Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Fish Ladder
The Fish Ladder in Alaska is a man-made waterway built to help migrating salmon make their way upstream during the spawning season. Rather than a natural waterfall, this engineered structure—commonly called a fish ladder (or fishway, fish pass, fish steps)—creates a series of pools or channels around a barrier and provides aquatic animals (particularly fish) a "detour" to facilitate the natural movements and migrations of diadromous and potamodromous species. It’s a fascinating spot to watch salmon negotiating the flows and to learn about how people and wildlife share river corridors. The viewing area is compact but scenic, offering a close-up look at migration behavior and surrounding riverine habitat. For overnight options, Bakewell Lake Cabin is about 3.4 km away, making this an easy day visit from nearby camping. The site is family-friendly and popular with photographers and nature lovers hoping to time a visit with peak salmon runs.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.2-mile out-and-back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to the Fish Ladder is a short 0.2-mile out-and-back with roughly 50 feet of elevation gain and an easy difficulty rating. The path is short and straightforward, suitable for most visitors including families with children, and leads directly to a viewing area at the ladder. Surface, grade, and formal trail class details are not specified in the available data, but the route is described as well-maintained and easy to navigate.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Fish Ladder?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Fish Ladder?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late summer to early fall is the best time to visit, as this is when salmon are most active in the ladder.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of wildlife, especially bears, during salmon spawning season. Stay on designated paths and follow all posted signs.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 22 miles away
733 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 107 years of record
2.09 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The Fish Ladder is located in Juneau, Alaska, near the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Visitors can access it via a short drive from downtown Juneau, followed by a brief walk.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, which serves as the primary access point.
Elevation
154 feet above sea level
Coordinates
55.293056° N, -130.651944° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the salmon spawning season for the best experience. Bring binoculars for a closer look at the fish and wildlife. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as weather in Alaska can change quickly.
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For this easy 0.2 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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 Campground
BAKEWELL LAKE CABIN
2.1 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Bakewell Lake Cabin is located on the mainland, near the Bakewell Arm of Smeaton Bay. It is within the Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness and is an ideal retreat for families with kids or anyone who enjoys relaxing days on the beach. The cabin also offers the chance to enjoy a variety of recreational activities and sightseeing year-round.The site can be accessed by float plane or by boating into Smeaton Bay and then canoeing or kayaking two miles to the cabin. Guests are responsib
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Nearby Attractions
Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls, and the Tongass National Forest.
Wildlife
Visitors may see salmon, bald eagles, and occasionally bears in the area.
Cities near Fish Ladder
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