Independence Mine
A reminder of the Alaskan Gold Rush.
Every turn in Hatcher’s Pass reveals the treasures Alaska has to offer.Everyone has heard of the gold rush to California, but did you know there was a gold rush to Alaska? The gold rush took place after Alaska was purchased from Russia (2 cents an acre, what a steal!) around the years 1897 to 1904. In fact, the gold rush was the first big push to settle Alaska after its acquisition in 1867. Gold was discovered in Hatchers Pass in the Talkeetna Mountains and soon, enterprising pan-handlers would line the banks of the Fishhook Creek, hoping to get rich. It wasn’t until hard rock gold was discovered that the mining operation on Granite Mountain would begin. Between 1938 and 1951, the mine would be operational, removing gold in what was the second largest mine in Alaska.
This picture was taken looking at the bunkhouses. The old glass window frames the stark beauty of the land surrounding the mine.Independence Mine was officially labeled an Alaska Goldrush National Historic Landmark in 1982, and became the Independence Mine State Historical Park. The park is located north of Palmer, AK in Hatchers Pass. The road to the park is an easy drive, though the mine is located above the tree line at around 4,000 feet. Compared to other roads I have driven lately in Alaska; it feels like a gradual incline. The road follows Fishhook Creek up the pass, which means you will catch glimpses of the icy blue waters as it runs through coppery rocks. Just like everything else in Alaska, the drive is very beautiful. Be sure to stop at the overlook at the base of the mountain, there is a great spot to practice your water photography.
There is something special about a river picture with soft, fluffy water.As you make your way to Independence Mine, you will notice there are several places to hike. While we didn’t take the time to complete any of these hikes, I have heard from the locals that they are great hikes. Be sure to take lots of pictures. We made the trip on a cloudy day, and it was still beautiful. Once you get to the parking lot, you will need to pay for your parking. It’s only five dollars, so it won’t break the bank. Be sure to use the bathroom before you get to the site as there are no working bathrooms in the park.
From the parking lot, walk up the small hill to the main building location. The basin the mine sits in is beautiful all the way around. The foliage was already starting to turn its fall colors, so the mountainside was washed in greens, oranges, yellows, and reds. I recommend stopping at the visitor center (it used to be the foreman’s house). There is a big fireplace made from stone pulled out of the mine. The display in the house also talks about daily life around the mining operation.
There are several bunkhouses, one of which was the most desirable mining bunkhouse in Alaska because it had power and running water! Many of the old buildings are still standing, but there are several that were too damaged to be preserved. You can take a guided tour and actually go inside some of the buildings. There is plenty of information about the operation of the mine, daily life, and the functions of the buildings on the informal self-guided tour. However, you don’t get to go inside many of the buildings and see things up close.
This site is really interesting, and provides a brief glimpse into what life may have been like for miners during Alaska’s gold rush. Be sure to bring your camera as there are ample opportunities for pictures. You can even rent a set of pan-handles and try to get some gold for yourself! Independence Mine State Historic Park is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon. I highly recommend going while you are in the area! If you want more information, you can visit this website for directions to the mine, this website to learn more about the history of the mine, or this website to learn about the Alaskan Gold rush.
Happy Traveling!
Kat