Hatcher Pass Hike & History Tour

This half-day afternoon excursion from Anchorage includes a local guide, our signature tour at Independence Mine State Historical Park, a gold panning demo & time at the creek with a pan (rental included!) as well as an interpretive hike along the Mill Loop Trail. Begin this unique Alaska adventure as we drive north from Anchorage along the Kink Arm, we will pass through the town of Palmer, a community with farmland now famous for growing record-breaking produce like the 2,051-pound pumpkin! As we ascend the Talkeetna Mountains, we’ll enter the breathtaking alpine area known as Hatcher Pass. Take an interpretive walk through the abandoned Independence Mine State Historical Park Visitor Center. Following this 45-minute tour, enjoy a panning demonstration & time at the creek where we commonly find 3 or 4 flakes in each pan! Following our time at the creek, enjoy a guided hike along the Mill Loop Trail. The Mill Loop trail is an easy .9 mile trail with 177ft elevation gain. Already at 3500ft in elevation in the Talkeetna Mountains, the views are incredible! This short trail above Independence Mine in Hatcher Pass is family-friendly and will provide an introduction to the flora & fauna of the tundra. Common wildlife sightings consist of arctic ground squirrels and marmots – if you don’t see them you will hear them whistle at you! This tour includes complimentary snacks including popcorn from Bunkhouse #2 and water.