Amelia Milling, a 21-year-old deaf hiker, embarked on a solo journey through Alaska’s Crow Pass Trail, hoping for an adventure of a lifetime. Instead, a broken trekking pole sent her tumbling down a rocky, snow-covered mountainside, covering almost 700 feet and leaving her hurt and lost.
Amelia’s fortunes changed when Nanook, a guide dog known locally for rescuing hikers, found her. Initially mistaking the dog for a wild animal, she soon realized Nanook wore identification and was intent on helping her.
Nanook’s companionship saved Amelia from isolation that night, helping her keep warm and motivated amid the unforgiving wilderness. Later, when a swift river nearly claimed Amelia, Nanook bravely dived into the frigid water and pulled her to safety by her backpack strap.
Responding to an emergency GPS signal from Amelia, Alaska State Troopers located the pair and evacuated her to safety.
Nanook’s history of heroic acts, including previous river rescues, cements his place as a beloved local legend and a true friend in times of peril.
