Nugget Falls is a waterfall located near the city of Juneau, Alaska. It is situated on the east side of the Mendenhall Glacier and can be accessed via an easy hike from the nearby visitor center. The falls are approximately 200 feet tall and have become a popular tourist attraction due to their beauty and accessibility.
Details about Nugget Falls
The waterfall cascades down Nugget Creek over three distinct tiers before reaching its final destination at Mendenhall Lake below. Despite being relatively small compared to other Alaskan waterfalls, Nugget Falls has gained notoriety for its unique appearance and stunning views of surrounding glaciers, mountains, forests, and wildlife.
You can often take advantage of the many opportunities for photography or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that comes with standing beneath such a powerful natural wonder. There are also various trails which lead further into Tongass National Forest where you and your family can explore even more scenic wilderness all throughout Southeast Alaska’s temperate rainforest ecosystem.
No matter what brings you to Juneau or why you visit this beautiful corner of Alaska, make some time for a trip up to Nugget Falls.
Directions to Nugget Falls
It can be accessed from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and is approximately 1 mile away.
1. Take Egan Drive South toward Thane Road for 3 miles until you reach the entrance of the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center on your right hand side.
2. After entering the visitor center, follow signs that lead you to Nugget Falls which will take you along West Glacier Spur Road for about half a mile until you reach an intersection with View Point Trail/West Glacier Spur Loop Trail junction sign on your left hand side (you’ll also see “Nugget Falls” written here).
3. Turn left onto View Point Trail and continue following this trail until it splits into two paths – one leading up hill and one leading down hill (the downhill path is what we need).
4. Follow this downhill path for another 0.2 miles until you get to Nugget Falls! Enjoy!
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