including other climbers) observed;
notes regarding aircraft overflights heard and seen while on the trip;
a description of climbing conditions including snow/ice conditions, avalanche activity; a list of anything lost or left behind;
a detailed report of any accidents or injuries including the date and time of the accident; name, address, and phone number of person(s) involved; a description of the accident and any injuries;
a description of any medical treatment given (and name of those administering treatment).
Juneau-Bartlett Cove Passenger Ferry Service
The Ferry Service is based on the provisions of P.L. 105-83, Sec. 127: “For the sole purpose of accessing park or other authorized visitor services or facilities at, or originating from, the public dock area at Bartlett Cove, the National Park Service shall initiate a competitive process by which the National Park Service shall allow one entry per day for a passenger ferry into Bartlett Cove from Juneau: Provided, That any passenger ferry allowed entry pursuant to this Act shall be subject to speed, distance from coast lines, and other limitations imposed necessary to protect park resources: Provided further, That nothing in this Act shall be construed as constituting approval for entry into the waters of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve beyond the immediate Bartlett Cove area as defined by a line extending northeastward from Point Carolus to the west to the southernmost point of Lester Island, absent required permits.”
The NPS shall authorize this service under the provisions of a Commercial Use Authorization until there is sufficient interest in providing the service to justify a competitive process.
The NPS shall allocate trips on a first come, first served basis, or by drawing, if specific dates are requested by more than one permittee.
The Bartlett Cove Public Use Dock may be used for up to three hours for loading and unloading passengers and passengers’ personal effects and limited freight in support of the Glacier Bay Lodge concession.
Freight service other than noted above is not authorized. Loading or off-loading vehicles is not authorized.
The NPS may designate space for docking, subject to other necessary and appropriate competing use. In general, the designated docking area will be at the face of the Public Use Dock in the 3-hour limit zone.
Use of the Bartlett Cove public use dock is limited to the minimum time necessary.
Any use of NPS utilities (water, electricity, etc.) at Bartlett Cove requires specific approval of the Superintendent and must be reimbursed by the permittee at the established rates.
All vessels to be utilized under this permit must be approved by the Superintendent. To request vessel approval as a passenger ferry, submit a written request along with a vessel specification form, and a copy of the USCG Certificate of Documentation and Certificate of Inspection. Submit requests and documentation by email to e-mail us.
Prior to first trip, copies of Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC), basic First Aid and CPR credentials for captain and crew must be submitted or on file. Copies should be sent to e-mail us
The permittee must submit a plan of operations to the Superintendent, prior to commencing operations, which details the operating schedule, itinerary, scheduled Bartlett Cove arrival and departure times, vessel name and description, and provisions for publicizing scheduling changes.
The vessel operator must notify the Visitor Information Station when the vessel enters Glacier Bay and on departure by calling KWM-20 on marine VHF channel 16 or 12. [36CFR13.1154(c)]. Information to be provided on arrival includes expected Bartlett Cove dock arrival time and number of passengers. Information to be provided on departure from Glacier Bay includes the number of passengers and any whale sightings.
Each vessel operator must complete a boater orientation prior to the first visit each year.
Off-vessel activity from a passenger ferry is prohibited, except for passenger access at the Bartlett Cove docks [36 CFR 131154(f). Operating on an itinerary other than as specifically approved by the Superintendent is prohibited.
The passenger ferry must travel a direct course between the mouth of Glacier Bay and Bartlett Cove, except when the vessel is granted safe harbor by the Superintendent as stated in §13.1156(e) [36 CFR 13.1154(g)].
Use of the fuel dock for activities other than fueling is prohibited.
For passenger ferry services by vessels over 100 tons gross (US System) or over 2,000 tons gross (International Convention System), the following provisions shall also apply:
Any costs related to this service will be borne by the permittee.
The permittee is responsible for providing any security, mooring or other services required within the park.
The permittee’s vessels may not discharge any black water (treated or untreated sewage) or gray water while within Glacier Bay.
Guided Sport Fishing
Authorized only in Glacier Bay National Preserve and the section of Glacier Bay National Park along the outer coast north and west of Lituya Bay.
Marine and freshwater sport fishing guide services are authorized only in Glacier Bay National Preserve and in the section of Glacier Bay National Park along the outer coast north and west of Lituya Bay while fishing from shore above the mean high tide.
