Sue Aikens Age , Career, Family, Net Worth, Height Bio 2025.
Introduction
From the frozen tundra many miles north of the Arctic Circle, Sue Aikens built a life unlike most people can even imagine. Born in Chicago and moving into Alaska’s remote wilderness as a young woman, she chose a path of solitude, grit, and survival. Her story captures the raw beauty and danger of life off-grid and reminds us that strength, independence, and resilience matter no matter where you live.
This article will walk through her early life, rise to fame, her work at Kavik River Camp, and her influence as one of the most remarkable women to ever live in Alaska’s wilderness.
Real Name
Sue Aikens’ full name is Susan Aikens. She is known affectionately by fans as “Sue,” a name that reflects her friendly yet tough personality. Despite her fame on Life Below Zero, she has kept her public image grounded and true to her everyday lifestyle.
Early Life and Education
Sue Aikens was born on July 1, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Her early life was marked by constant movement and change. When her parents divorced, Sue’s mother relocated the family to Alaska when Sue was just 12 years old. That move shaped her entire future.
In Alaska, she faced extreme conditions and had to learn survival from experience rather than textbooks. She reportedly finished high school early through an accelerated program and began learning wilderness skills that would later define her identity.
Her curiosity about nature and life off the grid became her education beyond the classroom — from handling wildlife to building shelters and understanding the environment’s rhythm.
Parents and Siblings
Not much is publicly known about Sue Aikens’ parents and whether she has siblings. However, she has spoken about how her early family life involved instability. Her mother’s decision to move to Alaska led Sue into a path of independence at a young age.
This upbringing played a major role in shaping her mindset — to survive alone, adapt quickly, and rely on herself even when things became difficult.
Children
Sue Aikens is the proud mother of two adult children — a daughter and a son:
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Daughter: Jennifer Payne, born in November 1984
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Son: Jesse Aikens, born in December 1987
Both children now live outside Alaska. Sue is also a grandmother and often mentions the importance of passing her knowledge and lessons to younger generations. She has expressed that while she lives a remote life, family remains a central part of her values.
Age, Weight, Height, and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Sue Aikens is 62 years old. She stands around 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall and weighs approximately 169 pounds (77 kg).
Her weathered face and strong build are visible reflections of her life in the wilderness — enduring storms, icy winds, and long months of solitude. Every wrinkle and scar tells a story of perseverance and experience.
Before Fame
Before she became known to millions, Sue Aikens led a life of quiet but intense adventure. She moved to Alaska permanently and began living independently in remote regions, often with little or no human contact for weeks at a time.
Her pre-fame years involved:
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Learning bushcraft and hunting
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Managing supplies in subzero weather
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Operating small aircraft
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Developing her Kavik River Camp lifestyle
She did this not for fame or attention but for the love of nature and the freedom it provided.
Career
Life Below Zero
Sue Aikens’ public recognition came with National Geographic’s “Life Below Zero”, which premiered in 2013. The show documented her daily life at Kavik River Camp — battling extreme cold, managing limited supplies, and surviving near wild animals.
Her raw honesty and humor quickly made her a fan favorite.
| Year | Milestone | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Life Below Zero debut | Introduced her to global audiences |
| 2017 | Emmy nomination | Recognition for real-life storytelling |
| 2018 | Emmy win | Life Below Zero won Outstanding Cinematography |
| 2022 | Producer credit for film Panama | Expanded into film production |
Her television presence turned her into one of the most iconic survivalists of the modern era.
Kavik River Camp
Sue Aikens is the owner and manager of Kavik River Camp, located about 197 miles north of the Arctic Circle.
