Ep 5. New Adventures in Alaska

Two couples are ready to start their new adventures in Alaska in this episode of Living Alaska, season 4. The first couple is newlyweds Josh and Kristin from North Carolina, who are searching for a remote cabin tucked away from civilization. They are excited about the challenge of building a homestead from scratch but also realize the difficulties that come with living off the grid. With the help of real estate agent Heather, they explore the options, including a potential property with a creek running through it.

Meanwhile, in Fairbanks, the second couple, Joel and LeeAnn, are long-time Alaskan residents who have decided to upgrade to a larger residence for their growing family. They have their sights set on a unique property that includes a yurt, but they face some obstacles such as the lack of indoor plumbing and the need for a significant renovation. Real estate agent Tim provides them with different options, including remodeled homes, but Joel and LeeAnn can’t shake the yurt’s appeal.

As Josh and Kristin set out to see their property options, they quickly discover that the Alaskan terrain can be unpredictable. After getting stuck in mud and crossing rivers, they reach the creek property, but their dream of living off the land begins to crumble once they realize how much work and money it would take to build and maintain a cabin from scratch. They feel a bit defeated and decide to keep searching for other properties.

Contrastingly, Joel and LeeAnn find their dream property at the get-go. They love the privacy and the beautiful surroundings of the yurt property and decide to take the plunge. But, after starting the remodeling process, they begin to realize the extent of work they need to do to make the yurt livable, including installing solar power and plumbing. They know it won’t be easy, but they are both excited about the challenge and making this property their unique residence.

Back in the search for the perfect property, Josh and Kristin find the perfect plot of land with a river view, but they face another obstacle in the form of a mother moose and her calf that are reluctant to leave the area. They eventually find a cabin that suits their needs, and after some negotiating with the seller, they make an offer on the property. However, they’re aware that living off the land won’t be easy, and they’ll need to put in a lot of time, money, and work to make it livable.

Joel and LeeAnn continue their renovation of the yurt and make some significant progress despite some roadblocks. They install a new wood stove, a bathroom, and new flooring, but they soon face a setback. After realizing that their plumbing wasn’t sturdy enough, they have to coordinate with experts to help them fix it. The renovation has its ups and downs, but despite the challenges, Joel and LeeAnn remain enthusiastic about their new homestead in Alaska.

All in all, this episode of Living Alaska highlights the challenges that come with living in Alaska’s unique terrain and the effort required to renovate and live off the land. Both Joshua and Kristin and Joel and LeeAnn are excited about their new adventures, but they are aware that the path ahead will be challenging. Through their grit and resilience, they prove that it’s possible to live a fulfilling life off the grid in the beautiful wilderness of Alaska.