Wild America! President Barack Obama joined Running Wild host Bear Grylls in the Alaskan wilderness on Tuesday, Sept. 1, in his continual effort to combat climate change in the state.
The commander in chief, 54, took over the White House's official social media accounts on Tuesday, to share snippets from his arctic excursion with the television host. Posting a selfie with Grylls from their mountainous trek, Obama wrote early Wednesday, "Glad this was the only Bear I met in the park."
Grylls reposted the photo and wrote: "Was such a privilege to adventure with you!" He added alongside another selfie, "@POTUS such special moments all through this journey. & what you are doing to help protect our planet is inspiring."
The White House announced on Monday, Aug. 31, that the episode of Running Wild with Bear Grylls will air later this year. In a briefing with reporters on Air Force One, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest joked about the possibilities of what the president will have to do during his wilderness trek.
"I will not deny your suspicion that there may have been some suggestions put forward by the Bear Grylls team that were not approved by the Secret Service," Earnest joked (via USA Today).
Along with the selfie, President Obama also shared some of the sights of the Alaskan Arctic, calling attention to his agenda to combat climate change. "Markers throughout Exit Glacier show how much it's receded over time. The impacts of climate change are real, and the people of Alaska are living with them every day. It's never been more important for us to work together to address this challenge," he wrote alongside one photo.
He also posted snaps from within the scenic glacier park. "We need to make sure our grandkids can see this," Obama pleaded with the White House's followers.
"Resurrection Bay is one of those places that reminds you of all the beauty this country has to offer," he captioned another pic. "It's home to whales (I got to see one!), sea lions, and dozens of other species. Surrounded by jagged cliffs and alpine glaciers, this is a place that's worth protecting."
