Find out where to see 11 of the most scenic and stunning waterfalls in Alaska, from easily accessible roadside falls to off-the-beaten-path hidden gems.
Alaska’s scenery is absolutely breathtaking, so it’s no surprise the state is packed with gorgeous waterfalls.
Some spectacular waterfalls are easily accessible right from the road system, while other out-of-the-way gems require an adventure just to reach them. This could mean hopping in a small plane to reach remote areas, signing up for a boat trip or guided kayak tour, or going for a hike.
Hikes can range from quick jaunts to multi-mile excursions, so be sure you are fully prepared to spend time outdoors in Alaska. Keep a safe distance from the waterfalls and watch for hazards such as cliffs, slippery rocks, fast-flowing waterways, and sometimes even falling rocks, ice, and other debris overhead. Bring cameras with long-range lenses and binoculars for great views and to snap photos from a distance.
Additionally, be aware of bears, moose, and other wildlife that may be near any of these waterfalls or trails. Always remain bear-aware and take proper bear safety precautions any time you’re heading out. Never approach bears, and be sure to make noise so you don’t accidentally surprise them.
Now, let’s dive into the 11 best waterfalls in Alaska.
Virgin Creek Falls
On your way out to Alyeska Resort, make sure to take a detour to stop at Virgin Creek Falls near Girdwood. From the Virgin Creek Trailhead, it only takes 10 to 20 minutes to hike through the forest of spruce trees to reach these gorgeous falls, which are surrounded by verdant greenery, including moss and ferns.
This waterfall-focused hike is the perfect outing to pair with additional summer activities at Alyeska, like the Veilbreaker Skybridges, hiking, biking, and the Alyeska Aerial Tram.
Horsetail Falls + Bridal Veil Falls
Watch water pour down two stunning Keystone Canyon waterfalls, which are located near Valdez. The falls have distinct appearances; Horsetail Falls has a stronger flow, whereas Bridal Veil Falls has a more lacy, delicate appearance. In winter, both of these falls become popular ice climbing spots.
Nugget Falls
Located near gorgeous Mendenhall Glacier, just outside of Juneau, the hike to Nugget Falls is one of the most stunning ways to see waterfalls in Alaska. Watch as water cascades down to flow into Mendenhall Lake, with gorgeous glacier views.
Hike from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center on a route that’s around a mile each way to see this two-tiered waterfall totaling more than 370 feet. The trail is a moderate gravel path that takes about 1.25 hours, according to the visitor center brochure. I have seen bears on this trail, so the note about remaining bear-aware definitely applies here.
Consider combining the Nugget Falls Trail with one or more of the other hiking trails in the area, such as the challenging East Glacier 3.5-mile loop, which contains gravel, rock, and stairs.
Brooks Falls
Located in Katmai National Park and Preserve, Brooks Falls is more than just a gorgeous waterfall; it’s one of the most iconic places in the world to see wildlife. Brown bears congregate at the falls to snap up salmon as they swim upstream to spawn, jumping up from the falls—sometimes straight into the mouth of a grizzly.
To reach the area, you generally have to travel via boat or plane, and many people arrive on guided tours. Gather at the viewing platforms for a chance to see the bears at the falls. During peak season, you may even see dozens of bears at once.
Tanalian Falls
Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is one of the country’s most remote national parks, and accessing the park is an adventure of its own, involving a flight in a small plane or a boat journey.
Once you arrive, head to the park’s headquarters at Port Alsworth to hike the four-mile Tanalian Falls Trail. Along the way, you can see gorgeous views of the park and one of the most incredible waterfalls in Alaska.
While this waterfall tumbles off a relatively small 30-foot-high cliff, the stunning scenery of Lake Clark National Park and Preserve makes this a sight to behold.
South Tongass Waterfall
Located near the Tongass Highway, the South Tongass Waterfall is a gorgeous 100-foot-high waterfall. It varies in size throughout the year, from a torrent of early meltwater to a trickle during drier periods. It’s only about 10 miles outside of Ketchikan, providing easy access.
Thunderbird Falls
In Chugach State Park, just outside Eagle River, Thunderbird Falls is an easy-to-access, 200-foot-tall waterfall.
To reach the falls, enjoy a hike that’s about a mile each way with around 175 feet of elevation gain. The trail follows the Eklutna River as it winds through the birch forest. A viewing platform offers great opportunities to see the beautiful waterfall. In winter, the waterfall often freezes, creating gorgeous ice falls.
Cascade, Kittiwake Rookery, and Northland Falls
To see some of the most stunning waterfalls in Alaska, head to Whittier and sign up for a day boat cruise or a guided kayak tour, depending on your inclination. Prince William Sound features an abundance of spectacular waterfalls, and a day trip here can keep you hopping from fall to fall.
Be sure to bring your binoculars and longest camera lenses for distant views, since you’ll want to stay back from the falls for safety, including the danger of falling rock and ice at some locations.
In Prince William Sound, you may be able to see 170-foot-tall Cascade Falls or Northland Glacier Falls, which showcases water pouring off Northland Glacier, hanging above Blackstone Bay. Kittiwake Rookery Falls is another great option, flowing through a bird rookery full of black-legged kittiwakes. It’s a very popular destination for waterfall-loving birders.