"Sport fishing guide services," as defined under Alaska Statute (AS16.40.299 - Definitions) means assistance, for compensation or with the intent to receive compensation, to a sport fisherman to take or to attempt to take fish by accompanying or physically directing the sport fisherman in sport fishing activities during any part of a sport fishing trip;" Therefore the permittee, employees, or their representatives may not accompany or physically direct sport fisherman in freshwater fishing activities in those areas where freshwater sport fishing guide services is prohibited.
The Permittee and their guide(s) operating under this permit are required to possess the following:
A current sport fishing business registration (as applicable) issued by Alaska Department of Game and Fish.
A current resident or nonresident guide license(s) (as applicable) issued by the Alaska Department of Game and Fish.
A current Alaska sport fishing license, tags, stamps or permits that are required to engage in the sport fishery for which the guide services are being provided.
The Permittee must provide current copies of the guide license(s) for all employees operating under this permit, to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, Commercial Services Office, P.O. Box 140, Gustavus, AK 99826 or by email to e-mail us
Guides must have knowledge and skill in catch and release. Fish not meeting size or species restrictions or that the angler chooses not to keep shall be carefully and immediately released to the water from which it was taken (36 CFR 2.3 (d)(7)). Guides must follow the NOAA and ADFG catch and release guidelines, which provide guidance on appropriate release methods.
Fish released shall not be included in the catch or possession limit: Provided, that at the time of catching the person did not possess the legal limit of fish (36 CFR 2.3 (d)(7)). In other words, anglers cannot catch and release additional fish once they have obtained their legal limit of the target species. This regulation is intended to minimize injury and release mortality effects on released fish.
Annual Sportfish Survey is due November 15. Send the completed forms to: Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Attention Commercial Services Office, P.O. Box 140, Gustavus, AK 99826 or by email to: e-mail us
Hiking - Backcountry
Backcountry Hiking is defined as hiking, carrying backpacks and necessary supplies with the intent of establishing temporary overnight camps. Does not involve the use of improved campground facilities.
All use of the park authorized by this permit is subject to the restrictions of the Glacier Bay Wilderness Visitor Use Management Plan as follows:
On shore group size is limited to 12 persons, including guides and clients.
Groups must not remain longer than three consecutive nights in the same campsite, unless specifically authorized by the Superintendent.
A maximum of three guided backpacking trips is authorized per year per company.
A maximum of three guided mountaineering trips is authorized per year per company.
Within Glacier Bay, guided parties may use beach areas for camping only on the first and last night of each trip.
Guided backcountry groups may not use Reid Inlet for access between May 15 and September 15.
Guided mountaineering is authorized only in the areas east of, and not including, the Fairweather Range unless specifically authorized.
If access via marine waters to an area within the park is necessary, it must be provided by a company authorized to provide that access in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, i.e. an authorized charter boat, tour vessel or air transport/taxi operator.
Guides must carry a communication device capable of establishing two-way communication both with the holder of the CUA and the NPS for the duration of the trip.
The permittee must obtain a Backcountry Permit for each overnight backcountry trip and all guides must complete a park backcountry orientation prior to the trip. The orientation, which normally occurs at the park Visitor Information Center in Bartlett Cove, may also be arranged by calling (907)-697-2627 from May 1 to September 30 and (907)-697-2230 during the remainder of the year.
If mountaineering, prior to beginning operations the Permittee must provide the Superintendent with the following:
Itinerary of all climbs scheduled within Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (routes, drop off/pick-up dates and locations, planned campsite locations, scheduled summit date(s)).
A list of booking agencies used by the permittee and copies of advertising.
List of all guides that the permittee plans to employ during the season. The list will include the following: name, role of the guide, and certifications. Copies of certifications must be sent to the park and must be on file prior to any trips. Certifications can be sent to e-mail us.
Name and phone number of transportation service providing drop-off and pick-up; all trips that will use an aircraft for transportation into and out of the park will hire one of the air taxis that currently hold a permit for such activities within Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. Please contact the park’s Commercial Services office to obtain a list of current, permitted companies.
Communication capabilities of the guides (cell, satellite, InReach, spot device, etc.; types of radios carried, monitoring or call-in schedule).
The permittee must submit a trip report within fifteen (15) days after the end of each trip. The trip report must include the following information: date and location of each campsite, description of any close wildlife encounters, details of any accidents or injuries, means of access and backcountry permit number.
