Uncompahgre Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado (6-23-23)

Days 16 & 17 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!

6-22-23, 4:32 PM, Carp Lake near the Grand Mesa Visitor Center –

This is a gorgeous area, SPHP!  For a backup plan, Grand Mesa’s looking fabulous!  We’ve seen so many beautiful lakes already, and we’ve only just arrived.  What’s the name of this one?

Carp Lake.  Cobbett Lake on some maps, Looper.

Carp Lake on Grand Mesa. Photo looks ENE.

Well, Carp or Cobbett, it’s a beauty, SPHP!  What did they say in the visitor center?

Unfortunately, they basically said we’ve come a long way for nothing, Loopster.  Leon Peak (11,236 ft.) isn’t going to work.

What!  Why not, SPHP?

USFS Road No. 121 is closed E of Baron Lake due to deep snow, Loop, as in gated shut.  We can’t get anywhere near the trailhead.

So, what are we going to do, SPHP?

Don’t know yet, sweet puppy.  The Crag Crest (11,189 ft.) trail might be an option, but even if we do that, we’d still want to come back to hit Leon someday.  Intended to visit both of them while we’re here this time.

Can we get to a trailhead for Crag Crest?  I wouldn’t mind doing that, SPHP.

Yup, there’s a trailhead less than 0.5 mile from here N of Island Lake.  On the other paw, I suppose we might consider going back to Plan A.

Speaking of paws, what about your sore paws, though, SPHP?  We’re here because Plan A would be too much for them so soon after San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.) yesterday, remember?

Yeah, I know it, Loop, but they’re already feeling better than expected.

Seriously?  Good enough for nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain tomorrow, SPHP?

Even SPHP wasn’t truly convinced, but Plan A won out.  After another hours long, very scenic drive, Lupe was in Lake City by dusk.  Finding a gravel road near the S end of town that went to Engineer Pass, SPHP took a chance on it.  Passing through a narrow gap between towering cliffs where Henson Creek gushed in a raging torrent right next to the road, the road then wound through an old mining district.

Roughly 5 miles W of Lake City, there it was!  The sign SPHP had been looking for.

Let’s get out and have a look, Loopster.  We’re at Nellie Creek!

Evening at Blue Mesa Reservoir on the way to Lake City. Photo looks W.
Signage W of Lake City at the turn for the Nellie Creek trailhead. Photo looks WNW.

Walking up a short incline, vehicles were parked in various spots among the trees.  In the growing gloom, lanterns were being lit.  People could be heard talking quietly among themselves as they got ready to turn in for the night.  Whatever they were saying was drowned out by roar of Nellie Creek, unseen in the dark forest toward the W.

Only one empty parking spot left, SPHP.  We better grab it!

6-23-23, 6:31 AM, 45ºF – People were stirring.  Lupe was, too.  The great day had arrived!

About ready to set out. Photo looks S.

Ready in just a few minutes, Loopster.  Putting on these new socks.  Extra cushiony.  Might need it.  Then we’ll be on our way.

Socks and boots on, SPHP drank a strawberry Equate, then hoisted the pack.  That was it for breakfast.  Lupe was too excited to eat anything.  Nellie Creek was still roaring somewhere off to the W.

Alright.  Uncompaghre Peak (14,309 ft.) or bust!  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

Heading N on USFS Road No. 877, the Carolina Dog began the 4 mile long trudge to the Nellie Creek trailhead more than 2,000 feet higher.  Those lucky enough to have 4WD could simply drive to it, and start from there.

Starting up USFS Road No. 877. Photo looks N.

The road was relatively flat at first, but a relentless climb soon began.  Not that steep, but steady, with only occasional flat spots.  No downhill sections at all.

No one else was walking, and, surprisingly, only one vehicle passed Lupe as she trotted higher.  After a little while it came back down, the driver pausing to say that he’d merely dropped people off at the Nellie Creek trailhead.  Progress was good, and spirits running high.  The American Dingo passed a number of dispersed parking spots among the trees, only half of which were occupied.  After 0.75 mile, they became scarce.

For the most part, although narrow, No. 877 was actually a fairly decent road.  SPHP was still glad, though, that the RAV4 was stashed back in the forest close to the main road to Lake City and Engineer Pass.  No. 877 did have some pretty rough, rocky spots, and sometimes ran along the edge of sheer drops.

Meanwhile, a growing concern was gnawing at SPHP.  Nellie Creek was often in view now.  Although not a huge stream, it always appeared to be an impassable, boulder-infested torrent.

Who cares, SPHP?  It’s beautiful.

Yeah, but we’ll be coming to a major test soon enough, Looper.  Two of them, actually.  We may never even get to the trailhead, much less climb Uncompaghre Peak.

Oh?  And what might those tests consist of, SPHP?  Do tell!

We’re going to have to ford Nellie Creek twice, Loop.  Rob Woodall’s GPS track shows a rickety bridge and a slippery log.

Don’t like that sound of that, or Nellie Creek, SPHP.  You mean we drove all over creation yesterday only to come here, when you knew the whole time that this might well be a total fail?

