Steep at the start but easy after that. It took us about an hour round trip at a relaxed pace, including time at the falls. Good payoff for a short hike. read more

Thunderbird falls is a nice little trail. Parking lot is fairly small. $5 for parking per day. Credit card only. Bathrooms and info signs as well at the trailhead. We went may 2023 and the trail was not very maintained yet as there were several Rees we had to climb over/go around that had fallen. Not sure if/when somebody cleans them up. No trash around which was nice. Pretty small viewing areas for the amount of people that are trying to see the overlook or the falls. I recommend going down to the bottom where the bad of the falls are, you don't exactly get to the base of the waterfall but pretty close. I recommend this trail, some steep hills but took us an hour to go to/down to the bottom, and get two geocaches and we were back in the car. read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

It's a pretty quick hike and friends were in town for a week and their love and quest for cool looking waterfalls soooo, it fit the bill for a last day jaunt out! The hike is a little over 1 mile and when you get to the end you see and hear the top of the falls and it's great for pics and video's. Then you back track to another path, and hit the lower part of the falls where it turns into a cold river at the bottom. Another great spot for pics and videos. Never been here in winter but the photos others have posted are amazing. read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - Looking down into the ravine from the trail. - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

Easy hike for the whole family. We found lots of different mushrooms, a nice bridge, a little but mighty waterfall, and a view of the mountain top. We took our teens, baby, and the dog. Great for all ages. The views aren't the most spectacular.. but overall nice nature walk. read more

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Really easy hike. A bit hilly at first but if you start at the trailhead and go all the way down to the view of the falls you'll have gone about .85 miles. Turn around and go down to the creek trail to get a closer view of the Falls and by the time you walk back to the trail head you'll have done the whole trail in 2 miles. Bring bug spray for sure. Bear spray just in case. Parking fee. I had signal the whole time. read more

When you first get there know you pay for parking. Then once you start walking you hit a pretty nice incline and questioning are your legs really ready for this journey. You push through the muscle building and continue on your hike not wanting to give in to failure. You get to more even ground and think. I can do this. Then out of no where you hear it. A buzz by your ear. You look around and see nothing. Then you hear it again. Then you let out a ouch. You see it a bite to the leg; but where's the culprit? You look around some more realizing you are being hunted. You start walking faster. Hoping your scent won't lead them in. Then you seem them. Pterodactyls start swarming you. You know this is it they have found you. Walking and swatting. Just trying to get to that half way mark. You get there and the pterodactyls come in a swarms. You might ask yourself and your group. Should we go back or keep going. You all think they couldn't get much worse let's get through this. You pick up speed and start asking yourself if it worth its once the 40+ pterodactyls attack, but you're so close. You're pushing just to get to the falls hoping it will let up. Inhaling protein as you go. People telling you it's worth the walk. You get there and realize it's pretty. But you're still being hunted and not letting your guard down. Ready to take a photo and hurry back. Then you walk back.You get to the vehicle. Realizing you just walked two miles slowly loosing blood. Relieved you accomplished what felt impossible; battle wounds to prove it. Realizing you should've put on bug spray. Is the hike worth it? 110% Is it worth being eaten alive? 30% Would I do it again? No; once in a life time experience. read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - Thunderbird waterfall - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

A rather boring trail with a rather small falls at the end. If you just want to walk around for an hour, this is a nice trail if you can tolerate all the mosquitoes. I was expecting a thunderous waterfall given the name but it was a disappointingly unimpressive one. If you're diving to Denali from Anchorage, skip this trail unless you just want to walk around in nature. read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - The end. - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

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We went in late October. Superb hike! We absolutely loved it! The views were breathtaking, especially the partially frozen falls. The trail was well-kept and well-marked. Be prepared to hike several stories up and down, but it's SO worth it! read more

