Reflection Lake, Thunderbird Falls and Wasilla

One weekend we stayed closer to home to visit nearby sites. Our first stop was Reflection Lake at the Palmer Hay Flats Game Refuge. We didn't see very many birds, but we did enjoy our hike around the lake.

The three story wildlife viewing platform provides expansive views of the area. 

Thunderbird Falls is part of Chugach State Park. While hiking this one, Journey decided 

to call her grandma and chat for awhile. It was funny to see her talking while walking.

The view of the falls at the end of the trail is still a bit back, but you can see its power.

The lower trail goes down to the river. It was moving so fast!

The next day we drove to Wasilla Lake's Newcomb Park beach/playground. The kids had a great time playing and meeting other kids. It looks like a fun lake to swim, however, I've heard there's leeches, eek!

It turns out Wasilla has a couple really good thrift stores (my favorite is Turn A Leaf) and a pawn shop that I was able to get great deals on hiking boots for the kids, books and DVDs.