Ride in Alaska’s Matanuska-Susitna Valley on your own snowmobile into the remarkable peaks of  Hatcher Pass near Willow.  Alaska’s winter wonderland unfolds when you give the throttle a squeeze and experience its snowmobiling backcountry first hand.  Instruction on snowmobile riding techniques adds to the snowmachining experience.  When conditions permit freeride and learn carving in a powder field up Craigie Creek Valley.

Trips meet at a roadside pullout 14.6 miles up Alaska State maintained Willow Fishhook Road from Willow and venture up into the Mountain Valleys of Craigie Creek and Dogsled Pass. This iron dog trail ride is great for all ability levels starting with 5 miles of flat road trail along Willow Creek in the lower lands where Moose wander in spruce forests and willow bushes.  Climbing our way out of the valley brings us to Grubstake Mine a placer gold operation before a big switchback access’s the 3000 foot elevation Craigie Creek.  Occasionally if conditions permit we ride into Upper Willow Creek Valley.

Hatcher Pass is known for great early season snow, riding at elevation, jagged peaks, treeless views and mining history.

Driving up to the Willow side of Hatchers Pass is relatively easy with most of the journey on the Alaska and Parks Highways.  Once in Willow drive 14.6 miles up Willow Fishook Road be aware there are several hills and a few sharp corners.  All wheel drive ( AWD ) and four wheel drive ( 4×4 ) rental vehicles with good all season or winter tires are recommended.