Nikolaevsk (Old Believer Village)

The feel

Nikolaevsk is a Russian Old Believer village reached by North Fork Road, which leaves the Sterling Highway in Anchor Point. Five families founded it in 1968. Today it has a post office, a small restaurant serving Russian food, art shops, visitor lodging and the Church of Saint Nicholas.

Signs stress a slow speed limit, and privacy matters to the people who live here. Samovar Cafe doubles as a gift shop, and its owner is the village's unofficial tour guide.

What to expect

What it is

A village of 328 people with the Church of Saint Nicholas, a post office, a small Russian restaurant, art shops and visitor lodging.

Crowds and best time

Liturgy is at 8 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, with vespers at 6:00 p.m. and matins at 7:30 p.m.; services are in Church Slavonic.

Hazards

Slow speed limit signs are posted along the village roads.

Season and access

North Fork Road, which junctions with the Sterling Highway in Anchor Point.

Mingo says

Come on a Saturday or Sunday morning if you want the church in use. Visit outside service times for the cafe and shops.

Before you go

• Ask permission before taking any photograph, and do not photograph the cupola.
• Wear appropriate clothing, do not touch the holy icons and stay clear of the construction area.
• Expect to stand in the narthex, since only catechumens and parishioners may enter the sacred space.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.