For a historical blast to the past chock-full of abandoned buildings and fascinating remnants, you have got to check out the Independence Mine State Historical Park. Head up to Hatcher Pass deep into the Talkeetna Mountains for one of the most incredible walking tours in the 49th state. For an extra amazing wow-factor, visit during a cold, dark, clear night and watch as the Northern Lights dance over the snow-capped mountains in the distance.
Head north of Anchorage towards Wasilla/Palmer and make your way up the breathtakingly beautiful alpine pass heading towards Hatcher Pass. From here you will venture on a walking trail that will lead you to the huge abandoned gold mine known as Independence Mine State Historical Park. One of the first things that will surely knock you off your feet is the epic, enchanting view of the Talkeetna Mountains surrounding you on all sides.
This park is located just above tree line and stretches across 761 total acres. The creek that runs through the mine is a surprising slice of natural beauty that adds a gorgeous contrast to the historic buildings. Much of the drainage comes from glacier runoff from the heavily glaciated area.
Until the year of 1938, Independence Mine was actually two separate mines. After the two mines joined forces, Independence Mine went on to become the second most productive mine in the state of Alaska during 1941. At the peak of it all there were 204 workers employed, 12 miles of tunnels and roughly $18 million dollars worth of gold.
Much of the old rail trestle still remains and it is incredibly fascinating to observe the building standards from the early 1930s. Although engineering and structural procedures have obviously evolved significantly over the years, there is a lot to be said about how much of these structures still remain even after almost a century of heavy snowfall, high winds and countless storms. Phenomenal!
The Independence Mine State Historical Park was founded in 1980 and since that time the state has worked hard to restore and maintain buildings and tunnels and to preserve original artifacts.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing attractions is this old rail-car that was used to transport gold and materials.
The apartment at the historic park shows an example of how families lived at the gold camp. A small family would occupy a tiny, cozy room and generally the male would work for up to 10-16 hours per day.
For an up close and personal look at all that you would experience on a walking tour through this historic gold mine, check out the excellent video footage below with even more great photos.
https://youtu.be/r5_Pf4XXiY4
If you thought that video was great, you'll die of happiness when you see the time lapse footage below of the Northern Lights dancing over Independence Mine in the snowy winter months. After watching this you'll definitely want to add the mine to your fall/winter bucket list ASAP! There is nothing quite as magical as watching the Aurora Borealis over top snowy mountain peaks.
https://youtu.be/vDpzf6wPJr0
If you love checking out old mines in the last frontier, you've got to watch the truly grim footage captured at this abandoned cooper mine. It is out of this world!
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