Winter Activities in Hatcher Pass |
Independence Mine State Historical Park Visitor Center is closed for the winter. However, the grounds are open to
the public year-round.
Winter Fun Activities Include:
- Sledding
- Snowboarding
- Cross-country skiing
- Telemark skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Dog Mushing
- Skijouing
- Snowmobiling (in specified areas)
- Snow Cat skiing (call 907-346-1276 for more information)
Road Conditions:
Check road conditions before attempting to drive between September 15 and April 30. The use of snowmobiles and off-road vehicles is prohibited within Independence Mine Historical park, but is permitted within specified areas of the Hatcher Pass Management Area.
The Department of Transportation plows regularly to the Hatcher Pass Lodge, however, front-wheel drive (or 2 wheel drive), with chains or 4-wheel drive, is recommended.
Please Keep In Mind:
Because of mountainous terrain, high avalanche danger exists during the winter season in the Hatcher Pass Management Area. Those who recreate in the Hatcher Pass Management Area are advised to educate themselves on avalanche warning signs, and to heed park avalanche advisories.
Pets must be on a leash near developed facilities. Please remember to keep pets off the groomed ski trails at Independence Mine.
Directions:
Take the Glenn Highway from Anchorage. Two miles past the city of Palmer, turn left on Palmer-Fishhook Road, which becomes the Hatcher Pass Road. The Hatcher Pass Management Area is 10 miles from downtown Palmer; Independence Mine is 18 miles from Palmer.
Parks and Recreation Information:
Matanuska-Susitna Area Office
Emergency Telephones are Located At:
- Hatcher Pass Lodge
- Mile 17 Hatcher Pass Road
- (4 miles above Motherlode Lodge)
- (907) 745-5897
- Motherlode Lodge
- Mile 14, Hatcher Pass Road
- Independence Mine Visitor Center