Uh-huh, but then you saw Uncompaghre from San Luis Peak, too, Loop, and the mountain looked beyond our capabilities from there.  So you’ve known this might be a fail all along, too.

That’s different, SPHP!  Despite what we saw from afar, you said there was a trail to the top!

And there is, sweet puppy!  At least, that’s what everyone says, so there must be.

Well, there was no sense in backing out now without seeing what the first ford actually looked like, no matter how intimidating the constant, foaming roar emitted by Nellie Creek.

After gaining 900 feet of elevation over 1.5 miles, Lupe reached the first ford at around 10,200 feet.

First ford of Nellie Creek at 10,200 feet. Photo looks N.

Hmm.  Didn’t look bad at all.  No big rocks, and Nellie Creek was spread out, most of it quite shallow where the road crossed it.  The deepest part where the current was most powerful appeared to be only a couple of feet deep.  Not much of an issue for SPHP, but neck deep on Lupe.

Lovely!  So where’s the rickety bridge or slippery log Mr. Woodall wants us to take, SPHP?

How am I supposed to know?  Maybe they’ve washed out since Rob was here?  Anyway, wait here, Loop, I’ll cross first to make sure it isn’t any worse than it looks.

Lupe watched as SPHP removed boots and socks, then waded bare-paw across the icy cold stream.

C’mon, you can do it, Loopster!  Cross right where I did, the deepest part isn’t very wide there.  You’ll be over in a flash.

Lupe hesitated.  Several times the Carolina Dog started in, only to retreat from the frigid water.  Nellie Creek looked too wide, and the roar coming from immediately both upstream and downstream was too frightening.  A couple of times, Lupe threatened to plunge into the upstream torrent where the creek was narrower, but deep, swift, and full of rocks.  SPHP screamed at her not to do that.

Stay there, Loopster!  I’ll come and help you.

Fording the stream again, SPHP leashed Lupe up.  Carrying her over would be impossible.  SPHP needed to be able to use poles to maintain balance.  The escort worked, though.  Completely drenched, Lupe was soon across, shaking off and sending a spray of water at SPHP.

Don’t say a thing, SPHP!  Your little cold shower is nothing compared to what I’ve just been through!

The road hike continued.  A beautiful view of Peak 13160 was back to the S as sunlight began reaching the road.

Peak 13160 (Center). Photo looks S.

The second ford appeared at 10,700 feet, less than 0.75 mile beyond the first one.  This ford was no big deal, yet neither SPHP nor Lupe wanted to get wet again.  Here, there actually was a slippery log just upstream.  Hanging onto tree branches, SPHP managed to cross without incident.  Lupe easily raced across the log without any such assistance.

Second Nellie Creek ford at 10,700 feet. Photo looks N.
The fortunately not-too-slippery log (L) beyond Lupe.

Nellie Creek dealt with for the final time, it was now possible enjoy the rest of the increasingly scenic road hike to the trailhead.  Before long, Peak 13106 came into view ahead.

Nellie Creek and Peak 13106 (R of Center) from USFS Road No. 877. Photo looks N.

6-23-23, 9:27 AM – After passing an outhouse, Lupe finally reached the Nellie Creek trailhead at the upper end of USFS Road No. 877.  Rather surprisingly, only a single gray ATV was at the parking lot, and not a soul was around.  However, quite a bit of information was posted at the start of Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239.  SPHP paused to take a look.

Arriving at the Nellie Creek trailhead. Peak 13016 (R). Photo looks N.
Only a single gray ATV was at the parking lot. Photo looks NNW.
Start of Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239. Peak 13106 (Center). Photo looks N.
Close up of the signage.
By the trailhead displays.
Trail map.
Three dimensional route view.
Trail statistics.

Does it say anything interesting, SPHP?

About what I expected, Loop.  At least it confirms that there’s a trail to the top.

Pressing on, Uncompaghre Peak Trail No. 239 continued up the valley.  At first, Nellie Creek was out of sight off to the SW as Lupe trotted along a forested stretch.  Upon reaching the edge of the forest 0.25 mile from the trailhead, SPHP dumped the pack and sat down.  The Carolina Dog laid down, too.

How are your paws faring, SPHP?

Surprisingly well, Loop.  Thanks for asking!  Now if only my lungs, heart, and legs felt more ambitious, we’d be in business.  Hungry yet?

Not really.  I’m fine, SPHP.

Suit yourself.  Think I’ll have a little something.

A fruit cup hit the spot, without causing much further delay.  The trail went on, and so did the American Dingo.  Nellie Creek was soon nearby again, still a fast-flowing, rough and tumble stream, but much smaller up here.  As Lupe closed in on treeline near 11,700 feet, views were starting to open up.  Porous boulders full of air pockets were along the trail as snowfields appeared on high ridges ahead.

Getting close to treeline on Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239. Photo looks NW.

Before long, an enormous crag was in sight off to the W.

Uncompaghre Peak (14,309 ft.), SPHP?

Must be, or at least part of it, Loopster.  It’s in the right direction.

