Chugach State Park: Experience Barbara Falls in Winter
4.9
41 Ratings
Anchorage
Experience the frozen beauty of Barbara Falls in Chugach State Park. This easy and exciting hike is perfect for families and offers the chance to learn about Alaska's boreal forests and spot wildlife. Join us now!
Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Barbara Falls - 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 Included
  • Complimentary day packs and trekking poles upon request.
  • Microspikes provided for icy treks.
  • Variety of snacks included.
  • Snow gaiters available on request.
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.
Additional Information

Venturing into Chugach State Park, Barbara Falls is the crème de la crème of waterfalls to explore. Its beauty is amplified when it is encased in ice; just glance at the visual aids! The falls are located just a short walk from the trailhead, making it an essential experience for both out-of-state tourists and permanent Alaskan locals. It’s uncomplicated, quick and thrilling; a trip suited for everyone!

• Embark on a journey to Chugach State Park’s most picturesque frozen waterfall!
• A straightforward, quick, and engaging adventure tailored for all visitors.
• Ideal for family outings with kids! ‍‍‍
• Discover Alaska’s taiga forests with knowledgeable naturalists.
• Chance to spot wildlife such as moose, snowshoe hares, porcupines, voles, and various birds.
• We provide a ready-to-go snack from Kat’s Epic Trail Bites as well as micro-spikes for handling icy terrains.

Are you poised for adventure? Join us, and together we’ll visit the falls!

  • 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.
Location
William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center
West 5th Avenue
Meeting, Transportation, and Parking Information: Our meetup spot is in front of the Egan Center. There are parking garages in the area if you need them. ​You may also choose to meet us at the trailhead using your own arranged transportation, just notify us in advance.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(41 Ratings)
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Lauriefuller
Apr 7, 2024
Beautiful hike - We had a wonderful time hiking - the trail took us though a beautiful wooded area that is actually a rainforest! Guide was very good with our small group - we had a wonderful time - just what we were hoping for
Review provided by Viator
Angelo_c
Apr 1, 2024
Fun hike with beautiful destination and a great guide - Barbara Waterfall in the Eagle River area in March is beautiful as there is still ice and snow but also plenty of water, the combination making for great pictures. The hike on the light snow covered trail is not strenuous and the more observant hiker will spot plenty to enjoy, even if not quite yet Spring
Review provided by Viator
Haocheng_c
Mar 5, 2024
it was excellent... - it was excellent exploration, waterfall is not significant, enjoy in Alaska forest. I strongly recommend
Review provided by Viator
Susan
Mar 3, 2024
Amazing wonder in the woods ❣️ - Great hike (walk) in the woods- beside snowy creeks and beautiful mountains! The waterfall was amazing and a walk back to the van.. good company and guide!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Calikateandco
Feb 25, 2024
Lovely afternoon hike through a winter wonderland - Lovely hike with Leah, she is fantastic and super knowledgeable. Highly recommend. Perfect amount of time. Would absolutely hike again with Go Hike Alaska
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dakota_a
Jan 31, 2024
Fantastic - Hike was beautiful, the guide was fun and knowledgeable and showed us the best spots to take pictures. I would absolutely do this hike again.
Review provided by Viator
E8080nejaned
Jan 24, 2024
Great experience - Wonderful hike, fantastic views, great fun. The frozen waterfall is not to be missed. The guide was lovely and went out of his way to be helpful and to take photos for us .
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lulu_f
Dec 22, 2023
Best experience in anchorage ever!!! - I was soooo glad that I booked this during my trip in Alaska! Matt is so nice and knows a lot about the local things, he took us to explore and hike in the park. The scenery is soooooo beautiful and great! 🥰🥰 I met new friends got nice pictures from Matt and also learned a lot! Believe me you guys must try this one!!
Review provided by Viator
Xinhua_w
Dec 11, 2023
Highly recommend!!! - Many “OMG” and “Wow” views from this beautiful hike! Calm and relaxing! Excellent addition to our trip.
Review provided by Viator
Sandra_a
Nov 26, 2023
Amazing hike! - I loved the hiking! The views were amazing and I loved that I was able to see some parts of the river frozen and the waterfall was amazing and impressive, and even though it was partially frozen, I loved it cause I got to see the best of both sides, the waterfall with running water and also a part of it frozen. It was just perfect!
Review provided by Viator