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Experience our lifestyle and help with the sled dogs in Alaska, USA
Last activity
: 2 May 2025
Profile information
Usually responds within 11 days
Min stay requested: at least 3 weeks
Workawayers needed
Possibility that workawayers are needed
No availability
Details
Host ref number: 754546991494
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Feedback (12)
Left by Workawayer (Luc) for host
Tonje is the most badass woman I met. Nothing scares her and she’s always up for some new challenges. She’s very friendly and easy to talk to. If you’re looking for some freedom and BEAUTIFUL landscapes, this place will suit you perfectly. The dogs are insanely kind and have so much love to give. I really hope to come back some day, in the summer
… read more this time, and go for some more awesome hikes.
Take care of yourself and say hi to the dogs for me (especially Alaska 🥰)
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)
I loved hosting Sarah for a longer period of time because she was extremely self sufficient and took extremely good care of the dogs. I could trust her to take care of an entire kennel of 15 dogs for weeks at a time by her self and she would walk the dogs, feed them and give them top tier care. She also was capable of tinkering around on her own,
… read more participating in group chores and activities as well as trying new things with a smile on her face. By the time she left Alaska she could run a chain saw, split and buck wood, garden and run a four wheeler like a pro. I'm happy to say she became a good friend I still keep in touch with and can have good conversations with. She's reliable and is willing to try things that might even be out of her comfort zone :) Will never forget your face Sarah, when you came to pick up me, Egil and our giant moose haha...
Left by Workawayer (Sarah) for host
I spent ten weeks with Tonje, Egil, and my furry friends in this beautiful corner of Alaska. The summer here involves quite a bit of hard work and lots of dirty days. I imagine it’ll be a lifestyle adjustment for most people but as long as you remain open minded and focused on your purpose for being there then it will be more than rewarding. The
… read more dogs deserve to be your purpose. They all have unique and beautiful personalities and they just want to be loved. Because they are a breed that is closer to wild animal than house pet it was difficult for me to find a balance between kindness and discipline. Confidence in yourself is an absolute must with these malamutes!
I am grateful to Tonje and Egil for welcoming me into their home. I learned so much about what it takes to live off grid and to raise fifteen children. A true Alaskan experience. Thankful for the company, the food, the fall colors, the dog cuddles, the personal growth. It'll be a place that I will surely miss.
Left by Workawayer (Hannah) for host
I had such an amazing 3 months this winter with Tonje and her dogs! Working with dogs is tough, but the reward is always worth it, and that's exactly how I felt at Tonje's. The malamutes are incredible to see in action, and despite their temperaments, so darn sweet and cuddly! I genuinely loved them all, though Tozie, Chubs, and her 2 retirees
… read more I'll never forget! You really gain a new sense of respect and appreciation for them. Tonje herself has so much experience and knowledge to share! I learned so much more aside from just from mushing with her, like basic dog first aid and even how to fix a truck wheel bearing (which to be fair, was with the help of her mechanic friend and several beers)! I'm really lucky to now call her a friend and absolutely will be going back to visit her and her giant fur balls!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Feedback
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Accuracy of profile:
(4.9)
Left by Workawayer (Luc) for host
Tonje is the most badass woman I met. Nothing scares her and she’s always up for some new challenges. She’s very friendly and easy to talk to. If you’re looking for some freedom and BEAUTIFUL landscapes, this place will suit you perfectly. The dogs are insanely kind and have so much love to give. I really hope to come back some day, in the summer
… read more this time, and go for some more awesome hikes.
Take care of yourself and say hi to the dogs for me (especially Alaska 🥰)
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)
I loved hosting Sarah for a longer period of time because she was extremely self sufficient and took extremely good care of the dogs. I could trust her to take care of an entire kennel of 15 dogs for weeks at a time by her self and she would walk the dogs, feed them and give them top tier care. She also was capable of tinkering around on her own,
… read more participating in group chores and activities as well as trying new things with a smile on her face. By the time she left Alaska she could run a chain saw, split and buck wood, garden and run a four wheeler like a pro. I'm happy to say she became a good friend I still keep in touch with and can have good conversations with. She's reliable and is willing to try things that might even be out of her comfort zone :) Will never forget your face Sarah, when you came to pick up me, Egil and our giant moose haha...
