A Journey into the Alaskan Wilderness

On January 10, 1980, 21-year-old Thomas Haines set out on a hike from the Hollis Youth Adult Conservation Corps camp toward Karta Lake on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska. The route he chose was unmarked, and he was last seen departing alone into the dense, rugged terrain. He never returned. Despite search efforts, no trace of Haines was ever found, and he is presumed deceased. 

The Landscape of Prince of Wales Island

Prince of Wales Island is the third-largest island in the United States, characterized by its remote wilderness, thick forests, and challenging terrain. The area around Karta Lake is known for its natural beauty but also for its difficulty to navigate, especially without established trails. The island's weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes that can pose risks even to experienced hikers....Read More