タルキートナ山地周辺のおすすめファミリーハイキング＆ウォーキング

Ascending Hatch Peak from the east is a pretty easy hike up a narrow ridge trail. If you choose to make a full loop and continue back down into the bowl along the western ridgeline, be prepared for hiking on big pieces of loose rock and large, jagged scree.

Government Peak reaches 4,781 ft above sea level in the Talkeetna Mountains. Once above the tree line, you'll reward yourself with sweeping views of the Hatcher Pass area and the expansive Palmer–Wasilla Valley. This hike should be done between June and October when the trails are driest; snow can remain up high for long periods of time. In that case, skip the summit to minimize slip risk.

The Independence Mine parking area, just on the other side of the road from here, is behind a gate that is closed in the evening. It usually requires a modest fee (it seems to change every few years, but tends to be around $5-$10 per vehicle). If the gate is open you can save some distance by parking here, but otherwise you'll need to walk from the parking lot further down the road.

This pretty alpine lake sits in a mountain bowl, surrounded by boulders — but the approach itself is pretty mild, with just a bit of rocky trail to deal with. This is a very popular destination for families.

A small sign marks the actual pass here, and there is a small parking area with just enough room for a few cars. Just on the other side of the gravel road you'll find a trailhead for the family-friendly hike up to April Bowl, which in a normal year contains three small lakes. If you're feeling rugged, you can also hike up a rocky ridgeline to the obvious summit of Hatch Peak, which looms over the bowl.