13 Iconic waterfalls in Alaska to visit

Prepare to be mesmerized by two of Alaska’s most spectacular waterfalls — one fierce and the other almost dreamlike. 

Bridal Veil Falls is named for its delicate, lace-like appearance. As the water cascades down a 600-foot cliff, it creates a spray that often envelops the area in a fine mist, imbuing the scene with an ethereal quality. 

Horsetail Falls is just a short distance away, and it complements Bridal Veil with a powerful flow that plunges 300 feet into the canyon below. You can find each of these falls in Keystone Canyon near Valdez, making them an ideal addition to a Princess Alaska cruise port stop.

For cruisetour guests staying at the Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge, the drive between Valdez and the lodge offers a glimpse of both waterfalls, giving you even more opportunities to soak in the natural beauty of Alaska.

Tucked away in the remote landscape surrounding Skagway is a hidden waterfall that cascades down a steep rock face into crystal-clear pools below. And the hike to Burro Creek Falls is an adventure in itself, with rugged terrain and narrow switchbacks that test your stamina, along with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way.

You can visit this waterfall during the Burro Creek Waterfall Lodge & Crab Feast excursion offered by Princess, combining the awe of nature with the comforts of a lodge experience. The excursion begins with a scenic boat ride across the breathtaking Lynn Canal, offering views of America's longest fjord. Once you arrive at Burro Creek Lodge, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the waterfall up close or join a guided hike with a naturalist to learn more about the terrain and wildlife of Alaska.

Gazing at Virgin Creek Falls is a bit like finding hidden treasure. Nestled in the temperate forest of Girdwood, this waterfall is surrounded by towering spruce trees, moss-covered rocks and vibrant ferns that create a natural haven. Accessed via a short hike from the Virgin Creek Trailhead, the falls are a great way to start your vacation before you hit the sea with Princess. If you're lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife along the way.

Just 30 minutes north of Anchorage, you’ll find yourself enveloped by dense forest, the sound of the rushing river growing louder with every step. The trail to Thunderbird Falls winds through the scenic Eklutna Canyon, where the Eklutna River carves its way through the rugged landscape of Alaska. 

As you approach the 200-foot waterfall, the forest clears to reveal the cascade tumbling into the canyon below. Along the 1-mile hike, you’ll discover multiple vantage points, including a viewing platform that offers an unobstructed view of the falls. It all gives you a taste of Alaska’s untamed beauty without venturing far from the city.

Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park is not just another waterfall — it’s one of the most iconic wildlife viewing spots in Alaska. Even if you’ve never been to the area, you’ve likely seen the calendar pictures of brown bears catching salmon in midair as they leap over these falls. Brooks Falls offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness this event up close. 

Although the falls themselves are relatively modest in size, their location within the heart of bear country is what draws so many visitors. During the peak salmon run in July and September, the falls become a feeding ground for dozens of bears. If you take a cruise during these months, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Towering nearly 2,000 feet (that’s taller than the Empire State Building), Pitchfork Falls plunges down the mountainside in an impressive display of power and grace. Its unique name comes from the way that water splits into multiple streams, creating the distinct shape of a pitchfork on its journey to the valley below.

The falls are visible from the Klondike Highway, but you can take a short hike if you want a closer look. The sheer size and power of Pitchfork Falls are mesmerizing as you watch torrents of water thunder down the cliffside and create an echo that fills the valley. In the spring and early summer, when the snowmelt swells the flow, the crashing water sends up a mist that shimmers in the sunlight, amplifying the waterfall's beauty. 

For those looking to explore Skagway further, Princess Cruises offers a variety of excursions that allow you to experience the area's rich history and stunning landscapes, including views of Pitchfork Falls. Consider the Klondike Summit, Liarsville Experience & Gold Panning excursion, where you can take in breathtaking scenery before trying your hand at panning for gold.

At Russian River Falls, the water is alive with movement as salmon leap tirelessly against the rushing current, determined to reach their spawning grounds. Tucked away in the Kenai Peninsula, this waterfall may not be the tallest in Alaska, but it’s renowned for the incredible spectacle of nature unfolding each year during the salmon migration. 

Much like Brooks Falls, bears often gather along the riverbanks, watching intently as the fish battle the falls in a classic Alaska scene. Whether you're an avid fisherman or simply looking to witness this remarkable event, Russian River Falls offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and serenity as you watch the fish and bears coexist.

Ready to venture off the beaten path for some extra breathtaking scenery with a side of solitude? Tanalian Falls, tucked away in the remote beauty of Lake Clark National Park, rewards adventurous souls with a waterfall that crashes over a 30-foot cliff into a rugged gorge below. The 3.3-mile hike from the village of Port Alsworth may take some effort, but the sweeping views of the snow-capped mountains and the sparkling waters of Lake Clark mean you’ll hardly notice the distance. 

Once you reach the falls, you can bask in the tranquility of the cascading water, perfect for a peaceful picnic or some frame-worthy photos. For those seeking an escape away from the crowds, Tanalian Falls delivers in every way.

Tumbling 40 feet over rugged rocks and framed by dense forest, Liberty Falls offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. Located near Chitina, this serene waterfall is a hidden gem for those exploring the Copper River Valley during a Princess Alaska cruisetour. 

A short, easy hike from Liberty Falls Campground brings you right to the falls. And with the nearby Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offering even more opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty Alaska is famous for.

For a truly unique adventure, Winner Creek Falls offers the chance to glide over a scenic gorge on a hand tram, adding a thrilling finale to your hike. Located near Girdwood, this serene waterfall is part of the Winner Creek Trail, which takes you across wooden bridges and through dense, emerald-green forests. 

While smaller than Virgin Creek Falls, Winner Creek Falls tumbles gracefully over moss-covered rocks to offer a peaceful atmosphere that complements the nearby falls. The sound of the water rushing through the narrow gorge, accompanied by the earthy scent of the forest, makes it a must-see for those looking to immerse themselves in Alaska’s natural beauty.

As you cruise through the serene waters of Prince William Sound, Cascade Falls comes into view — a powerful torrent of water plunging down a cliff, and sending mist into the air. This remote waterfall, best viewed from the water, offers a peaceful escape, where the sound of the falls mixes with the calls of bald eagles soaring overhead and the occasional splash of sea otters or seals playing nearby. 

The solitude here, far removed from the bustle of everyday life, is one of the many reasons why Cascade Falls is a highlight for those exploring Prince William Sound by cruise.

Just a short drive from downtown Anchorage, South Fork Eagle River Falls offers a sensory experience with the sound of rushing water and the sight of cascading streams reaching into crystal-clear pools. . This waterfall is part of the South Fork of Eagle River, where the water tumbles over rocks and boulders, creating a series of small but picture-perfect falls. 

 The South Fork Trail, which leads to the falls, winds through alpine meadows and dense forest, with sweeping views of the rugged Chugach Mountains surrounding you. It’s the perfect spot to experience Alaska’s wild beauty without straying too far from the city.

Alaska's waterfalls are gateways to its wild beauty, from the thunderous Pitchfork Falls and the peaceful Cascade Falls to the wildlife-rich Brooks Falls. Each waterfall offers a unique glimpse into Alaska's diverse landscapes, just like the awe-inspiring Alaska glaciers that dot the state's majestic wilderness. 

There's no better way to see these natural wonders than with Princess Cruises. Sail through Alaska's breathtaking landscapes, where you can experience cascading waterfalls like these up close in person, all accompanied by the comforts of a world-class cruise. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime — book your Alaska cruise with Princess today.