Your Kids Will Love This Easy 2-Mile Waterfall Hike Right Here In Alaska
By Megan McDonald|Published January 14, 2019
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Megan McDonald
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Megan McDonald is a writer, photographer, and owner of humu media, an Alaska-based digital media agency. She spends her free time traveling with her husband and daughter around the US and the world.
Finding an easy waterfall hike in Alaska can be challenging sometimes. Luckily, there’s a fantastic one only 20 minutes from Anchorage that’s perfect for both a summer or winter stroll! A perfect afternoon hike can be found in Eklutna, and you will love to bring your whole family out for a perfect Sunday outing!
Thunderbird Falls is a great easy family waterfall hike! It's located only 20 minutes outside of Anchorage.
The parking lot and trailhead are very easy to find. Heading north on the Glenn Highway from Anchorage, take the Thunderbird Falls exit that is right before the Eklutna Lake exit. There is a parking fee of $5.00, or you before your trip you can purchase a $40 annual State Parks Pass.
The waterfall itself is over 200 feet tall. Surrounded by a birch forest, in the summer the falls are surrounded by greenery, and in the winter, gorgeous frozen ice sculptures.
The water forms a pool at the bottom of the falls, before flowing into the Eklutna River, and into the canyon.
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Thunderbird Falls is rated "easy", and good for all skill levels. At 1.8 miles out and back, the walk along the Eklutna River until the waterfall is well maintained and accessible.
There is a brief elevation at the beginning of the trail of 100 feet, before leveling out. The trail follows the gorgeous Eklutna River Canyon. Do follow the safety signs, as the drop-off down to the river can be steep.
The trail is well landscaped. There are handrails, leveled dirt paths, and a boardwalk in certain sections.
There are many viewpoints along the entire trail. The viewing platform at the end of the trail is spectacular in the summer time, offering an elevated, straight-on view.
The trail splits in two at the end. One path leads you to the viewing deck. The other path leads you directly down to the river.
In the winter time, when the water freezes it is possible to walk right up to the falls. As you're walking, you can hear the falls gurgle under the ice! If you're going to walk on the ice, make sure to bring ice cleats!
The waterfalls freeze into amazing columns of ice during the winter. Photographers will love capturing the magic these sculptures create.
Many reviews say the hike is more phenomenal and impressive during the winter. Remember to practice adequate backcountry safety, and enjoy the spectacular views with your family!
Taking the family out for a hike that will please everyone can be difficult, but Thunderbird Falls fits the bill, during almost every season! For more information, you can check out the Chugach State Park trail profile here.
Want to make it an entire day trip with the family? Head over to This Turquoise Lake In Alaska and experience the kayaking adventure of a lifetime!
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