Most overlanders can recount a story of running out of talent in the backcountry. White knuckles on the steering wheel, a mouth drier than the Sahara, and stomach spinning like a washing machine (helped along by the three cups of coffee you now regret). These are the type of trails that The Story Til Now, aka Shaun, thrives on in his monster Hemi-powered Jeep Gladiator. I’ve previously featured his “Hardest Overland Trail to Alaska” episode, but with the unveiling of a new full-size expedition rig and a 2,500-mile road trip to the Arctic Ocean, it was time for another.
First of all, let’s take a moment to appreciate the new rig because it’s truly outstanding: A Ram 2500 powered by a mighty Cummins diesel outfitted with the AEV Prospector XL Kit, a Four Wheel Campers Hawk, and a plethora of top-tier parts and accessories (watch his Extreme Full Size Overland Vehicle Build to learn more). This rig marks a new dimension to the channel as Shaun continues nail-biting trail adventures in the Gladiator but will now also be committing to longer overland trips in the Prospector (hilariously the economical choice when compared to his 600-horsepower Gladiator). In the previous episode, Shaun began the long journey to Tuktoyaktuk with friend Brad, aka Trail Recon, and today, we rejoin their overland odyssey.
The episode begins as the duo retraces their steps back to the main road and are forced to recross a dilapidated ditch/bridge. On this occasion, a log gets a hold of Brad’s Patriot Campers’ trailer and brings the Gladiator to a halt. A quick winch from the Prospector and they’re on their way, but this scenario is a reminder that towing a trailer over technical terrain is not always ideal. After an excursion to the Cassiar ghost town, they rack up the miles toward an idyllic riverside camp spot. Here, Shaun launches the drone and showcases the devastating impact of 2023’s wildfires on British Columbia’s pristine wilderness. The next morning, they reach the Yukon and push on to Dawson City (a former gold mining town steeped in history), taking time to pause, enjoy the sights, and even sift for gold in Bonanza Creek. Over lunch, they discuss the Dempster Highway and the challenges that lay ahead (namely that essential ferry crossings were not yet operational). However, as they join the Dempster Highway they receive exciting news that the first ferry is now running.
With more than 355,000 subscribers, The Story Till Now has become one of the biggest overland YouTube channels, and for good reason. It’s an apt name, as Shaun is an exceptional storyteller who consistently creates an immersive theatrical experience, and today’s installment is no exception. If you’d like to follow along, you can enjoy the latest updates on Facebook and Instagram.
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