Ep 8. Race Against the Sun

In this episode of The Last Alaskans, titled "Race Against the Sun," viewers are transported to the remote wilderness of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska where the final days of summer are quickly dwindling. The homesteaders featured on the show, Heimo and Edna Korth, Tyler and Ashley Selden, and Ray and Cindy Lewis are all working against the clock to complete crucial tasks before winter is upon them.

The episode kicks off with Heimo and Edna Korth taking a break from their neverending task list to have a leisurely picnic on the tundra. They reflect on the beauty of the landscape and the simplicity of the life they have chosen for themselves in the wilderness. However, this respite is short-lived as Heimo realizes that they need to start preparing for the harsh winter weather that is fast approaching. Heimo and Edna's main concern is making sure they have enough firewood to keep their cabin warm throughout the long winter months. They set out to gather as much wood as possible, but it's a race against the sun as daylight hours in Alaska are quickly dwindling.

Meanwhile, Tyler and Ashley Selden are focused on harvesting as much meat as possible before winter. With the caribou migration in full swing, the couple is taking advantage of this opportunity to stock up on this vital source of protein for the winter. They set out early in the morning to track down a herd of caribou, but they come up empty-handed. Determined to succeed in their hunt, they decide to pack up all of their gear and venture deep into the wilderness to find a new hunting spot. The journey is difficult, and the couple faces many obstacles along the way, including a broken sled. However, their determination pays off, and they return with a bounty of caribou meat.

Ray and Cindy Lewis are also feeling the pressure to complete some last-minute tasks before the winter sets in. Their primary concern is ensuring that their cabin is ready for the harsh conditions, including ensuring that the snow doesn't pile up on the roof and cause it to collapse. To accomplish this, they need to install specially designed snow fences around their cabin, which will help to prevent the build-up of snow. This task is physically demanding, and the couple has to work against the clock to complete it before nightfall.

As the sun begins to set on the arctic tundra, all of the homesteaders return to their cabins, exhausted but satisfied with the progress they have made. They are reminded that they must make the most of their remaining daylight hours before the perpetual darkness of winter sets in.

Overall, this episode of The Last Alaskans is a testament to the determination and resilience of those who choose to live in the remote wilderness. With only a few short weeks of summer left, the homesteaders are working tirelessly to prepare themselves for the long, harsh winter that lies ahead.