Draped head to toe in furs and pulling behind him a 300-pound sled, Tyler Aukan does not appear at all like the typical adventurers one sees so often plying the Mackenzie River during the summer months -- well, at least not in the 21st century anyway.

Aukan left his home in Germany 15 years ago to live his life on the land. The 39-year-old believes Europe is largely ignorant of aboriginal customs and culture, particularly in light of the widespread negative views on the fur trade.

So after years of living as a hunter and trapper, he decided to embark on a quest to heighten awareness towards the North and live the adventure of his life. Numerous articles have been written about him in Europe.

He plans to walk through the bush from one side of North America to the other. He started at the Bering Strait in Alaska in 1998, and would like to finish his journey in Newfoundland. This winter he plans to travel from Aklavik to Hay River.

"I only travel in the winter time," says Aukan. "No mosquitos, no open swamps and lakes."

While Aukan says he doesn't find it possible to live off the land entirely, trappers and elders along the way have taught him how to fashion his own clothes from the animals he hunts. He's also learned how to cope with long, cold winter nights alone in his tent.

"Today, I could go out into the bush and in two years come out fresh and healthy, have made my own clothing, and even bring you a little meat and smoked fish as we sit together by a cup of coffee," says Aukan.

Aukan regularly visits schools along the way to talk about his experiences. Peter Hough, principal of Tulita's Chief Albert Wright school, says quite a buzz erupted in the community when Aukan walked out of the bush early last week.

Many students were impressed that a non-aboriginal man from Europe would take the time to learn traditional skills and survive on them.

"He had all these skins that he made his clothes out of, and he would ask the kids, 'What animal is this?' " says Hough. "He got some good responses. They were fascinated."

Barring injury and misfortune, Aukan hopes to reach Newfoundland within four or five years. For now, he's just enjoying the great outdoors.

"I'd like to reach Hay River if the bears and the ice don't get me first," Aukan laughs.