Left by Workawayer (Sarah) for host
I spent ten weeks with Tonje, Egil, and my furry friends in this beautiful corner of Alaska. The summer here involves quite a bit of hard work and lots of dirty days. I imagine it’ll be a lifestyle adjustment for most people but as long as you remain open minded and focused on your purpose for being there then it will be more than rewarding. The
… read more dogs deserve to be your purpose. They all have unique and beautiful personalities and they just want to be loved. Because they are a breed that is closer to wild animal than house pet it was difficult for me to find a balance between kindness and discipline. Confidence in yourself is an absolute must with these malamutes!
I am grateful to Tonje and Egil for welcoming me into their home. I learned so much about what it takes to live off grid and to raise fifteen children. A true Alaskan experience. Thankful for the company, the food, the fall colors, the dog cuddles, the personal growth. It'll be a place that I will surely miss.
Left by Workawayer (Hannah) for host
I had such an amazing 3 months this winter with Tonje and her dogs! Working with dogs is tough, but the reward is always worth it, and that's exactly how I felt at Tonje's. The malamutes are incredible to see in action, and despite their temperaments, so darn sweet and cuddly! I genuinely loved them all, though Tozie, Chubs, and her 2 retirees
… read more I'll never forget! You really gain a new sense of respect and appreciation for them. Tonje herself has so much experience and knowledge to share! I learned so much more aside from just from mushing with her, like basic dog first aid and even how to fix a truck wheel bearing (which to be fair, was with the help of her mechanic friend and several beers)! I'm really lucky to now call her a friend and absolutely will be going back to visit her and her giant fur balls!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Jake and Monique was so fun to host and we quickly became friends! They took great care of the dogs, did wood work with a smile and Jake has some serious cooking skills. They both helped me with the garden, harvesting, berry picking and taking care of the house. I was comfortable leaving them all alone with an off grid property, an entire dog yard
… read more of 15 sled dogs and they handled all the responsibilities very well. Hands on people that does work with humor and laughter, and fun to be around on off time to have meaningful conversations or a party. I would gladly have them over again or come visit in Australia for a good ole time!
WOW - what an amazing 6 weeks! We had such a blast spending time at Tonje's place and learning all about life off the grid in Alaska. Tonje was like a long lost friend, and she introduced us to her friends and helped us organise some amazing trips and activities. The dogs were absolutely beautiful, although they are definitely big and strong so be
… read more prepared! Our favourites were the big fluffball Yukon and beautiful Chitna! Learning how to train and sled dogs was so cool, and Tonje was patient and generous with her knowledge. Many beers were enjoyed at the local, and Egil showed us the coolest way to split wood! Really cool people, amazing location and such a different experience getting back to a more basic set up. Alaska is a must visit location, we ticked off seeing Moose, Weasels, Grouse, Beavers and the incredible Northern Lights. Definitely recommend a stay here!
We spend 6 weeks with Tonje, Egil and the 15 amazing Alaskan Malamute. We immediately fell in love with all the dogs. They are all very friendly and will steal your heart in seconds. Tonje and Egil were great Hosts, we quickly felt at home.
We were there when it was still too hot to train the dogs but we did learn a lot about Mushing. There is
… read more still stuff that you can do with the dogs. Go for a walk, brush them, clip their nails or just give them a lot of love! Even though they are very friendly towards humans they occasionally have fights with each other. You should not be scared of these situations but be aware that you have to deal with separating them and treat wounds if needed. When we didn’t spend time with the dogs we looked after the garden and got the firewood ready for the winter. Tonje is a very inspiring and powerful person. We quickly became friends and we are very grateful for the whole experience. We miss everyone a lot and hope to be back soon!
