9 Outdoor Activities You Can Do At Hatcher Pass During the Summer
1. Hiking
Hatcher Pass offers a wide variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. The trails pass through beautiful mountainous terrain, wildflower-filled meadows, and scenic valleys. Some of the popular trails include Gold Mint Trail, Reed Lakes Trail, and Hatch Peak Trail. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, wildlife, and alpine lakes. Hikers should come prepared with sturdy shoes, water, and a map.
2. Mountain Biking
The rugged terrain of Hatcher Pass provides an excellent setting for mountain biking. Visitors can rent mountain bikes from local outfitters or bring their own. Some popular mountain biking trails in the area include Government Peak Trail and Bodenstadt Trail. Bikers can expect to encounter challenging uphill climbs, rocky terrain, and thrilling downhill descents. Mountain bikers should come prepared with protective gear and appropriate clothing.
3. Birdwatching
Hatcher Pass is home to a variety of bird species, including raptors such as golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and red-tailed hawks. Visitors can observe these birds of prey soaring over the mountains and valleys. Other birds that can be spotted in the area include grouse, ptarmigans, and songbirds. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars and a field guide to identify the birds.
4. Berry picking
In late summer, visitors can enjoy picking wild blueberries, raspberries, and other berries in the alpine meadows around Hatcher Pass. Some of the popular berry-picking spots include Archangel Road, Little Susitna River Trail, and Hatcher Pass Road. Visitors should be aware of bear activity in the area and take precautions such as carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking.
5. Wildlife Viewing
Visitors to Hatcher Pass can observe a variety of wildlife, including moose, caribou, Dall sheep, black and grizzly bears, and wolves. The best time to spot wildlife is early in the morning or late in the evening. Visitors should maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never approach them.
6. Historic Tours of Independence Mine State Park
Nestled within the majestic Hatcher Pass mountains lies Independence Mine State Historical Park, a historical gold mining town that dates back to the early 1900s. This unique destination offers the opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich history of the Alaskan gold rush era. Visitors can explore the many well-preserved buildings, such as the assay office, bunkhouse, and mess hall, that were once used by miners and their families.
7. Guided Fishing
Visitors can enjoy guided fishing tours in the streams and lakes around Hatcher Pass. The area is known for its abundant trout and salmon populations. Visitors can hire a guide or rent equipment from local outfitters. Fishing licenses are required and can be obtained from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
8. Helicopter Tours
Visitors can take a helicopter tour of the surrounding mountains and glaciers to see Hatcher Pass from a different perspective. The tours offer breathtaking views of the rugged landscape and the opportunity to spot wildlife from the air.
9. Glacier Tours
Alaska is home to some of the most awe-inspiring glaciers in the world, and Hatcher Pass Lodge is a great base for exploring them. Visitors can book guided glacier tours from nearby operators to experience the stunning natural beauty up close. These tours can include hikes across the glacier or even helicopter rides to remote glaciers. In addition to their breathtaking beauty, glaciers also offer an opportunity to learn about geology and climate science. Guests may also have the chance to see wildlife like mountain goats and black bears, which are known to frequent the glacier areas. Be sure to bring warm clothes and sturdy shoes, as the temperature on the glacier can be much colder than at lower elevations.