Into the Wild: Chapter One - The Alaska Interior

Key Events

• Date and Postcard: April 27, 1992 - A postcard sent by "Alex" (Christopher McCandless) to Wayne Westberg in South Dakota.
• Final Message: Alex mentions it may be a long time before he returns south, and if his adventure proves fatal, he expresses appreciation.

Encounter with Jim Galleon

• Location: Four miles out of Fairbanks, Alaska.
• Hitchhiker: Alex spotted hitchhiking; Galleon picks him up.
• First Impressions: Alex is young, possibly 18-19 years old, with a rifle and minimal gear.
  • Appearance: 5'7" or 5'8", wiry build, claiming to be 24 years old from South Dakota.
  • Destination: Wants a ride to Denali National Park to live off the land.

Journey to Denali

• Concerns: Alex's backpack is light, with insufficient food and gear for a long-term stay in harsh conditions.
  • Supplies: Only a 10-pound bag of rice as food.
  • Gear: Cheap hiking boots, a .22 caliber rifle, no proper navigation tools.

Galleon's Warnings

• Alaskan Wilderness Reality: Tough conditions; not as romanticized in magazines.
• Conversation: Alex asks informed questions about the local wildlife.
• Galleon's Advice: Warns about hunting difficulties, bears, and offers help.
  • Offers: Drive Alex to Anchorage for better gear, buy him supplies.
  • Licensing: Alex dismisses the need for a hunting license.

Alex's Determination

• Family and Friends: Alex hasn’t spoken to his family in two years; no one aware of his plans.
• Confidence: Believes he can handle any challenges alone.

Final Moments

• Arrival at Stampede Trail: Galleon drives Alex to the trailhead.
• Gifts: Alex gives Galleon his watch and loose change, insists on not knowing the time.
• Support from Galleon: Offers rubber boots and sandwiches, gives phone number for contact.
• Departure: Alex leaves for the wilderness on April 28, 1992; Galleon considers alerting authorities but decides against it.

Reflections

• Galleon's Decision: Believes Alex would exit the wilderness when hungry, likening it to typical behavior.