🌤 Weather at Jack Bay State Marine Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19–53 °F | 44–62 °F | 21–53 °F | 15–31 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Valdez, 8 mi away, elevation 62 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Valdez Fjord Marine — Glacially carved fjord near Valdez with tidewater glacier views
Jack Bay State Marine Park protects a dramatic glacially carved bay near Valdez in Prince William Sound. The deep fjord provides protected anchorage with towering rock walls, waterfalls cascading from hanging valleys, and views of nearby glaciers. The bay is home to harbor seals hauled out on ice, sea otters, and spawning pink and chum salmon that attract black and brown bears to the shoreline in summer.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Valdez, AK (Prince William Sound) |
| Access | Boat from Valdez |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Wildlife | Bears, seals, otters, salmon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see glaciers?
The bay offers views of nearby glaciers. For tidewater glacier viewing, combine with a trip to Columbia Glacier — one of the largest tidewater glaciers in North America, also accessible from Valdez.
What happened in the 1964 earthquake?
The 9.2-magnitude Good Friday Earthquake on March 27, 1964 was the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in North America. The resulting tsunami destroyed Old Valdez — the entire town was relocated to its present site 4 miles away.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Sawmill Bay State Marine Park (a short drive away) and Shoup Bay State Marine Park (a short drive away).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Alaska state parks online at alaskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
🏔️ Visit Jack Bay SMP
Valdez fjord — glacier views, waterfalls, and bear-watching in Prince William Sound.
About Jack Bay
Jack Bay State Marine Park in Prince William Sound near Valdez protects a deep fjord-like bay surrounded by steep mountains and old-growth forest. The bay provides shelter during the fierce storms that rake Prince William Sound. Harbor seals haul out on rocky ledges and bald eagles nest in the towering Sitka spruce.
Things to Do
Anchorage for boaters seeking storm shelter, beach camping, sea kayaking, wildlife viewing (harbor seals, eagles, sea otters), fishing, and exploring the fjord. Access by boat from Valdez.
Insider Tips
Valdez area: Jack Bay is accessible from Valdez — the terminus of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Pro tip: The Valdez Museum documents the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake (9.2 magnitude — the most powerful ever recorded in North America) and the subsequent tsunami that destroyed Old Valdez. Glacier viewing: Columbia Glacier (one of the fastest-retreating glaciers in Alaska) is accessible by tour boat from Valdez.
Best Time to Visit
June-August: Best boating weather and salmon runs. July: Pink salmon runs are enormous. Winter: Thompson Pass above Valdez receives 500+ inches of snow. Spring: Bald eagle gathering on the Valdez fish runs.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Jack Bay State Marine Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Alaska State Parks and campgrounds when leashed and accompanied by the owner; unleashed dogs are allowed in the backcountry if under voice control.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not exceeding 9 feet required in developed facilities (campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads, swim beaches, boat ramps).
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- No statewide pet ban on beaches; swim beaches count as developed facilities where the 9-foot leash rule applies.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- In the backcountry leashes are not required but pets must remain under voice control; in trapping areas (e.g. Chena River SRA) leashing is strongly advised for dog safety.
Are dogs allowed at Jack Bay State Marine Park?
Pets are welcome in Alaska State Parks and campgrounds when leashed and accompanied by the owner; unleashed dogs are allowed in the backcountry if under voice control. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.alaska.gov. More: Alaska state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Jack Bay State Marine Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
