Ebner Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Ebner Falls
Ebner Falls tumbles into a scenic gorge just outside Juneau, reached via the Perseverance Trail. The falls are a favorite turn‑around spot for hikers drawn to both the rushing water and the nearby remnants of the region’s historic mining era — the trail weaves through stands of forest and opens onto mountain views that make the short trek feel well rewarded. Plan on a moderate outing: the route to Ebner Falls is an approximately 4.0‑mile out‑and‑back with about 500 feet of elevation gain, making it a great half‑day option for hikers who want a mix of natural beauty and local history. The path is generally well‑maintained and offers a pleasant balance of shaded woods and open vantage points where the falls and surrounding terrain can be enjoyed.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Perseverance Trail to Ebner Falls is a well‑maintained out‑and‑back route of roughly 4.0 miles total with about 500 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Rated moderate in difficulty, the trail alternates between forested stretches and more open sections with mountain views, and it passes through historic mining areas that add a cultural element to the hike.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ebner Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ebner Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Ebner Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is most accessible and the waterfall flow is strong.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 39°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and muddy sections of the trail. Carry bear spray and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife. Check trail conditions before heading out, especially during winter months.
Current Water Conditions
228 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 46 years of record
7.18 ft
Water depth at gauge
39°F
Dangerously coldRisk of cold shock
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is dangerously cold at 39 degrees F, avoid prolonged contact.
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 LEMON C NR JUNEAU AK (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
246 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
197 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
170 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
175 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
155 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
143 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
141 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, patchy fog then sunny (trip score 4/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late June to early September, peaking in August.
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 Juneau hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 263 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 868 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 341 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 253 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 868 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 263 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Ebner Falls is accessed via the Perseverance Trail, which begins near downtown Juneau. The trailhead is located at the end of Basin Road, and the waterfall is approximately 2 miles along the trail.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Perseverance Trailhead on Basin Road, but spaces may be limited during peak times.
Elevation
879 feet above sea level
Coordinates
58.311944° N, -134.375833° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds, especially during the summer months. Bring layers, as weather in Alaska can change quickly. Be cautious of slippery sections on the trail, particularly after rain or during colder months.
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With 4.0 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Baranof Downtown, BW Signature Collection
Downtown Juneau Gold Street Inn
Alaskan Hotel and Bar
Silverbow Inn
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
MENDENHALL CAMPGROUND
9.7 miles away · 70 sites
Overview Mendenhall Campground is situated on the shore of Mendenhall Lake, in view of massive Mendenhall Glacier, about 13 miles from downtown Juneau. The site is a popular destination for viewing beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. Hiking opportunities abound.Recreation The West Glacier Trail, with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet, can be hiked in 5-6 hours roundtrip. The trailhead is a half mile from the campground entrance by road or on the Aak'w Sit' Trail. The .4 mile Tolch Rock Trail i
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the historic mining ruins along the Perseverance Trail and the Mount Roberts Tramway in downtown Juneau.
Wildlife
Hikers may encounter wildlife such as black bears, bald eagles, and various bird species. Always practice bear safety and stay alert.
Cities near Ebner Falls
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