Salmon Creek Trail — Attraction in Juneau

Salmon Creek Trail, located just north of downtown Juneau, Alaska, is a beautiful and accessible route that showcases the region’s lush rainforest scenery and flowing mountain waters. The trail begins near the Salmon Creek Dam access road and follows the creek upstream through a dense canopy of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and moss-covered understory, offering an immersive experience in the Tongass National Forest ecosystem.

The hike is moderate in difficulty, with a gradual elevation gain that makes it suitable for most hikers. The well-maintained gravel path follows the old road built for dam maintenance, providing a smooth and consistent surface. Along the way, visitors encounter small waterfalls, bridges, and several scenic spots where the creek cascades over rocks, creating excellent opportunities for photography—especially in early summer when water levels are high and wildflowers line the trail.

At the end of the trail lies the historic Salmon Creek Dam, constructed in 1914. This structure was among the first concrete arch dams built in the United States, and it remains an impressive engineering landmark nestled within pristine wilderness. The reservoir behind the dam offers tranquil reflections of the surrounding peaks and dense forest, a peaceful contrast to the rushing waters below.

Photographers will find this trail particularly rewarding in the morning or late afternoon when soft light filters through the trees and highlights the vibrant greens of the moss and ferns. In autumn, the mix of golden leaves and clear waters creates striking compositions, while during salmon season, visitors may even spot fish in the creek’s lower sections.

Salmon Creek Trail is a perfect balance between accessibility and natural beauty—close to Juneau yet deeply immersed in nature. It’s a great choice for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers seeking a quiet escape just minutes...

This is a 3.5 mile, 1,100 feet altitude gain trail which runs alongside Salmon Creek. It begins as a 2-mile steep gravel road that is good for biking, hiking, stroller running, etc. Then it takes you through a beautiful forest trail recently upgraded by Trailmix's wonderful volunteers (🙏Thank you Trailmix!!!♥️ You rock!!!😇). Be on the lookout for delicious berries and beautiful wildflowers in season. The last mile or so is a very steep ascent to the dam for the most amazing views of water, mountains, forest and nature. At the reservoir you can relax, enjoy the view from the platform, meditate, fish for eastern brook trout, have a picnic, chat with friends... Well worth the hike to the 1914 Dam. This is our main water source so please keep it clean and pick up...

Well maintained trail to Salmon Creek Dam and reservoir. The dam was built in 1914 and serves at the Juneau Community’s drinking water reservoir. Trail is in great shape. It is about 6.6 miles round trip on gravel trail with the last 1.25 miles on maintained trail through tall spruce and hemlock. There are roots exposed and a steep exposed section with stairs. The water is stunning jade green in color with cascading waterfalls from the surrounding basin.

Dogs are welcome with the exception of up to the reservoir.

Wear good tread hiking shoes if doing this in the rain as the roots and rocks...