Lower Reid Waterfall is an extremely easy to get to waterfall just a few miles from Skagway, Alaska. When we say easy we meen anyone with two feet can do it as you only have to walk about 100 feet from the parking area. It is one of the more beautiful and unique waterfalls in the state with how it twists and turns around the mountain. In total it drops over 200 feet down and continues down the river. This magnificent natural wonder can be seen from many points along the shoreline of Skagway Bay, but making the small hike up for a closer look is well worth it.
Details about Lower Reid Waterfall
We do want to mention that there is also an Upper Reid Waterfall, but it isn’t accessible by the same trail that goes to the Lower falls. In fact there is a completely different 5 mile trail you need to take to reach that natural wonder. To make it even more confusing don’t use the trail named Upper Reid Waterfall trail as that actually doesn’t take you there.
With that said, first start with Lower Reid Falls as it’s still very picturesque and has been featured on postcards for more than 100 years. Within 5 minutes of parking you will already be provided with an unforgettable experience and give you the mental energy to figure out how to adventure up to the Upper tier.
Directions to Lower Reid Waterfall
1. Take Broadway Street and head south for 0.3 miles until you reach 2nd Ave.
2. Turn right onto 2nd Ave and continue for 1 mile until you enter the Klondike Highway (Highway 98).
3. Drive east on the Klondike Highway for 6 miles to River Road (Skagway-Dyea Road) and turn left onto it.
4. Follow River Road north for 4 miles until you see a sign indicating a parking area with access to Lower Reid Falls Trailhead on your right side of the road. Park here to begin your hike!
Thunderbird Falls