Hatcher Pass, Alaska: Independence Mine State Historical Park

long with its beautiful scenery and spectacular historic Independence mine, the Hatcher Pass area offers numerous recreational activities, including hiking and mountain biking. This is a wide open area, with easy hikes you can take to where you can look down the valley. For the more adventurous, backcountry trails await. Bring your camera. Considering how close you are to Anchorage, you'll be surprised at how scenic the vistas are from Hatcher Pass.