The Alaska State Troopers responded to a call for help from hikers stranded near the “Into The Wild” bus on Stampede Road on Wednesday morning. A 22 year old man from Spain reported to troopers that his hiking companion was stranded on the west side of the Teklanika River along Stampede Road while returning from a hike to visit the now-infamous bus. The hiking companion, Philip Brian Shoup, age 53, of Tennessee was also reported to have a medical condition.
Dan Sanz, of Spain reported that he, Shoup and another hiker, Carlos Vilaro of Spain, hiked to the bus on August 11th. The river was passable for Sanz, but not in attempts for Shoup. They remained at the river until the 17th, when Sanz decided to go for help.
Vilaro remained with Shoup. A helicopter was dispatched to retrieve the men.
Megan Peters, Trooper spokesperson, said all three received medical evaluation. She said Shoup was not in the physical shape required for a strenuous hike. Medics suggested Shoup go to the hospital but he declined further medical attention. The other 2 men did not required medical attention.
Era Aviation, the Tri-Valley Fire Department and EMS and Troopers were involved in the evacuation.
