Ep 5. Running On Empty

In Yukon Men season 7 episode 5, titled "Running On Empty," viewers are taken on a journey to the remote town of Tanana, Alaska. This episode opens with the townspeople preparing for winter. With colder temperatures fast approaching, the residents of Tanana know that they must stock up on essential supplies in order to survive the long, harsh winter ahead. Many of them will be forced to rely solely on what they have stored in their homes, as the ice and snow make it nearly impossible to travel by foot or by vehicle.

The episode centers around several different storylines, all of which are related to the harsh realities of living in such a remote and unforgiving place. For example, we see Charlie Wright, a local moose hunter, struggling to keep his family fed as he faces several setbacks in his hunting trips. Charlie's challenges are characterized by the unpredictable and often treacherous weather conditions, which can make it nearly impossible for him to track and kill a moose.

Meanwhile, we also see the struggle of Joey Zuray, a skilled outdoorsman who is tasked with hauling a heavy load of supplies across the frozen river. Joey is seen preparing his sled and dogs for the journey, which will take several grueling hours to complete. However, despite his experience and determination, Joey faces unforeseen hazards along the way, including thin ice and a broken sled.

In addition to these two storylines, the episode also follows the lives of several other residents of Tanana, each of whom is facing unique challenges as they prepare for winter. Some are struggling to maintain their smokehouses, which are essential for preserving meat and fish throughout the winter months. Others are dealing with the stress of caring for aging family members, who are dependent on them for food, shelter, and medical care.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a glimpse of what life is like in Tanana, from the stunning natural beauty of the Alaskan wilderness to the daily challenges of living in a small, remote town. Despite the many hardships they face, the people of Tanana show remarkable resilience and strength, working together to support one another through the long, difficult winter months.

Overall, "Running On Empty" is a powerful and moving episode that offers a compelling look at the realities of life in one of the most remote and unforgiving places on earth. With its mix of suspense, drama, and heartwarming human moments, this episode is sure to captivate viewers and leave them feeling inspired by the strength and determination of the people of Tanana.