Res Pass South to Juneau Creek Falls

The feel

The Resurrection Pass trail climbs gradually for its first 3 miles through spruce and birch forest above the Kenai River. Then it levels off in the wide Juneau Creek valley, passing lakes, muskegs and groves of aspens.

The trailhead is relatively busy by Alaska standards, with lots of hikers and bikers passing through. This is bear country, so hikers and bikers share the trail with wildlife as well as each other. The destination is Juneau Creek Falls, reached by a side trail off the main route.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 5.8 to 7.5 miles, with 800 to 1,050 ft of gain. The main trail runs about 3.9 miles in, until you can hear the falls; a clear side trail leads into the forest on your right. If you reach the bridge over Juneau Creek, you have gone about .1 mile too far.

Time

About 3 hours.

Crowds and best time

Busy, with lots of hikers and bikers. Public use is moderate.

Parking

The trailhead parking area is at mile 53.2 on the Sterling Highway, about 6 miles west of Cooper Landing.

Fees and passes

No parking fee.

Hazards

Bears and moose; rapid weather changes; Giardia could be present in the water.

Bathrooms and water

Filter surface water before drinking.

Season and access

June to October. The trail is closed to motorized vehicles May 1 to November 30.

Mingo says

Go from mid-June through October, once snow has cleared the higher elevations. Listen for the falls, since the side trail on your right comes before the Juneau Creek bridge.

Before you go

• Turn north into the parking area at mile 53.2 on the Sterling Highway.
• Carry a filter for creek water, since Giardia could be present.
• Call the Seward Ranger District at (907) 288-3178 before you go.
• Be ready for rapid weather changes.

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