Hatcher Pass is an awe-inspiring road through remote areas of Alaska
Usa, north-america
96.56 km
1,184 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Hatcher Pass in Alaska! This isn't just a road; it's a 60-mile (96.56km) blast through the Talkeetna Mountains, reaching a lofty 3,886 feet (1.148m) above sea level. It's one of the highest roads you'll find in Alaska, and it's named after some gold prospector named Robert Hatcher.
You'll kick things off smooth on pavement heading from Palmer to Independence Mine State Historical Park, but then get ready for some grit! For about 15 miles (between Mile 17.5 and Mile 32.5), the road turns to gravel and can get pretty gnarly, especially after a good rain. Think ruts and bumps, folks.
Located in the Mat-Su Valley, expect some hairpin turns, switchbacks, and the occasional pothole along the way. Oh, and did I mention there are no guardrails? I wouldn’t recommend bringing your RV or any other big rig.
Speaking of wild, Hatcher Pass gets slammed with snow early. The road is open year-round except the last mile to Independence Mine. The central section tends to close during the winter, usually opening back up around the 4th of July weekend.
This drive is pretty remote, so fill up the tank and grab some snacks before you go – services are few and far between!
Where is it?
Hatcher Pass is an awe-inspiring road through remote areas of Alaska is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.5080, -96.7223
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 96.56 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,184 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 38.5080, -96.7223
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