The thunderbird myth and motif is prevalent among Algonquian peoples in the Northeast, i.e., Eastern Canada ( Ontario, Quebec, and eastward) and Northeastern United States, and the Iroquois peoples (surrounding the Great Lakes). Tribal signatures using thunderbirds on the Great Peace of Montreal The thunderbird is said to create thunder by flapping its wings (Algonquian ), and lightning by flashing its eyes (Algonquian, Iroquois ). In modern times it has achieved notoriety as a purported cryptid, similar to creatures such as Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster. It is especially important and frequently depicted in the art, songs, and oral histories of many Pacific Northwest Coast cultures, but is also found in various forms among some peoples of the American Southwest, East Coast of the United States, Great Lakes, and Great Plains. It is considered a supernatural being of power and strength. The thunderbird is a legendary creature in particular North American indigenous peoples' history and culture. Pacific NW ( Haida) imagery of a double thunderbird The resort is situated in a valley carved by the Sol Duc River.A Northwest Coast styled Kwakiutl totem pole depicting a thunderbird. Today, the Hot Springs Resort is best known for its soaking pools, hot tubs, and a swimming pool that are heated with the hot springs. The dragons’ hot tears are the source of the hot springs in the Elwha and Sol Duc Valleys.” Source The dragons both admitted defeat and crawled back to caves in their respective valleys and are still crying over being defeated. Their strength was evenly matched and neither could win. After years of fighting and clawing at each other, they grew frustrated.

“The fight was brutal as the dragons thrashed and ripped at each other to win back their territory. They exploded with anger as each accused the other of invading its territory. One day they were both out exploring the forest when they came face to face on top of the ridge separating the Elwha and Sol Duc Valleys. Neither dragon knew of the other’s existence. One lived in the Sol Duc Valley and the other lived in the Elwha Valley. Native American legend tells how the springs were created by dragons. Along the Sol Duc River twelve miles down Sol Duc Road, you’ll find healing waters of hot springs.

North american dragons myths