Guided Hiking/Walking
(Bartlett Cove Frontcountry Area)
Guided Hiking/Walking is an activity in Glacier Bay National Park is defined as guided walking and sightseeing day tours. Organized groups of 1 to 12 persons (including guides) traveling on an itinerary which has been packaged, priced, or sold as a guided day hiking tour for leisure/recreational purposes on authorized trails in Glacier Bay National Park. Guided Hiking/Walking may include the following incidental activities: naturalist walks, incidental photography, and bird watching. Guided fishing and bicycling are not permitted under this CUA.
In addition to the Glacier Bay National Park Commercial Use Authorization Conditions, Guided Hiking/Walking CUA holders must comply with the following conditions:
Unauthorized locations for Guided Hiking/Walking: Permittees are not authorized to conduct Guided Hiking/Walking in any areas of the Park designated as Wilderness. Guided Hiking/Walking is prohibited past the wilderness boundary on the Bartlett River Trail or Bartlett Lake Trail.
Trip Leaders/Guides: Each group must have one person identified as the group or trip leader who must remain with the group at all times. If the party is divided into more than one group, each group must have a trip leader. The trip leader shall inform the group of all park rules and regulations and has responsibility for the group.
Guide Qualifications:
Guides must have valid CPR and first aid training.
Guides must be trained in basic safety and resource protection, Leave No Trace principles, park rules and regulations, and in the requirements of the CUA conditions.
Guides must be at least 18 years of age and physically capable of hiking/walking in the environment.
Orientations: The trip leader must provide an orientation to clients for the proposed itinerary and be capable of revising the itinerary for the group or an individual if an emergency occurs. The orientation must include basic hiking etiquette when passing other groups, Leave No Trace principles, park rules and regulations, safety procedures, litter, human waste, and emergencies. Each participant/group shall be supplied with a map (may be photocopied) of the planned route and adjacent area.
Wildlife: Feeding wildlife is prohibited. Guide must provide bear spray and training on use of bear spray for clients. Guide must inform clients about appropriate interactions and reactions with wildlife. Any significant wildlife interactions must be reported immediately to the nearest park ranger. Emergencies must be reported to ARCC at 907-697-2651.
Fires: Fires are prohibited.
Cultural Resource Protection: The removal, defacing or destruction of cultural resources, including artifacts and architectural components, from park lands is prohibited.
Photography Instruction
Photography instruction is authorized on the following trails and areas within the Bartlett Cove Developed Area:
Forest Trail
Tlingit Trail
Beach Trail
Bartlett River Trail to the Wilderness boundary
Permittees are not authorized to conduct Photography Instruction in Wilderness Areas.
Group Size limit is 12 people including guide/instructor.
Restricted Areas and Protection of Natural and Cultural Resources – The removal, defacing or destruction of cultural resources, including artifacts and architectural components, from park lands is prohibited.
Each group must have one person identified as the group or trip leader who must remain with the group at all times. If the party is divided into more than one group, each group must have a leader. The trip leader shall inform the group of all park rules and regulations and has responsibility for the group.
The trip leader must provide an orientation to clients for the proposed itinerary and be capable of revising the itinerary for the group or an individual if an emergency occurs. The orientation must include etiquette when in the vicinity of other groups, Leave No Trace principles, park rules and regulations, safety procedures, litter, human waste, and emergencies. Each participant/group shall be supplied with a map (may be photocopied) of the area.
Feeding wildlife is prohibited. CUA holder must provide bear spray and training on use of bear spray for clients. CUA holder must inform clients about appropriate interactions and reactions with wildlife. Any significant wildlife interactions must be reported immediately to the nearest park ranger. Emergencies must be reported to ARCC at 907-697-2651
Wildlife and Wildlife Reports - Park regulations prohibiting the feeding or disturbing of wildlife is enforced by CUA holder. CUA holder trip participants regarding appropriate interactions with wildlife, and how to avoid unwanted interactions.
Guided Alsek River Rafting
Definitions:
“Person” means everyone on the trip except Permittee employees (guides, crew, etc.)
“Group” means everyone on the trip, including clients, boatman, trainees and non-paid personnel.
“Put-In” means river access where a trip begins.
“Take-Out” means river access where a trip ends (Dry Bay, Glacier Bay National Preserve).
“Trip” means the service from put-in to take-out.
“Allocation” means an authorized trip. One trip allocation is equivalent to a single “take-out” date for a guided raft trip arriving at Dry Bay, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.
