Take an Easy Out-And-Back Trail to Enter Another World at Thunderbird Falls in Alaska

Alaska is a state unlike any other in America. With huge swaths of land like national parks and forests, as well as state parks, Alaska is filled with countless miles of untouched terrain. The hike to Thunderbird Falls in Alaska gives you a peek into the Alaskan wilderness on an easy trail that doesn't take too long but can make you feel like you're transported into another world. Located a quick 30-minute drive outside of Anchorage, Alaska, this is a trail that should make your weekend hiking list!

Thunderbird Falls is located near Chugiak, Alaska.

It's an easy trail located inside the stunning Chugach State Park. This hike takes you all the way to a stunning waterfall inside this breathtaking forest.

The trail is easily accessible for all ages and skill levels.

This is definitely a hike you want to take the whole family on! It's short enough that even the youngest won't get bored, and there's plenty to see on your way to the waterfall.

Of all the hikes in Chugach State Park, we find this is a great one to bring the young kids on.

Keep your eyes peeled for drops along the packed dirt portion of the trail, but the boardwalk is great for keeping little kids contained.

You can expect peek-a-boo views of the mountains in the distance, towering over the river canyon.

The entire hike is 1.8 miles, out and back. The rolling hills are gentle enough that they offer only a 300-foot elevation gain throughout the entire trail.

There's a wooden bridge at the end of the trail that leads to the observation platform.

It towers above the forest below, making you feel like you're walking in the trees. The boardwalk is level, with nice railings, and ends at a beautiful observation deck with views of the falls.

The observation deck is the perfect spot to grab a photo.

Behind us was a great view of the waterfall from up above. It’s one of the easiest waterfall hikes in Alaska.

Thunderbird Falls is more than 200 feet high and can be seen from the observation platform at the end of the hike.

Or you can take the split off the trail and hike the rest of the way to the base of the falls. It can be a little slippery, and the trail is steep, but it is so worth the view!

This trail is just as beautiful in the winter.

After hiking through a winter wonderland, you can watch the water flow over the frozen falls. It makes for a stunning backdrop to the end of your hike. Make sure to bring your camera.

There's plenty of parking at the trailhead parking lot, and each car is only a $5.00 parking fee.

The trailhead parking is right off the road that leads you to Eklutna Lake. It's an easy drive from Anchorage or the Valley, and it pays off with whimsical, stunning views of the beautiful falls.

Thunderbird Falls in Alaska is one of my family’s favorite hikes.

It’s an easy walk with a big payoff, and we hike it at least once a year!

Have you ever done the hike to Thunderbird Falls In Alaska? What did you think? Would you do it again? Let us know in the comments below. Make sure to get your gear for the hike at REI.

If you're looking for somewhere nearby to spend the night, you can Stay Overnight In One Of These Cozy Public Cabins On Eklutna Lake In Alaska!