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Difficulty
Hard
About Chitistone Falls
Chitistone Falls is a remote and stunning waterfall located in the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska. It is known for its rugged beauty and dramatic drop, surrounded by pristine wilderness. The falls are part of the Chitistone River, which flows through the Chitistone Canyon.
The Setting
Chitistone Falls sits at 3,770 feet within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, in the mountains of Alaska.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Chitistone Falls is part of the Goat Trail, a challenging backcountry route that traverses rugged terrain, including steep ascents and descents. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Chitistone Canyon and surrounding wilderness.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a remote and challenging adventure with stunning views of the falls and surrounding canyon. Wildlife sightings are common, and the area is known for its untouched natural beauty.
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 Chitistone Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chitistone 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 trails are more accessible.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Summer and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
Visitors should be prepared for extreme weather, wildlife encounters, and challenging terrain. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Always inform someone of your travel plans and expected return time.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge NATIONAL C NR MCCARTHY AK (38 km away).
Today
Roaring
6 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
6 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
7 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
6 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
6 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
5 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
5 cfs
6/10Best window: Sat — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid May to mid July, peaking in June.
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 McCarthy hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Chitistone Falls Frozen?
Updated about 1 hour agoPartly frozen 2 days in a row below freezing 5 more freezing days forecast
Chitistone Falls is probably icing up: 2 days in a row below freezing, with 5 more freezing days in the forecast. Expect icicles and ice at the edges with water still running through the middle.
- Days below freezing
- 7 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 2 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 5 of the next 7
- Flow
- 6 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
Chitistone Falls is located in a remote area of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Access typically requires a combination of bush plane flights and extensive backcountry hiking. The falls are often visited as part of the Goat Trail, a challenging multi-day backpacking route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is no designated parking area as the falls are located in a remote wilderness area. Visitors typically start their journey from McCarthy or other nearby access points.
Elevation
3,770 feet above sea level
Coordinates
61.547222° N, -142.174722° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Ensure you are well-prepared for backcountry travel, including navigation skills and proper gear. Check weather conditions and consult with local guides or park rangers before attempting the trip.
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 Chitistone Falls, Alaska
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Chitistone Falls, Alaska on SoakingSprings.
Explore Alaska springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers numerous other attractions, including Root Glacier, Kennicott Mines, and the Nabesna Road area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, Dall sheep, and eagles. Visitors should exercise caution and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
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