Hatcher Pass draws year-round crowds for hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter, and berry picking in the fall. Historic Independence Mine is a summertime visitor destination, and groomed skate and classic ski trails snake through the complex of old buildings and equipment during the snowy months. With no snow in the lowlands this winter, we decided to head higher to find some. When we arrived, a blizzard was underway, reducing visibility to almost nothing. But the skies cleared as we trudged from the huge parking lot (as far as the road is plowed during winter) on our classic skis gradually uphill toward the mine. Being a weekend, a swirl of activities reigned: skiing, snowshoeing, walking, sledding. There were families with kids, couples with dogs, solo joggers, and rag-tag groups like ours--some on foot, some attempting skis for the first time, some strapping on brand new snowshoes, and even one person skijoring with her yellow lab.
Distance: Varies
Distance: Varies
For more information:
Independence Mine State Historical Park
Mat-Su Ski Club
Hatcher Pass Lodge
Independence Mine State Historical Park
Mat-Su Ski Club
Hatcher Pass Lodge