Lower Reid Falls
Discover the breathtaking Lower Reid Falls, a stunning cascade accessible via a scenic walk from Skagway, Alaska.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, more peaceful experience
Lower Reid Falls
Best Time
Quieter, more peaceful experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the breathtaking Lower Reid Falls, a stunning cascade accessible via a scenic walk from Skagway, Alaska.
"One of the most beautiful falls I've seen!!"
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The trail can be muddy and has roots/rocks. Wear sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable walk.
🚶♀️ Walk from Downtown
It's a pleasant 30-40 minute walk from Skagway's main street to the falls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Reid Falls Cascade
Skagway, Alaska
A stunning, multi-tiered waterfall cascading through lush greenery. A true natural masterpiece.
Gold Rush Cemetery
Adjacent to Lower Reid Falls trailhead
Explore the final resting place of legendary gold rush figures. A poignant glimpse into Skagway's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Walk to Lower Reid Falls
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The trail can be muddy and has roots/rocks. Wear sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable walk.
🚶♀️ Walk from Downtown
It's a pleasant 30-40 minute walk from Skagway's main street to the falls.
💰 Shuttle Option Available
If walking isn't ideal, a shuttle is available for a small fee.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The falls are incredibly photogenic, especially with the surrounding nature.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The trail can be muddy and has roots/rocks. Wear sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable walk.
🚶♀️ Walk from Downtown
It's a pleasant 30-40 minute walk from Skagway's main street to the falls.
💰 Shuttle Option Available
If walking isn't ideal, a shuttle is available for a small fee.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The falls are incredibly photogenic, especially with the surrounding nature.
🤫 Seek Quiet Moments
Visiting after 4 PM can offer a more tranquil experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lower Reid Falls for its stunning beauty and the rewarding, accessible walk from Skagway. Many highlight the impressive cascade and the peaceful atmosphere, especially when visiting during less crowded times. Some note the trail can be muddy and uneven, making sturdy footwear essential.
"Great hike not too far from the cruise port. Walk through town to get here. Very scenic with an incredible waterfall. Hardly anyone on the trail or at the falls. Definitely worth the time."
Bill Perdue
"One of the most beautiful falls I've seen!! You can visit the cemetery and then the falls or there is a trail that is just outside of cemetery. Easy walk, used my cane. I did not go to upper falls as driver said it was more of a hike, but said he liked the upper falls more."
No No
"This waterfalls is so tall and beautiful. It’s just a very short walk maybe 5 minutes or more from where the shuttle drops you off. Follow the sound. Then the trail wraps around to the cemetery. This is a small historical cemetery that they share about from the train ride.
Enjoyed our short visit. The shuttle cost us $5 one way ands you can walk if you’d like too."
Rita Loeding
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to walk from downtown Skagway, which takes about 30-40 minutes and passes the Gold Rush Cemetery.
Yes, there is a parking lot at the Gold Rush Cemetery trailhead, which is also the starting point for the walk to the falls.
It's a walkable distance, approximately 1 mile from downtown Skagway, which is near the cruise port. The walk itself is about 30-40 minutes.
Yes, taxis are available in Skagway and can take you directly to the trailhead near the Gold Rush Cemetery.
Absolutely! The walk takes you through town and then into a natural setting, with the sound of the falls guiding you.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Lower Reid Falls. It's a natural attraction accessible to all.
Lower Reid Falls is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
The Gold Rush Cemetery is generally free to visit, though some historical tours might have a fee. The walk to the falls from the cemetery is also free.
While not always advertised, local guides or shuttle operators may offer tours that include Lower Reid Falls and the Gold Rush Cemetery.
Yes, Lower Reid Falls is a popular excursion for cruise passengers in Skagway due to its proximity and ease of access.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk to the falls takes about 5-10 minutes from the Gold Rush Cemetery trailhead. You can spend as little as 30 minutes or linger longer to enjoy the scenery.
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It has some elevation gain, can be muddy, and has uneven terrain with roots and rocks. Not ideal for those with significant mobility issues.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots. Layers are recommended as Alaskan weather can change quickly.
Restrooms are typically available at the Gold Rush Cemetery parking area, which is near the trailhead.
Swimming is not recommended due to the cold water temperatures and strong currents. It's best to admire the falls from the designated viewing areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon can offer softer light, while early morning can be magical with mist. Midday sun can be harsh, but the falls are still impressive.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire cascade and surrounding forest. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures to smooth the water.
Yes, the walk itself offers scenic views of Skagway and the surrounding nature. Don't forget to capture the Gold Rush Cemetery too.
There are designated paths and viewing areas. Be cautious of slippery rocks and stay on marked trails for safety.
Experiment with different levels – from the base looking up, or from slightly higher vantage points. The multi-tiered nature offers many perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the shuttle option if little legs get tired, or if you're short on time. The relatively short distance and the impressive sight of the cascading water are usually a big hit with younger visitors. It's a rewarding experience that combines a bit of adventure with natural wonder.
🚶♀️ Mobility-Conscious Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Walk to Lower Reid Falls
+1While the walk is generally considered easy, it's important to be prepared. The trail can become muddy, especially after rain, and features exposed tree roots and uneven rocky sections. Travelers recommend wearing sturdy, waterproof footwear to navigate these conditions comfortably. For those who prefer not to walk the entire distance, shuttle services and taxis are available from downtown Skagway, offering a convenient alternative.
This accessible trail makes Lower Reid Falls a popular stop for cruise ship passengers looking for a rewarding outdoor experience without a strenuous hike. The combination of a pleasant walk, historical context from the cemetery, and the stunning natural beauty of the waterfall makes it a must-do in Skagway.
Understanding the Gold Rush Cemetery
Many visitors combine a visit to the cemetery with the hike to the falls, as the trailheads are conveniently located near each other. The cemetery itself is relatively small and easy to navigate, with many headstones bearing inscriptions that tell tales of hardship, ambition, and untimely ends. It provides a unique historical context to the rugged landscape of Skagway.
While the cemetery is a place of remembrance, it also serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of Lower Reid Falls. The proximity of these two attractions allows visitors to experience both the historical significance and the natural splendor of Skagway in a single outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit