Hatcher Pass to Independence Mine

Hatcher Pass to Independence Mine Alaska State Historical Park makes a great day trip from Anchorage. Via Palmer-Fishhook Road, it is a scenic drive along the Little Suisitna River with enough elevation gained to get beautiful views of the horseshoe shaped valley below. 

Overlooks provide a view of glacially formed valleys

The historic mine and buildings are a reminder of a bygone era. 

The manager's house, with its spacious living room, wide stone fireplace and broad bank of windows, now houses a museum and visitors center.
 

In 1941 at its height of production, the mine spanned more than 1300 acres. Nearly 30 structures had been built. More than 200 were employed. There were miles and miles of tunnels blasted. Gold in excess of 34,000 ounces was produced. Families joined the miners in a boomtown erected nearby, and they brought children to attend a territorial school in a bunkhouse.