McHugh Falls in May 2011

I have to admit McHugh Falls doesn’t have a huge amount of appeal.  It’s a rather small waterfall, and I don’t like to discriminate against waterfalls, but you really can’t get very close to it.  With small waterfalls, they’re best enjoyed nearby, not behind a fenced area.

It’s one redeeming quality is that it is very easy to visit.  I believe there are a number of unadvertised waterfalls in Alaska, but how many are actually accessible?  This is one of the few that is accessible.  As you driving south along the Seward Highway from Anchorage, you’ll enter Chugach State Park (which is very expansive), and pass the parking area for McHugh Falls.  There’s a $5 daily fee to enter the park, which I always support paying, though the first time I visited, I just got out of the car and took a few photos, and then left.  There is a trail that leads somewhere, though I’m not sure where.

Directions:

1. Head south on the Seward Highway from Anchorage.
2. You’ll enter Chugach State Park, and after a ways, you’ll find the entrance/parking area for the falls on your left.  It may be easy to miss, so pay attention.  I’d say it’s about a 1/4 of the way from Anchorage to Seward…

Accessibility: 10/10 (Easy)
Height: 20′
Length of Hike: Roadside

Where in the World is McHugh Falls?