Palmer / Anchorage North KOA Journey Blog
Open Year Round, Winter Monthly Stays Available
KOA Journey campgrounds offer the perfect oasis after a day on the road. Whether it’s along the way or a quick getaway, they’ve got you covered. Located near the highways and byways of North America with long Pull-thru RV Sites, they deliver convenience to the traveling camper. Pull in, ease back and take a load off.
KOA Journey campgrounds offer the perfect oasis after a day on the road. Whether it’s along the way or a quick getaway, they’ve got you covered. Located near the highways and byways of North America with long Pull-thru RV Sites, they deliver convenience to the traveling camper. Pull in, ease back and take a load off.
Address: 2010 South Church St, Palmer AK 99645
If coming from Denali: Exit Hwy 3 and turn onto E Fireweed Road, follow for a couple miles, and then turn right onto Church St. The campground will be on the right.
If coming from the Kenai Peninsula/the Canadian Border: Follow Hwy 1 and exit at Hwy 3, follow Hwy 3 and exit left onto Trunk Rd. Take the first exit on the roundabout to E Fireweed Road and then turn left onto S Church St. The campground will be on the right.
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Hatcher Pass is one of the easiest and most rewarding mountain day trips from Palmer. Just 70 miles from Palmer / Anchorage North KOA Journey, the road climbs into the Talkeetna Mountains and leads to Independence Mine State Historical Park, where big views and Alaska history meet in one stop.
At 3,886 feet, Hatcher Pass is one of the highest road-accessible mountain passes in Alaska, offering easy access to hiking trails, alpine tundra, and seasonal berry picking.
Hatcher Pass and Independence Mine are under a two-hour drive from Palmer depending on traffic, road conditions, and how often you stop for photos. The drive to Independence Mine is paved and straightforward. Past the mine, the road to the summit turns into gravel and winds through switchbacks, so drive slowly and check conditions before you go.
Independence Mine is a historic gold mine in Hatcher Pass and one of the area’s most popular attractions. Today, visitors can walk interpretive trails, explore restored mining buildings, and learn what life was like for workers in this remote alpine setting. It’s a scenic stop with real Alaska history. And yes, the views are worth the drive on their own. Expect a small parking fee.
Hatcher Pass has hiking trails for a wide range of skill levels. Gold Cord Lake Trail starts near Independence Mine and covers about 1.7 miles to a beautiful alpine lake. Reed Lakes is known for boulders, mountain scenery, and brilliant fall color. Government Peak offers broad views and a great taste of the area’s changing seasons. Bring layers, water, and a snack, and give yourself time to linger.
The summit road is generally open from July to mid-September. The paved road to Independence Mine is typically open year-round, although the last mile often closes in winter. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so always check current road conditions before heading out.
Pack layers. Mountain weather can shift from sun to wind to rain in a matter of hours.
Start early. Summer daylight gives you more time for scenic stops, short hikes, and a relaxed walk around the mine.
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