Hatcher Pass East Management Area reopens to snowmobiles
(Palmer, AK) – Due to cooler-than-expected weather over the last weekend, Alaska State Parks has temporarily reopened the Hatcher Pass East Management Area to snowmobile use.
The snowpack has softened but assessments late Monday revealed that the snow could still support snowmobiles without impacting underlying vegetation.
Trails remain in fair condition and are in better condition in higher elevations. While traveling at lower elevations, riders are urged to stay on trails where the snowpack is firmer. Snowcat grooming operations for both cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails have been suspended for the season between the Gold Mint Trailhead, Summit Lake, and Independence Mine State Historical Park.
Conditions will be assessed daily and the area is subject to abrupt closures to snowmobile use on any day, depending on the weather. For further information, please contact the Mat-Su Area State Parks Headquarters at 745-3975.
DNR press release