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Wonderful little Sunday evening type stroll. Don't be fooled. If you venture away from the well established path and close to the falls, the trail, and surrounding middle cliffsides, can be treacherous. Essentially, the closer you attempt to get to the falls, the more treacherous it becomes. That said, if you stay on the path you can take strollers and dogs about 3/4 mile in to the boardwalk viewing area and snap your "looks better in person" picture. Take the path down to the river and falls to get a closer look. Make sure to check out the hollowed out tree and maybe even climb inside to take some pics! read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

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My husband and I hiked to the falls a week ago and we had a great time. The hike does start out quite steep, but it gets more manageable. The parking area was big and had 2 bathrooms which is convenient. The hike took us about an hour round trip, but we took our time so it could definitely be done quicker. The views are beautiful. We saw some interesting mushrooms growing there too. I definitely recommend giving this hike a try. read more

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Purely as a hike, I would give this one 3-ish stars. It's a short hike with an OK view, and it can be done in the winter. Why only 3 stars? This is ALASKA people! We have so many other hikes with mountainloads more epicness than this lil' ol' waterfall! So then, why am I giving it 5? This is an A+ ice climbing destination! It's close to town and has a bunch of climbs of varying skill levels. (the ice climber name for this area is "Eklutna Canyon) The climbs are all charmingly named after horrid, cheap alcohol products. This theme comes from the "Thunderbird" in Thunderbird falls. Some sample climb names: "Mad Dog", "Boonesfarm", and "Ripple'. You can view info on the ice climbs here: http://www.alaskaiceclimbing.com/eklutnacanyon.htm read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - getting ready to climb "Ripple" - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

This is a really simple hike for anyone looking to get outside. VERY family friendly! I would even say a good hike for someone with a stroller. There are a few "steep" sections that may be tough for anyone with a disability, but nothing serious. It is a one mile walk to a viewing platform. At the platform there is a bench to sit in and take the view. If you do this hike in the summer, I think the waterfall is pretty covered up with all the trees, but fall or winter it is a really pretty view. If you have the time, and the energy, you can go down a pretty steep section and go to the foot of the waterfall. I've done it once and don't personally think it's worth the extra effort. You cannot get super close to the waterfall due to the river formed from it. It is a nice little area for kids to explore and dogs to run around, but be warned about the steep uphill you have to tackle to get back on the main trail. Simply put, a nice little walk in the woods, I don't think I'd go out here with just this hike in mind, it is pretty short and sweet. read more

I can't tell you how many times I've hiked this trail during summer and winter time. The view is to die for. It's so breath taking and relaxing and definitely something to take advantage of if you live on base or even visiting anchorage this is the place to go. Because um hello did you really go to Alaska if you didn't take pictures at thunder bird? Didn't think so. read more

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My bitch too aggressive so I don't go as often as I'd like. Used to run up n down when I was a kid. 7 minutes was my time, when I was a sophomore, going up. 3 going down. Fun and beautiful read more

Wonderful trail! Short, not difficult, and great views. There's a river and waterfall. Lots of parking. Looks like you usually have to pay, but the machine was out of order when we went. Bathrooms on site (outhouse style). 45 minutes drive from Anchorage. read more

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Definitely worth a stop to stretch your legs, see some beautiful scenery, and get a little exercise. This is an easy hike, although at the beginning you feel like you're going to walk the entire mile going straight uphill. Not true! It eases up pretty quickly, and then it's basically an easy half mile to see the gorge and another easy half mile to see the falls. It's a very romantic walk, and a great photo opportunity. One note - the public bathrooms are disgusting, so try to wait until you get a little further up the road. read more

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Visited post cruise here... It was really a pleasant hike with just enough difficulty for us to get a little stretch! On the trail it does detract that you can see private residences hidden off to the side... Otherwise it was just fine. read more

