Silver Salmon Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Silver Salmon Falls
Silver Salmon Falls is a compact, scenic cascade located within Tongass National Forest in Alaska, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are reached via the Staney 2050402 Road (USFS Trail #542050402), making them an approachable destination for a short outing on federally managed forest land. The setting is ideal for visitors looking for a brief nature stop: the hike to the falls is about 1.0 mile round trip with roughly 100 feet of elevation gain, so it’s well suited to most abilities. Overnight options are nearby — Staney Creek Cabin lies approximately 4.85 km from the trail, providing a convenient base for longer stays and further exploration of the area.
The Setting
Silver Salmon Falls sits at 85 feet within Tongass National Forest, in the coastal lowlands of Alaska.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Staney 2050402 Road (#542050402), a 1.0-mile out-and-back trail over imported loose material. Expect 100 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
STANEY 2050402 ROAD #542050402
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.84 miTrail Description
Trail: STANEY 2050402 ROAD (USFS Trail #542050402). Length: ~1.0 mile out-and-back (USFS GIS miles: 0.84). Elevation gain: ~100 feet. Difficulty: Easy. Trail class: 3. Surface: IMPORTED LOOSE MATERIAL. Trail type: out-and-back. Per USFS data, this short route is classified as Class 3 and is surfaced with imported loose material, so hikers should expect loose footing in places despite the overall short distance and modest climb. The trail and surrounding lands are managed by the U.S. Forest Service in Tongass National Forest; the nearest developed overnight option is Staney Creek Cabin, about 4.85 km away.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect to see salmon leaping up the falls during the spawning season, typically in late summer. Brown bears are commonly seen fishing in the area, making it a prime location for wildlife observation and photography.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Silver Salmon Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
Permit required
A permit is required to access Katmai National Park. Visitors must also attend a mandatory bear safety orientation upon arrival at Brooks Camp.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Silver Salmon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the salmon run, which usually occurs from late June to September. This is also when brown bears are most active in the area.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Summer and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Tongass National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 44°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should be aware of bear activity in the area and follow all park guidelines for bear safety. Always stay on designated trails and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for rain and cold temperatures.
Current Water Conditions
323 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 36 years of record
8.22 ft
Water depth at gauge
44°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
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 very cold at 44 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Silver Salmon Falls is located within Katmai National Park, which is accessible only by plane or boat. Visitors typically fly into King Salmon, Alaska, and then take a floatplane to Brooks Camp. From Brooks Camp, the falls are accessible via a short walk.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is no parking available as the area is only accessible by floatplane or boat.
Elevation
85 feet above sea level
Coordinates
55.791389° N, -133.094722° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for wildlife viewing. Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Be sure to follow all park guidelines for bear safety.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.0 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
STANEY CREEK CABIN
3.0 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Staney Creek Cabin offers visitors recreation, relaxation and a unique lodging experience on Prince of Wales Island in Alaska's Tongass National Forest. The remote site offers a scenic setting for fishing, hiking, hunting and wildlife viewing, all within the vicinity of the cabin. The site can be accessed by vehicle and a half-mile hike, boat or by float plane. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities. Recreation
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Naukati Bay, Alaska
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Naukati Bay, Alaska on SoakingSprings.
Explore Alaska springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Brooks Falls, Brooks Camp, and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.
Wildlife
Brown bears, salmon, bald eagles, and other Alaskan wildlife are commonly seen in the area.
Cities near Silver Salmon Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Silver Salmon Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.