Attractions and Places To See around Gateway - Top 8
Attractions and places to see around Gateway offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences in a region characterized by its rugged natural beauty, prominent rivers, and mountainous landscapes. This area provides opportunities to explore waterfalls, climb scenic buttes, and traverse historical bridges, all set against a backdrop of Alaskan wilderness. Visitors can engage in activities like hiking, cycling, and enjoying panoramic views of glaciers and river valleys. The region is known for its accessible trails and unique natural monuments.
Best…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Thunderbird Falls Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Bodenburg Butte
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Old Knik River Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Lazy Moose Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Gateway.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Gateway
Tips from the Community
From Bodenburg Butte you have a great 360° view of the surrounding mountains and the Knik Glacier, which feeds the Knik River of the same name. The butte itself was also formed by glacial activity. The panoramic view is definitely worth the strenuous climb (including a staircase with 527 steps).
0
0
This bridge across the mighty Matanuska River is dedicated solely to foot and bike traffic. The water's generally murky appearance and sometimes lovely coloring (depending on the light) comes from tiny silt particles that were ground up by the Matanuska Glacier and eventually make their way downstream.
1
0
If you like running stairs, this is the destination for you. The trail up this 874 feet (266 m) butte has hundreds of stairs on it. It's also very popular with hikers and has very little room to pass, so if you're planning to run you might want to aim for a less-crowded time of day. (During the day on weekdays is usually a fairly safe bet. This trail is almost never entirely empty, but it's less likely to be crowded during the day.)
1
0
Spanning the picturesque Matanuska River, this footbridge offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Alaska. As you cross the bridge, you'll be treated to stunning views of the river's clear waters, the surrounding Chugach Mountains, and the lush landscapes along the Old Glenn Highway.
0
0
This abandoned bridge, once part of the Old Glenn Highway, spans the Knik River in Alaska. Built in a picturesque setting with mountains towering above and the river's reflections dancing below, the bridge offers a unique crossing experience. It's a historical landmark, and though it's no longer in use since 1975, it remains a scenic spot worth visiting. The surrounding sandbars are popular for recreational activities, and the drive along the old Glenn Highway to reach the bridge is a pleasant alternative to the main route.
0
0
At just 874 feet (266 m) in elevation, you might not expect much from Bodenburg Butte. But it sits like an island in the middle of flat farmland, so climbing up to the rocky top of the butte — via a trail that is roughly 25% stairs — provides really beautiful views of the lush farmland around you and the nearby mountains.
1
0
There's nothing lazy about this hike — but the beautiful switchbacks, gradual ascent, and even a few stairs on this trail do make a trip up Lazy Mountain much easier on the knees. You'll still have to rejoin the steep, direct trail about halfway up the mountain, though.
1
0
The Thunderbird Falls trail takes you through a lovel birch forest by the side of the Eagle River to the impressive Thunderbird Falls. It's a relatively easy hike, with just a little ascent at the start, perfect for little legs. There's a viewing deck from which to take in the full majesty of the waterfall, which is often frozen during the winter months.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best natural attractions to visit around Gateway?
Gateway is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the impressive Thunderbird Falls Trail, which leads through a birch forest to a stunning waterfall. For panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Knik Glacier, a climb up Bodenburg Butte is highly recommended. The area also features the Matanuska River and Knik River, offering scenic vistas.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Gateway area?
Yes, the Thunderbird Falls Trail is an excellent choice for families, offering a relatively easy hike through a birch forest to a viewing deck overlooking the waterfall. Another family-friendly option is the Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge, which is dedicated to foot and bike traffic across the Matanuska River, providing beautiful views in a safe environment.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near Gateway?
For easy hiking, the Thunderbird Falls Trail is a great option, being about 1.1 km long with minimal ascent, perfect for a leisurely walk. You can also find more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Gateway guide, which includes trails like West Butte Trail and Long Lake Loop.
What kind of historical sites can I visit near Gateway?
The Old Knik River Bridge is a notable historical landmark. Once part of the Old Glenn Highway, this abandoned bridge offers a unique crossing experience with mountains towering above and the Knik River below, providing a glimpse into the region's past.
What are the best viewpoints in the Gateway region?
For breathtaking views, Bodenburg Butte offers a spectacular 360° panorama of the surrounding mountains and the Knik Glacier after a strenuous climb. The Thunderbird Falls Trail also features a dedicated viewing deck for the waterfall, and the Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge provides scenic vistas of the Matanuska River and Chugach Mountains.
Are there challenging hikes for experienced adventurers?
Yes, if you're looking for a challenge, the climb up Bodenburg Butte involves a strenuous ascent, including a staircase with 527 steps, rewarding you with incredible 360° views. The Lazy Moose Trail also offers switchbacks and steep sections for a more demanding experience.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond visiting specific attractions, the Gateway area is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous options for hiking, running, and cycling. Explore guides like Hiking around Gateway and Running Trails around Gateway for detailed routes and trails.
Can I cycle around the attractions in Gateway?
Absolutely. The Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge is specifically dedicated to foot and bike traffic, offering a pleasant cycling experience across the Matanuska River. The region's trails and scenic byways provide ample opportunities for cycling enthusiasts.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Gateway?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the diverse range of outdoor activities. The easy accessibility of trails like Thunderbird Falls Trail makes it popular for families, while the rewarding panoramic views from Bodenburg Butte are a highlight for many. The historical significance of sites like the Old Knik River Bridge also adds to the appeal.
Are there any waterfalls to see in the Gateway area?
Yes, the most prominent waterfall is Thunderbird Falls. The trail leading to it is an easy hike through a beautiful birch forest, culminating in a viewing deck where you can observe the impressive falls, which are often frozen during the winter months.
What is the best time to visit Thunderbird Falls?
The Thunderbird Falls Trail is beautiful year-round. During warmer months, you can enjoy the lush birch forest and the flowing waterfall. In winter, the falls often freeze, creating a unique and impressive ice formation, offering a different but equally stunning experience.
Are there any trails with stairs for a good workout?
If you enjoy a workout with stairs, Bodenburg Butte is an excellent destination. The trail up this butte includes hundreds of stairs, with one section featuring 527 steps, making for a strenuous but rewarding climb.
Most popular routes around Gateway
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
