Beaver Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
About Beaver Falls
Beaver Falls tumbles through the lush temperate rainforest near Ketchikan, Alaska, offering a quintessential Southeast Alaska waterfall experience within the Tongass National Forest. Nestled on U.S. Forest Service lands, the falls are best reached via the Silvis Lake Trail (Trail #52722), an out-and-back route that threads through mossy Sitka spruce and hemlock stands. The setting feels remote and verdant, with the sound of falling water cutting through the quiet canopy — a rewarding destination for hikers willing to trade a bit of effort for solitude and scenery. The Silvis Lake Trail is classified as a USFS Class 3 route with a native-material tread, so expect a natural surface of roots, dirt, and occasional wet or muddy segments. Pack waterproof footwear and layers, and allow time to move deliberately; the trail’s combination of moderate grade and uneven footing makes the waterfall a satisfying half-day outing for most hikers comfortable on primitive trails.
The Setting
Beaver Falls sits at 1,322 feet within Tongass National Forest, in the foothills of Alaska.
Trail & Hike Details
USFS Trail
SILVIS LAKE #52722
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Trail Description
Surface: native material (natural tread with roots, soil, and occasional wet sections). Trail class: 3 (more rugged/primitive routing). Average grade is low (about 2.8% overall), but expect short steeper pitches and uneven footing; suitable for hikers prepared for wet, rooty terrain on a forest singletrack.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a picturesque waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area is remote and may not have many amenities, so plan accordingly. The falls are near a hydroelectric facility, which may limit access to certain areas.
Accessibility
The falls may not be easily accessible for individuals with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain and lack of developed trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Beaver Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Beaver Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Spring and fall can also be good times to visit, but expect cooler temperatures and more rain.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Tongass National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 44°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, fast-moving water, and potential wildlife encounters. Always stay on designated paths and avoid restricted areas near the hydroelectric facility.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Leask Creek, 9.5 miles away, not on Beaver Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
307 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 8 years of record
22.78 ft
Water depth at gauge
44°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 44 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge LEASK CREEK AT SHELTER COVE NR KETCHIKAN AK (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
332 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
260 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
229 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
214 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
229 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
208 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
183 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, chance rain showers (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to mid January, peaking in November.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Saxman hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Beaver Falls Frozen?
Updated about 6 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately strong flow slows freezing
Beaver Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 45°F to 37°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 340 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Alaska.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Beaver Falls is located approximately 16 miles south of Ketchikan, Alaska, along the South Tongass Highway. Visitors can reach the area by car or taxi from Ketchikan. The falls are near a hydroelectric facility, and access may involve walking along service roads or trails.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited parking may be available near the hydroelectric facility or along the highway. Visitors should exercise caution when parking along the road.
Elevation
1,322 feet above sea level
Coordinates
55.381667° N, -131.522778° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring rain gear, as the area is often wet. Check local conditions before visiting, as access may be restricted near the hydroelectric facility. Bring water and snacks, as there are no services nearby.
Where to Stay
Salmon Return & Wildlife Roam: Ketchikan Getaway!
Inn At Creek Street
My Place Hotel-Ketchikan, AK
Super 8 by Wyndham Ketchikan
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND
7.2 miles away · 24 sites
Overview Signal Creek Campground is a year-round facility located in the Ward Lake Recreation Area, 7 miles north of downtown Ketchikan and about 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal. The campground straddles Signal Creek and lies on the banks of Ward Lake, with easy access to fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing.Recreation Hiking is a popular option, as the Ward Lake Recreation Area boasts seven trails. The Ward Lake Nature Travel meanders 1.3 miles around the lake. A large day-use complex
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Nearby Attractions
Ketchikan, Alaska, offers a variety of attractions, including the Tongass National Forest, Totem Bight State Historical Park, and Misty Fjords National Monument.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, and salmon during spawning season. Visitors should exercise caution and respect wildlife.
Other waterfalls named Beaver Falls
6 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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