Left by Workawayer (Payton) for host
My time spent with Tonje and Egil over the winter of 2022 was nothing but incredible. Both Tonje and Egil are experienced outdoors people and possess a wealth of knowledge on hunting, sled dog mushing, homesteading and practically anything else you could think of. Expect busy days full of training and taking care of the dogs, taking care of things
… read more around the homestead and many little adventures in the Fairbanks area. The nights are long and cold if you come in the winter time be prepared for many days below -40F. The dogs are all amazing have their own unique personalities. They are hands down the sweetest animals I have ever met and you'll no doubt fall in love with all of them very quickly! Some of my personal favorites being Chitina and Sheenjek, two of the goofiest puppies you'll ever meet :). Tonje is a driven and high energy host who is an absolute blast to work with. Egil is a gentle giant who is highly intelligent and a very generous person who loves sharing his many skills. A workaway with them is really the full Alaskan homestead experience. I would highly recommend a stay with them to anyone who isn't afraid of a little hard work and bitter cold weather! Thank you Tonje and Egil for all the great times and a winter I will never forget! Tell the dogs I miss them!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Ilona & Peter) for host
From the first day, all fifteen dogs had stolen our hearts and we knew it would be very difficult to leave (although less difficult than taking all 15 of them and being chased by two angry vikings). Every dog has its own little quirks. We will never forget smart Sitka, who is overenthusiastic but we will forgive her strong hugs with sharp nails
… read more since she is so adorable, sitting with a straight back and her tongue flapping out of her mouth "pat me, please cuddle me". And beautiful Tozie who would hit you with her paw when you would stop petting her. Or Timber, who would actively try to capture you to make you stay with him by maneuvering his chain around your legs. We could continue writing words of praise about all the dogs, but that would make this review unnecessarily long. It is better if you experience the dogs by yourself.
The work is hard but rewarding. We stayed during the summer and that meant there was a large list full of projects. Many days were chaotic and plans could change five times. Since both of us are very organized, it was a challenge to get used to working without a schedule and adjusting to the ever changing plans. However, Egil and Tonje are very friendly and want to make sure you have an enjoyable time and they try to take you to places to experience nature or a fair or a pub. We are very grateful for all the things we have learned, amongst others chopping wood, collecting berries, making jam/pies/muffins/breads, driving the quad to collect wood and put gravel in the dog yard and most of all, building our own deck at the cabin on the hill. We are proud of the result. We enjoyed the typical Alaskan food. In addition, Egil and Tonje are very funny. If you are open minded, flexible and love dogs, this is the perfect place to stay. We will definitely return, but next time in winter.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Cambria) for host
Tonje and Egil were amazing hosts! I had some trouble with the dark towards the end and trusting myself/ having confidence but after my stay with Tonje and Egil, I can say the next time I go back to Alaska I will be prepared! It is hard work but very rewarding and you also have tons of times to relax, unwind, and enjoy Alaska. 10/10 recommend.
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Simone) for host
Both Tonje and Egil are amazing hosts, incredibly kind, open, and relaxed. They love to share their time and take you in their little community, explaining and teaching about their lifestyle with a lot of patience and happiness. The house and cabin are very cozy, both unique, and represent perfectly how welcoming this whole place is. Also, Egil
… read more built them himself, and therefore there is definitely a lot of personality included in this home.
The daily work is centered around the dogs, the off-grid life, and whatever comes up - and there is always something coming up and going on. The dogs are incredible and obviously a major part of daily life. Taking them out on the freshly cut trails for training runs, getting glimpses of sunlight, and enjoying being outside was always an exciting part of our days. Malamutes are huge in comparison to Alaskan huskies and have their own strong personalities. However, this makes it even more interesting to get to know each of them slowly one by one. You will definitely miss all of them as soon as you leave!
As long as one likes to get her/his hands dirty, (obviously) loves dogs and wild nature, it´s an experience of a lifetime and a magical place to be.
Also, experiencing Alaska and their daily life during January with the first sun shining into the house felt like a privilege to me. I would recommend everyone who has the chance and interest to go there, don't think twice, just go!!!! If you can (and want) to work hard, learn about the off-grid life in the north, get to know the dogs, and have a lot of fun during that time, I think there is no better place to stay, honestly, just go :) Appreciating the cold and the rather short daylight in winter is something to keep in mind, but you get rewarded with wild nature and a cozy, happy place to stay.
Thank you so, so much, Tonje and Egil, for taking the time and having me! I´ll see you soon in the summer!!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Anne Sofie) for host
It’s hard to describe what it feels like being a part of that household. It was a very special and treasured experience, for me.
Be prepared for lots of sweet, sassy, furry friends around you 24/7, Scandinavian humour (I’m a Dane, so it was perfect), Tonje’s music will be a big part of your life all of a sudden (which is great!), interesting
… read more conversations with awesome people and great company all around!
