The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities announced yesterday that the summit of Hatcher Pass is now closed for the season. The road will likely stay closed through July, depending on this season’s snowfall.
“Well, you knew it was going to happen any time! Hatcher Pass Rd over the Pass is closed for the winter. Archangel Rd will stay open until snow levels force closure.”
Generally, the road over the summit is open only from about July 1 through September 15, depending on snow conditions. In the summer, the road is open to highway vehicles but expect slow passage. RVs or large vehicles are not recommended due to the steep grades, rough roads, and tight hairpin corners.
- Related: Hatcher Pass, AK Closed Due to ‘Historic’ Easter Avalanche Cycle – Photos of Aftermath Released
Set in the Talkeetna Mountains, between the towns of Willow and Palmer, the pass is a favorite local hot spot for recreation or a scenic drive. Hike in alpine tundra dotted with wildflowers and ptarmigan; ski fresh, deep powder; or visit Independence Mine Historical State Park. And it’s all just a 90-minute drive from Anchorage.
In winter, the state maintains the road to Independence Bowl, offering easy access to snowy mountains. The pass gets some of the earliest snow in the state, and the skiing is so good that it used to be the training grounds for the Junior Olympic ski team.
