This tour includes a guided bike ride through Hatcher Pass to Independence Mine State Historical Park, a well-preserved gold mining site in the Talkeetna Mountains. We provide all necessary gear, including helmets, jackets, pants, and a light snack.
Available: Aug – Sept
Rates:
$200.00 – per person
Hatcher Pass, High in the Talkeetna mountains, is home to a rich history of Alaska’s gold rush, stunning scenic beauty, and is where locals like to go to get into the backcountry of Alaska. This guided E-Bike tour will take you into the heart of this unforgettable region for an exciting ride past towering mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife, as well as visiting the historic Independence Mine.
Your tour begins on the Willow side of the pass at Snowhook Lodge, where you will be outfitted. We’ll travel through glacier-carved valleys and climb up over the pass to summit lake and views of the Talkeetna range all around us. From there, we’ll descend to the mine for a tour around the historic ruins and lunch. Afterwards, we’ll climb back over the pass for a thrilling ride down the mountain and back to the lodge.
NOTE: Guests should be in good health and expect to interval strenuous activity.
The tour begins at Snowhook Lodge in Hatcher Pass, where you’ll meet your guide and get outfitted with all the required gear. After a short safety briefing, you’ll set out on a guided ride into the Talkeetna Mountains, following dirt roads and singletrack trails toward a historic gold mining site tucked deep in the backcountry. The route is suitable for beginner to intermediate riders and is designed for a steady pace with breaks along the way.
As you ride, your guide will point out relics from the region’s gold rush era – old cabins, machinery, and structures left behind from Alaska’s early gold rush days. You’ll hear about the area’s history and geology while taking in wide-open views of Hatcher Pass, glacial valleys, and jagged ridgelines.
The trail surface is mostly packed dirt with some gravel and rocky sections, making it a rewarding but manageable ride. With provided gear and a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this is a great option for travelers looking for a different kind of adventure in Alaska’s backcountry.
This tour includes a guided bike ride through Hatcher Pass to Independence Mine State Historical Park, a well-preserved gold mining site in the Talkeetna Mountains. We provide all necessary gear, including helmets, jackets, pants, and a light snack.
Departs Daily: 10 am
Available: Aug – Sept
NOTE: Guests should be in good health and expect intervals of strenuous activity.
The Independence Mine E-Bike Adventure lasts about 2.5 hours from start to finish. That includes gearing up, a safety briefing, and the guided ride to and from the historic mining site. It’s long enough to enjoy the scenery, explore the area, and learn about Alaska’s gold rush history without feeling rushed or worn out.
No experience needed. The e-bikes are easy to ride and designed to help with hills and uneven ground. If you can ride a regular bike, you’ll do great on this tour. Our guides go over everything before the ride, so beginners feel confident and ready to go.
Wear clothes that keep you comfortable and safe on the trail. Here’s what we recommend:
Base layers: Moisture-wicking shirt and light pants or leggings
Footwear: Closed-toe shoes with good grip (no sandals)
Extras: Sunglasses, light gloves, and a hat for sun protection
Avoid: Loose clothing or anything that can get caught while riding
We provide jackets, pants, and helmets—just come dressed to move and ready for the weather.
Yes, it’s a great option for active families. Kids who are confident riders and meet the minimum height and weight for our e-bikes can join the tour. The pace is relaxed, and our guides keep things safe, fun, and flexible for all ages.
You’ll ride a pedal-assist electric bike built for trail use. It gives you a boost when you need it—especially on hills or loose terrain. These bikes are sturdy, easy to handle, and great for riders of all skill levels.
The trail is moderate, with packed dirt, small hills, and a few rocky sections. It’s built for beginner to intermediate riders. The e-bike helps smooth out the climbs, so you can focus on the ride and the view and not just the effort.
We cover everything you need for a safe and fun ride. Here’s what’s included:
Guided e-bike tour to Independence Mine through Hatcher Pass
Electric bike with pedal assist for easier climbing
Helmet, jacket, and pants to keep you comfortable and protected
Light snack to keep your energy up on the trail
Knowledgeable local guide to lead the ride and share the history
Just show up ready to ride, we’ll take care of the rest.
Yes, e-bikes are allowed on the trails we use in Hatcher Pass. These routes are open to Class 1 pedal-assist bikes, which means you still have to pedal, but with a helpful boost. It’s a fun and efficient way to explore the terrain without overdoing it.
E-bikes make mountain riding easier and more fun. The motor gives you extra power on climbs, so you don’t burn out early. You can go farther, enjoy the views longer, and still get a good workout, just with less struggle.
Most e-bikes top out at around 20 mph with pedal assist. That’s plenty fast for trails, but not too fast to stay safe. You’re still in control, you pedal, and the motor helps when you need it.
Yes, they handle it well. The e-bikes we use are built for trail riding, with wide tires and strong frames. The motor helps you keep moving over rough patches without wearing you out. It’s smooth, stable, and surprisingly fun.
You might spot moose, marmots, ptarmigan, or even a fox if you’re lucky. Golden eagles and other birds of prey are common overhead. Wildlife tends to keep its distance, but you’ll want to keep your eyes open, Alaska’s trails are full of surprises.
Late June through early September is the best time to bike in Hatcher Pass. Trails are clear, the weather is mild, and the views are at their best. You’ll get long daylight hours, blooming wildflowers, and a better chance of spotting wildlife.
Hatcher Pass is part of the Talkeetna Mountains, known for their glacial valleys, alpine tundra, and rich mining history. To learn more about the area’s geology and landscape, visit the Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys. They provide insight into the natural forces that shaped this part of the state.
If you’re curious about the history of the mine itself, the Alaska State Parks website offers details about Independence Mine and its role in Alaska’s gold rush. For wildlife you might see along the trail, check out the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, which covers local species and how to view them responsibly.
Join us on a once in a lifetime Alaska adventure with Snowhook Adventure Guides of Alaska. We’ll take you to places most people never get to see on dog sleds, helicopters, snowmobiles or ATVs. Join us for an all year adventure.
Join us on a once in a lifetime Alaska adventure with Snowhook Adventure Guides of Alaska. We’ll take you to places most people never get to see on dog sleds, helicopters, snowmobiles or ATVs.
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