It’s pretty much already a given that just about everywhere in Alaska boasts a ‘scenic drive’ experience. But some places still manage to stick out. Hatcher Pass, located just an hour and a half away from Alaska’s largest city of Anchorage, is one of those places.
We’ll start by mentioning that the panoramic beauty is unreal. Not to mention, the recreational opportunities are seemingly endless. If you haven’t already soaked in this epic experience from start to finish, you better add it to you New Year’s bucket list real quick!
Nestled in the Talkeetna Mountains, Hatcher Pass is a 60 mile long picturesque road located between the small towns of Willow and Palmer in the Mat-Su Borough.
Flickr - Dave Bezaire
As you climb 3,886 feet in elevation, the jaw-dropping panoramic views might distract you from your ears popping and your stomach dropping as you look down over the steep ledges.
Flickr - Julia Blanchette
This local hot spot is perfect for a scenic drive up into the mountains plus it offers a tremendous amount of year-round recreational opportunities.
Flickr - Scott McMurren
During the ripe summer months, you’ll see the fireweed paint the mountain side and the wildflowers flourish across the alpine tundra.
Flickr - D.R. Doc Roberts
Waterfalls and various natural wonders can be found sporadically throughout the entire drive.
Flickr - Cecil Sanders
Recreational activities are taken to a whole new level in this enchanting area. Enjoy hang gliding, skiing, hiking, snow shoeing, wildlife viewing, berry picking, camping and so much more.
Flickr - Michael Hayes
If you do decide to bag some summits, be prepared to find yourself gasping for air. You’ll get quite the workout and you’ll definitely be blown away by the views.
Flickr - Cecil Sanders
A popular summertime hiking spot is Reed Lakes, which winds through a 4.5 mile long boulder scramble with spectacular sights every step of the way.
Flickr - Katie (alaskahokie)
For the ultimate fall foliage day trip, Hatcher Pass is one of your best bets in the Last Frontier.
Flickr - Sandy Brown Jensen
This scenic drive can be very dangerous and deadly during the dark, snowy and icy months that happen in Alaska for nearly half of the year.
Flickr - Jennifer Pack
Although risks are profound, many prefer to visit Hatcher Pass during this time of year because it’s such a beautiful winter wonderland experience.
Flickr - Ian Collins
Many locals head to the Hatcher Pass area with the family to wear the kiddos out climbing up slopes and tubing down from sunrise to sunset.
Flickr - Jeff Noble
For all of our dog lovers out there, Hatcher Pass will be the quickest way to see a happy wagging tail all day long.
Flickr - Katie (alaskahokie)
On a clear night, the Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) can be seen dancing impeccably above the raw Hatcher Pass wilderness area.
Flickr - adam_gulkis
Hatcher Pass Lodge offers a rustic cabin camping experience and a cozy restaurant on site. Enjoy making an annual trip here your new favorite tradition!
Flickr - Ian Collins
A short walk up from Hatcher Pass Lodge is the early 1900s Independence Mine Historical State Park which offers an incredible amount of rare sights and fascinating gold rush history.
Flickr - fine_plan
If you love Hatcher Pass, you’re sure to enjoy these 15 mountains towns in Alaska that are straight out of a storybook.
Flickr - Dave Bezaire
Flickr - Julia Blanchette
Flickr - Scott McMurren
Flickr - D.R. Doc Roberts
Flickr - Cecil Sanders
Flickr - Michael Hayes
Flickr - Katie (alaskahokie)
Flickr - Sandy Brown Jensen
Flickr - Jennifer Pack
Flickr - Ian Collins
Flickr - Jeff Noble
Flickr - adam_gulkis
Flickr - fine_plan
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