“Bear resistant container” means a container which has been tested and approved in accordance with the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee; Certified Bear-Resistant Products: http://igbconline.org
“Service” means the National Park Service, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
General Operating Standards and Requirements
Schedule of Operations
The Permittee is allocated a set number of trips per year. This allocation may be changed by the Service.
Take-out dates occur during the June 12 through September 15 ‘control’ season.
Any trips not used for two (2) consecutive years will be forfeited. Exceptions will be granted by the Superintendent if the permittee relinquishes the trip at least three (3) months in advance. The Service will offer relinquished and forfeited trips to only authorized commercial operators.
The Permittee will be assigned arrival dates at Dry Bay for all authorized trips. Trips arriving at Dry Bay on any other date are prohibited.
Trip schedules will be provided annually by the Service after conferring with Canadian land managers.
Coordination with Canadian requirements. Companies awarded a permit for this service must comply with all Canadian requirements in addition to requirements of the Permit. Prior to operating on the Canadian portion of the Alsek and Tatshenshini Rivers operators must coordinate with and receive authorization from the appropriate Canadian agencies. Proof of authorization must be submitted annually to the Service.
Rate Determination and Approval Process. The National Park Service has determined that a competitive market currently exists for river rafting services in Glacier Bay, with a range of prices and types of trips available as well as comparable services being provided in the region on other public lands.Rate Compliance. The Service will check rate compliance during periodic operational evaluations and throughout the year.
Evaluations
CUA Monitoring Program. The Permitee must inspect and monitor its services with respect to Applicable Laws, Service policy and standards, life and fire safety, public health, environmental management and impacts on cultural and natural resources, responsiveness to visitor comments, compliance with the permit including all of its Exhibits and other operational performance as appropriate. The Permitee is responsible for developing and implementing corrective action plans to respond in a timely manner to any operating deficiencies it identifies. Specific inspection and testing requirements are described in later sections of this stipulation.
Commercial Service Review Program. The Service will evaluate the Permittee’s services to assess and rate Permittee performance in accordance with the NPS Commercial Service Review Program.
Risk Management Plan. The Permittee must develop, maintain, and implement a Risk Management Program.
Possession of Firearms.
The Permittee is responsible for determining how it will interpret and implement federal and state firearm possession laws in regard to its visitors. The Permittee should consult the applicable officials with regard to relevant state firearms laws.
Permittee employees may not possess firearms while on duty. The Superintendent, in his or her sole discretion, may grant exceptions to this prohibition upon consideration of a written request from the Permittee’s general manager with a thorough explanation of the basis of the request. The Superintendent will provide a written response to the Permittee.
Acknowledgement of Risk. The Permittee may require clients participating in activities to sign an acknowledgement of risk form. All such forms must comply with Service requirements (as these may be amended during the term of the Contract). The Permittee may not require Area visitors to indemnify or hold harmless the Permittee.
The Service approved sample Visitor’s Acknowledgement of Risks form is available from the Service upon request.
The Permittee must submit to the Superintendent for approval its proposed Visitor’s Acknowledgement of Risks form at least 30 days in advance of any proposed changes in the form. If no Visitor’s Acknowledgement of Risks form will be used, the Permittee must advise the Superintendent of this intention. The Permittee may not request or require guests participating in activities to sign a liability waiver form, insurance disclaimer, and/or indemnification agreement.
Human Resources
Employee Conduct. The Permittee must review the conduct of any of its employees whose actions or activities are considered by the Service or Permittee to be inconsistent with the proper administration of the Area and enjoyment and protection of visitors. The Permittee must take all actions needed to fully correct any such situation.
Training. The Permittee must provide and maintain records of appropriate training as set forth below and must provide those records to the Service upon request.
Manuals. The Permittee must develop written training materials for its employees.
Risk Management. The Permittee must provide risk management training to employees as required by Applicable Laws, the RMP or otherwise specified in the Permit.
Resource, safety and other visitor Information. The Permittee must provide training for all employees who provide resource, safety and other visitor information.
The Permittee must inform employees of Service regulations and requirements that affect their employment and activities while working within the Area.
The Permittee must orient its employees to the resources of the Area, including potential safety hazards and their mitigation.
Emergency Reporting Procedures. The Permittee must train its employees in proper emergency reporting procedures, including providing essential information. Any injury sustained by a client or employee and all medical emergencies shall be reported to the Service in a timely manner. The park will investigate all visitor and employee accidents which require medical attention. The following numbers must be made available to all employees and posted at appropriate locations:
Life-threatening emergencies: (907) 697-2651.
