Lamplugh Glacier

Blue-iced tidewater glacier with dramatic landslide scars and wildlife

InsideGlacier Bay National Park

Overview

Lamplugh Glacier is a tidewater glacier set at the entrance to Johns Hopkins Inlet, flowing from the Brady Icefield to meet the sea. It’s all about big, blue ice against steep fjord walls—a classic Glacier Bay scene that most people experience from the water.

What You’ll See

Expect a broad, nearly mile‑wide face rising to around 165 feet above the bay, with deep blue tones and dramatic textures. You’ll also notice dark streaks and swaths across the lower glacier—evidence of a massive 2016 landslide that dropped an enormous volume of rock onto the ice. Calving does happen, sending chunks into the water and creating a constantly changing mosaic of bergy bits and brash ice.

Wildlife

Harbor seals commonly haul out on the floating ice, and you may spot otters, sea lions, or even whales in the surrounding waters. Overhead, look for bald eagles and a mix of gulls and seabirds riding the breeze. Terrestrial wildlife like brown bears and mountain goats inhabit the nearby slopes, though sightings are typically distant.

Access and Amenities

This is a wilderness stop: there are no roads, trails, or facilities at the glacier. Visitors view Lamplugh by cruise ship, day tour, private boat, or on sea‑kayaking itineraries. Plan to be self‑sufficient—there are no restrooms, stores, or shelters here.

Best Time to Visit

Clear days bring out the richest blues in the ice. Early morning and late evening light tend to be the most flattering for photos. It often feels quieter than the headline‑grabber nearby, but crowd levels ultimately depend on cruise traffic the day you visit.

Safety

Glacier faces are unpredictable. Calving can send waves and ice outward with little warning. Keep a conservative distance and follow your captain or guide’s instructions.

Geology & History

Lamplugh flows from the Brady Icefield, and its lower surface was dramatically altered by a huge landslide in 2016, which left a distinctive debris blanket and affected meltwater patterns. The glacier was named in 1912 for English geologist George William Lamplugh, who visited the area in the late 19th century.