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One of the Anchorage-areas easiest and shortest hikes. Definitely family friendly and accessible for most able-bodied folk. The trail is kinda steep in some places, but the ground is even, so if you take your time it can make for a nice family outing. The only caveat is I don't recommend this trail if you have a toddler/small child that is hyperactive and doesn't listen. There is no railing along most of the trail and since it runs along a ride, a naughty little one who doesn't follow directions could easily take a header off the edge. The main trail takes you to an overlook platform, that as someone else mentioned, is a pretty good distance from the actual falls. If you take the trail that splits off to the left and go down the embankment, the trail runs along the rapids and takes you directly to the falls. The walk is mostly easy, but there are a few muddy spots, so wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty. The only problem is that from ground level, the view of the falls is somewhat obstructed by an out-cropping of rock (which is why it's a good idea to plan to walk to the platform before heading down to the trail that runs along the creek. If you're wearing good shoes, have a waterproof camera and a bit of bravery, you can scoot along the unstable shoreline and hop along the rocks to get around the outcropping that blocks the view of the falls. Once you get closer you can get some awesome pictures, but the water spray is pretty strong, so be prepared, especially if you have cell phone or expensive camera. The hike to the platform is .4 miles from the trailhead, so a roundtrip is .8 miles. If you circle down to river-level, the hike, roundtrip is about 1.8 miles total. Very cool place to visit. Free. Parking is $5 for an all day State Park Pass. ---------------------------------------------- A word of caution about Yelps "address" for this location (and all park locations in "Anchorage") ITS NOT IN ANCHORAGE!!!! Thunderbird Falls isn't in Eagle River either. Coming from Anchorage, you'll pass all 5 of Eagle Rivers exits. Then you'll pass Chugiak, then Birchwood, then Peter's Creek then you'll see the exit for Thunderbird Falls which dumps you off right AT Thunderbird Falls parking lot. Don't trust your GPS, don't trust Yelp's address. Just go down the Glenn Highway and take the exit that says "Thunderbird Falls" and you're there. Bam! read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - The falls from the viewing platform - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

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Parked here to hike the falls on a thursday. Plenty of room to park, freshly plowed, clean facilities.

These falls are quite beautiful, but they're a bit tough to get to, there are a LOT of mosquitoes, and the viewing platform is REALLY far from the falls themselves. Bring bug repellent, binoculars, and a camera with good zoom to fully appreciate this place. read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

Driving up to Denali from Anchorage and heard this was one thing of the good stops. Great .8 mike walk out to the falls. Nice viewing deck. Bathrooms here. Great place to stretch your legs. read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

Nice day for an easy hike. This time of year a good set of cleats is a must have! I had my trusty AK Hubby with to help me slip along the extra slippery slopes I have always enjoyed hiking out to the falls in the summer and decided I needed to see them before all the snow is gone. I was not disappointed. I must now make it a point to get there next year when the trees are heavy with winter frost. read more

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This is a fantastic trail-well maintained, easy hike-most kids can do this and the Falls at the end are amazing. It's open year round! If you head up in the winter, make sure you have some good grip type shoes as areas can be icy. read more

Great spot don't forget to pay. The trail is good but can be steep for elderly or less than solid knees.

$5 parking pass required and they check cars. Great photo ops, a bit of a climb to start but not too hard read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - A bit of a hike but doesn't disapoint - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

An easy one mile hike through a very pretty wooded area with a beautiful waterfall at the terminus. There is also a trail that heads down waterside. This is slightly more challenging but still doable for just about everyone. This would be a great starter "adventure" for the kids. I believe the view of the falls would be much better once the leaves have fallen. read more

Great small business to support. Everything we've had was great and the kids really like it. My wife is obsessed so we keep going back. I only deducted one star because the price for such basic food... I usually like for that stands out more, but give it four because the family really enjoys it and it's great to support locals. read more

The hike is pretty easy. We went in May. Very pretty. When you get to the platform its not very close to the waterfall. You would need a good zoom for it on your camera to get a decent picture. Some people went down into the water to get closer shots. I will have to try it next time! read more

Thunderbird Falls Parking Area and Trailhead - Hiking Near Me - Anchorage, Alaska

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This is a great small Hiking trip for people. It has always been a favorite stop when we have family and friends visiting from across the country. If you can't walk then this is not a trip for you. If you enjoy leisurely strolls and great views then strap on your boots and bring a camera. PS- If you have small children bring an off road stroller or baby backpack. read more

Earth day in Alaska Spent the morning hiking around the trails here. Lost track of time. Looking forward to returning! read more

I had an amazing hike, the trail length was about 2 miles in total. The views and the experience was amazing!

