Nugget Falls

Nugget Falls drops in two distinct tiers, with the upper section falling about 100 feet and the lower section plunging approximately 280 feet into Mendenhall Lake. The water flows over dark rock faces surrounded by steep terrain before reaching the calm waters below.

The waterfall emerged as the Mendenhall Glacier retreated over recent decades, allowing meltwater from Nugget Glacier to create this cascade. Before this recession, the water flowed directly onto the glacier's ice surface rather than falling into the lake.

The waterfall forms part of the Tongass National Forest ecosystem, which holds importance for Indigenous communities who maintain connections to these natural landmarks.

A trail of roughly one mile from the Mendenhall Visitor Center winds through mossy rainforest to reach a gravel viewing area at the waterfall's base. The path is relatively easy to walk, and several overlooks provide viewing opportunities before you arrive at the main vantage point.

The meltwater originates from a glacier hanging high on the mountainside, which gives the water a milky blue color that changes with the seasons. Pieces of ice calved from Mendenhall Glacier sometimes float near the waterfall's base, creating an unusual scene.

Location: Alaska

Part of: Nugget Creek

GPS coordinates: 58.42705,-134.53775

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02