Pitchfork Falls, Skagway, AK
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Pitchfork Falls Viewpoint

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

Witness the dramatic 600m drop of Pitchfork Falls, a unique cascade that forks into a stunning spectacle above Goat Lake.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, better light

CrowdMedium
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Pitchfork Falls, Skagway, AK

Pitchfork Falls Viewpoint

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, better light

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the dramatic 600m drop of Pitchfork Falls, a unique cascade that forks into a stunning spectacle above Goat Lake.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-see Skagway excursion for its breathtaking, uniquely forked waterfall."

Vertical photo
TIP

Combine with Gold Rush History

Many Skagway excursions include Pitchfork Falls and the historic Gold Rush Cemetery. :world_map:

Cruise Excursion Options

Cruise lines offer tours that often feature this viewpoint. Book in advance for best availability. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Forked Cascade

The Forked Cascade

Overlooking Goat Lake

Witness the spectacular 600m drop where the water splits, creating a unique forked waterfall.

Goat Lake Vista

Goat Lake Vista

Below the falls

Admire the serene Goat Lake, the final destination of the impressive Pitchfork Falls.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Pitchfork Falls

Pitchfork Falls is best viewed from a distance, often as part of a larger Skagway excursion. Consider cruise line tours or independent options for the most scenic routes. Plan for varying weather conditions.

Best Viewing Experience

The falls are a dramatic sight, especially when the water forks into Goat Lake. While direct access is limited, viewpoints offer stunning panoramas. Combine with nearby historical sites for a fuller Skagway experience.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clearer skies, better light
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Are you going on an alaskan cruise? Well if one of your stops is skagway alaska you will want to go here! Gold rush cemetary and reid falls. Let me show you how to get there. #reidfalls #lowerreidfalls #goldrushcemetary #skagwayalaska #skagway #alaskacruise #alaskahiking #gohere #alaskaexcursion #mustseealaska @Woodlands Clothing @Holland America Line @carnival @Princess Cruises @Royal Caribbean @...
@dutchworld_americangirl
12K likes • 110.4K views

Combine with Gold Rush History

Many Skagway excursions include Pitchfork Falls and the historic Gold Rush Cemetery. :world_map:

Cruise Excursion Options

Cruise lines offer tours that often feature this viewpoint. Book in advance for best availability. :ticket:

My favorite Excursion The White Pass Railway Train Ride 🚂 📍Skagway, Alaska Breathtaking views onboard this train. #whitepassrailway #whitepassrailroad #skagwayalaska #skagwayak #choosefun #carnivalspirit #cruiselife #klondikegoldrush #carnivalcruiseexcursion #whitepasstrain #alaska2023 #cruisealaska #cruisealaska2023 #travelbucketlist #traveltips #blogaboutitall
@blogaboutitall
4.5K likes • 159.3K views

Dress for Alaskan Weather

Layers are key! Expect cool temperatures and potential rain, even in summer. :cloud:

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Tips

from all over the internet

Combine with Gold Rush History

Many Skagway excursions include Pitchfork Falls and the historic Gold Rush Cemetery. :world_map:

Cruise Excursion Options

Cruise lines offer tours that often feature this viewpoint. Book in advance for best availability. :ticket:

Dress for Alaskan Weather

Layers are key! Expect cool temperatures and potential rain, even in summer. :cloud:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the dramatic 600m drop and the unique forked cascade of Pitchfork Falls, often calling it a must-see on Skagway excursions. The surrounding natural beauty and the ease of access via organized tours are frequently praised. Some wish for closer access, but the provided viewpoints are generally considered spectacular.

What People Like

Spectacular forked waterfall
Dramatic 600m drop
Easy access via tours

What People Dislike

Limited close-up access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pitchfork Falls is typically accessed via organized tours or excursions from Skagway. Many cruise line excursions combine a visit to the falls with the Gold Rush Cemetery and other local attractions. Independent travel might involve specific tour operators or scenic drives. TikTok

Direct public road access to a close viewpoint for Pitchfork Falls is limited. Most visitors experience it through guided tours that utilize specific scenic routes. TikTok

Look for tours that specifically mention Pitchfork Falls or Reid Falls. The White Pass Railway is a popular option for scenic views of the surrounding landscape, though it doesn't directly stop at the falls viewpoint. TikTok