A quick Mile in and Mile out hike. Great to take your kids on, well maintained trail. Such a quick hike I started taking my kids and having them walk it when they were 2. Beautiful Summer and Winter. If you go in winter bring your ice cleats. read more

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Pretty easy hike just outside of Eagle River, about a 40 minute drive from downtown Anchorage. This hike is perfect for a stroll with the dogs, kids, really anybody. The gorge viewing area is about 0.5 mile in, and quite vertigo-inducing. It goes onto the falls viewing area which is scenic with benches and a good-sized viewing area. It's in a lush forest area and very scenic. read more

For being one of the most popular hikes in the Anchorage area. I'm not entirely too impressed. While it is a nice short walk, doable for families, the waterfall is pretty subpar. From Anchorage to Thunderbird Falls is about a half an hour drive and located pretty much right off the highway. The parking lot is fairly small. During midday is when you will obviously have more people, children and dogs roaming the trail. Parking is also a $5 for the day. Or if you purchase an Annual Alaska State Park Pass, it would end up being "*free." From the lot there a few calf burning, steep inclines. The ups and downs level out about midway until you hit the long stretch of bridge before the platform. You have two choices here, either proceed down towards the waterfall, or proceed towards the observatory deck. If you follow onto the deck you could see the sliver of waterfall from a little distance. If you proceeded down towards the falls, follow the clearly marked trail, you will come to a rock stop and be able to clearly see the falls around the bend. To get to the small ledge around the corner ... hope you brought some good waterproof shoes. Hop across the rocks, but hold on to the rock wall on your right. From there you'll reach the first ledge. Hop across more to get a little closer to the fall and the next standing shelf. You could probably fit about 4 people on each ledge. You really don't get too close to this waterfall either way, so I wouldn't say it's too impressive. But it is a nice leisurely stroll if you just happen to be passing through. *Technically for an Annual Alaska State Park Pass it is $50 (or $40 if you purchase early on in the year), but it's already accounted for so if you're exploring state parks in the area often, you'll get your monies worth. read more

This is a good waterfall. But with that being said it is hard to find off this map. The map on this page is wrong. If are heading North from Anchorage you will see the sign for Thunderbird falls just past the Mirror Lake exit and all will be good. But if you are all ready staying in, lets say Palmer or Wasilla and you are heading south there is no sign on the highway to exit and you just might get lost like we did and I went to the Yelp site to help and it took me 13 miles in the wrong direction. But over all its a good water fall. You can't get very close to it and the hike I would classify it as Easy to Moderate. There are parts that get steep and will cause you to suck some wind. If you go down to the valley floor you will most definitely need the bug spray. Plenty of parking with a $5 fee. 2 Restrooms at the beginning of the trail. Good experience but probably won't be back if we were ever to come back this way. read more

I thought it would've been bigger (grander). But I've heard it's better in the winter when it freezes over. The hike isn't bad. There is also an option to walk down to the actual bottom of the waterfall. We choose the deck view, turns out it was a better choice. We got to watch a guy go 3 ft up the hillside and get stuck for about 10 mins until what looked like his kid show him how to step down. All in all, the fall colored trees are what made the hike worth it for me. Oh yeah, there's a $5 parking fee. read more

Nice easy hike. Good way to get in a bit of exercise. read more

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This was a nice trail, not difficult at all and surprisingly short. Bring some feet with you due to the Mosquitos everywhere! Dog friendly, water is a bit cold. read more

Nice hike for kids of all ages. Make sure you have bug spray. Very pretty and peaceful. Great place to come back and hike many times.