Explore Independence Mine State Historical Park in Hatcher Pass

Palmer, Alaska

4.7/5

based on 3 reviews

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Distance

1.5 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Dwayne Parton

Independence Mine is a huge gold mine located in the scenic Hatcher Pass just north of Anchorage, Alaska. This short hike is an easy way to spend the day in the beautiful Talkeetna Mountains.

If you've only got time to do a few things when in Alaska, make sure you visit Independence Mine State Historical Park in Hatcher Pass. It is open year round, and beautiful no matter the season. You can easily spend the entire day exploring the mine and surrounding area.

The winter months fill the pass with snow making it ideal for backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and sledding. The Hatcher Pass Lodge is located about 1 mile below Independence Mine and is a great place to warm up after a day of adventuring.

The snow closes the road between the Lodge and Independence Mine but you can park at the gate, and walk up the groomed trail without snow shoes. However, if you step off the path you may find yourself waist deep in snow. This trail is a popular place to cross country ski as well.

Explore the mine and surrounding area at your on leisure or with a tour group. There are several short hiking loops around the mine itself, and even more throughout Hatcher Pass.

For more information on Hatcher Pass and Independence Mine check out dnr.alaska.gov and Travel Alaska.

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Explore Independence Mine State Historical Park in Hatcher Pass Reviews

Natalie F

Explore Independence Mine State Historical Park in Hatcher Pass

07/31/20

Fun place to explore in AK. Scenic and easy to get to (depending on the time of year and snow fall). Don't just go to the Mine here, check out some of the views in Hatcher Pass too while here!

4.0

Explorer

Jason Hatfield

Explorer

Explore Independence Mine State Historical Park in Hatcher Pass

09/03/18

This is stellar spot close to Anchorage to photograph the northern lights in the winter. You'll want snowshoes or xc-skis to get there and tons of warm clothing, it was -20˚F on my visit and I was the only one there.

5.0

Johnathan Duncan

Explore Independence Mine State Historical Park in Hatcher Pass

03/11/16

It isn't a very far hike from the parking lot, but offers some awesome views of the Alaskan Mountains. If you go in the winter, Hatchers Pass is filled with snow and is a great spot for skiing, sledding and other winter sports. The mine and visitor center is closed during the winter, but you can still explore and check them out. A beautiful area!

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Explore Independence Mine State Historical Park in Hatcher Pass

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Explore Independence Mine State Historical Park in Hatcher Pass Reviews

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