The 1.8 Mile Hike To Thunder Bird Falls In Alaska Is Short And Sweet
If you are looking for a great, quick hike that doesn’t take too long but offers stunning views, the Thunder Bird Falls Trail should be first on your list! Located right off the Glenn Highway in Chugiak, the parking lot is only a short distance from the exit. It’s the perfect quick jaunt from anyone coming from the Anchorage area!
It's an easy 30 minute drive outside of Anchorage on the Glenn Highway. The trailhead is right on the exit off of the highway, and there is plenty of parking!
The hike out to this waterfall is a 1.8 mile out and back trail. The trail isn't too busy, and is popular all year round.
The trail is primarily wide, and groomed with packed dirt. There are other parts of the trail that has beautiful wooden boardwalks. If it's rainy or snowy the dirt portions can become muddy, so a good pair of sneakers or boots are recommended!
Keep your eyes peeled for the gorgeous mountains in the distance. You can also carefully peer down into the canyon the trail parallels, and watch the river rushing by!
There is nice viewing from the platform, but you can get up close and personal by continuing the hike on the trail split before the platform. This will allow you to get right down to the bottom of the falls!
Make sure to stay aware as this is bear country. And practice safety with moose, especially those with calves. Watch and enjoy from a distance!
Because the trail is accessible in every season, and the hike is open to all skill levels, this is a very popular hike for both locals and tourists. The parking fee for the trailhead is a modest $5.00 parking fee, and well worth it!
Have you hiked the Thunder Bird Falls Trail? What did you think? Would you do it again? Do you have another favorite waterfall trail? Let us know in the comments below!
If you’re feeling hungry after this great hike, make sure to head into Anchorage to grab dinner at This Pizzeria In Alaska Is The Best In The Nation, And The Food Is To Die For!
Address: Thunderbird Falls Trail, Anchorage, AK 99567, USA