Non-emergencies: (907-697-2230)
All guides must be trained in Swiftwater Rescue or equivalent; Wilderness First Responder or equivalent.
Specific Operating Standards and Requirements
General. The Permittee must provide all services in a consistent, environmentally-sensitive and high quality manner and must operate in accordance with these stipulations. The applicable standards, Guided Water Float and Backcountry Food & Beverage, specify the minimum operating standards that the Permittee must meet in providing the services under the permit. In addition to complying with the following standards and requirements, the Permittee shall comply with the standards and guidelines set out as attachments to these stipulations. When in conflict, standards and guidelines described in this Stipulation supersede those identified in the attachments
Additional Standards
Group size
Group size for commercial trips is limited to 15 people total, including clients, guides and trainees and non-paid personnel.
Commercial trips authorized prior to adoption of the Glacier Bay National Park Alsek River Visitor Use Management Plan (July 1989) had a group size of 25. Such trips continue to have a group size limit of 25 people total, including clients, guides and trainees. The exception for the larger group size is lost at such time as there is a change in controlling interest in the company, as defined in 36 CFR Part 51.
The Permittee must have functioning air pumps available to address punctured and patched floatation on rafts.
The Permittee must carry on all rafts a throwable device (minimum fifty (50) feet of at least 3/8-inch rope or life ring). The throwable device must be in serviceable condition and stored so as to be readily accessible in an emergency.
The Permittee will carry reference materials related to the Alsek Tatshenshini area for guide and client use on trip. Topics should include natural history, geology, plants/wildflowers, wildlife, and annotated river map.
Gear
Camping gear and equipment provided by the Permittee, as well as personal items provided to clients (such as sleeping bags, liners, blankets, tents, etc.) are serviceable, clean, sanitized if appropriate, and well maintained.
Dry suits will be offered to all clients for use on the river. Alternative types of thermal protection may be provided by the permittee (instead of dry suits) on approval by the Superintendent.
A satellite phone will be carried on all trips.
A functioning water purification system and adequate sanitized water storage is provided to clients, as suitable for the duration of trip and number of trip passengers.
Approved bear-resistant containers and a wildlife-proof system for handling food storage must be used.
A human waste carry-out system is available and sufficient for the duration of the trip. Backcountry public health sanitation requirements are met. Guides provide instruction to clients on proper disposal of human waste while on the river, or during hikes away from the river. If toilet paper and sanitary products are burned, it must be to ash.
Visitor Safety
The Permittee must provide an orientation and safety briefing to all participants before each trip. Guides must provide briefings about the activity and safety material prior to beginning the trip activity, and repeat such information as needed. Items to be discussed include, but are not limited to:
nature and demands of the trip
proper fit and use of personal flotation devices
man overboard procedures
use of gear
suitable clothing, including footwear
litter and sanitation
For on-shore excursions, visitor briefings and communications should include, but are not limited to:
distance
elevation
Leave No Trace principles
hiking challenges, including staying hydrated
weather
wildlife interaction
The Permittee must ensure noise levels are kept at a minimum so as not to impair the experience of others or impact wildlife.
Scheduling of Trips
The primary rafting season (June 12 – September 15: 96 days) will be divided into 12, eight-day blocks.
Each block will have 2 Canadian allocated and 2 U.S. allocated commercial takeout dates - with the remaining four days reserved for private parties.
The 24 authorized Canadian take-outs will be allocated to operators by assigning each operator a number by drawing (for example four operators would have numbers from 1 to 4). Each operator would select one available date in the order of the numbers drawn (1-4). Operators with remaining dates would select the second date in reverse order (4-1) and so on until all dates are selected.
U.S. take-out dates will be on odd numbered days; Canadian take-out dates on even numbered days.
Swapping among operators may be permitted as long as the private/commercial 50/50 split (overall and within blocks) is not disrupted (subject to put-in constraints). The Service must be notified and approve in advance any swapping of takeout dates between commercial operators.
Swapping commercial dates for private dates may be permitted prior to November 1 as long as the private/commercial 50/50 split (overall and within blocks) is not disrupted (subject to put-in constraints). The Service must be notified and approve in advance any swapping of takeout dates between a commercial operator and a private party.
River put-ins are controlled by Canadian governmental entities through their matching permits.
