Winter Waterfall Walk
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Barbara Falls is the best waterfall to visit in the Chugach State Park. It's even more fascinating when it's frozen solid; just look at the pictures! With the falls literally minutes away from the trailhead, this is a MUST-DO for any out-of-state visitor or long-term Alaskan resident. It's easy, brief and exciting making it truly a tour for everyone!
• Hike to Chugach State Park's most photogenic waterfall, frozen-solid!
• An easy, brief, and compelling experience designed for all to enjoy.
• Perfect for families with children!
• Learn about Alaska's boreal forests from skilled naturalists.
• Opportunity for wildlife sightings, including moose, snowshoe hare, porcupine, voles, birds.
• Provisions include a prepacked snack, courtesy of Kat’s Epic Trail Bites, and micro-spikes for icy terrain.
Are you ready? Let's go check out the falls together!
Available options
Winter Waterfall Walk
What's included
Day packs and trekking poles available upon request. Microspikes provided for icy conditions.
Granola bar
Snow gaiters available upon request.
Detailed itinerary
1
We start the tour by following the gorgeous South Fork Eagle River, pausing to observe the ice-dam formations created by frigid-cold and fast-moving water. Ice crystals appear to grow from the surface of the water, slowing and raising the water level in terrific ways. Just minutes later, we arrive at the base of the magical 25-foot waterfall where you see shimmering icicles, fascinating ice bridges and falling water frozen-in-time.
After stocking up a store of photos to show your friends and family, we embark on a short nature walk. You will see the stunning vegetation living within our diverse boreal forests. Towering species such as white spruces, paper birches, and aspens drape the frozen ground below. We will explain the intriguing biological mysteries happening within the lichen, mosses, and trees that surround us. We could also see local wildlife, such as: moose, hare, rodents, and birds.
Transportation included in total time of tour:
(1 hour transportation & 4 hours hiking)
What's not included
No hotel, B&B, Air B&B, or other accommodation pickups.
Must meet at designated meeting location or provide own transportation to trailhead.
Snowboots or high-top hiking shoes.
Appropriate clothing for snow.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
42 reviews
5★
39
4★
2
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Tripadvisor
5.0
19 reviews
5★
19
4★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No experience required, but you should be able to walk at least 2 miles on flat pavement, or 2 miles of uneven rolling terrain over the course of ~ 2 hours
Participation waiver signature required prior to departure.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know and we will accommodate you with a different snack option.
Appropriate winter clothing and footwear is the guests responsibility.
Meeting point
We meet outside the Egan Center. Please be parked and ready 15 minutes before the start time to ensure a timely departure. All tours leave no later than 5 minutes after the start time. There is no parking at the Egan Center. The JCPenney Parking Garage is the closest option, at 414 W 6th Ave.
About Anchorage
Anchorage is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Alaska, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the 'City of Lights and Flowers,' it serves as the perfect gateway to the vast wilderness of the Last Frontier, with easy access to stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
A scenic 11-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet, wildlife, and the Chugach Mountains. Perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free
Anchorage Museum
A premier cultural and historical museum showcasing Alaska's art, history, and indigenous cultures. Features a large collection of Alaska Native art and contemporary exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
$20 for adults, discounts available
Chugach State Park
A vast state park offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning alpine scenery. Features over 495,000 acres of wilderness just minutes from downtown Anchorage.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Free
Alaska Native Heritage Center
A cultural center dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditions, history, and art of Alaska's indigenous peoples. Features live performances, cultural demonstrations, and exhibits.
Cultural
2-3 hours
$25 for adults, discounts available
Flattop Mountain
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Anchorage and the surrounding mountains. A moderate hike that is accessible year-round.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salmon
Fresh, wild-caught salmon is a staple of Alaskan cuisine, often grilled, smoked, or baked.
Main Dish
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
King Crab
Alaska is famous for its king crab, which is typically steamed or grilled and served with butter.
Main Dish
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Reindeer Sausage
A unique Alaskan specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.
Main Dish
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Baked Alaska
A classic dessert featuring layers of ice cream and cake, topped with meringue and torched.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Wildlife viewing
Kayaking
Dog sledding
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Anchorage, offering the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours, known as the 'Midnight Sun.' This is the best time for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring the city's attractions.
10°C to 20°C
50°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog, Other indigenous languages
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Anchorage is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise common sense and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 12 km from city center
By bus
Downtown Anchorage Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The People Mover bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes covering most of the city. Buses are well-maintained and punctual.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Anchorage
South Anchorage
West Anchorage
Midtown Anchorage
Day trips
Chugach National Forest
20 km from Anchorage • Half-day to full day
A vast national forest offering stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Girdwood and Alyeska Resort
40 km from Anchorage • Full day
A scenic mountain town and ski resort offering year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and the famous Alyeska Tram.
Whittier
80 km from Anchorage • Full day
A small town accessible by tunnel, offering stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and the start of the famous Prince William Sound cruise.
Festivals
Anchorage Fur Rendezvous • February
Midnight Sun Festival • June
Anchorage Market and Festival • May to September
Pro tips
- Visit the Anchorage Museum for a comprehensive overview of Alaska's history and culture
- Take a scenic flightseeing tour to fully appreciate the beauty of Alaska's landscapes
- Go wildlife viewing in the early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting animals
- Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Anchorage can be unpredictable and change rapidly
- Try local Alaskan cuisine, such as fresh seafood, wild game, and reindeer sausage
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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