Thunderbird Falls Hiking Guide
Thunderbird Falls is the easy waterfall hike on the drive north from Anchorage. Off the Glenn Highway near Eklutna, a wide trail winds through birch forest along the rim of Eklutna Canyon to a viewing deck facing a tall waterfall pouring into the canyon. It is short enough for small children and pretty in every season — especially in winter, when the falls freeze.
Permit: Chugach State Park parking fee: $5 per day at Thunderbird Falls Trailhead, or the $60 Alaska State Parks annual parking pass
The Walk
Alaska State Parks lists the trail at 1 mile one way with about 175 feet of net gain; mapping apps put the round trip at about 1.9 miles with around 330 feet of total climbing, counting the ups and downs. The trail is wide and well graded through birch forest. A viewing deck faces the falls, and a side trail leads down toward the base.
Cliffs
The trail runs along the top of Eklutna Canyon, and Alaska State Parks warns of cliffs above the canyon. Keep children close and stay on the trail and behind railings. The trail to the base of the falls is steeper; take care on wet or icy ground.
Winter
The falls often freeze in winter, making this one of the most popular winter walks north of Anchorage. Traction devices help on the icy trail. With short winter days, plan to go around midday for the best light.
Private Land
Part of the trail borders a private subdivision. Stay on the trail and respect private property signs. Moose are common in the area; give them plenty of room, especially in winter, when they use packed trails.
Practicalities
The trailhead is off the Glenn Highway between the Eklutna and Mirror Lake exits. Parking costs $5 per day, or display the $60 Alaska State Parks annual pass. In Chugach State Park, pets must be leashed in parking lots and kept under control on trails. It is about 30 minutes north of downtown Anchorage.
Hiking tips for Thunderbird Falls
- Keep children close — the trail runs along cliffs above Eklutna Canyon.
- Visit in winter to see the falls frozen, and bring traction.
- Pay the $5 parking fee or display the annual state parks pass.
- Give moose plenty of room, especially on packed winter trails.
- Stay on the trail near the private subdivision.
Nearby trails to explore
- Flattop Mountain
- Reed Lakes
- Crow Pass
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Thunderbird Falls is an easy, family-friendly Anchorage outing in any season. Use TrailMates to find Anchorage hikers for a quick trip north. Download the TrailMates app to connect.