Campsites
Groups will not remain longer than one night on each trip at Walker Glacier, Gateway Knob and Alsek Lake Peninsula/Spit except that on each trip a group may remain two nights at only one of these three sites listed above. At all other campsites, groups will not remain longer than three consecutive nights on each trip.
The Permittee will not leave campsites unattended.
Boat motors may not be used above Gateway Knob.
Fires
Open wood fires shall be contained in a fire-pan and all fire residue distributed in the main channel of the river.
Firewood is limited to driftwood collected at least one mile from the campsite.
Burning of garbage and trash, such as packaging, plastics, tin, aluminum, etc. is prohibited except for paper and compostables which must be burned to ash.
Supplies
No materials, supplies, or equipment of any type will be cached or stored in the park or preserve without prior written approval by the Superintendent.
Required Reports & Submissions. Permittee Operational Reports- The Permittee must provide the following reports to the Service. The Service and/or its designated representatives must be allowed to inspect supporting documentation for all operational reports upon request.
Alsek/Tatshenshini River Trip Survey Form. The Permittee must carry a copy of the form as found as an attachment to this Permit on each trip and fill it out during the trip. The Permittee must submit the completed form to the Service Commercial Services Office within five days from end of the trip.
Bear Report Form. The Permittee must carry a copy of the form as found as an attachment to this Permit on each trip and fill it out during the trip. The Permittee must submit the completed form to the Service Commercial Services Office within five days from end of the trip.
Permittee Incident Reports. The Permittee must immediately report to the Service any:
Fatalities or incidents which could result in a tort claim to the United States;
Fatalities or incidents which could result in a tort claim to the United States;
Property damage over $500;
Employee or visitor injury requiring more than minor first aid treatment;
Any fire, other than those started and managed in compliance with this permit;
Incident that negatively impacts the Area’s natural or cultural resources;
Any known or suspected violation of law occurring within the Area.
Guided Alsek River Rafting Fees. The Permittee must pay a fee to the National Park Service as follows: The greater of $1,000annually or the per-person (in U.S. Funds) fee which is adjusted annually based on CPI-All Urban Consumers (January 1, 2018 base CPI). The Service will adjust the per-person fee each year in accordance with the Consumer Price Index, All Urban Consumers, published by the U.S. Department of Labor, by the same percentage increase or decrease from January of the preceding year to January of the current year. The per-person fee is released March 1for the current operating year. Should this index cease to be published, the Service will select a similar index to annually adjust the fee. See Operating Plan for definitions of "Person" and "Trip."
Payment of the fee is due on November 15 of each year.
The Commercial Use Authorization application fee will be deducted from the amount of the per-person or annual fee.
Skiing/Snowshoeing Tours
Skiing/Snowshoeing Tours are guided winter backcountry trips defined as day trips or multi-day trips by ski, snowboard, snowshoe. Use of the area west of the Brady Glacier, west of Lamplugh Glacier and west of the ridge between Tarr and Rendu Inlets is not authorized under this permit.
The towing of persons on skis, sleds, or other sliding devices by motorized vehicles is prohibited.
No areas of the Park are designated for snow machine use.
All use of the park authorized by this permit is subject to the restrictions of the Glacier Bay Wilderness Visitor Use Management Plan as follows:h areas for camping only on the first and last night of each trip.
The Permittee shall ensure that all guides leading trips will be fully qualified and experienced.
The Permittee must provide employee orientation and training on park regulations, requirements, and policies. The Permittee shall be responsible for all actions of their employees while conducting business under the CUA. Upon NPS request, the Permittee must provide written documentation of training and orientation.
Guides must carry a communication device capable of establishing two-way communication both with the holder of the CUA and the NPS.
The Permittee’s base of operation shall be outside the boundaries of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.
If access via marine waters to an area within the park is necessary, it must be provided by a company authorized to provide that access in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, i.e. an authorized charter boat, tour vessel or air taxi operator.
The permittee must obtain a Backcountry Permit for each overnight backcountry trip and all guides must complete a park backcountry orientation prior to the trip. The orientation, which normally occurs at the park Visitor Information Center in Bartlett Cove, may also be arranged by calling (907)-697-2627 from May 1 to September 30 and (907)-697-2230 during the remainder of the year.
The permittee must submit a trip report within fifteen (15) days after the end of each trip. The trip report must include the following information: date and location of each campsite, description of any close wildlife encounters, details of any accidents or injuries, means of access and backcountry permit number.
