Alaskan Wilderness Explored on Four Discovery Network Programs

Christine Bude Nyholm
The Alaskan wilderness is a topic explored on Discovery Channel and TLC, in a number of Discovery Communication Network's reality series. Deadliest Catch is a Discovery Channel hit, returning for its seventh season. Sarah Palin's Alaska shows the wilderness state through the eyes of Alaska's controversial former governor. Gold Rush Alaska. Discovery and Flying Wild Alaska are two new series based in the Alaskan wilderness. Following is an overview of the four Alaska based shows.

The Alaskan wilderness is called the final frontier of America. The magnificence of the state is shown in its rugged glory, while brave men and women live and work in the frigid temperature, surrounded by glaciers and wilderness. The Discovery Communications shows take viewers to a land where hope abounds and tough people can start anew.

Deadliest Catch is a Discovery Channel hit that follows the tough guys of the Bering Sea. The crab fishermen face the treacherous conditions of the Bering Sea to make what can be a lucrative living. The sixth season broke ratings records as the show followed the emotional storyline of Captain Phil Harris, who suffered a stroke and died during the season. There were some contract disputes, but the captains and crews will be back for the seventh season in 2011. Captain Phil Harris' two sons, Josh and Jake, have signed on to be part of the show, so the Harris family storyline will continue in some form. Crab Fisherman on Deadliest Catch a Discovery Channel Hit

Sarah Palin's Alaska features the former first family of the wilderness state at home and as they partake in family activities, such as going salmon fishing or rock climbing. Sarah Palin, the former Vice-Presidential candidate who ran with John McCain, is a controversial public figure that people seem to love or hate. This show presents her in a variety of family situations and as they tour the wilderness, presenting Alaska to television viewers. Sarah Palin's Alaska airs on TLC.

Gold Mine Alaska is a reality series about six men who have been hit hard by the rough economic patch. The economy has affected so many, that their plight and their hope for a solution should be something that many people can relate to easily. These men set out the Alaskan wilderness to find a fortune mining gold. The rugged terrain has been a region where men have sought their fortunes since the days of the Gold Rush. These modern day miners leave their families behind and lease a gold claim amidst the grandeur of the Alaskan wilderness. They face hardships and challenges with the hope of striking gold and making a better life for their families. Gold Rush Alaska debuts on Friday, December 3, 2010 at 10:00 p.m. ET, on Discovery Channel.

Flying Wild Alaska,
which premieres on January 5, 2011 on Discovery Channel, is a 10 part series about the Tweto family, the family that runs Era Alaska. In the wilderness of Alaska, Era Alaska transports cargo, making the airline a lifeline to the rest of the world. The family has a passion for their airline and appreciate their importance to the people of the region. Bush pilots flying in the wilds of Alaska need to have the expertize to navigate the dangerous wilderness skies, where they have to deal with -40 F temperatures, storms and high winds.

Source: Discovery Network

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Published by Christine Bude Nyholm

With over 5 million pages views Christine is one of the top 100 AC Contributors and Won Best of AC for Winter Travel Guides in 2008 and Best of Alternative Health in 2009. Christine's article Shop Around for...  View profile

8 Comments

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  • Jeffrey L. Campbell1/10/2011

    Hope to visit Alaska in Sept. LORD willing. Thanks for the added incentive.

  • Sophie S1/9/2011

    I've not seen this programme, but I wouldn't mind visiting Alaska someday. From what I've heard from people who have been there, it truly is a lovely place to live or visit.
    Sophie

  • Marcia Robinson1/8/2011

    Always wanted to cruise to Alaska. I've seen all the shows and since I love the outdoors (not so much the cold (:>) I'd love to go hiking there in the summer some time.

  • J. M. Pressley1/1/2011

    I went on an Alaska cruise a few years ago, and it's a great way to do some sightseeing. It's truly a unique place and worth the visit.

  • Sara Louise12/19/2010

    Great info, would love to visit there someday

  • Char Robinson12/15/2010

    I've watched them all except for the new Flying Wild Alaska and enjoy them all. The gold rush guys are a hoot. Great article, thanks! :)

  • Cornelia L. Oancea12/14/2010

    I've seen a few episodes of Deadliest Catch, but thanks for the tip about the other shows. Alaska's definitely been trending in one or another for a few years now, even before Palin hit the national scene. It'll be interesting to see if all these shows drive tourism and industry up, and if that subsequently erodes some of the wilderness and beauty.

  • Kristen Warning12/8/2010

    It is a wonderful state with lots to enjoy! Glad we can do it through tv! :)

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