Chip Hailstone is a name that resonates with adventure, survival, and resilience. Known for his appearances on National Geographic’s Life Below Zero, Chip has become one of the most recognized faces associated with life in the extreme Alaskan wilderness. His life in the harsh conditions of Alaska is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to adapt and thrive in one of the world’s most unforgiving environments. This article takes a deep dive into Chip Hailstone’s background, his career, and his enduring legacy in Alaska’s wilderness.
Your Question | Our Answer |
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Full Name | Edward V Hailstone |
Known As | Chip Hailstone |
Date of Birth | May 8, 1969 |
Place of Birth | Kalispell, Montana |
Age | 54 |
Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
Current Residence | Noorvik, Alaska, USA |
Marital Status | Married |
Spouse | Agnes Hailstone |
Children | Tinmiaq, Iriqtaq, Mary, Caroline, Qutan, Douglas, John Carter |
Parents | Daniel Franklin Hailstone, Mary Lois Hailstone |
Siblings | One Brother |
Gender | Male |
Religion | Christianity |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | European |
Hair Color | Black |
Eye Color | Blue |
Net Worth | $100,000 |
Early Life and Background
Chip Hailstone, born Edward V Hailstone on May 8, 1969, in Kalispell, Montana, was raised in a family that valued the outdoors and survival skills. From an early age, Chip was taught how to hunt, fish, and live off the land—skills that would later define his life in Alaska. His deep connection to nature and the skills required for survival in harsh conditions were cultivated during his childhood.
At 19, Chip’s adventurous spirit led him to the wilds of Alaska, where he moved to the remote village of Noorvik, situated near the Arctic Circle. Drawn by the allure of Alaska’s rugged landscape and the chance to live a life dictated by the seasons, Chip embraced the subsistence lifestyle, relying on hunting, fishing, and gathering to survive. This was the beginning of his transformation from a young man seeking adventure to the skilled survivalist viewers would later see on Life Below Zero.
Life in Alaska: A True Survivalist
Chip Hailstone’s life in Alaska has not been easy, but it has been shaped by the challenges he faces daily. Noorvik, the town where Chip resides, is a small village with a population of around 600 people, located about 19 miles north of the Arctic Circle. This remote setting is one of the most isolated in the U.S., and the region experiences some of the coldest temperatures in the world. This extreme environment has forced Chip to become a master of survival in some of the harshest conditions imaginable.
For Chip, life in Alaska is about more than just surviving the elements. It’s about living in harmony with the land and the creatures that inhabit it. He hunts for food, traps animals, and fishes in sub-zero temperatures. Every decision he makes, whether it’s preparing for a harsh winter or navigating through the wilderness, requires a deep understanding of the environment and the skills needed to live off the land. These survival skills, honed over decades, have become the foundation of Chip’s life in Alaska.
Chip Hailstone’s Family: A Strong Partnership

Chip’s life in Alaska has been made even more fulfilling by his strong partnership with his wife, Agnes Hailstone. Born and raised in Alaska, Agnes is no stranger to the wilderness herself. Coming from a family with a long tradition of hunting and survival, she complements Chip perfectly. Together, they have created a life that embodies the essence of self-reliance and resilience.
Chip and Agnes have been married for over three decades, having tied the knot in 1992. Despite the extreme conditions they live in, their relationship has flourished, and together they have raised a large family. Their children, who are all actively involved in the survivalist lifestyle, have learned essential skills in hunting, fishing, and living off the land, passing on the family’s traditions to the next generation.
Chip’s Children: Living the Alaskan Dream
Chip and Agnes have seven children, each of whom plays a role in their family’s survivalist lifestyle. Their children, including Tinmiaq, Iriqtaq, Mary, Caroline, Qutan, Douglas, and John Carter, have been raised in the wilderness, learning to survive in the same unforgiving environment that their parents have mastered. Many of Chip’s children have appeared on Life Below Zero, showcasing their skills in hunting, fishing, and everyday survival.
- Tinmiaq Hailstone – The eldest of Chip’s children, Tinmiaq has grown up in the Alaskan wilderness, acquiring essential survival skills from her parents. She has appeared on the show, showcasing her hunting abilities.
- Iriqtaq Hailstone – Known for her strong connection to her family’s traditions, Iriqtaq is another daughter who has appeared on Life Below Zero. Her ability to adapt to the harsh conditions of the wilderness is a testament to the training she received from her parents.
