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Explore Alaska and help at a hostel tailored to outdoor enthusiasts in the United States
Last activity
: 2 May 2025
Profile information
Usually responds within 9 days
Min stay requested: at least 3 weeks
Workawayers needed
Possibility that workawayers are needed
No availability
Details
Host ref number: 959934299192
Website Safety
Feedback (20)
Left by host for Workawayer (Michelle)
We thoroughly enjoyed Michelle’s stay with us. Kind, generous, and hardworking. She showed great initiative and went above and beyond the responsibilities of our hostel. Great interpersonal skills and she instantly became part of our family. We would welcome her back anytime.
I had the privilege of spending 24 unforgettable days working at the Hostel in Anchorage, Alaska, and I can genuinely say that this place became a home to me. Ole, the owner, is everything you could hope to be when you grow up—mature, well-educated, open-minded, and incredibly kind. Just knowing someone like him exists in the world brings a sense
… read more of comfort and hope.
The hostel itself is nothing short of amazing. The work schedule is ideal—one week you work three days with four days off, and the next week you work four days with three days off, with each shift from 11 AM to 4 PM. The tasks are what you’d expect in a hostel: cleaning rooms and bathrooms, changing bed linens, tidying the kitchen, and, if you enjoy interacting with guests, helping them when needed. The work was fulfilling, and I truly felt at home during a time when I needed it most.
After going through a separation, giving up my house, and selling my business, I came to Alaska in search of peace and personal time to regroup. What I found at the place was comfort, safety, and a sense of belonging that I hadn’t anticipated. Leaving this place was incredibly hard because I made so many friends, met some charming chickens, and worked alongside fantastic managers. Tears were definitely shed, but I can confidently say that coming here was the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m already planning to return in the future.
The hostel’s location is fantastic—close to downtown with easy access to great coffee spots (Market Juice was my favorite) and wonderful restaurants (don’t miss Organic Oasis). Whether you walk, take an $8 cab ride, or hop on the bus, you’re never far from something interesting. This was my first time staying in a hostel and my first time in Alaska, and the memories I made will stay with me for life. I can’t recommend this experience enough!
Left by Workawayer (Alyssa) for host
Such an incredible experience. I have never met such a variety of people in such a short amount of time. In this environment, it is very easy to make close connections with people, and all the while Ole made sure it was a safe and healthy environment for everyone. The working hours and expectations were clear and straightforward, and I would
… read more definitely recommend volunteering here if given the chance.
Ole, thank you for this opportunity and for helping make my time in Alaska so memorable!Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.9)
Left by host for Workawayer (Michelle)
We thoroughly enjoyed Michelle’s stay with us. Kind, generous, and hardworking. She showed great initiative and went above and beyond the responsibilities of our hostel. Great interpersonal skills and she instantly became part of our family. We would welcome her back anytime.
I had the privilege of spending 24 unforgettable days working at the Hostel in Anchorage, Alaska, and I can genuinely say that this place became a home to me. Ole, the owner, is everything you could hope to be when you grow up—mature, well-educated, open-minded, and incredibly kind. Just knowing someone like him exists in the world brings a sense
… read more of comfort and hope.
The hostel itself is nothing short of amazing. The work schedule is ideal—one week you work three days with four days off, and the next week you work four days with three days off, with each shift from 11 AM to 4 PM. The tasks are what you’d expect in a hostel: cleaning rooms and bathrooms, changing bed linens, tidying the kitchen, and, if you enjoy interacting with guests, helping them when needed. The work was fulfilling, and I truly felt at home during a time when I needed it most.
After going through a separation, giving up my house, and selling my business, I came to Alaska in search of peace and personal time to regroup. What I found at the place was comfort, safety, and a sense of belonging that I hadn’t anticipated. Leaving this place was incredibly hard because I made so many friends, met some charming chickens, and worked alongside fantastic managers. Tears were definitely shed, but I can confidently say that coming here was the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m already planning to return in the future.
The hostel’s location is fantastic—close to downtown with easy access to great coffee spots (Market Juice was my favorite) and wonderful restaurants (don’t miss Organic Oasis). Whether you walk, take an $8 cab ride, or hop on the bus, you’re never far from something interesting. This was my first time staying in a hostel and my first time in Alaska, and the memories I made will stay with me for life. I can’t recommend this experience enough!
Left by Workawayer (Alyssa) for host
Such an incredible experience. I have never met such a variety of people in such a short amount of time. In this environment, it is very easy to make close connections with people, and all the while Ole made sure it was a safe and healthy environment for everyone. The working hours and expectations were clear and straightforward, and I would
… read more definitely recommend volunteering here if given the chance.