Air Transport/Taxi
To be considered an Air Transport, the majority of passengers on the flight must either be dropped off or picked up from a day trip or overnight stay and passengers do not remain with the airplane while on the ground.
Incidental hunt transport for park visitors is authorized by this CUA. Incidental hunt transporting is defined as the carriage of big game hunters, their equipment, or big game animals harvested by the hunters and is only an incidental portion of the business. The word “incidental” means transportation provided to a big game hunter by an Air Taxi operator who does not:
Charge more than the usual tariff or charter rate for the carriage of big game hunters, their equipment, and/or the big game animals harvested by the hunters; or
Advertise transportation services or big game hunting services to the public. The word “advertise” means soliciting big game hunters to be customers of an Air Taxi operator for the purpose of providing transportation service to, from, or in the field through the use of print or electronic media, including advertising at tradeshows or the use of hunt broker services or other promotional services
All airplanes must be currently licensed, operated, maintained and operated in conformance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.
All pilots must have Title 14, Part 135 certification.
The CUA holder must carry a spill kit onboard each aircraft that includes absorbent pads, a shovel and doubled plastic bags to remove and transport contaminated material.
When transporting hazardous materials such as stove fuel or bear spray, the CUA holder must use a USDOT approved container and packaging and follow the hazmat guidelines for safe handling, transportation and storage.
Hazardous Materials: the CUA holder shall notify the Park at 907-697-2651 of any hazardous material discharge as soon as possible without impeding cleanup.
The CUA holder must remove all trash and garbage generated by their activities within the park.
Regularly scheduled air service to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve is not authorized.
This permit does not grant a physical base of operations within Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.
The holder is required to use the online Visitor Use Reporting System (VURn) athttps://irma.nps.gov/VURn/. The holder must use VURn to report all commercial activity. If the CUA holder did not operate in a park unit, the holder must use VURn to report no use/did not operate and meet the Activity Reporting requirement. Activity Reporting in VURn, must be completed on or before November 15th annually.
The holder must submit an activity report detailing air transport/taxi activities. The Activity Report must be completed on or before November 15th annually. Send completed reports to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, Commercial Services Office, P.O. Box 140, Gustavus, AK 99826 or by email to e-mail us
Federal regulations regarding vessel operations in Glacier Bay apply to float planes operating on the water, including, but not limited to, the following:
Docking, tying down, or securing aircraft is prohibited except at the designated aircraft float at the Bartlett Cove Public Use Dock. Docking, tying down, or securing aircraft to the Bartlett Cove Public Use Dock for longer than 3 hours in a 24-hour period is prohibited. Pilots must remain with the aircraft or provide notice of their location to a park ranger. Failure to remain with the aircraft or provide notice to a park ranger is prohibited. 36 CFR § 13.1122
Operating a vessel within 1/4 nautical mile of a whale is prohibited, except for a commercial fishing vessel authorized under this subpart that is actively trolling, setting, or pulling long lines, or setting or pulling crab pots. 36 CFR § 13.117
The operator of a vessel inadvertently positioned within 1/4 nautical mile of a whale must immediately slow the vessel to ten knots or less, without shifting into reverse unless impact is likely. The operator must direct or maintain the vessel on as steady a course as possible away from the whale until at least 1/4 nautical mile of separation is established. Failure to take such action is prohibited. 36 CFR § 13.1170
The operator of a vessel or seaplane positioned within 1/2 nautical mile of a whale is prohibited from altering course or speed in a manner that results in decreasing the distance between the whale and the vessel or seaplane. 36 CFR § 13.1170
The following are prohibited:
Operating a vessel or otherwise approaching within 100 yards of South Marble Island; or Flapjack Island; or any of the three small unnamed islets approximately one nautical mile southeast of Flapjack Island; or Eider Island; or Boulder Island; or Geikie Rock; or Lone Island; or the northern three-fourths of Leland Island (north of 58°39.1' N latitude); or any of the four small unnamed islands located approximately one nautical mile north (one island), and 1.5 nautical miles east (three islands) of the easternmost point of Russell Island; or Graves Rocks (on the outer coast); or Cormorant Rock, or any adjacent rock, including all of the near-shore rocks located along the outer coast, for a distance of 1 1/2 nautical miles, southeast from the mouth of Lituya Bay; or the surf line along the outer coast, for a distance of 1 1/2nautical miles northwest of the mouth of the glacial river at Cape Fairweather. 36 CFR § 13.1178
