Endicott Arm Fjord

Endicott Arm is a deep, narrow fjord in Southeast Alaska, about 45 miles south of Juneau within the Tongass National Forest. It forms part of the Tracy Arm Ford's Terror Wilderness and stretches for more than 30 miles through a landscape shaped by glaciers. This is a scenic cruising destination, so ships remain on the water rather than docking, allowing passengers to watch the scenery unfold from the decks as the vessel makes its way into the fjord.

Granite cliffs, forested slopes and waterfalls line Endicott Arm, with glaciers having carved the steep-sided valley over thousands of years. Floating ice is common during the summer, ranging from small pieces to much larger blocks calved from nearby glaciers. The water can take on different shades as the landscape changes, adding to the distinctive character of the fjord.

The main attraction is Dawes Glacier at the head of Endicott Arm. This tidewater glacier rises hundreds of feet above the water and stretches about half a mile across. Sections of the glacier can break away in dramatic calving events, sending ice crashing into the fjord with a deep rumble and a plume of spray.

Harbour seals are commonly associated with the area's floating ice, particularly around the glacier. Bald eagles and other seabirds can be seen along the shore, while brown bears, deer, moose and mountain goats inhabit the surrounding wilderness. Humpback whales may also appear in the waters around the fjord.

Endicott Arm was named in 1889 by US Navy Lieutenant Commander H. B. Mansfield after William Crowninshield Endicott, who served as US Secretary of War under President Grover Cleveland. Tracy Arm lies nearby, and the two fjords form part of the same protected wilderness.

Endicott Arm suits cruisers who enjoy dramatic scenery and wildlife watching. The slow passage through the fjord, surrounded by cliffs, waterfalls and floating ice, makes the changing landscape the main attraction.