Winner Creek Falls is a rather small waterfall situated near the town of Girdwood, Alaska. Tourists from all over the state come to the area, not for the waterfall, but for the hiking trails that lead into Winner Creek Gorge. The trail itself is considered to be one of the most scenic trails in all of Southcentral Alaska, providing hikers with breathtaking views of Turnagain Arm and its surrounding mountains.
Details about Winner Creek Falls
The 2-mile round trip hike starts at Glacier Valley Drive near Alyeska Resort and descends through vast forests filled with Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and cottonwoods, before crossing over Winner creek. While you can opt to hike the terrain and various trails that lead into the gorge, many decide to enjoy the 80-foot long hand tram suspended from cables above the gorge for breathtaking aerial views of the ravine below and miles of scenic mountain peaks above. Once across the bridge you’ll be able to enjoy views of several waterfalls cascading down rocky slopes.
Along your hike you will encounter Winner Creek Falls. Although it’s only 10 feet tall, it still gives off the majestic vibe as if it were 100 feet tall. The waters are fed by a narrow river through large boulders and provides a good swimming hole for a hot summer day. Of course most will still say the hiking trail to the Gorge is the reason they found this falls, but there are some like us who say the waterfall is the reason they discovered the Gorge.
Directions to Winner Creek Falls
To get to Winner Creek Falls in Girdwood, Alaska, start by heading south on the Seward Highway. Turn left onto Alyeska Highway and drive for 2 miles until you reach the base of Mt. Alyeska Ski Resort.
At this point, take a right onto Winner Creek Trail Road and follow it for 1 mile until you reach an intersection with another road (Eklutna Lake Road). Take a left at this intersection and continue driving for about 0.5 miles until you see signs for Winner Creek Falls parking area on your right-hand side.
Park here and follow the trailhead which will lead you through a scenic forested path before opening up to reveal beautiful views of Winner Creek Falls! Enjoy your hike!
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