First view of Uncompaghre Peak (R of Center). Photo looks W.

As the trail and Nellie Creek valley both turned toward the crag, some truly magnificent territory came into view.

Upper Nellie Creek valley. Uncompaghre Peak (R). Photo looks W.

Wow!  This is going to be an awesome day, SPHP!

Gotta love this!  Don’t ya, sweet puppy?

No. 239 soon crossed a small tributary of Nellie Creek at a flat mucky spot full of soft, gravelly sand.   A little beyond this side creek, the trail switchbacked up a steep, 50 foot high bank to the N.  Near the top, Lupe had to leave the trail to find a spot where she could scramble up onto a long snowbank clinging to the bank’s upper rim.

At the soft spot where another small stream joins Nellie Creek. Photo looks SW.
On the snowbank. Photo looks W.

Reaching the top of the bank, a junction with Trail No. 232, which snaked N up the steep W flank of Peak 13106 on its way to Big Blue Creek, was nearby.  Looked interesting, but to the W, Uncompahgre Peak beckoned beneath a deep blue sky beyond scattered dark conifers and brilliant white snowfields.

Dingo paradise is this way, SPHP!

Uncompahgre Peak from the junction with Big Blue Creek Trail No. 232.
Junction signage.

So it is!  Hang on for just a moment, though, Looper.  This sign is loose.

SPHP managed to hand-tighten only one of the 2 nuts fastening the sign to the post.  The other one wouldn’t budge on the bolt.

Eh, better than it, was.  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

W of the junction with Big Bear Creek Trail No. 232, Lupe and SPHP both enjoyed a relatively long, flat stretch along Uncompaghre Creek Trail No. 239.  Beyond the last stands of conifers, an awesome region of tundra and snowfields was ahead.  Lupe had a blast racing across the open ground as pikas and marmots whistled warnings on all sides.

In Dingo Paradise!

Inevitably, the flat stretch gave way to a steady trudge higher.  Lupe crossed one snowfield after another separated by tundra.  No. 239 was often muddy where it wasn’t buried beneath the snow.

Heading up one of the snowfields. Photo looks SW.

6-23-23, 12:01 PM, 50ºF – The topo map showed a spring N of the trail near 12,620 feet.  At a flat region of relatively dry tundra somewhat above and SW of this spring, SPHP was ready for another break.  Lupe was starving.  After eagerly gobbling some Taste of the Wild, she laid down next to SPHP.  A cool, 10-15 mph SW breeze swept the open plain.

Uncompaghre Peak (R) from the break spot at 12,650 feet. Photo looks W.

Two people separated by a little distance were now in sight coming down the next snowfield, the only people Lupe had seen on paw all day.  Loners, they soon walked by one at a time.  Neither said a word.

Hmm.  Well, let’s keep going, SPHP!

On the way up that next snowfield the trail turned S, and 3 more people appeared, also already on their way down.  Young and laughing, they greeted Lupe warmly before moving on with a warning:

It’s really windy up on the ridge!  No so bad at the summit, though!

Reaching the top of this snowfield, more were ahead.  Peak 13158 was in sight as Lupe climbed toward the crest of Uncompahgre Peak’s SE ridge.

Peak 13158 (L). Photo looks SSE.

After ascending several more snowfields, Lupe reached another trail junction just as she gained the ridgeline.  Matterhorn Creek Trail No. 233 veered off to the L here.

Those young people were right!  A relentless 40 mph gale roared over the crest of the ridge from out of the WSW.  Curving practically straight into the teeth of it, Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239 left the junction turning due W.  Ahead, a long series of steps climbed toward a rounded hill hundreds of feet higher.

At the junction with Matterhorn Creek Trail No. 233. Peak 13158 (L). Photo looks SE.
Junction signage.
The windy march higher. Photo looks W.

2 young men were coming down the steps.  One recognized Lupe.

Hey!  We know you!  You were coming up when we were on our way down over at San Luis Peak 2 days ago, too!

Pausing to chat with SPHP, the men pointed NW toward the steep upper ridge forming the L shoulder of the crag, warning that the trail got kinda scrambly beyond it.  Then off they went, too, continuing down the steps.

“Kinda scrambly”, what’s that supposed to mean, SPHP?

Don’t know, Loopster, but coming from a couple of young guys in great shape, I don’t much like the sound of it.

No. 239 curved NW before getting all the way to the top of the hill.  A helpful development, because it put Lupe below the crest of the ridge again, partially protected from the full force of the gale.  Still pretty windy, but this wasn’t a bad place to take another short break.

At the break spot partially protected from the wind. Photo looks NW.

Almost immediately, Lupe spotted 2 women coming down.  Their outfits flapping wildly in the breeze, they offered another bit of advice as they went right on by without stopping:

Be careful up there!

Sheesh!  Are we late for some kind of convention on Uncompahgre Peak that just broke up a little bit ago, Loop?  Saw no one at all for hours, but now there’s a steady stream of people coming down.

Never mind that, SPHP.  What kind of a trail is this?  “Kinda scrambly!”  “Be careful!”  And look at that crag we’re heading for!

