About Hatcher Pass, Alaska
The Hatcher Pass area in Alaska is found in the southwest part of the Talkeetna Mountains in the Matanuska Valley. A well-known historic gold mining area, and a paradise location for rockhounders and hikers alike. The area aside from being famous for its gold mining legacy, combines stunning mountain scenery with opportunities to discover a variety of minerals, from quartz crystals and garnet to traces of silver, gold, and copper.
For those seeking adventure, the pass offers both recreational gold panning and fascinating glimpses into Alaska's mining past.
What Can Be Found in Hatcher Pass
While exploring Hatcher Pass, look out for:
- Gold: Because of the rich gold mining history, gold panning is a popular activity in designated spots.
- Copper: Along the old mine tails and riversides, you will likely find copper specimens.
- Quartz: Clear and milky quartz are often spotted in the gravel around the mine.
- Garnet: Deep red crystals can sometimes be found in metamorphic zones.
Gold
Garnet Stones
Garnet Stones
Rockhounding Locations in Hatcher Pass
- Independence Mine: This site is located near Fishhook Creek, about half a mile south of the Gold Cord Mine and across a small gulch from the Skyscraper Mine. It was first staked in 1907 by the Gold Quartz Mining Company, but has now become a state historical park. Before going here, get the Independence Mine brochure to guide you, and speak with the park staff before panning for gold in the mine.
- Fishhook Creek: This creek is a place to scour for garnet stones, and it is close to the Independence Mine.
- Little Susitna River: The Little Susitna River, 520 meters in the Talkeetna Mountains, and starts from Hatcher Pass, is a good spot to find fossils and gems. You can access the river from the gravel parking area at the Gold Mint Trailhead, where you can hike and explore for gems along the water.
- Matanuska River: The Matanuska River is known for agates and pieces of petrified wood. Its strong currents erode the banks and reveal these treasures. You can access this area along the Glenn Highway, making it easy to explore.
- Willow Creek Mining Area: Explore Willow Creek for deposits of gold as the creek gravels are documented to have small gold deposits. Recreational panning is sometimes permitted in public access zones. There are other mines around this area, most of which have been claimed, so you might need to seek permission before accessing those areas.
Read More on Gold Prospecting here.
Location of Hatcher Pass, Alaska
You can locate the Hatcher Pass public use area from the Glenn Highway, two miles north of Palmer, then turn left into the Independence Mine historical park. The part open for public use is exactly 7.8 miles of the Palmer Fishhook road.
Hatcher Pass
Independence Mine
Little Susitna River
Matanuska River
Fishhook Creek
Recommended Gear and Tips
Rules for Rockhounding in Hatcher Pass, Alaska
Before visiting Hatcher Pass, note that there are rules and local laws you need to know of, to avoid legal trouble.
- Alaska State Parks are not open for rock collecting. You can visit and view the beautiful sites, but you are prohibited from taking rocks and other historical artifacts from the park. There are some areas open for public use where you can explore and pan for gold.
- Some mines are claimed as private mines, so you need to seek permission before going Gold Panning. The Willow Creek Mining area has several mines that are owned privately. You have to ask questions and seek permission before going to these mines.
Recommended Gears
- Rock hammer and Rock pick: They will be helpful for scattering hard formed rocks, and digging out hidden or deeply buried gems, especially in harder terrains.
- Safety glasses: to protect your eyes, and magnifying glasses, because some gems will require close examination. A good magnifying glass will help you view the details.
- Sifter and Bucket: If you are gold panning, you will need a sift pan to sift out the gold from dirt. And a bucket to store your finds.
- Shovels and trowel: They will be needed if you have to dig deep. Full sized shovels or handheld trowels will do a good job.
- Guidebooks: Go with guidebooks and field guides.
- Essential Items: Before going, carry along essential items like Bags, First aid kit for injuries like cuts and scrapes. Include antiseptics, bandages, and essential items to treat basic wounds.
Rockhounding Tips For Hatcher Pass
- Contact the Hatcher Pass public use area for further enquiries about mining or rockhounding hours.
- Alaska is best in the summer for its daylight allowing for longer times to explore the area. Rivers swell higher during spring making some places inaccessible, while snow in the winter covers hidden gems, during the summer the snows are melted and you can see the rocks clearly.
- Prioritise Safety: You need to stay safe by going to the mines in a group or join a club, avoid visiting alone.
- Research about the claimed mines and the areas open for public use. Review mining claim directories or consult the Hatch Pass Park for clarification.
- Document your adventure with a camera, and take notes of your experience.
- Stay updated with the rules, as they evolve year in year out.
Final Thoughts
Hatcher Pass is more than just a rockhounding spot. It's a place where Alaska's natural beauty meets mining history. Whether you're exploring the remains of Independence Mine, panning for gold in the Little Susitna River, or exploring the Willow creek mining area, every trip uncovers the historic adventurous spirit of the miners who once sought fortune here.
With its mix of geology, history, and breathtaking landscapes, Hatcher Pass remains one of Alaska's most rewarding rockhounding destinations.
Other Rockhounding Sites in Alaska
Alaska is a rich gold mining area, and also home to the best gemstones. Find out other rockhounding areas in Alaska.
Guidebooks For Alaska
Alaska has a rich gold mining history. If you are looking to explore more of Alaska's Gold sites, Here are several guidebooks you can explore.