Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Reid Falls
Reid Falls (also called Gold Creek Falls) is a compact, scenic cascade just outside historic Skagway, Alaska, and makes a perfect quick stop for visitors exploring the Gold Rush-era sites. The falls sit near the Gold Rush Cemetery and are easily reached from town, offering a close-up view of tumbling water framed by forest. The site lies on land owned by DESG within the Skagway Alaska Native Village Statistical Area, designated TRIBL and managed by TRIB, so visitors should be respectful of the tribal lands and features.
The Setting
Reid Falls sits at 538 feet within Skagway Alaska Native Village Statistical Area, in the foothills of Alaska.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Reid Falls is a short, family-friendly out-and-back of about 0.6 miles with roughly 100 feet of elevation gain and an easy overall grade. The route leaves from the Gold Rush Cemetery area and follows a well-trod forest path that is suitable for most hikers and casual visitors; no USFS trail number is listed for this route. Nearby camping is available at the Denver Caboose Cabin, approximately 4.54 km away for those who want to overnight near Skagway.
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 Reid Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Reid Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Reid Falls is during the summer months when the weather is mild, and the trail is easily accessible. However, the falls can be visited year-round, weather permitting.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 38°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Exercise caution near the base of the falls as rocks may be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the fall and winter months.
Current Water Conditions
1,260 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 30 years of record
12.82 ft
Water depth at gauge
38°F
Dangerously coldRisk of cold shock
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is dangerously cold at 38 degrees F, avoid prolonged contact.
About This Gauge
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Reid Falls is located just outside of Skagway, Alaska, near the Gold Rush Cemetery. Visitors can reach the falls by taking a short walk from the cemetery parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the Gold Rush Cemetery, which serves as the starting point for the short walk to the falls.
Elevation
538 feet above sea level
Coordinates
59.473333° N, -135.284722° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls. Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during the summer tourist season.
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For this easy 0.6 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Holland America Skagway Inn
Historic Skagway Inn
Suite 1 Lynn View Lodge
Front Room Lynnview Lodge
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
DENVER CABOOSE CABIN
2.8 miles away · 1 sites
Overview This unique cabin is a refurbished 1960s railroad caboose that is retired from the White Pass and Yukon Railroad. It is an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts who want to hike to the Denver Glacier. Access to Denver Caboose Cabin is via the White Pass and Yukon Railroad from May 1 to September 30. The cabin is closed to reservations in the off-season, since the surrounding area is owned by the railroad. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety and must bring s
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Gold Rush Cemetery, Skagway town center, White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife in the area.
Cities near Reid Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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