I know it!  Thought this was supposed to be Class 2, no big deal, Loopster.  Starting to get paranoid, though.  C’mon!  Onward!  Puppy, ho!  Before we get any more good news.

SPHP was wrong about getting any more news, though.  Lupe wouldn’t see anyone else the rest of the day.

Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239 climbed back up onto the ridge again.  Passing NE of several high points, the wind sounded terrible as it shot through wide gaps between them where stunning views to the W were framed by gigantic cliffs.

Both Wetterhorn Peak (14,015 ft.) and Matterhorn Peak (13,590 ft.) were out there only 2 or 3 miles away, along with an enormous amount of snow for late June.

The snowy scene from the crest of Uncompahgre Peak’s SE ridge. Photo looks WSW.
Wetterhorn Peak (Center), Matterhorn Peak (R). Photo looks W.

Approaching the steep slope below the upper ridge comprising the L shoulder of the crag, confidence returned.  A few big switchbacks went right up it.  Cake!  The only question was what the American Dingo would see from the top.

Approaching the upper L shoulder (L of Center) of the crag. Photo looks NW.
View from the last windy window between high points. Wetterhorn Peak (R of Center). Photo looks W.

The switchbacks were easy, but near the top, SPHP’s paranoia returned.

Careful, Loopster!  Stay close.  Might be cliffs!  No telling what we’ll see.

As soon as Lupe regained the ridgeline, the full force of the gale out of the W struck her again.  Ahead, Trail No. 239 extended a short distance beyond the ridge before curling out of sight to the R.  Cautiously making this turn, what came into view next was entirely different from what the rest of the trail had been like.

An already spectacular, unobstructed panoramic view of a vast region of snowy peaks and highlands was off to the SW.  However, that wasn’t of immediate importance.  Ahead, the terrain consisted of a steep talus slope that dropped many hundreds of feet.  Traversing the talus and a snowfield, the trail headed toward columns of bedrock jutting skyward near the top of the slope.

Must be some way up between these columns, SPHP.  C’mon!

On the talus slope beyond the crag’s L shoulder. Photo looks NNW.

After passing a rock formation, the route up became apparent.  Trail No. 239 turned N straight up a very steep slope of loose soil and rock.

We’ve reached the “kinda scrambly” part, SPHP!

Yeah.  Looks doable, Loopster, but I hope it doesn’t go on like this much above what we can see from here.

Carolina Dogs are natural scramblers.  Lupe was clearly enjoying herself as SPHP toiled carefully after her, sending rocks clattering down the slope with nearly every step.

The scramble begins! Photo looks NNW.
Heading up the loose stuff. Photo looks NNE.

The route was steep enough to merit caution, but wasn’t too bad.  After a 70 foot climb, it angled toward the E.  As the terrain began leveling out again, Lupe rediscovered a distinct trail, which curved N, then back to the NNW among rock formations.

Rounding this corner, it was clear that Uncompahgre’s summit couldn’t be much farther.  After crossing a small snowfield, a final, modest talus ridge was in sight beyond a rock-strewn plain.

Above the scramble, back on Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239. Photo looks NNW.
Approaching the final short, rocky ascent. Photo looks NNW.

Heading straight for a last line of cliffs along the SW face of the summit region, Trail No. 239 swept around to the NE, bypassing them once Lupe got close.  A relatively short rocky climb got the American Dingo to a summit plateau hundreds of feet wide that sloped up toward the NW.

Below the last cliffs. Trail No. 239 angled NE (R), bypassing them. Photo looks NNW.
On Uncompahgre’s summit plateau. Photo looks NW.

6-23-23, 3:32 PM, Uncompahgre Peak (14,309 ft.) – The weary trudge higher was over!  Along a ragged N edge, Lupe stood calmly at the brink of cataclysmic cliffs on a boulder that appeared to be Uncompaghre’s true summit.  Beyond her, a couple more high points in contention for the honor were in sight, and several miles beyond them rose a line of dramatic, snow-bearing peaks.

Coxcomb Peak (13,656 ft.), Redcliff (13,642 ft.), Precipice Peak (13,144 ft.), Dunsinane Mountain (12,742 ft.)!  None of them were as high as Uncompaghre.  Even the soaring spire of Wetterhorn Peak (14,015 ft.) over toward the WSW was clearly lower, Matterhorn Peak (13,590 ft.) in the foreground diminutive by comparison.

At Uncompahgre Peak’s true summit. Coxcomb Peak (far L), Redcliff (L), Precipice Peak (R), Dunsinane Mountain (far R). Photo looks NW.
Wetterhorn Peak (R) with Matterhorn Peak (R) in the foreground. Photo looks WSW.

Holy smokers, Loopster!  We actually made it!  Uncompaghre!  Can you believe it?

Shoot, this wasn’t so bad, SPHP.  One little scramble!  Nothing to it, if we could have started at the Nellie Creek trailhead, and skipped 2,000 feet of extra elevation gain.

Yeah, well, partly due to that extra 2,000 feet, I’m absolutely beat!  Let me shake your paw, and let’s find a spot to sit down where it isn’t so dang windy.

