Suicide Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (1)
About Suicide Falls
Suicide Falls sits tucked into Alaska’s rugged backcountry, offering a quiet, off-the-beaten-path cascade for hikers who enjoy solitude and wild scenery. The waterfall’s exact height and seasonal flow aren’t widely documented, which only adds to its remote, exploratory appeal. Visitors should expect classic Alaskan wilderness — rocky ridgelines, dense vegetation in places, and expansive natural views rather than developed viewpoints or interpretive facilities. Access to the falls is most commonly made via a short but engaging outing: the approach is about 2.4 miles round-trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate in difficulty and typically done as an out-and-back. Because the route isn’t a heavily maintained or heavily signed attraction, it rewards hikers who come prepared with basic navigation skills and a spirit for self-guided discovery.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Round-trip distance: 2.4 miles; elevation gain: ~350 ft; difficulty: moderate; trail type: out-and-back. The route to Suicide Falls is not a widely documented, heavily maintained trail and may require some off-trail navigation or route-finding. Expect variable footing and natural surfaces rather than paved or built tread; average grade is moderate given the modest elevation gain. There is no commonly cited USFS trail name or number for this approach, so bring a map, GPS or compass and be prepared for primitive trail conditions.
What to Expect
Expect a remote and tranquil experience surrounded by Alaska's pristine wilderness. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the area may be slippery or muddy depending on recent weather conditions.
Accessibility
The trail to Suicide Falls is not accessible for individuals with mobility challenges due to rugged and undeveloped terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Suicide Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Suicide Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Summer is typically the best time to visit due to longer daylight hours and more favorable weather conditions. However, the waterfall may be accessible year-round for experienced adventurers.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 39°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should be prepared for remote wilderness conditions. Carry bear spray, be aware of wildlife, and watch for slippery or uneven terrain. Cell phone service may be limited or unavailable.
Current Water Conditions
150 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 47 years of record
6.82 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 lower than usual 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 (14 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
142 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
128 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
132 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
117 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
107 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
106 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
92 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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.
3-meter lidar measures about 239 feet of descent through Suicide Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 293 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 186 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 266 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 293 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 239 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Access to Suicide Falls may require navigating unmarked trails or off-trail hiking through dense forest. It is recommended to consult local guides or experienced hikers familiar with the area for directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is uncertain. Visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at informal pullouts.
Elevation
351 feet above sea level
Coordinates
58.275556° N, -134.353611° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device, as trails may not be marked. Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers to prepare for changing weather conditions. Inform someone of your plans before heading out.
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.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but the surrounding wilderness offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring Alaska's natural beauty.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, and birds. Visitors should exercise caution and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Suicide Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Suicide Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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