Gold Creek Flume Trail
Discover Juneau's gold rush past on the accessible Gold Creek Flume Trail, featuring clear blue waters and historic mining remnants.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Gold Creek Flume Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Juneau's gold rush past on the accessible Gold Creek Flume Trail, featuring clear blue waters and historic mining remnants.
"A beautiful, easy hike with clear blue water and historical flumes, perfect for families!"
🚶♀️ Easy Boardwalk Trail
Mostly raised bridges and boardwalks make this hike accessible for most fitness levels and families. :athletic_shoe:
🚌 Public Transport Friendly
Take a city bus or taxi from downtown Juneau to reach the trailhead easily. :bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Flume System
Along the trail
Walk alongside remnants of a 19th-century gold mining flume, a unique blend of history and nature.

Cascading Waterfalls
Throughout the trail
Enjoy the soothing sounds and picturesque views of clear, blue water flowing over rocks and small falls.
Boardwalk and Bridge Path
Main trail
An easy, accessible 1.5-mile round trip hike on raised bridges and boardwalks, perfect for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Getting to the Trailhead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Boardwalk Trail
Mostly raised bridges and boardwalks make this hike accessible for most fitness levels and families. :athletic_shoe:
🚌 Public Transport Friendly
Take a city bus or taxi from downtown Juneau to reach the trailhead easily. :bus:
🧥 Pack Layers
Alaska's weather can change quickly; bring layers for comfort during your hike. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Views
The clear blue water and historic flumes offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Boardwalk Trail
Mostly raised bridges and boardwalks make this hike accessible for most fitness levels and families. :athletic_shoe:
🚌 Public Transport Friendly
Take a city bus or taxi from downtown Juneau to reach the trailhead easily. :bus:
🧥 Pack Layers
Alaska's weather can change quickly; bring layers for comfort during your hike. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Views
The clear blue water and historic flumes offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer summer months, for your hike. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Gold Creek Flume Trail for its beautiful, clear blue water, accessible boardwalks, and historical significance. It's praised as an easy, family-friendly hike offering a peaceful escape into nature. Some find the nearby Salmon Bake a great addition to the experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From the Juneau cruise port, you can take a city bus or a short taxi ride to reach the trailhead. Some visitors also walk from downtown. The trail can be accessed from different points, including near Franklin Street via the Perseverance Trail.
Yes, it's possible to walk from downtown Juneau to the Gold Creek Flume Trail, though it adds to the overall distance. Following signs for the Perseverance Trail can lead you to the trailhead.
Limited parking may be available near some access points, but it's generally recommended to use public transport or taxis due to potential congestion, especially during peak cruise ship season.
Many cruise lines offer excursions that include transportation to and from the Gold Creek Salmon Bake area, which is near the trail. Independent tours may also be available.
For a layover, taking a city bus or taxi is efficient. The trail is a great option for a short excursion, offering nature and history without requiring extensive travel time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Gold Creek Flume Trail is a public access trail and does not require an entrance fee. It's a free outdoor activity.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's an outdoor public space, there are no official operating hours, but it's best to visit when there's ample natural light.
The trail is typically open year-round, but winter conditions can make it challenging or inaccessible due to snow and ice. The summer and fall months are ideal for hiking.
Parking availability and any associated fees can vary depending on the access point. It's advisable to check local parking regulations or opt for public transport to avoid complications.
While there isn't a specific ticket for the trail itself, many local tour operators and cruise lines offer guided excursions that include transportation and a guide for the hike.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Gold Creek Flume Trail is considered an easy hike. Much of the trail is on raised bridges and boardwalks, making it accessible for most people.
The main loop of the Gold Creek Flume Trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip, making it a manageable hike for a short visit.
You'll experience lush Alaskan rainforest, clear blue water, small waterfalls, and the unique historical remnants of the gold mining flume system.
While not guaranteed, visitors have reported seeing eagles along the trail. Keep an eye out for local birds and other small wildlife.
Yes, the boardwalk and bridge construction makes it very family-friendly and safe for children. It's an easy and engaging walk for all ages.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Gold Creek Salmon Bake is located nearby and offers an all-you-can-eat salmon experience. It's a popular spot for visitors after their hike.
The main attraction is the salmon bake, often described as all-you-can-eat. Other seafood and sides may also be available.
While there are no restrictions mentioned, it's generally good practice to pack out any food or trash you bring in to preserve the natural beauty of the trail.
The Gold Creek Salmon Bake is the most prominent dining option directly associated with the trail area. Other downtown Juneau restaurants are a bus or taxi ride away.
It can be, especially if you're on a cruise excursion. However, it's a sit-down experience, so factor in time for dining.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the clear blue water, the historic flume structures, the surrounding lush greenery, and any waterfalls you encounter. The boardwalks also offer unique perspectives.
Yes, the well-maintained boardwalks and bridges provide stable ground for photography. The relatively short length also makes it easy to stop and capture moments.
Morning light can be beautiful, offering softer shadows. However, the clear water and vibrant green foliage are striking throughout the day.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and parks. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone in the Juneau area.
The remnants of the old flume system are the primary historical points of interest. Look for sections where the water was channeled for gold mining.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a perfect excursion for a cruise port stop, offering a dose of nature and history without being too strenuous. The 1.5-mile round trip is manageable, and the unique historical flume system adds an educational element that can spark curiosity in children. Pack snacks and water, and enjoy a stress-free family adventure.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Getting there via the local city bus system is also a very affordable option compared to private tours or taxis. This allows you to enjoy a scenic hike and learn about local history on a budget, making it a highly recommended activity for cost-conscious visitors.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Many cruise lines offer excursions that include transportation to the nearby Gold Creek Salmon Bake, which is a convenient way to combine a hike with a meal. The trail itself is relatively short and easy, making it ideal for fitting into a port day schedule.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Gold Creek Flume Trail
Walking this trail is like stepping back in time. You can still see remnants of the flume, a testament to the ambitious engineering projects undertaken to extract wealth from the Alaskan wilderness. The Independence Trail, which runs alongside, is named after Independence Creek, itself a nod to the Fourth of July and the spirit of American expansion.
Understanding this history enriches the hiking experience, transforming a simple walk into an educational journey. It connects visitors to the rugged spirit of Alaska's early days and the significant role gold mining played in shaping Juneau.
Accessibility and Family-Friendliness
This elevated pathway ensures a smooth and comfortable walking experience, minimizing uneven terrain and muddy patches that can be common on other trails. It allows visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without significant physical strain. The clear blue water and gentle sounds of the creek add to the serene atmosphere, making it a delightful outing for families.
Many visitors, including those with families, have highlighted how perfect the trail is for a relaxed exploration. The ease of access means more time can be spent enjoying the scenery and the historical context, rather than struggling with difficult terrain. It's a prime example of how thoughtful trail design can open up natural wonders to a wider audience.
Connecting with Nature and Wildlife
While the primary draw is the natural beauty and historical elements, keep an eye out for local wildlife. Visitors have reported sightings of eagles soaring overhead, adding an extra layer of excitement to the hike. The serene environment is conducive to spotting various bird species and other small creatures that inhabit the area.
This trail provides a refreshing dose of nature, especially for those arriving on cruise ships. It's an accessible way to experience the wild beauty of Alaska without venturing too far from the city. The combination of accessible trails and potential wildlife encounters makes it a memorable outdoor adventure.
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