Willow

Willow is located in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough on the Parks Hwy coming out of Anchorage, and extends about 2.5 miles along the main road. Willow began about 1897 when gold was discovered in the area. By 1954, Willow Creek was Alaska's largest gold minind district, with a total production approaching 18 million dollars.

After the completion of the Parks Hwy in 1972, Willow was proposed to be the new state capital. But the plan was never implemented.

There is a 4,200 foot gravel runway and the Susitna River is a major recreation area.

The Hatcher Pass Rd joins the Parks Hwy at Mile 71.2 and travels 49 miles east and south to Glenn Hwy/Tok Cutoff. It also provides access to Willow Creek state recreation area. The Willow Community Center at Mile 69.7 Parks Hwy is open daily for info.