Discover Girdwood's Hidden Waterfall Hike Chutes & Ladders

Just outside of Anchorage, AK in town called Girdwood there is a local waterfall hike called Chutes and Ladders. This incredible waterfall hike is tricky to find, as it is unmarked on any map and there are no trail signs to get there. However, once you find the first rope leading down into the canyon, the fun begins.

The waterfall hike, Chutes and Ladders, just outside of Girdwood, AK is a technical hike that requires the use of five rope ladders, one wooden ladder, and some good shoes because the ground is wet and slippery. The rope and wooden ladders remain in place year round, but please make sure to inspect them out before use, I am not sure how often they are replaced. Chutes and Ladders is a short hike to a powerful waterfall, but hikers often spend a couple hours enjoying the view and process getting to the waterfall.

Read on to learn how to get to Chutes & Ladders, what to bring, and more tips for a successful hiking outing to Chutes and Ladders in Girdwood.

Where does Chutes & Ladders in Girdwood, Alaska start?

The Chutes and Ladders hike in Girdwood begins and ends at the Winner Creek Gorge Trailhead. This loop hike has a large parking lot, a pit toilet, and it is easy to find the initial trail, but getting to Chutes & Ladders can be difficult because there is not a marked trail that will lead you to the start.

Direction to Winner Creek Gorge trailhead

How to find the start of Chutes and Ladders Waterfall Hike:

Hiking to the start of Chutes and Ladders can be difficult, so here are some step-by-step directions to help ease that difficulty:

  1. From the parking lot of the Winner Creek Gorge Trailhead, take the trail from the bathroom.

  2. The trail will T quickly, go left (uphill). Walk on this trail .25 of a mile until it T’s again, go right. As you walk, less than 200 yards) there will be another turn off on your left, take that.

  3. From here, you will wander through the woods for 5-10 minutes. The brush will begin to be over grown, push through.

  4. As the trail gets smaller and puddles of water form, you are on the right track. This overgrown trail will take you to the start of the Chutes and Ladders waterfall hike in Girdwood.

  5. You will realized you are at the start when you come to a rocky downhill section with a rope ladder that leads to a wooden bridge.

  6. Do NOT cross the bridge, instead, step off into the canyon and begin Chutes and Ladders.

Playing with some oversized foliage on our way to the Chutes and Ladders waterfall hike in Girdwood, AK. Photograph by Dalton Johnson

How long does Chutes & Ladders take to hike?

Chutes and Ladders in Girdwood, Alaska is a quick hike, 30 minutes round trip, but most hikers take between 90-120 minutes to complete. This waterfall hike is unique and technical, so hikers prefer to take their time to increase their safety and enjoy the journey of the hike. I suggest taking your time, Chutes and Ladders is a lot of fun!

Is the Chutes & Ladders hike dangerous?

Yes, Chutes and Ladders is a dangerous hike, however safety measures have been taken to decrease the risks. Examples of the safety measures taken are the installation of permanent ropes ladders and a wooden ladder. There is all a litter stashed in the woods be the forest service for rescue purpose only, please do not tamper with this unless you are in an emergency. Additionally, the waterfall is very strong here, so swimming is not advised.

Here are 5 key safety precautions:

  1. Inspect Ropes and Ladders: Before using any ropes or ladders on the trail, check for signs of wear, looseness, or instability. Avoid relying on damaged equipment and proceed cautiously.

  2. Bring Protective Gear: Wear a helmet to guard against falling debris and gloves for a better grip on ropes and ladders. Proper footwear with strong traction is essential for navigating muddy or slippery terrain.

  3. Monitor Weather Conditions: Plan your hike during dry weather to reduce the risk of slipping on wet surfaces. Postpone the hike if rain or storms are forecasted.

  4. Pack Emergency Essentials: Carry a first-aid kit, a whistle, and a satellite communicator or fully charged phone. These tools can be lifesaving in case of an emergency.

  5. Hike with a Partner or Group: Whenever possible, avoid hiking alone. Having others with you ensures help is available in case of injury or if assistance is needed on challenging sections.

Descending one of the several rope ladders on the Chutes and Ladders waterfall hike in Girdwood, Alaska. Photograph by Dalton Johnson

Can kids do the Chutes & Ladders hike?

Yes, kids can do the Chutes and Ladders hike in Girdwood, however the supervisor of these children will have to put in a lot of work to assist the kids down the rope ladders. I would suggest a minimum of two supervisors who spot all children from the top and bottom of ever climb. Children should not swim in the river.

Here are 5 suggestions for hiking Chutes and Ladders with kids:

  1. Assess Age and Skill Level: Only take children who are old enough and physically capable of handling steep climbs, ropes, and ladders. Generally, this hike is best suited for older kids (10+) with prior hiking experience and a good sense of balance.

  2. Equip for Safety: Provide kids with helmets, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots to ensure safety on ladders and ropes. Pack extra gear, such as a harness or climbing rope, for added security on tricky sections.

  3. Practice Beforehand: Familiarize kids with rope climbing or ladder usage on a smaller, controlled climb before attempting the hike. This builds their confidence and ensures they understand proper technique.

  4. Take it Slow and Supervise Closely: Hike at a slower pace and guide kids through challenging sections, offering step-by-step instructions. Always maintain close supervision, especially near steep drop-offs and technical areas.

  5. Plan for Breaks and Fun: Make the experience enjoyable by planning breaks at scenic spots or points of interest. Bring snacks and water to keep energy levels up, and involve kids by letting them help navigate or spot wildlife along the way.

What should I bring to Chutes & Ladders hike?

Chutes and Ladders is a day hike, so make sure to bring some supplies but you don’t need much:

Kristin soaking in those waterfall views while hiking Chutes and Ladders in Girdwood, Alaska. Photograph by Dalton Johnson

Now that you have to learned how to get to Chutes & Ladders, what to bring, and seen how beautiful this waterfall hike is, it is time for you to have your own successful hiking outing to Chutes and Ladders in Girdwood, Alaska.

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