Gold Mint Trailhead Camping

The feel

This is camping at the Gold Mint parking area and trailhead, along the Little Susitna River. There are 10 campsites, no RV size limit, and RV parking is allowed.

In summer the Gold Mint Trail gently climbs up the mountain valley from the lot. Hikers, paragliders and campers all use the area, and it is open year-round. In winter the same lot is shared by snowmobilers on the Hatcher Pass Snowmobile Corridor and by skiers on the Gold Mint Trail.

What to expect

Layout and setting

10 campsites at the Gold Mint parking area and trailhead, Mile 13.7 Hatcher Pass Road, along the Little Susitna.

Check-in and stay

Sites are first-come.

Crowds and best time

In winter the lot is shared by snowmobilers and skiers.

Parking and rig size

No RV size limit; camping and RV parking are allowed. No hookups.

Fees and reservations

A daily parking fee and campsite fees apply. First-come, with no reservations.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets are at the trailhead. Water is available in summer only; treat any river water before drinking it.

Season and access

Year-round access. From the Glenn Highway at Milepost 49.5, go north on Palmer-Fishhook Road to Hatcher Pass; the trailhead is 13.7 miles on the right.

Mingo says

Come in summer if you want water at the trailhead. Winter trips mean sharing the lot with sleds and skiers.

Before you go

• Check the Alaska State Parks fee page for the camping and daily parking fee amounts.
• Treat river water before you drink it.
• Call (907) 745-3975 with questions before you drive up.

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