Ole, thank you for this opportunity and for helping make my time in Alaska so memorable!
I volunteered at Ole's hostel for 2 weeks. During this time, I did housekeeping work, helped check-in guests, and welcomed them in. In addition to the work required, I helped prepare food for our community dinner events. I developed lifetime friendships with guests, fellow volunteers, and community managers. Ole's philosophy is to provide a safe
… read more space for adventurous and outdoorsy travelers to gather, mingle, and go on adventures together. He also has sustainability in mind. We used eco-friendly detergents for washing sheets and linens. There are recycling and composting bins. There are 8-9 chickens in our backyard They like to roam around and hang out with the guests. After leaving the hostel, I still maintained close relationships with friends I met through this workaway experience. It is a true community, and this special community's magic will always stay with me!
Left by Workawayer (Goda) for host
I was carefully choosing a place in Alaska, and I felt instant trust and familiarity with Ole's philosophy of life and admiration for his humbleness. It's one of the warmest communities and the coziest hostels that I've ever been to, especially for an outdoorsy. Clearly and very honestly arranged shifts; understanding, respect, and encouragement
… read more towards volunteers for them to feel comfortable and at ease.
The name of the hostel says all about it. It's a true gateway for opportunities to get to know interesting and adventurous nature lovers. In the end, it seems like living in an community bubble with plenty of opportunities to have day/multiday hikes and a great doze of daily laughter and solidarity. I am truthfully grateful to Ole and his team for the welcoming atmosphere, memorable day hikes, and just for being so open and patient. I couldn't have found a better place for my first Alaska experience... Miss you all, guys!!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
I spent a month at this hostel August/September 2023 and had an absolutely wonderful time! The owner, managers, fellow Workawayers are all fantastic. Workawayers typically had a schedule of 3-4 days on, then 3-4 days off (15-20 hours/week). Very good communication, culture, harmonious atmosphere. Tasks were mostly housekeeping, answering the door
… read more and greeting guests. Participated in fun activities with co-workers such as biking on the costal trail, going to the climbing gym, group hikes, going to restaurants, sharing meals at the hostel. Several restaurants I love are within easy walking distance. I recommend the sauna, sensory-deprivation float tank, bicycles available for use. I love the chickens, they are amazing and bring so much joy and character. I met so many great people from around the world, both co-workers and guests. Great opportunities to exchange travel stories. This will definitely be my go-to place to stay in Anchorage!
Left by Workawayer (Nikunj) for host
If one day I open my own hostel, I hope it can be half as good as Ole's place. It is a true community where anyone from all countries, cultures, and lifestyles can come together and be themselves. I spent three weeks here and left with memories worth a lifetime. Ole really cares about the well-being of the volunteers and is always willing to share
… read more advice on travel around Alaska! My favourite thing about the hostel is the passion for the outdoors the other volunteers and Ole have. The shifts are easy (3-4 days a week, ample time left to explore Alaska) and work is simple to understand. The managers are flexible and willing to work around your schedule. And the best thing about the place - the chickens in the backyard!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Cassidy) for host
I spent a month with the team here and left with so many wonderful memories and friendships.
Olé and the team (including the chickens) were extremely welcoming and made sure you had plenty of time to enjoy Alaska and took us on some beautiful hikes. The hostel is a pretty calm environment and makes it very easy to meet travel partners. The
… read more location was nice and easy to walk or bike around to local cafes, bars, bookshops, thrift stores, and the beautiful* coastal trail. The work was simple and a productive way I spent most of my mornings listening to music in my meditation space or chatting with the guests.
I was there towards the end of the season while a lot of the guests were coming back from their explorations so the hostel was quite full most of the time. Which was great because there was so much laughter and inspiration flooding the hostel everyday, plus all of the wonderful cooking, bonfires and hiking we did together(:
Olé has done a fantastic job curating such a beautiful space. I would absolutely love to visit the hostel again and I truly 100% recommend this opportunity.
Left by Workawayer (Coby & Olivia ) for host
I spent 5 weeks at the hostel and had a great experience! Ole was a super relaxed guy and the work was very straight forward and fair. The environment was welcoming from day one and I became good friends with several of the other staff members which was a highlight of my time in Alaska. I would definitely love to come back :)
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Eudes) for host
Stayed for about a month at Ole's hostel. I had a really great time, i got to meet lots of people and learn a lot about anchorage and alaska as a whole as the inn attracts a whole lot of outdoorsy people. The work is honest and gives you enough time to go out and enjoy the city. Ole is really knowledgeable and is alrways ready to share some of his
… read more experience or show you around. Great stay and arguably dome of the best moments i had i alaska so far. Would 100% do it again, as a workawayer or a customer at the hostel!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Ellie)
Ellie is wonderful. She is responsible, kind, and immediately made friends with other guests and staff. She has a strong work ethic and will be a valuable addition to hosts. She has become part of our family and we would welcome her back anytime.
