Hiking in Hatcher Pass
A Local Favorite for Alaska Adventures
Looking for an unforgettable hiking experience in Alaska? Hatcher Pass delivers. Tucked along the southern boundary of the Talkeetna Mountains, Hatcher Pass Management Area boasts about 300,000 acres of land. The recreation hub starts close to sea level with an elevation around 1,000 feet and includes some peaks in the 6,000-foot range. It’s one of our favorite local spots to adventure year-round.
Why Hatcher Pass?
This area offers expansive scenic views. Think open tundra, alpine lakes, dramatic ridgelines, and glimpses into Alaska’s gold mining past. With easy access from Palmer and Anchorage, Hatcher Pass is the perfect spot to spend a couple of hours or an entire day.
This post focuses on hiking in Hatcher Pass, but you can also drive Hatcher Pass Road (summer only), bike, and ride ATVs in designated motorized use areas.
Favorite Hikes in Hatcher Pass
There are many hiking options in the area. These are some of our top picks for a day in the area.
Gold Cord Lake – A short, family-friendly hike with a big payoff. Once at the lake, you’ll see views of the valley below and get a dramatic look at Independence Mine from above.
Pro-tip: Stay on the trail. This trail has been severely damaged by erosion in recent years. Hikers create social trails by avoiding the designated switchbacks. Be mindful of signage of stick to the trail.
Reed Lakes – A strenuous hike through a glacial valley that leads to two stunning alpine lakes.
Pro-tip: Start early. This hike has become popular in recent years. For good reason! It’s a beautiful part of Hatcher Pass. Starting early ensures you’ll be able to snag a parking spot and beat the crowds.
April Bowl – Quick elevation gain and sweeping views—ideal for hikers looking for a bit of a workout with serious views.
Pro-tip: Bring trekking poles. This rock on this trail is on the crumbly side and the grade is steep. Trekking poles will help with sure footing going up and save your knees on the way down.
Not into hiking? No problem. Enjoy the scenery from your vehicle or take a historic mine tour with Salmon Berry Tours. These trips last about one hour in total and are the best way to learn about the mining history of Hatcher Pass. Both options are great for travelers looking for a more mellow adventure.
Quick Tips
Dress in layers – The weather can shift quickly in the mountains. The Talkeetnas are notorious for afternoon showers in the later part of summer.
Start early – Mornings are often clearer and trails are quieter.
Pack essentials – Water, snacks, rain gear, bear spray, and a camera are a must. We highly recommend traveling with an emergency communication device like an InReach or similar. There is limited cell service in Hatcher Pass.
Support local – Booking with a local Alaska hiking company helps keep this area beautiful for future adventurers. You’ll benefit from local knowledge, transportation, safety planning, and a deeper connection to the landscape. It's a great way to explore confidently, especially if you're unfamiliar with Alaska terrain or conditions.
Our Guided Hikes in Hatcher Pass
We offer a guided Hike and Brew trip (our Valleys and Hops adventure) that travels along the Gold Mint trail. This is a mellow hike with minimal elevation gain. We love this trail because we get to travel in a glacial valley, chat about flora and fauna, and touch on some of the area’s mining history. At the end of this hike, we visit a local brewery - pint or flight included with your trip fees!
We also offer a Hatcher Pass Hidden Waterfalls hike. Most of the time, this hike takes place just beyond Hatcher Pass in a different part of the Talkeetna Mountains, but depending on our group, we may also hike this trip from Hatcher Pass proper.
Custom guided hikes: If you’re interested in seeing something in particular, reach out. We can offer guided hikes on the Reed Lakes Trail, the Gold Cord Lake Trail, and April Bowl, among others, not mentioned in this post.
