The Musk Ox Farm

Guardians of the Ice Age Palmer, Alaska

Educational Farm Visit & Artisan Fiber Heritage
Ideal for Nature lovers, fiber arts enthusiasts, families, and seekers of the extraordinary. 

A living Legacy in the Heart of Alaska

Nestled in the fertile Matanuska Valley, just 45 miles north of Anchorage and framed by the majestic Chugach and Talkeetna mountains, the Musk Ox Farm is more than a destination—it’s a journey into deep time. Here, on a historic 1930s-era Colony farm, a herd of gentle musk oxen—once companions of woolly mammoths and saber-tooth cats—roam peacefully under the care of passionate stewards.

The farm is operated by the Musk Ox Development Corporation (MODC), a nonprofit dedicated to the gentle husbandry of musk oxen, the sustainable production of qiviut, and public education. “Oomingmak,” as the musk ox is known in the Inupiaq language, means “The Bearded One”—a fitting tribute to these majestic, ancient creatures.all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Step into the world of the Ice Age with this short film from the farm.

Qiviut:

The Arctic’s Finest Fiber

Each year, the musk ox naturally sheds its underwool—qiviut (pronounced kiv-ee-yoot), a fiber eight times warmer than wool and softer than cashmere. The farm hand-combs this rare fiber with care, transforming it into luxurious yarns and garments that are as sustainable as they are exquisite. Visitors can browse these treasures in the on-site gift shop, knowing their purchase supports the preservation of this unique species and its habitat.t all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

Meet the Herd

Guided tours provide intimate and enriching encounters with musk oxen, offering detailed insights into their biology, behavior, and the ongoing efforts to conserve their species. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the natural world and a heightened sense of our collective responsibility to protect these remarkable animals. The nonprofit farm, which is home to the largest captive musk ox herd in the world, is dedicated not only to conservation but also to education and the preservation of indigenous fiber traditions passed down through generations. Tours are thoughtfully adapted to the changing seasons and are available in bilingual formats to accommodate a diverse range of visitors.

Life, Learning, and Celebration

Education and Comunity

The Musk Ox Farm offers year-round guided tours and a diverse variety of seasonal events that highlight Arctic ecology, indigenous traditions, sustainable farming practices, musk ox biology, ongoing conservation efforts, and the unique qualities of the qiviut fiber. Its thoughtfully curated gift shop features an array of high-quality qiviut products alongside carefully selected local crafts, providing visitors with a meaningful and tangible connection to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, educational programs and community events are regularly organized to further promote learning, raise awareness, and support the ongoing preservation and well-being of musk ox populations in their natural environment.

Oxtoberfest under the stars

The Musk Ox Farm’s annual Oxtoberfest, held in early October, uniquely blends authentic farm-to-table dining with a selection of local craft beers, lively music, and memorable close encounters with Alaska’s magnificent musk oxen. Highlights of the event include entertaining Oompah band performances, gourmet dishes crafted from fresh, local Alaskan ingredients, exclusive VIP seating in the cozy hayloft, guided tours featuring engaging animal activities, comfortably heated tents, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This special event offers visitors an immersive and unforgettable experience that truly celebrates Alaska’s natural beauty and rich culinary flavors.

Did you know?

  • Musk oxen survived the Ice Age

  • Qiviut is 8x warmer than wool

  • The farm is a nonprofit focused on education and conservation

  • The world’s largest herd of musk oxen in human care

Visitor from Oregon

“Absolutely magical. The musk oxen are majestic, and the staff are so passionate about their mission.”

A Family from Texas

“A must-see in Alaska. Educational, inspiring, and unexpectedly moving.”

Visit us

 

Address:
12850 E Archie Rd
Palmer, Alaska 99645
(Approximately 45 minutes northeast of Anchorage)

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 587
Palmer, AK 99645
United States

Phone: +1 (907) 745-4151
Email: info@muskoxfarm.org
Website: www.muskoxfarm.org

Hours (subject to seasonal changes):

  • Wednesday–Friday: 12 PM – 5 PM

  • Saturday & Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM

  • Closed Monday & Tuesday

  • Last guided tour begins at 3 PM