Really wasn’t anywhere out of the wind up here, but finding a patch of tundra where Lupe could lay down in relative comfort near a group of boulders SW of the true summit, an attempt to use them as windbreaks provided at least some relief.  Happily, at only 15-20 mph out of the W, the wind wasn’t nearly as bad as here as it had been on the SE ridge.

Exhausted, neither Lupe nor SPHP stirred, merely sitting there snacking while enjoying the stupendous views.  Far to the ESE, SPHP was able to pick out Stewart Peak (13,983 ft.), Organ Mountain (13,801 ft.), and San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.), where Lupe had been just 2 days ago.  From the true summit, the American Dingo had already seen that the territory to the N was much lower, except for a snow-capped range on the distant horizon.

The best views were to the S or W looking into the heart of the San Juan Range where an incredible amount of snow was still present.  Above all, that snowy wilderness of jagged peaks to the WSW beyond spectacular Wetterhorn Peak (14,015 ft.) was an absolute jaw-dropper.

Wetterhorn Peak (R) with Matterhorn Peak (R) in the foreground. Photo looks WSW with help from the telephoto lens.

Sort of reminds me of being on Peak 6053 looking into Alaska, SPHP!

Yeah.  Hard to believe we’re in southern Colorado right after the summer solstice, Loop.

6-23-23, 4:34 PM, 54ºF – The beef jerky supply wiped out entirely by the ravenous American Dingo, energy was returning as Lupe’s traditional summit hour ended.  No rush to leave yet, though, since other than the ever-present annoying wind, conditions remained near perfect.  Besides, it was picture time!

For the next half an hour, Lupe and SPHP wandered back and forth over the summit region, staying mostly among the various high points strung out along the N edge, while admiring the splendid views in all directions.

Precipice Peak (L), and Dunsinane Mountain (L of Center). E fork of the Cimmaron River valley (R). Photo looks NW.
Along the W edge. Broken Hill (13,256 ft.) (Center) in the foreground. Photo looks S.
HP13052 (L) in the foreground. Wetterhorn Peak and Matterhorn Peak (far R). Photo looks SW.
American Flats (Center). Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.
Back along the N edge. Photo looks ESE.

3 high points of nearly equal elevation were along the N edge.  The one farthest E was the true summit.  The middle high point featured a small cross, which was its claim to fame.  However, it was the high point clear out at the NW end that provided the most dramatic perch.  Lupe visited it several times.

The cross (R) at the middle high point (L) along the N edge. Photo looks NE.
On the NW high point. Fortress Peak (13,241 ft.) (Center), Precipice Peak (R), Dunsinane Peak (far R). Photo looks NW.
Wetterhorn Peak (L) beyond Matterhorn Peak. Photo looks W.

5:01 PM, Uncompahgre Peak, NW high point – Sadly, it was time.  From this airy perch, SPHP started Lupe’s descent GPS track nearly 1.5 hours after she’d arrived at the true summit.  Going right past the true summit for the final time, the Carolina Dog returned briefly to the highest rocks once again.

Final moments at Uncompahgre Peak’s true summit. Photo looks NW.

SPHP never found a registry or a survey benchmark, but on a collection of rocks only a bit E of the true summit, discovered a directional marker as Lupe departed.

Uncompahgre directional marker.

A last look around, and it was Onward!  Puppy, ho!

It was a long way back.  Tragedy struck during the scramble’s descent when a rock fell, smashing SPHP’s R pinky toe.  Fortunately, not broken, but painful nonetheless.  Down on the SE ridge, the wind was as terrible as ever, but conditions improved steadily below it.  On this gorgeous evening, Lupe had a grand time exploring the open country on the way back to Nellie Creek.

Heading back to Nellie Creek. Photo looks ENE.

The “slippery log” worked a second time at the upper ford.  Arriving at the lower ford at dusk, the American Dingo refused to plunge into the fearsome, frigid stream again in the growing gloom.  Sitting on a bank beyond SPHP’s reach, she refused to come down.

In the end, there was no other way.  Leashed up, once into the stream, Lupe practically drug SPHP across in her eagerness to reach the safety of the far bank.

6-23-23, 10:20 PM – SPHP’s long hobble on the sore toe ended as the Carolina Dog leapt into the RAV4 and up onto her pink blanket.  What a day it had been!  Uncompahgre Peak had been awesome, entirely worth it!  For the 3rd time on this Dingo Vacation, Lupe had set a new personal record for the 3rd highest mountain she’d ever climbed, coming within 124 vertical feet of her all-time best at Mount Elbert nearly 8 years ago.

Trying to sleep despite the throbbing toe, SPHP couldn’t help wondering if Lupe would ever again be on such a lofty perch as glorious, fabulous Uncompahgre Peak (14,309 ft.)?

On Uncompahgre Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado 6-23-23

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Black Hills, SD Expedition No. 316 – Peak 5321 (10-6-23)

10-5-23, 3:30 PM – Oh, happy day!  Uncle Joe, Aunt Andrea, and new Cousin Dixie were here, newly arrived from Colorado, and destined to spend the next few days at Hotel Lupe!  The American Dingo greeted them all with great enthusiasm, then sort of played with Dixie, mostly watching as her Aussie Shepherd cousin tore around the living room.