Left by Workawayer (Ellie) for host
The atmosphere at Ole’s hostel was so welcoming and comfortable! The manager ensured my shifts were accommodated around my online job. The shifts were non-stop with cleaning tasks but Ole really cares about the well-being of the volunteers! My favourite thing about the hostel is the passion for the outdoors the other volunteers and Ole have!!
… read more Their hiking knowledge is inspirational!! I made some great friends here! Thank you so much!!
Left by Workawayer (Alec) for host
If one day I open a hostel, I’ll copy from this place ! I stayed for 3 weeks at the end of the season and I had a blast! The volunteer work was easy and the schedule well organized so I had have plenty of time to explore the region. Everything you need is provided for your stay and you’ll meet very interesting people from around the world. Thank
… read more you so much for having me around and I really hope to come back visit in the future.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
I spent amazing time in the Hostel. I stayed one month in July and ten days in September. I meet to many travelers from everywhere around the world and the work team was perfect. Ole is a nice person, very kind and we went for a hike together.
The work is very easy, I worked four days a week and i had the opportunity to travel around Alaska with
… read more other workawayers. The hostel is fantastic, specially the float tank opportunity, but you'll have a chance to use the sauna too. I'm so happy I found this place, It was really difficult to leave. Thank you so much!!
Left by Workawayer (JOHannah512) for host
I had a wonderful time and therefore the perfect start on my traveljourney.
I stayed a month with 3/4 days shifts of work and 3/4 days off for traveling or just spending time to relax and connect to people at the hostel.
Ole is a very generous person, who took uns Volunteers on some hikes and showed us around. The whole atmosphere at the hostel
… read more was very kind, friendly and open minded.
The work was as described and was fun to accomplish. There were always Ole, Abbey or Amber around for help or for answering questions, as well as the other volunteers.
A great place to get in touch with people, to make up travel ideas and just for having a central base for traveling in Alaska.
I can highly recommend this place and their staff to other volunteers. I had a wonderful time and am very grateful for that experience and the new friends I made.
Thank you!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Camila)
Cami was absolutely a wonderful person to host! She was sociable, kind and brought a lot of light to the hostel! She took feedback and made changes when redirected. I appreciated being able to talk to her directly and see her accomplish the tasks asked of her with a smile. We hope she continues to find her place in the travel community :-)
Left by Workawayer (Camila) for host
I had a fantastic experience :)
Alaska is an incredible place, with so much to do - especially if you are outdoorsy - and Anchorage is a great base to explore it.
Everyone at the hostel was awesome and got along really well. Work basically consisted in housekeeping and a little bit of reception, nothing too hard and overall enjoyable. The hours
… read more were great and allowed me to travel on my days off.
Ole is an amazing person and would often take us hiking and give good advice about hiking and traveling around Alaska. During my stay we also had bonfires at the hostel a couple times, which was a lot of fun!
I learned a lot here and I am so grateful for the opportunity. Thank you guys, I will miss you!!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Mary)
We loved hosting Mary at the Hostel! She was an incredibly fast learner and went above and beyond on her shifts. She was able to work our computer system with very little training. She is the kind of person you know everything is going to be taken care of when left in charge of herself. She mingled well and offered an inviting presence with our
… read more guests. We were sad to see her go but wish her the best!
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicholas)
Nick was a great addition to the Hostel! His time spent here was well enjoyed by the guests and staff alike. He worked hard and was open to feedback throughout his stay. He abided by all of our rules and was a tidy house mate. He was truly an enjoyable addition to our community, and his presence is missed!
Left by Workawayer (Emma Kate) for host
Ole has created an absolutely wonderful experience for workers! He has a knack for recruiting volunteers and staff that will work extremely well together and cultivate friendships that will last far beyond the hostel doors. I worked at the hostel this past summer on a 4 days on/4 days off basis, that allowed for plenty of travel around Alaska. The
… read more people who stay at the hostel are very friendly and you will have many opportunities to meet and travel with folks! Ole also possesses extensive knowledge of Alaska and its many sightseeing/trail options, so he is a great resource for travel tips. He is an all-around incredible person and the place is a excellent reflection of the energy that he possesses. I highly, highly recommend spending some time here..whether it be as a workawayer or guest :)You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Emma Kate)
Emma Kate was an absolute delight to host! Her strong work ethic, compassionate nature, and creativity make her a dynamic volunteer both on and off the clock.
