One of Alaska’s Best Kept Secrets – Hatcher Pass, AK

When driving to Alaska we had lots of people give us tips and must visit places in Alaska and one recommendation that kept coming up was Hatcher Pass. We thought Hatcher Pass was a single point or a little town, but it’s actually neither. Hatcher Pass is a road that runs through the mountains between the cities of Willow and Palmer.

Hatcher Pass is the quintessential landscape you think of when you plan a trip to Alaska. Tall mountains drain into swirling creeks with old abandoned mining shacks scattered around. It was one of the more picturesque places we found on our Alaska Road Trip itinerary.

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How to get to Hatcher Pass

About 60 miles outside of Anchorage is Hatcher Pass, which is reachable from two main access points. The Hatcher Pass Road is open in the summer snow, depending. The posted signs at the Willow entrance say the road is to be open from July 4th to October 1st. However, it will be open as long as the road is clear. We drove the Hatcher Pass Road in late June.

From Palmer – Coming from Palmer, the road is paved all the way to the Independence Mine State Park, which then turns to gravel. Along the roadside coming from this way, you’ll see a rapid following river filled with large boulders and some lined with steep cliffs.

From Willow – The first 10 miles are paved and then turn to dirt and gravel roads which are in good condition in the summer. The road remains unpaved until you reach the Independence Mine State Park.

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Things to do in Hatcher Pass

Independence Mine State Park

The state has turned the once operational mine into a park for visitors to see how the mine looked and worked in the first half of the century. Some buildings have been refurbished and others lie in ruins. The history is interesting and the old buildings make some great photos both when it’s cloudy and on clear days. There is a parking fee (which includes an entrance fee for the driver) and an entrance fee for all additional visitors.

Hatcher Pass Sign Post

At the highest point on the Hatcher Pass road, there is a stone carved signpost with the elevation. At its highest point, Hatcher Pass is 3,386 feet above sea level. This signpost is close to Summit Lake and is a popular stopping point for a picture with the sign. There are a handful of parking spots here with access to some nearby hikes and photo spots. 

Related Article: Homer Alaska, The Best Of Alaska

Summit Lake in Hatcher Pass Alaska

To the west of Hatcher Pass’s highest point is Summit Lake. This high-elevation lake is glacial-fed and turquoise-colored from glacial flour. It is backed by tall peaks and surrounded by formal and informal hiking trails. There is a small parking lot where visitors can jump out of their cars to see the lake and enjoy the trails. 

Golden Mint Trail

One of the most popular formal trails in Hatcher Pass is the state-managed Golden Mint Trail. This trail runs about 8 miles along the glacial valley following the Little Susitna River. The end of the trail is about a 1/8-mile steep climb, bringing you to the little red hut, which has stunning mountains in the background if there are no clouds. Camping is possible. The parking fee is $5/day at the parking lot located at the trailhead.

Hatcher Pass Huts, Buildings, and Mine Shacks

There are still a few reminiscences of the mining that took place here in the valleys, and they are great photo spots in Hatcher Pass. The easiest to access mine shacks and old buildings are in the Independence Mine State Park.

Related Article: Tips For Driving The Alcan Highway 

Camping in Hatcher Pass

There are many places you can camp in Hatcher Pass. Many people free camp along the many pullouts along the road, or there are several formal state-run campgrounds. We camped along the roadside in the higher elevation portion of the road and had a peaceful night, only seeing a handful of other cars.

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Where to Stay in Hatcher Pass

If you want to stay along the drive in Hatcher Pass you’ll have to camp. The closest option is Hatcher Pass Bed & Breakfast, which books up fast during the summer months. Most tourists choose to stay in Wasilla or Palmer as there are more options with accommodation and dining.

• Hatcher Pass Bed & Breakfast Check Rates Expedia
• A Moose Berry Inn Willow Check Rates Hotels.com | Expedia
• Best Western Lake Lucille Inn Check Rates Hotels.com | Expedia

There are several cabin rentals on Vrbo as well, which is a good option for families and those camping in need of a break from the tent. TIP: Make sure the rental has a washer & dryer to save time and money at the laundry mat.

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Have you been to Alaska or Hatcher Pass? Leave your tips or questions in the comments!

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