Thriving on the Homestead in the Depths of Alaska's Winter

Thriving on the Homestead in the Depths of Alaska's Winter

Winter in Alaska starts early and hits hard. By December, the sun barely skims the horizon, casting only a few precious hours of light. But for those of us on the homestead, this season is not just a challenge—it’s a time to slow down, connect with our roots, and embrace the unique rhythm of life in the far north. Here are my top tips for making the most of the darkest days of winter.

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1. Maximize the Daylight Hours

With only a few hours of light, every moment counts. Plan your outdoor tasks—checking on animals, splitting firewood, or shoveling snow—for when the sun is up. For the rest of the day, invest in quality headlamps and solar-powered lights to keep things running smoothly.

Pro tip: Reflective tarps and mirrors can help bounce light into dark spaces, brightening up your work areas without extra energy costs.

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2. Keep Animals Healthy and Warm

By now, our animals have adjusted to the cold, but they still need extra care. Insulated coops and barns, plenty of bedding, and heated waterers are essential to prevent freezing.

We’ve found that feeding our livestock calorie-rich foods during winter helps keep them warm. Scraps from the kitchen—like veggie peelings and leftover grains—are a great way to add variety to their diet.

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3. Make the Indoors a Haven

With so much time spent indoors, this is the season to focus on comfort and creativity. Winter is our prime time for crafting herbal remedies, cooking hearty meals, and refining homesteading skills.

Right now, we’re experimenting with tallow candles and fire starters—projects that are not only practical but also add a touch of cozy charm to our home.

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4. Stay Active and Engaged

Winter lethargy can creep in when the days are short and cold, so it’s important to stay both physically and mentally active. Snowshoeing, hauling firewood, or even a brisk walk around the property can get your blood flowing.

Inside, take up a hobby that feeds your mind and soul. I’ve been working on my online cookbook and teaching the kids how to bake bread from scratch—it’s both productive and deeply satisfying.

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5. Don’t Forget the Power of Community

Winter can feel isolating, but you’re never alone. Keep in touch with neighbors and fellow homesteaders. Whether it’s trading goods, sharing tips, or simply checking in, community is the heartbeat of a successful homestead.

Here at Johnson Homestead, we’ve started a monthly bartering meet-up to exchange goods like soap, jams, and fresh eggs. It’s a great way to stay connected during these long, dark months.

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6. Lean Into Rest

Winter is a natural time for rest and reflection. While the work never truly stops on a homestead, this season reminds us to slow down and savor the fruits of our labor.

In the evenings, I make it a habit to sit by the fire with a cup of herbal tea, reflecting on our day. These quiet moments recharge me for the next round of chores and planning.

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Embrace the Season

Alaska’s winters are intense, but they offer a rare opportunity to pause and reconnect with what truly matters—family, community, and the land. By adapting to the season’s challenges and finding joy in its unique beauty, you’ll come out stronger, more grounded, and ready to welcome the light when it returns.

Stay warm,

stay strong,

Momma J

"Rooted in tradition, crafted for wellness"