Lupe was astounded by new Cousin Dixie’s appearance!  Only 3 months ago, Dixie had been a mere puppy – cute and fuzzy, and with an already over-developed and rather annoying herding instinct.  Since then, Dixie had been completely transformed!  Now she was nearly as big as Lupe, and a whirlwind of energy.

All that new Cousin Dixie energy had to go somewhere!  Fortunately, this evening it suddenly dawned on Dixie how her Carolina Dog cousin was able to pass through walls like magic.  A doggie door!  Once Dixie caught on to how it worked, she was as bad as a cat, letting herself in and out at will to race around the back yard whenever she pleased.  Best idea ever!

10-6-23, 10:06 AM, USFS Road No. 144.1A –  The Hotel Lupe doggie door to the back yard served as a release for some of Dixie’s hyper-activity, but wasn’t a complete solution by any means.  However, a Black Hills, SD expedition might do the trick!

The morning air was clean, clear, and on the crisp side when everyone, minus Aunt Andrea, who had gone to spend the day with Grandma, piled out of the RAV4 at the start of USFS Road No. 144.1A.  Lupe and Dixie were both excited, and couldn’t wait to get started.

Start of USFS Road No. 144.1A, about a mile NE of Nemo. Photo looks SSW.

During Dixie’s first ever visit to the Black Hills at the end of June, she’d had fun on 3 mini-expeditions with Lupe.  Now that Dixie was 5 months old, Lupe figured she ought to give her energetic cousin an introduction to peakbagging.

SPHP had suggested Peak 5321 as an easy objective.  With less than 300 feet of elevation gain required during a mere 1.4 mile, mostly road hike, approach, Dixie’s first ascent attempt would be a guaranteed success!  The journey began with a 0.5 mile romp along USFS Road No. 144.1A.

Off to a good start on USFS Road No. 144.1A. Photo looks W.

This easy jaunt got Dixie to a broad minor pass.  USFS Road No. 144.1A veered off to the SE here.  An unmarked road not shown on the maps that branched off to the R was actually the way to go.

At the broad, flat pass where USFS Road No. 144.1A heads off to the L. The road angling R was the way to go. Photo looks S.
Joe and Dixie continuing along the unmarked road. Photo looks SSW.

Traversing the W slopes of HP5243, the road gradually gained elevation before turning SW and flattening out.  Much to Lupe’s dismay, by now it was clear that Dixie hadn’t gotten over her annoying herding instincts at all.  The American Dingo did her best to try not to let it get to her.  Most of the time, everyone was in fine spirits on this beautiful early autumn day, but with some regularity, Lupe couldn’t help growling or snapping at her bossy new cousin.

Dixie, of course, was completely unfazed.  The herding went on.

At the curve where the road turned SW. Photo looks SW.

From the turn SW, Ash Point, established by the “Yogi Clan” in memory of Shirley and Sonya at the edge of a cliff, was only another 0.33 mile.

10-6-23, 10:34 AM – In addition to a terrific view of Nemo hundreds of feet below, Ash Point featured views of both Green Top (5,360 ft.) and White Mansion (5,340 ft.) 3 miles NW, with Custer Peak (6,804 ft.) and Terry Peak (7,064 ft.) on the horizon.

Not trusting Dixie’s puppy exuberance near a cliff, Joe prudently kept her leashed up.

Dingo’s eye view of Nemo from Ash Point. Custer Peak (far R). Photo looks W.
Terry Peak (L), Green Top (R), White Mansion (far R). Photo looks NW.
White Mansion (L) from Ash Point. Photo looks N.

The Yogi Clan had thoughtfully provided a bench so visitors can relax while enjoying the lovely Ash Point views.  However, the Carolina Dog merely stood on it for a minute or two before leaping off.  Joe and Dixie then demonstrated how to make better use of a bench.

Lupe on the Ash Point bench.
Joe and Dixie show Lupe how it’s done.

Peak 5321’s summit was only 0.25 mile SSE of Ash Point.  However, the road soon curved way E of it on its way S, so Lupe led everyone off into the forest, taking a direct route up a gentle slope.

Heading straight through the forest in search of the summit. Photo looks SE.

10-6-23, 10:50 AM, 47ºF, Peak 5321 – A large flat region buried in trees and full of deadfall, Peak 5321 admittedly wasn’t all that scintillating as summits go.  At least there was a sunny semi-clearing, the deadfall made reasonably good seats, and there was no edge nearby that Dixie might inadvertently hurtle herself over.

Dixie was bummed that she didn’t get to share in the chocolate coconut bars that Joe, Lupe, and SPHP all enjoyed in honor of her first official Black Hills peak ascent, but she readily accepted Taste of the Wild and water as a consolation prize.

Blinking in the sun on Peak 5321’s flat, deadfall-strewn summit. Photo looks NNE.
Taking a break on Peak 5321. Photo looks SE.

