Located near the head of Glacier Bay and south of the Tarr Inlet, John Hopkins Inlet extends west and southwest to Johns Hopkins Glacier. This inlet opened up only in the last 100 years and is a very dynamic landscape. John Hopkins Glacier is one of a few advancing tidewater glaciers.

Likely observations include Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Black Oystercatcher, Pigeon Guillemot, Marbled Murrelet, Kittlitz’s Murrelet, Tufted Puffin, and Black-legged Kittiwake. A good spot to look for Kittlitz’s Murrlets is near Lamplugh Glacier.

Directions:

John Hopkins Inlet can be accessed either from a tour/charter boat departing from the public dock at the National Park Visitor Center, cruise ship, or by private vessel with a permit. Some charter boats/tour companies are also able to shuttle sea kayaks to drop-off points to allow you to explore the inlet on your own. Check with the National Park Service for authorized tour companies.

To get to the Glacier Bay Visitor Center from downtown Gustavus, head west on Gustavus Road toward Shooting Star Road (0.7 miles), turn right onto Mountain View Road, and drive 2.8 miles to Park Road. Drive 4.4 miles and follow the signs to the Glacier Bay Visitor Center.

Birding Resources:

•  eBird Hotspot: Glacier Bay NP--Johns Hopkins Inlet

Species Checklist:

• Gustavus checklist