Independence Mine Accessible Trail

The feel

This is a paved path with a grade under 5%, wheelchair and stroller friendly, that runs through the historic mine camp buildings. It is one of Alaska's largest gold mining camps, and the walk shows what it was like to live and work here.

At the assay office, displays explain assaying, retorting and other mining techniques. Gold panning is allowed in the park with a pan and shovel only.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 0.3 mile total, with about 13 ft of gain. Paved, under 5% grade, through the historic mine camp buildings.

Time

About 0.5 hour.

Crowds and best time

Best from June through September.

Parking

The upper lot gate is open 9am to 7pm daily, and the last car goes up at 6pm. Outside gate hours, park at the lower lot, which is open at all times, and walk up.

Fees and passes

$5 day use, and a state park pass is accepted.

Dogs

Allowed on a leash.

Kids

Rated easy, and stroller friendly.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and water are at the park, and both are wheelchair accessible.

Season and access

The visitor center is open daily June 18 to Sept 30. Palmer-Fishhook Road is open year-round except the last mile to Independence Mine in winter.

Mingo says

Visit in summer, because the final stretch of road up closes in winter. Late arrivals can still walk up from the lower lot.

Before you go

• Bring $5 for day use, or a state park pass.
• Keep dogs on a leash.
• Bring four-wheel-drive from roughly October 1 through May 31.

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