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Posted in Alaska Nature February 28, 2018 by Catherine Armstrong

This Easy Hike Proves That Alaska Is Home To Unrivaled Beauty

When you want to truly appreciate Alaska’s wild, unrivaled beauty, pick a hiking trail. You’ll quickly be surrounded by the most incredible scenery in the country. Here’s a quick, easy hike that takes you to a 200-foot-tall waterfall.

During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.

Thunderbird Falls is located in Chugach State Park, right off the Glenn Highway.

You'll find the trailhead in between the Eklutna and Mirror Lake exits.

This trail is perfect for almost every hiker - it's level and well-maintained.

In some places, boardwalk makes the trail even more accessible.

Along the way, you'll see plenty of thick, lush greenery and plant life.

Take your time as you meander down the path - you'll be surrounded by incredible beauty both above you and at your feet.

The trail provides views of the Eklutna River. Keep an eye out for sockeye salmon - you can often see them swimming in the river here.

Much of the trail follows along a steep cliff. You'll see birch trees growing right out of the cliffside in places.

Stay back from the edge of the cliff...it's a long way down!

Thunderbird Falls is a stunning waterfall with a 200-foot drop.

The thundering water crashing into the river below gives this waterfall its name, and it's truly a spectacular sight.

This hike is also accessible during winter months, and it turns into a winter wonderland when the trees are adorned with ice and snow.

Thunderbird Falls is even more beautiful when it's frozen!

Have you hiked the Thunderbird Falls Trail? We’d love to hear about your experience!

If you’re ready to explore more of Alaska’s beauty, take this hike that leads to an abandoned mine.

Catherine Armstrong

Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.