When exploring Juneau, there are a lot of stairs and hills to climb. Simply strolling around downtown can feel like you are hiking. But this easy hike is along a rare level walkway that goes just over a mile for a pleasant way to stretch your legs. The Gold Creek Flume Trail heads over a boardwalk of planks and makes this trail fun and accessible for everyone. Take this quick trail when you are in downtown Juneau and experience a piece of the Alaskan wilderness on this smooth and easy hike.
You can start this easy hike from a set of stairs near in the cemetery on Evergreen Street, downtown Juneau. The hike winds through the temperate forest for 1.4 miles on a level out-and-back type hike. The path is covered with a boardwalk all the way.
This hike is level and easy, and accessible for everyone, even the dog (as long as they stay on their leash.) You realize pretty quickly how the trail got the name since it runs from the dam on Gold Creek and over the flume where the city gets its water. A flume is a a deep narrow channel or ravine with a stream running through it. The hike is popular with locals for running and walking, as well as being well frequented by travelers.
The trail runs along the base of Mount Roberts. There is another option for a trail with the same trailhead to head up to the viewing spot on Mount Roberts, so choose the option that works best for you and your group.
The trail begins at the Mt. Roberts Trailhead. There is a short bridge over Gold Creek and then the boardwalk heads out over the flume and through the rain forest. Always be prepared for rain in this wet climate.
Porcupines can be found hiding in the trees around the hike, and dangling from trees and signs. They are generally harmless creatures if left alone. Their vicious quills will hurt you if you touch one.
This easy hike is through the wild Alaskan temperate rainforest. Black bears are quite common in the area, but have rarely been seen on the path. If you are with a group of people and make lots of noise, the risk of an encounter should be minimal.
The trail is best used form April to October, and giant dandelions line the paths in the warmer months. Watch for these and other wildflowers, most prominently blooming in June and July.
Visit the Gold Creek Flume Trail next time you find yourself in downtown Juneau. This quick 30 minute or less hike will refresh your spirit and enchant you with the beauty of Alaska.