Tonje took me with her out doing stuff, when we had the opportunity. Arctic tenting, hunting, dog sledding, the bar, going to her friends houses and so on. It was really amazing to see the Alaskas wilderness, and culture. Not something you see every day!
She’s also a great person to be accompanied by! She’s done so much stuff throughout her life, and she’s a good source to learn from! Both her and Egil is.
At the homestead, you have to be able to work hard when it’s needed. Be able to pick up stuff along the way, communicate clearly, take responsibility, move big dogs around that aren’t always listening, and be a part of a everyday life where everything and nothing happens at the same time. It’s very rewarding though. If you find joy in the heavier tasks and put some music on the speaker, haha! Then it’s actually a lot of fun.
It’s rewarding to be able to say that you cut the wood that feeds the fire, or that you started the generator that powers the house. If you have that mentality, you’ll do great there!
At their place, you’re all of a sudden just a part of the “family”, and you can be as much of a part of it as you wish. It’s truly awesome!!
I had a great time at their place, and I enjoyed the company of those two and all of the dogs.
Egil is also an awesome character, with a big heart. He’s a really good guy! He knows everything about everything, and he loves to crack a bad joke in front of you, just to laugh at it himself. It’s hilarious.
He’s great to talk to, and if you want to learn something about Alaska, how to build and fix stuff and how to be in Alaskas nature - he’s the guy. You think you know stuff - until you meet him. Which is great if you ask me!
I’m very excited to hopefully return some day. The nature, and the dogs I miss so much it hurts, they all have their own personality and way of acting. It’s amazing, and annoying at the same time. They STEAL your heart, that’s what they do!
I didn’t actually have a favourite dog at their place, because they’re all so unique. I miss ALL of them. Feeding time is great, I always had a very loud chat with them when I entered the dog yard. They were digging it.
If you’re thinking about going there, please do it. It’s an experience of a lifetime! I was there in the winter, and it was cold but not as cold as I thought - at all. Just remember lots of wool, d-vitamin and good gear! Then you’ll be just fine on that note.
Thank you for having me Tonje! I would love to come back one day, and crack some Scandinavian jokes with you.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Aymeric) for host
An experience you won’t forget!
Egil and Tonje are great hosts, you will enjoy this place and be appreciated as long as you are motivated and willing to learn. This is not only about hard working. They ll share their time to show you the surroundings and how is the Alaska off grid life working. Good food, good talks, humor. You feel quickly
… read more confortable. Please give 100 percent to these dogs, they are the best. Good physical condition required. Don't be afraid of responsibility either, you may have to work independently (dog feeding, training, wood work…).
Can’t wait to visit again someday !You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Nick)
Nick was on top of it, chainsaw, wood work, brush cutting and dogs. He helped us cut several cords of wood for winter and he for sure have the ability to connect with animals and that's a huge part of being here - taking care of dogs. I also wanna add he was great fun to be around and we had a lot of good conversations and fun times at the bar, so
… read more we had a good work - and friendly relationship which is important to me when you live on top of each other. I can't thank Nick enough for all the effort he put in her and the patience with my obsession with blueberry picking. Haha! Come back soon and run some dogs on snow, Nick!
Left by Workawayer (Nick) for host
Fair warning, you will undoubtedly want to steal one of these dogs if you get the chance to meet and train with them, but Tonje is not the person id like to try this with! She lives an epic life and has a great energy about her, the love she has for her dogs is powerful. This is something you will feel too, I miss those dogs everyday. There are
… read more only good things to say about Egil as well, certainly good company in the cabin. I stayed for a month during the summer to help run the pups and chop wood for the winter. The cabin is very cozy and the main house is a true Alaskan build, a rare work of art nestled in the woods with views of nothing but Evergreens for miles. I would feel comfortable staying there alone for awhile. There is great responsibility in caring for these animals and the land, do not come if you aren't prepared for the elements and ready to work hard. It's a fun challenge with great reward, part of that being huge amounts moose meat. If you have this oppurtunity, take it, you won't regret it.
Skaal!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
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Information for those planning to visit the US
If you are NOT a US CITIZEN and are planning to visit to work, volunteer or study, YOU WILL NEED THE CORRECT VISA. To find out more information you need to contact the embassy in your home country BEFORE travelling. Do NOT attempt to enter the USA without the correct visa!
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