While on shift, she was a consistent self-starter, and had no trouble at all doing what was expected. Tasks were performed thoroughly, and her interactions with guests were professional and
… read more kind.
When interacting with other staff members, Emma Kate was sure to get some laughs. She was super fun to go on weekend trips with, as well.
We will miss her dearly! She will surely be an asset to whomever decides to host her next.
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel)
We enjoyed having Daniel volunteer with us. He was on time and completed tasks that were needed throughout the hostel. He was social with guests and made them feel welcomed. He was also clean and organized and made lasting friendships with guests and co-workers.
Left by Workawayer (Daniel) for host
I loved my time at this hostel. Ole was very accommodating when I got a job at a local restaurant. So I was able to work at the hostel and at the restaurant during the same days. This allowed me three full days to explore Alaska with some money in my pocket. The state has the most beautiful and vast terrain I have ever seen in my life. As well as
… read more many fun outdoor activities like ice climbing, glacier hiking, and kayaking.
The hostel allowed me to meet some fascinating, inspiring, and outdoorsy people from all over the world. Plus, I developed great friendships with the people who worked. 10 out of 10 experience, would recommend.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Julian) for host
I had a wonderful time at this project. To anyone trying to stay and travel in Alaska, look no further than this incredible workaway. Work hours are as follows. Work for 4 days in a row, 4 hours a day. Then, you get 4 days off to explore Alaska. This gives you plenty of time to really go out on multi-day hikes or trips. On the days you do work,
… read more you'll still have plenty of time to do day trips in and around Anchorage. If your fellow staff and workawayers are half of the people mine were, you'll have an amazing time meeting some amazing people.You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Julian)
Julian was an excellent addition to our hostel for the three weeks he shared with us. He was an enthusiastic volunteer who was up for any task, and then exceeded our expectations in every area he contributed to. Julian also had the keen ability to make any guest feel at home and comfortable in our hostel. For example, Julian would always extend
… read more invitations to guests to throw the football around or play basketball at the courts nearby. No matter anyone's skill level, he still would be uplifting and really was a highlight to any guest's experience. He is a mature, young individual who will make a great addition to any Workaway experience he is a part of.
Left by host for Workawayer (FlorianHei)
Flo volunteered at our hostel for a week in Anchorage, Alaska at the end of September. We enjoyed having him stay with us. He has a great work ethic and got along well with travelers and staff. He showed insight and initiative of tasks that needed to be done. I would recommend Flo to other hosts needing help. He is reliable, a strong worker, and a
… read more good person.
Left by host for Workawayer (Anzer)
Flo was a good, well rounded volunteer. In addition to completing his work as a volunteer, he enjoyed helping our hostel guests find things to do in Alaska. Overall, a very solid experience!
Left by Workawayer (Anzer) for host
This hostel is amazing!
Here are some reasons why:
- the people who are staying and/or working there are very nice & interesting
- the hostel has awesome features like a sauna or a float tank
- it's a gateway for amazing outdoor adventures
Ole is an very wise man. He is super kind and really wants you to have a good time. Also he cares about the
… read more environment - we need more people like him!
All in all a perfect experience!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by Workawayer (Szabolcs) for host
Ole's hostel it's a real base of the travelers who are exploring the unique beauty of Alaska. Actually we met many of our guests at different parts of Alaska during our travels on our days off. Some of them became our friends too and multiple times they've been traveling with us on our trips as well.
I'm glad that I got a chance to be part of the
… read more team. I really liked to be there enjoying Alaska. I didn't want to leave at all and I'm already missing it.
The tasks are very easy and simple, the hostel is awsome, specially the float tank opportunity, but you'll have a chance to use the sauna too. Just hang out with good people in the tipi, or just chill while using the hammock.
Thanks a lot to everyone, specially to Alex for the hikes, tours and trips we've made together.
I believe you wouldn't find any better place to stay in Alaska, this is the place where you wanna be!You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
Left by host for Workawayer (Szabolcs)
Szabi was one of the best Workawayers I've worked with. He's a hard worker. After completing his assigned tasks, he'd ask for more work to do. He was very attentive to details in his work, and often caught small things that other volunteers would miss.
Personality wise, he's an easy going guy who can get along with anyone. After exploring
… read more various parts of Alaska, he'd return and share his experiences and recommendations with guests in our hostel. Szabi is an overall great guy, and you'd be missing out not to choose him!
Left by Workawayer (Pauline) for host
I am so happy I found this place~ the staff are all amazing people and treated me like family. A great place to meet fellow travelers as well!
You can only contact Workawayers who have an active membership.
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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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