- Mary Hailstone – A younger daughter, Mary also participates in the family’s survival activities. She is often seen on the show as she learns and grows in the Alaskan environment.
- Caroline Hailstone – Known for her spirited participation in the family’s daily adventures, Caroline shares her family’s bond with the wilderness. Her involvement has given viewers an insight into the challenges of growing up in such an extreme setting.
- Qutan Hailstone – The youngest of the Hailstone children, Qutan is being raised with the same values and survival skills as her older siblings.
Career Highlights: The Rise to Fame
Chip’s fame began almost by chance. When Life Below Zero premiered in 2013, Chip quickly became one of the show’s standout stars. The show, which follows the lives of several individuals and families living in remote Alaskan areas, is known for its authentic portrayal of life in the wilderness. Chip’s survival skills, practical knowledge, and ability to thrive in sub-zero conditions captivated audiences.
On Life Below Zero, Chip showcases his skills in hunting, fishing, and trapping, while also dealing with the constant challenges posed by Alaska’s extreme environment. His innovative techniques, combined with his deep respect for nature, have made him a fan favorite. Throughout the series, Chip has proven himself not just as a survivor, but also as an educator, teaching viewers about the realities of living in one of the harshest climates on Earth.
Legal Troubles: A Difficult Chapter
While Chip’s career on Life Below Zero has been successful, it hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2017, Chip was involved in a legal incident that resulted in a 15-month prison sentence. The charges stemmed from an altercation involving Chip’s stepson and a state trooper, where Chip was accused of making false statements to the police. Chip claimed that the trooper physically assaulted his stepson, but the charge was later proven to be unsubstantiated. The incident led to a conviction of perjury and false statements, marking a difficult period in Chip’s life.
Despite this setback, Chip’s resilience has been evident. He returned to his life in Alaska and to Life Below Zero, continuing to inspire viewers with his determination and survival skills.
Influence and Legacy: More Than Just a TV Star

Chip Hailstone’s influence extends beyond television. He has become a symbol of self-reliance, sustainability, and a deep connection to nature. Through his role on Life Below Zero, Chip has introduced millions of viewers to the harsh realities of life in the Alaskan wilderness. His story is not just about surviving; it’s about thriving in the most extreme conditions on Earth.
Chip’s legacy is one of resilience, family, and education. He has inspired many to appreciate the value of hard work, independence, and a sustainable lifestyle. His ability to adapt to the challenges of living in the Arctic has made him a role model for those who seek a deeper connection with the natural world.
Conclusion
Chip Hailstone’s life story is a powerful narrative of survival, family, and resilience. From his humble beginnings in Montana to his life in the harsh Alaskan wilderness, Chip has demonstrated a deep connection to nature and an unwavering commitment to living authentically. His role on Life Below Zero has not only made him a television star but also a symbol of self-reliance and respect for the environment. As Chip continues to navigate the challenges of life in Alaska, his legacy as a survivalist and educator will undoubtedly inspire future generations to embrace the spirit of resilience and adaptation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Chip Hailstone?
Chip Hailstone is an American television personality best known for his appearance on the National Geographic reality TV series Life Below Zero. He lives and thrives in the harsh conditions of the Alaskan wilderness, showcasing his survival skills and lifestyle.
2. What is Life Below Zero?
Life Below Zero is a reality television series that airs on National Geographic. It documents the daily and seasonal activities of subsistence hunters living in remote areas of Alaska. Chip Hailstone and his family are key figures on the show, demonstrating how they survive in below-zero conditions by hunting, fishing, and gathering.
3. Where does Chip Hailstone live?
Chip Hailstone resides in Noorvik, Alaska, a small town located just 19 miles north of the Arctic Circle along the Kobuk River. He settled there after moving from Montana to Alaska in 1988.
4. Why was Chip Hailstone arrested?
In 2017, Chip Hailstone was arrested and sentenced to 15 months in jail for felony perjury and making false statements to the police. The charges stemmed from a 2011 incident where he was accused of lying about a state trooper’s actions during an encounter involving his stepson.
5. How does Chip Hailstone contribute to his community?
Besides being a prominent figure on a television show that promotes an understanding of remote Alaskan lifestyles, Chip contributes to his community by participating in traditional hunting, fishing, and gathering activities. He also shares his extensive knowledge of survival techniques, helping to educate both locals and viewers on living sustainably in harsh environments.
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