Operating a vessel or otherwise approaching within 100 yards of a Steller (northern) sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) hauled-out on land or a rock or a nesting seabird colony: Provided, however, that vessels may approach within 50 yards of that part of South Marble Island lying south of 58°38.6' N latitude (approximately the southern one-half of South Marble Island) to view seabirds. 36 CFR § 13.1178
May 1 through August 31, operating a vessel, or otherwise approaching within 1/4 nautical mile of, Spider Island or any of the four small islets lying immediately west of Spider Island. 36 CFR § 13.1178
May 1 through June 30, operating a vessel or a seaplane on John Hopkins Inlet waters south of 58°54.2' N latitude (an imaginary line running approximately due west from Jaw Point). 36 CFR § 13.1178
July 1 through August 31, operating a vessel or a seaplane on Johns Hopkins Inlet waters south of 58°54.2' N latitude (an imaginary line running approximately due west from Jaw Point), within 1/4 nautical mile of a seal hauled out on ice; except when safe navigation requires, and then with due care to maintain the 1/4 nautical mile distance from concentrations of seals. 36 CFR § 13.1178
The feeding, touching, teasing, frightening or intentional disturbing of wildlife nesting, breeding or other activities is prohibited. 36 CFR § 2.2
Closed waters: Seaplanes
May 1 through September 15, operating a motor vessel or a seaplane on the following water is prohibited:
Adams Inlet, east of 135°59.2' W longitude (an imaginary line running approximately due north and south through the charted obstruction located approximately 2 1/4 nautical miles east of Pt. George). 36 CFR § 13.1180
Rendu Inlet, north of the wilderness boundary at the mouth of the inlet. 36 CFR § 13.1180
Hugh Miller complex, including Scidmore Bay and Charpentier Inlet, west of the wilderness boundary at the mouth of the Hugh Miller Inlet. 36 CFR § 13.1180
Waters within the Beardslee Island group (except the Beardslee Entrance), that is defined by an imaginary line running due west from shore to the easternmost point of Lester Island, then along the south shore of Lester Island to its western end, then to the southernmost point of Young Island, then north along the west shore and east along the north shore of Young Island to its northernmost point, then at a bearing of 15 true to an imaginary point located one nautical mile due east of the easternmost point of Strawberry Island, then at a bearing of 345 true to the northernmost point of Flapjack Island, then at a bearing of 81 true to the northernmost point of the unnamed island immediately to the east of Flapjack Island, then southeasterly to the northernmost point of the next unnamed island, then southeasterly along the (Beartrack Cove) shore of that island to its easternmost point, then due east to shore. 36 CFR § 13.1180
June 1 through July 15, operating a motor vessel or a seaplane on the waters of Muir Inlet north of 59°02.7' N latitude (an imaginary line running approximately due west from the point of land on the east shore approximately 1 nautical mile north of the McBride Glacier) is prohibited. 36 CFR § 13.1180
July 16 through August 31, operating a motor vessel or a seaplane on the waters of Wachusett Inlet west of 136°12.0' W longitude (an imaginary line running approximately due north from the point of land on the south shore of Wachusett Inlet approximately 2 1/4 nautical miles west of Rowlee Point) is prohibited. 36 CFR §13.1180
Transportation by Road/Trail in Dry Bay
AUTHORIZED USES DEFINED:Transportation is defined as point-to-point ground transportation by All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV); passengers are dropped off or picked up in specified areas. No guiding occurs.
Locations Authorized: Use is only authorized on designated routes and areas in Glacier Bay National Preserve. The use of ATVs in all other areas in Glacier Bay National Preserve is prohibited. (36 CFR 13.1109) See map here: Dry-Bay-Trails-Map.jpg (7200×5088) (nps.gov)
First Aid Kit: Each vehicle must have a first-aid kit stored in a water-proof container and readily accessible to employees and guests.
Vehicle Requirements: The ATV must be identified and registered as per Federal, State, or local laws. The company name and logo must be identified on vehicle. A current list of ATVs, along with a copy of registrations and vehicle insurance must be submitted by May 1 to e-mail us.
New Services
Do you have a service that you would like to provide in Glacier Bay but don't see it listed as an approved activity? Glacier Bay Commercial Services can help you determine if your service would be an appropriate for the Park. Please email us or call 907-697-2567 for additional assistance.
Last updated: December 27, 2022
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Contact Info
Mailing Address:
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
PO Box 140
Gustavus,
AK
99826
