Charming Restored 1935 Hayloft Barn With Lake Access In Palmer

We’re a mother-daughter team, fourth and fifth generation Alaskans, rooted right here in the Mat-Su Valley. Our family’s story in Alaska goes back to 1935, when our great-grandparents came north as part of the Matanuska Colony Project and built a life from the ground up.

We both work in real estate and spend our days helping people find their place here, so creating a space like this felt like a natural extension of that. Hosting gives us the chance to share a piece of Alaska’s history, slower pace, and everyday beauty with people who want to experience more than just a place to stay.

The Nelson sits on a quiet, lakefront property in Palmer, surrounded by open skies, mountain views, and the kind of stillness that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s peaceful, private, and just far enough from the busier areas to truly unwind.

At the same time, you’re still a short drive to downtown Palmer, local farms, hiking trails, and some of the best scenery Alaska has to offer. Whether you’re here in the long summer light or the quiet of winter, there’s something grounding about being out here.

The Nelson isn’t just a place to stay, it’s part of a story.

The structure itself is one of two restored 1935 Colony barns that were carefully relocated and brought back to life on this property. We’ve kept the character and history intact while creating a space that feels comfortable, intentional, and unique.

Between the historic roots, the lakefront setting, and the thought put into every detail, this isn’t a typical rental. It’s a place to slow down, take it in, and experience a small piece of Alaska in a way that feels real.