Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Hard
About Cheshnina Falls
Cheshnina Falls is a remote, dramatic cascade set deep within the Wrangell–St. Elias National Preserve, managed by the National Park Service and designated as an NCA. The setting is quintessential Alaska wilderness — pristine, rugged, and far from services — making the waterfall a rewarding destination for hikers who seek solitude and striking scenery. Because of its remoteness, the falls feel like a true backcountry find rather than a roadside attraction. Reaching Cheshnina Falls requires deliberate planning: the most commonly used approach is a roughly 2.4-mile out-and-back route with about 350 feet of elevation gain that is typically rated moderate. Visitors should expect unmaintained, natural terrain, possible stream crossings, and limited or no signage; bring reliable navigation, river-crossing awareness, and backcountry gear. As the site lies within NPS-managed land, practice Leave No Trace and check with park rangers for current conditions before heading out.
The Setting
Cheshnina Falls sits at 4,564 feet within Wrangell-St. Elias National Preserve, in the mountains of Alaska.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Route type: out-and-back, distance: 2.4 miles round trip, elevation gain: ~350 feet, difficulty: moderate. There is no maintained, formal trail infrastructure to the falls; the route follows unmaintained natural terrain and may include uneven ground, dense vegetation, and stream crossings. Expect a primitive surface with variable grade and limited trail markers — good route-finding skills, sturdy footwear, and preparation for backcountry conditions are recommended.
What to Expect
Expect a challenging adventure through remote wilderness. The falls are surrounded by pristine natural beauty, with opportunities to see wildlife and experience solitude. However, the journey is physically demanding and requires proper gear and preparation.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cheshnina Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cheshnina Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when weather conditions are more favorable, and access is less restricted by snow or ice.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
Visitors should be aware of potential hazards, including wildlife encounters, river crossings, and rapidly changing weather. Proper preparation and wilderness survival skills are essential.
Know when to go.
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Is Cheshnina Falls Frozen?
Updated about 2 hours agoPartly frozen 2 days in a row below freezing 4 more freezing days forecast
Cheshnina Falls is probably icing up: 2 days in a row below freezing, with 4 more freezing days in the forecast. Expect icicles and ice at the edges with water still running through the middle.
- Days below freezing
- 11 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 2 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 4 of the next 7
- Flow
- no gauge
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
Cheshnina Falls is located in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, which is accessible via the McCarthy Road or Nabesna Road. However, reaching the falls typically requires a combination of off-road travel, hiking, and possibly bush plane access. Detailed planning and consultation with local guides or park rangers are highly recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated areas within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, but there is no direct parking area for Cheshnina Falls due to its remote location.
Elevation
4,564 feet above sea level
Coordinates
61.857768° N, -144.117710° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Consult with Wrangell-St. Elias National Park rangers or local guides before planning your trip. Bring a detailed map, GPS, and sufficient supplies. Be prepared for unpredictable weather and challenging terrain.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Cheshnina Falls, Alaska
Upper Klawasi Warm Springs
Upper Klawasi Warm Springs stands at 2,980 feet elevation in the Copper River basin near Valdez, displaying some of Alaska's mo...
Mineral Spring (Lower Klawasi Cone)
Mineral Spring emerges with extraordinarily high salinity at 27,500 mg/L total dissolved solids, making it one of Alaska's most...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Cheshnina Falls, Alaska on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers numerous attractions, including Root Glacier, Kennicott Mines, and the Nabesna Road area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, and birds. Visitors should exercise caution and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
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