With no summit views, there wasn’t much reason to linger after a short break.  However, Ash Point wasn’t the only viewpoint in this general vicinity.  On a prior expedition, Lupe had discovered that American Point was less than another 0.25 mile SW along the same line of cliffs.

Dixie and Joe were both willing to check it out.  Heading S to pick up the unmarked road again, it led right to American Point.

On the way to American Point. Photo looks SW.

10-6-23, 11:27 AM, American Point – Oh, yeah!  The cheerful American Flag was still here, waving all red, white and blue in the breeze.  From a larger limestone platform above the cliffs than the one at Ash Point, the views were similar here, although oriented more toward the SW.  It was now possible to see Black Elk Peak (7,231 ft.) far to the S.

At American Point. Black Elk Peak (L) on the horizon. Photo looks SSW.
Nemo from American Point. Custer Peak (L) and Terry Peak (R) of the flag. Photo looks NW.
Joe, Dixie, and Lupe at American Point. White Mansion (Center). Photo look NNW.
Together by the flag. Custer Peak (R of Center), Photo looks WNW.

After hanging out near the American flag admiring the views, that was about it for Cousin Dixie’s first ever Black Hills peakbagging experience.  The return involved only a pleasant march back along the unmarked road to USFS Road No. 144.1A, and thence on to the RAV4.

Peak 5321 with its nearby Ash Point and American Peak viewpoints had been a nice outing.  Even better, with Uncle Joe and Cousin Dixie still checked in at Hotel Lupe, another Black Hills adventure was sure to be on the agenda tomorrow!  (End 10-6-23, 12:23 PM)

Final moments at American Point. Photo looks S.
Back at the start, enjoying the fall colors with Uncle Joe.
Dixie & Lupe’s Peak 5321 GPS track.

Links:

Next Black Hills Expedition                   Prior Black Hills Expedition

Dixie & Lupe’s Scrollable Peak 5321 GPS Track

Black Hills, SD Expedition No. 291 – Peak 4980, Peak 5361 & Peak 5321 (1-17-21)

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San Luis Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado (6-21-23)

Days 14 & 15 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!

6-20-23, mid-morning – Up bright and early,  Lupe had made it down out of the mountains and back to Monte Vista, the little San Luis valley town that had become somewhat of a favorite, in time for breakfast.  Now she stood peering into the murky green water of the canal near the high school and golf course.

Not taking the plunge this time around, Looper?

I’ve learned my lesson, SPHP.  You never did leap in to save me.

Would have, but you managed to rescue yourself.  Can’t say that I’m not glad you did.

Returning to shadier streets, the walk continued.  Lupe waited until she was back in the RAV4 to lap up water SPHP poured into her silver bowl, then snoozed or watched squirrels in the big cottonwoods.  Meanwhile, SPHP feasted on what remained of the orange juice and lemon Danishes left over from breakfast while working on the trip journal.

By noon, the American Dingo was on her way out of Monte Vista again, this time heading N on Hwy 285.  Turning W at Saguache, the afternoon drive on Hwy 114 up the unspoiled, arid Saguache Creek valley was very scenic.  Blue flowers bloomed in abundance in a valley so broad that Saguache Creek seemed seriously under-sized for it.

20 miles on Hwy 114 led to a L turn onto County Road NN14, a gravel road in superb condition that continued W, ultimately going over 10,032 foot Cochetopa Pass before descending again.  20 miles on NN14 brought Lupe to Upper Dome Lake, where 5 pelicans floated on the rippling blue water.  SPHP initially missed USFS Road No. 794, because it was signed as Saguache County Road 15GG at the turn.

No. 794 wasn’t bad as it wound SSW toward a collection of high peaks still sporting some snow, but wasn’t the gravel super highway County Road NN14 had been, either, especially after passing a road grader that was smoothing out some issues.  7 miles in, at a curve near Cold Spring, the most exciting thing ever happened.  Coming from the R, several sheep suddenly crossed the road right in front of the RAV4.

Lupe was beside herself with joy and enthusiasm!  Barking furiously, she leapt frantically up and down on her pink blanket, claws scraping the RAV4’s dashboard.  Exciting, no doubt, but Lupe had seen sheep before.  What was different this time was how close they were, and that they kept coming!  A continuous stream of sheep poured across the road, as the Carolina Dog became ever more hysterical.

Sheep! The most exciting thing ever!

Tens, scores, hundreds, maybe thousands of sheep crossed the road, many glancing nervously toward the maniac in the RAV4.  Still they came!  Pandemonium reigned.  After 15 minutes, when a couple of large sheepherding dogs appeared, and one trotted over and put his huge paws up on Lupe’s window, peering in to find out what all the fuss was about, the American Dingo completely lost her mind, transforming into a foaming-at-the-mouth savage, the definition of ferocity!

At the very end, a cowboy brought up the rear.  Obviously a good guy, since he was on a white horse, the cowboy rode calmly behind the last baaing sheep, as he and his dogs followed them into a valley.  Trembling, with sides heaving, Lupe gasped.

