Few off-the-grid naturalists have inspired us more than Dick Proenneke. He was an American naturalist that lived alone in the Alaska wilderness for 31 years, from 1968 to 1999. In his previous life, he was sought after diesel mechanic, which allowed him to save up enough money to venture out to a place called Twin Lakes, where he would face the challenge of building his own home and living off the land.
Bob Swerer Productions produced four one-hour documentaries about Proenneke, and we highly recommend them. Proenneke was a gentle, hardworking, quick learner who was able to succeed in his endeavors. The films are inspirational and calming, and they’re worthy of multiple viewings. They provide a wonderful mental break from the rat race that many of us participate in week after week.
Bob Swerer has clips from the films on his Youtube page, which you can watch below. They’re generously long, and it gives you a good idea of what Proenneke’s life was like. He was a truly unique individual, who accomplished the very thing that we daydream about at our desks often. We know you’ll enjoy them as much as we do.
Alone In The Wilderness
Alone In The Wilderness Part II
Alaska Silence & Solitude
The Frozen North