The camp serves as both her home and a wilderness retreat for guests seeking the ultimate Alaskan adventure. It is accessible only by air and operates seasonally due to harsh weather.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Near the Kavik River, Alaska |
| Accessibility | By small aircraft only |
| Function | Lodge and wilderness basecamp |
| Temperature Range | -40°F to 60°F |
| Managed by | Sue Aikens since early 2000s |
Survival Expertise and Skills
Sue is skilled in:
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Bushcraft and survival techniques
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Hunting and fishing
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Flying small planes
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Mechanical repair and camp maintenance
Her famous quote — “The best tool in anyone’s arsenal is their own mindset” — sums up her philosophy: mental toughness outweighs physical equipment in survival situations.
Social Media Presence
Despite living remotely, Sue Aikens maintains an active online presence:
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Instagram: @sueaikens
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Facebook: Official page with updates on camp life and filming
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Website: Kavik River Camp official site
She uses social media to share nature photography, life lessons, and updates from the Arctic Circle, offering followers an authentic glimpse into her world.
Nationality and Religion
Sue Aikens is American. She identifies deeply with Alaskan culture and wilderness living.
Though she rarely discusses organized religion, she often mentions faith, gratitude, and respect for nature as guiding forces in her life. Her philosophy blends practicality with appreciation for life’s fragility and interconnectedness.
Net worth
Sue Aikens net worth could be higher (up to around US $1 – 2 million) when factoring in income from her wilderness lodge business and other ventures.
Legacy and Impact
Sue Aikens’ story has inspired millions around the world. She represents:
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Strength and independence in a male-dominated field
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Empowerment for women in survivalism and outdoor leadership
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Environmental respect and sustainability
Her legacy lies in her ability to merge entertainment with real-world survival education. She showed audiences that success doesn’t always mean luxury—it can mean self-sufficiency, peace, and purpose.
Hobbies
When she’s not filming or working, Sue enjoys:
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Flying planes
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Writing and reading
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Photography
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Ice fishing and hunting
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Spending quiet evenings under the northern lights
Her hobbies keep her connected to nature and remind her of the beauty in simple moments.
Favorite Thing
Sue often says her favorite tool isn’t a weapon or gadget—it’s a clear and focused mind.
She loves small pleasures: a good cup of coffee at dawn, a working generator during a storm, or the sound of wolves in the distance. These moments define her version of happiness.
Interesting Facts
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Earned her high school diploma at age 13
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Survived a bear attack in 2007 and self-treated her wounds before help arrived
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Lives alone for much of the year in temperatures below -50°F
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Kavik Camp is one of the most remote lodges in the world
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Has appeared on numerous talk shows and documentaries
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Loves classical music and quiet reflection by the fire
Financial Overview
Sue Aikens’ estimated net worth in 2025 is around $500,000, with some reports suggesting more depending on TV contracts and camp income.
Primary income sources include:
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Salary from Life Below Zero (~$4,500 per episode)
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Earnings from Kavik River Camp
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Public speaking and survival workshops
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Product collaborations and appearances
Summary
Sue Aikens’ life is proof that resilience can turn isolation into purpose. From her beginnings in Illinois to her years in Alaska’s harsh wilderness, she has built a legacy of strength, independence, and wisdom.
Her story teaches that happiness isn’t about comfort or fame—it’s about courage, authenticity, and the will to live meaningfully. Through Life Below Zero and her real-life example, Sue Aikens continues to inspire anyone who dreams of living life on their own terms.
FAQs
Who is Sue Aikens and why is she famous?
Sue Aikens is an American survivalist and TV personality known for starring in Life Below Zero and running Kavik River Camp in remote Alaska.
Where is Kavik River Camp located?
Kavik River Camp is located about 197 miles north of the Arctic Circle and can only be reached by plane. Sue manages the camp year-round.
How did Sue Aikens survive a bear attack?
In 2007, Sue was attacked by a bear and severely injured. She managed to treat herself, radio for help, and survived until rescue arrived.
What are Sue Aikens’ main sources of income?
Her income comes from Life Below Zero, managing Kavik River Camp, guest appearances, and public speaking engagements.
What lessons can people learn from Sue Aikens’ life?
Her life teaches the power of independence, mental strength, and embracing challenges rather than running from them.
