Experience Skagway's Waterfalls On The Beautiful Icy Lake Trail In Alaska
By Megan McDonald
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Published October 22, 2019
Alaska has a ton of amazing waterfalls, all over our state. If you’re in Skagway and you are looking for a beautiful trail with some incredible water features, get on the Icy Lake Trail and be wowed by some of the prettiest waterfalls in the area!
This lovely trail is located in the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park in Skagway, Alaska.
There's quite a few great trails in this park that rate from easy to hard. The Icy Lake Trail is rated moderate, and is easy enough for a wide range of skill levels!
The trailhead is easy to find and centrally located to downtown Skagway
There's also lots of close parking right at the start of the trailhead. The trail starts very close to Skagway Harbor, which makes it a great hike if you're visiting on a ship!
The trail is primarily level, with only 830 feet of elevation gain.
The first half mile is the steepest portion of the entire trail, so you get the elevation gain out of the way quickly. After that it levels out as you hike through the forest to the lake.
There are a couple of beautiful waterfalls on the hike, including one large one at the end.
As you end the trail you'll hike down a steep portion towards Reed Lake Falls, which are very impressive. The falls are stunning as they tumble down a series of rocks and through the local plant life.
The falls can be deep and swift moving, so practice caution while climbing around the area.
The water is also very cold, although stunning. Find good purchase when you stop to take photos, and relax and hear the roar of the water!
The entire trail is only three miles long, out and back.
Even stopping to take photos it shouldn't take you longer than three hours to complete from Skagway Harbor. You can also pair this hike with Lowery Dewy Lake Trail, and make a day of seeing the beautiful lakes of the area.
The trail is open and accessible all year long!
The waterfalls may be frozen over at some points during the year, but the views are still spectacular. If heading out in the winter, make sure to have grips on your shoes so you don't slip during your hike!
Have you hiked the Icy Lake Trail in Skagway? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
After your incredible hike make sure to check out The Popcorn Emporium In This One Alaska Town And It’s Downright Amazing!
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Icy Lake, Skagway, AK 99840, USA