Bird Creek

Flowing into Turnagain Arm approximately 20 miles south of Anchorage, Bird Creek offers a bevy of recreational opportunities. Fishermen flock to the creek’s rich tidal waters. An adjacent campground features inlet views. The nearby ridge trail leads hikers to one of the most popular views in the Chugach Mountains, and roadside bike paths connect cyclists to the ski community of Girdwood to the south.

Strong silver salmon run lure fishermen to the creek July - September. Purchase a fishing license, rent some gear, and pack a pair of boots: The creek’s muddy banks are slick with silt, and the water runs thick with salmon.

Located just south of the creek, the recently renovated Bird Creek Campground comes equipped with 28 campsites, room for RVs, two cabins, wheelchair-accessible trails and restrooms, public water, and picnic facilities. 

For soaring state park views, follow the Bird Ridge Trail, which starts at a trailhead just north of the creek, then proceeds to climb approximately 3,000 feet over the course of 2 steep, scenic miles. Admire alpine fields of wildflowers, spot wildlife, and savor mountaintop views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Back near sea level, the Bird Creek bike path winds through the forest along the edge of the highway, connecting the Bird Ridge trailhead and Bird Creek access points with the campground and, further down the road, a picturesque wooded park at Bird Point. The trail begins in the mining community of Indian a few miles up the road, then meanders along the arm before ending in Girdwood’s glacial valley approximately 13 miles away. Cycle the whole stretch, or start at Bird Point for the popular Bird to Gird route — an easy 12-mile round trip.

Whether you’re looking for an early morning salmon run, a weekend camping trip, a daylong ridge hike, or a leisurely bike ride with family, Bird Creek has it covered.