Lower Reid Falls
4.9(250)google
4.8(14)yelp
WaterfallHikingPhoto Spot
Overview
Lower Reid Falls is a gorgeous, hidden natural wonder tucked away in the deep, pine-forested wilderness just behind Skagway’s historic Gold Rush Cemetery. A short, easy hike along a shaded dirt path guides travelers through dense Alaskan mosses and ferns to the base of the spectacular cascade, where mountain glacial waters tumble down a steep, 100-foot rock face. The air at the bottom is continuously cool and filled with refreshing, crisp mountain water mist, offering nature enthusiasts and cruise passengers a highly accessible, tranquil, and beautiful escape away from busy historic streets.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration45-60 minutes
Best TimeBest visited on a clear summer morning from May to August when mountain snowmelt feeds the cascading water volume. Arriving early allows you to beat the heavy midday cruise ship crowds and enjoy the tranquil rainforest trail and misty plunge pool in relative peace.
Getting ThereLocated directly behind the historic Gold Rush Cemetery at the northern edge of Skagway. Drive 5 minutes from downtown or ride the local municipal Smart Bus to the cemetery lot, then follow the easy, flat 10-to-15-minute wooded trail straight to the roaring waterfall base.
Travel Tips
- The trail traverses the historic, unlit Gold Rush Cemetery; rugged unpaved footpaths require tracking devices and powerful hand torches if approaching twilight hours.
- The lower plunge basin boulders are coated in hyper-slick glacial moss and continuous spray; approaching the water requires high-friction vibram trekking boots.
- The narrow gorge is a total cellular deadzone prone to spontaneous rockfall from upper valley slopes; hikers must strictly stay centered on the maintained track.
Reviews
Positive
- The waterfall is hidden deep in Skagway's lush forest, thundering down giant rock clefts to kick up cool mist; its scenic value beats expectations.
- The trail from the main road to the base is very brief, taking just 10-15 minutes, serving as an excellent, completely free road-trip stop.
- Since you walk past a historic cemetery, paths pack fun historical markers alongside clear trail directions and solid safety guidance.
- It perfectly diverts downtown's noisy cruise crowds; lush trees and a bubbling creek let you enjoy 100% raw natural tranquility.
Heads up
- The final stretch near the base is fully unpolished, wet rocks and rough roots, lacking steps or accessible paths; seniors easily slip.
- The scenic pocket completely lacks restrooms, trash cans, or shelters; lacking dedicated staffing leaves some trails cluttered with driftwood.
- The parking lot is highly narrow and cramped; during peak summer daylight hours passing is tough, rendering driving convenience poor.
- The scale is quite compact compared to grand falls; standing close without pro rain gear gets you soaked by freezing mist in seconds.