Archangel Valley Dispersed Camping

The feel

Roadside and creekside dispersed sites run along Archangel Road, below the Reed Lakes and Snowbird trailheads. The road is approximately four miles long and ends at the Fern Mine gate, which is private.

In summer the road is open to highway vehicles but is often very rough, and past the Archangel Creek bridge at mile 2.8 it is not maintained and very rocky. Hiking, berry picking and day use are the draws here, and there are no facilities.

What to expect

Layout and setting

Dispersed, informal sites along Archangel Road in the Hatcher Pass East Management Area, with no facilities.

Check-in and stay

First-come.

Crowds and best time

Parking at the Reed Lakes Trailhead is limited, and congestion on summer weekends should be anticipated.

Fees and reservations

Free, with no daily parking fee. First-come.

Hazards

Archangel Road is often very rough, and beyond the bridge at mile 2.8 it is not maintained and very rocky.

Bathrooms and water

No facilities. Treat creek water before drinking it, and pack out what you pack in.

Season and access

About June to September. The trailhead is near mile 14.4 Hatcher Pass Road; take the George Parks Highway north to Hatcher Pass Road and turn right.

Mingo says

Aim for June through September, the season for this rough dirt road. Reed Lakes parking fills on summer weekends, so plan for a crowd.

Before you go

• Bring a high ground clearance vehicle for the rough road.
• Treat creek water before you drink it.
• Pack out all trash, since there are no facilities.
• Call (907) 745-3975 with questions before you drive up.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.