Direct hiking trails to the base of Pitchfork Falls are generally not recommended or accessible for tourists due to the steep terrain and sheer drop. Viewpoints are the primary way to experience the falls. TikTok

The viewpoint for Pitchfork Falls is typically a short drive from Skagway, often part of a loop that includes other Skagway attractions. Exact distances vary depending on the tour route. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the viewpoint itself is usually included in the price of an excursion or tour. You won't typically buy a separate ticket just for the falls. TikTok

There are generally no direct entrance fees for the viewpoint itself, as it's often accessed via public roads or tour routes. Fees are associated with the tours or excursions you book. TikTok

Booking through your cruise line is convenient, but independent tour operators in Skagway may offer competitive pricing and different itineraries. Research options in advance. TikTok

Tour operating hours are dependent on cruise ship schedules and the season, typically running during daylight hours throughout the summer months. TikTok

While some scenic drives might pass near the area, accessing the best viewpoints is often facilitated by organized tours that know the optimal locations and routes. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, while mornings can offer clearer skies. Consider the angle of the sun to avoid harsh shadows on the falls. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and the surrounding landscape. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures if conditions are dim. :camerawithflash:

Tour guides will often take you to the most picturesque viewpoints. Look for spots that capture both the forked nature of the falls and the expanse of Goat Lake below. TikTok

Due to safety and terrain, you generally view Pitchfork Falls from designated viewpoints, not from its base or immediate vicinity. TikTok

Be mindful of spray from the falls, especially if you're near an overlook. Protect your camera gear from moisture. :iphone:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Cruise Ship Passengers

For cruise ship passengers docking in Skagway, Pitchfork Falls is a common and highly recommended sight. Most cruise lines offer excursions that include this viewpoint, often combined with the Gold Rush Cemetery. Booking directly through your cruise line is convenient and ensures timely return to the ship. TikTok

Alternatively, independent tour operators in Skagway offer similar itineraries, sometimes at a more competitive price. Research these options beforehand to find the best fit for your interests and budget. Remember to factor in travel time to and from the port when choosing an excursion. TikTok

Nature & Photography Enthusiasts

Pitchfork Falls offers a unique photographic opportunity with its distinctive forked cascade. Photographers will appreciate the dramatic scale and the interplay of water and rock. Aim for late afternoon for the best light, and consider a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the falls and the surrounding landscape. TikTok

While direct hiking to the falls is not feasible, the accessible viewpoints provide excellent vantage points. Be prepared for potential mist and bring protective gear for your camera. The natural beauty of the area makes it a rewarding destination for anyone looking to capture stunning Alaskan scenery. :camerawithflash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Pitchfork Falls

Pitchfork Falls is a breathtaking natural spectacle in Skagway, Alaska, characterized by its dramatic 600-meter drop. What makes it particularly unique is how the water stream forks as it descends, creating a visually striking 'pitchfork' effect before it reaches Goat Lake far below. This geological feature is a highlight for many visitors exploring the Skagway area, often included in excursions that showcase the region's rugged beauty. TikTok

The falls are best appreciated from designated viewpoints, which are typically part of organized tours. These tours often combine the natural wonder of Pitchfork Falls with historical sites like the Gold Rush Cemetery, offering a comprehensive Skagway experience. The sheer scale and the distinctive forked cascade make it a memorable sight for travelers. TikTok

While direct access to the base of the falls is not feasible for tourists due to the challenging terrain, the accessible viewpoints provide stunning panoramas. The surrounding landscape, with Goat Lake serving as the final destination for the water, adds to the overall scenic appeal. It's a prime example of Alaska's raw and untamed natural beauty.

Skagway Excursions & Viewing

Experiencing Pitchfork Falls is almost always tied to broader excursions offered in Skagway, a popular stop for Alaskan cruises. Many visitors discover the falls through cruise line-organized tours or independent operators based in town. These excursions are designed to maximize the scenic and historical aspects of the Skagway area, often including the Gold Rush Cemetery and other points of interest. TikTok

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is a famous way to see the dramatic landscapes around Skagway, though it doesn't directly stop at Pitchfork Falls. However, the train journey itself offers incredible vistas of mountains, glaciers, and gorges, providing a context for the powerful natural forces that shape the region. TikTok

When planning your visit, consider booking tours that explicitly mention Pitchfork Falls or Reid Falls. This ensures you'll be taken to the optimal viewing locations. It's advisable to book these in advance, especially during peak cruise season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. TikTok

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