Independence Mines, Historic gold mine in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska.
The Independence Mine complex contains sixteen wood-frame buildings connected by covered wooden walkways, situated within the Talkeetna Mountains at Hatcher Pass.
The mining operation, established in 1934, combined two separate mines under Alaska-Pacific Consolidated Mining Company and produced over 165,500 ounces of gold.
The mining site demonstrates the industrial development of Alaska through preserved structures, equipment, and facilities that were essential for gold extraction.
Visitors can access the mine complex through maintained trails from Palmer or Wasilla, with ranger-led tours providing information about mining operations.
The processing facility featured a 150-ton-per-day mill with specialized equipment including jig units, flotation systems, and a Merrill-Crowe precipitation circuit.
Location: Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Inception: 1934
Website: https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/indmine.htm
GPS coordinates: 61.79030,-149.28467
Latest update: March 7, 2025 00:01
Alaska presents natural sites in remote areas distant from urban centers. These locations display the geological diversity of the state: glaciers, volcanoes, dunes, hot springs and waterfalls. Visitors discover historical mining sites, indigenous cultural locations and museums. The region enables encounters with brown bears, whales and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
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