Liberty Falls Trail

Liberty Falls Trail is one of those hidden roadside gems that most visitors blow right past on their way to the Wrangell-St. Elias backcountry. Starting near the visitor center off the Edgerton Highway, this short but rewarding hike follows a user-maintained path through dense boreal forest to a thundering waterfall that has no business being this easy to reach. The trail is rough and informal — expect roots, uneven footing, and sections that can get slippery when wet. This is Alaska, not a manicured national park boardwalk, and the unmaintained nature of the path is part of its charm. The payoff is Liberty Falls itself, a powerful cascade that crashes through a rocky gorge with surprising force. This trail is perfect for travelers looking to stretch their legs during the long drive in, or anyone who wants a quick taste of Wrangell-St. Elias without committing to a multi-day expedition.