With thousands of miles of coastline and countless alpine cliffs, there is no shortage of spectacular waterfalls throughout Alaska. But unlike many of the falls you will find elsewhere in the United States, Alaska waterfalls are often found in true wilderness, away from crowds, pavement, and busy highways.
In this guide, I’ll cover some of my favorite waterfalls in Alaska, each presenting its unique character and charm – but don’t be fooled, there are plenty more beyond the ones on this list. So get out there and explore, and above all, have a spectacular adventure in the Last Frontier!
Barbara Falls, Eagle River
Hidden within Chugach State Park, Barbara Falls delivers a cascade that feels like a well-kept secret, surrounded by a lush forest. The nearby Echo Bend and Chugach State Park make this the perfect day adventure. Be sure to check out the robust trail system at the Eagle River Visitor Center while you are there.
- Why Visit: For those seeking peace amidst nature, Barbara Falls provides an ideal sanctuary, with a hint of adventure in its relatively hidden location.
- Location: Eagle River, near Anchorage
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring and summer
- How to Get There: Accessible via a moderate hike through the South Fork Eagle River trail.
Russian River Falls, Cooper Landing
Russian River Falls is one of Alaska’s best places to see salmon lurching up rapids and brown bears fishing in the river. Plan your visit during the salmon run to watch this amazing spectacle and try to arrive early, to avoid crowds at the entrance area. Also check out the nearby glacier lakes and grab lunch in Cooper Landing.
- Why Visit: A unique blend of nature's raw spectacle and serene spots, perfect for picnics, bear viewing, and fishing.
- Location: Cooper Landing on the Kenai Peninsula
- Best Time to Visit: June to early August
- How to Get There: Via a scenic 4-mile round-trip hike.
Thunderbird Falls, Eklutna
The thrill of Thunderbird Falls isn't just in its cascading beauty but in the journey to its base through Eklutna's dense woods. The nearby Eklutna Lake is another gem worth exploring, making this a great all-day adventure. You can also book a night at the Alaska state park public use cabin if you want to combine this trip with some glamping.
- Why Visit: Combine the joy of hiking with the reward of a waterfall view, and a serene lake outing.
- Location: Eklutna, outside of Anchorage
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- How to Get There: A 1-mile family-friendly trail.
Cascade Falls, Prince William Sound
Amidst the still waters of Prince William Sound, Cascade Falls presents a mesmerizing sight, further enriched by the nearby enchanting Columbia Glacier. There are several other majestic falls to check out in the area, so you can easily fill a day with waterfall pictures during a boat ride or kayak tour.
Why Visit: To enjoy a waterfall with a touch of glacier magic and serene boat rides.
Location: Prince William Sound from Valdez or Whittier
Best Time to Visit: Summer
How to Get There: Accessible primarily via boat or kayak.
Bridal Veil Falls, Valdez
One of the most iconic falls in Alaska, Valdez's Bridal Veil Falls in Keystone Canyon's offers a backdrop for stunning pictures, making it a local favorite for elopement and wedding photos. You can also spend the afternoon exploring the smaller cascades and rock formations around the falls, before heading to Valdez for dinner.
- Why Visit: A spot that brings together romance, geology, and pure Alaskan wild.
- Location: Valdez, along the Richardson Highway
- Best Time to Visit: May to September or in the winter (by 4x4 or snowshoes)
- How to Get There: Visible from Richardson Highway with a short path for closer viewing.
Pitchfork Falls, Skagway
A quick spectacle along the Klondike Highway, Pitchfork Falls has multiple streams resembling a pitchfork. Don't miss out on the nearby Reid Falls and Gold Rush Cemetery, and check out the historic downtown of Skagway during your stay.
- Why Visit: A convenient stop for travelers doing a day trip out of Skagway, and offers a historical backdrop.
- Location: Skagway, along the Klondike Highway
- Best Time to Visit: Spring to early Fall
- How to Get There: Directly visible and accessible from the Klondike Highway.
Nugget Falls, Juneau
Where the mighty Mendenhall Glacier meets cascading waters, Nugget Falls stands as one of the most photographed waterfalls in the state. You can enjoy the falls from a short hike from the visitor center or see it from the deck of a boat tour or kayak trip.
- Why Visit: A juxtaposition of glacial beauty and cascading wonders offering a visual treat.
- Location: Near Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- How to Get There: A family-friendly trail from Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.
Brooks Falls, Katmai National Park
In Katmai's heart, Brooks Falls is where brown bears and salmon tell tales of survival and nature's cycle. If you’ve ever seen a picture of brown bears catching salmon leaping into the air, it is almost guaranteed to have come from this spot. Reservations are needed to visit the overlook, and you will need to combine this trip with a flight into the park. Check out the Brooks Falls lodge for an amazing multi-day adventure.
- Why Visit: Witness brown bears in the wild, set against a dramatic backdrop.
- Location: Katmai National Park
- Best Time to Visit: July-September
- How to Get There: Via a floatplane from Homer, Anchorage, or Kodiak
Winner Creek Gorge, Girdwood
Carving its way through canyons and forests, Winner Creek Gorge offers an adrenaline rush. For a broader experience, the Alyeska Resort nearby provides both winter thrills and summer hikes. Check online to see if the handcart is operational on the Winner Creek trail to add a bit of adventure to your trip.
- Why Visit: Girdwood’s dual appeal of cascading rapids and alpine adventures.
- Location: Girdwood, near Anchorage
- Best Time to Visit: June to August
- How to Get There: Via the Winner Creek Trail
