Liberty Falls Trail

The feel

The trail goes up through spruce forest and then climbs a steep ridgeline. Boulders and rocks on the ridge call for some scrambling, and the ridge ends at a clearing that overlooks a lake, with views of the Wrangell and Chugach Mountain Ranges and the Copper River.

This is not the trail to the waterfall. To see Liberty Falls itself, walk over to the campground, which sits beside the cascading falls and creek.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 2 to 2.4 miles total, with 561 ft of gain. Spruce forest, then a steep ridgeline with some rock scrambling, ending in a clearing above a lake.

Time

1 to 1.5 hours.

Parking

A sign and gravel drive on the south side of the Edgerton Highway at mile 23.3, 100 yards before the Liberty Falls State Recreation Site campground. A trail register marks the start.

Fees and passes

Camping at the recreation site is $30 per site. No trail fee is stated.

Kids

Rated moderate, with steep areas and rock scrambling.

Hazards

Bears are frequently seen here. The trail crosses private property, so stay on the trail.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and water are at the campground.

Mingo says

Bring bug spray, since it is recommended here. Treat the ridge as a slow, hands-on scramble, not a quick stroll.

Before you go

• Sign the trail register at the start.
• Call the BLM Glennallen Field Office at (907) 822-3217 for trail details.
• Campsites are first come, first served with no online reservations; call (907) 823-2265 for current information.
• Bring your own firewood if you camp; none is provided.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.