Tail end of the epic sheep drive.

SPHP, please!  Water!

And thus, the magnificent sheep drive of Saguache County Road 15GG passed into the annals of history.  As far as American Dingo legend has it, there was never anything like it, before or since.

Continuing on, the mountains were closer now.  SPHP suggested getting out for a look.

What mountains are these, SPHP?

Search me, Looper.  We’ll figure that out later.  They’re all part of the San Juan Mountains, though.

Well, do you at least know which ones we’re going to climb?

Sure do!  Only one – San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.).

Oh!  A 14’er!

Yup.  Only the 3rd one we’ll have ever climbed, Loopster.  Supposed to be relatively easy.  A long march, but with a trail all the way to the top.

Sounds awesome, SPHP!  Which one is San Luis Peak?

Oh, I don’t know.  Probably one of the ones in back, if we can see it at all from here.

Well, don’t worry!  Which ever one it is, we’re going to get there, SPHP!  Been ages since we’ve done a 14’er!

Hah!  Maybe.  A lot depends on whether we can even get to the trailhead, Looper.  I understand there are 2 creek fords along the way.  With all the snow in the San Juans this year, the streams might well be too dangerous for the RAV4 to cross.

Organ Mountain (L), San Luis Peak (R of Center), Baldy Alto (R), and Stewart Peak (far R) from USFS Road No. 794. Photo looks SW.

No. 794 wound around a lot.  The first crucial test came at Chavez Creek.  Cement slabs lining the creek bottom allayed most fears right away, but SPHP still got out to see how deep the water was.

Probably a good thing we weren’t here a week or two ago, but I think we’re golden now, Loopster!

Sure enough, the RAV4 didn’t have a bit of trouble.

At the Chavez Creek ford. Photo looks NW.

Happily, the situation was much the same at Nutras Creek, which was even shallower.

Nutras Creek. Photo looks SE.

No. 794 wound up over a big ridge then down the other side for another mile or two before SPHP passed the Stewart Creek Trail on the R.  Not much room to park there, but 0.5 mile farther there was plenty of space at the Eddiesville campground and trailhead.

6-20-23, 3:12 PM, Eddiesville – An outhouse, 2 vehicles, and a pickup truck with a horse trailer were at the end of USFS Road No. 794 when the Carolina Dog arrived, but for hours, no one else was around.  After a late lunch, she explored beyond the end of the road far enough to get a look at the Cochetopa River valley.  SPHP then spent the rest of the afternoon working on the trip journal while Lupe snoozed on her pink blanket.

Toward evening a few people arrived, set up tents, and cooked a meal – 3 CDT’ers with a dog named Mona, who had just climbed San Luis Peak, and a couple intent upon tagging their 33rd 14’er tomorrow.

Gosh, SPHP!  The Continental Divide Trail goes over San Luis Peak?  Maybe we’ll see Footsie or Svie tomorrow?

From what I can gather, San Luis Peak is an optional route along the CDT, Loop.  Don’t think Footsie or Svie can possibly be this far from Long Trek Mountain yet, but it sure would be fun to run into them again!

The horses and cowboys didn’t return until after dark.  Half an hour spent loading, and the red taillights of the horse trailer vanished into the night, leaving only stars twinkling silently in the heavens above.

6-21-23, 7:06 AM, 45ºF – The CDT’ers and hikers were just beginning to stir when Lupe left Eddiesville trotting W back up USFS Road No. 794.  Reaching the start of Stewart Creek Trail No. 470, SPHP was surprised to see several vehicles already parked along the side of the road.  After a quick glance at the posted information, it was Onward!  Puppy, ho!

About ready to leave Eddiesville. Photo looks ENE.
Start of Stewart Creek Trail No. 470. Photo looks SW.
Trail signage.
Posted map of the La Garita Wilderness.

Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 started out heading W through a meadow overlooking a broad thicket of willows down by Stewart Creek, which could not be seen among them.  Most of the pine forest on the steep slopes above the willows on the opposite side of the valley were dead, likely due to a pine bark beetle infestation years ago.

The trail was flat as it angled WSW up the Stewart Creek valley.  Progress was rapid for close to a mile.

Setting off up the Stewart Creek valley on Trail No. 470. Photo looks WSW.
In the meadow, near the edge of the willows. Photo looks SW.

Soon after reaching the forest, the trail started a gradual climb.  Short spurts higher were followed by long flat sections.  The valley narrowed, and glimpses of a series of beaver ponds along Stewart Creek began to appear.  Sadly, many of these gray green ponds looked abandoned – all silted in and very shallow.  Not a single beaver to be seen among them.

Without a cloud in the sky, Lupe appreciated the shade of the trees.  Meanwhile, progress remained excellent.

Beaver ponds along Stewart Creek. Photo looks SSE.
Enjoying the shade of the forest. Photo looks WSW.
Near a beaver dam. Photo looks WSW.

Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 remained N of Stewart Creek.  Once in a while, the trail ran right next to the stream, sometimes putting Lupe among the willows, which were sprouting new leaves.

A typical stretch of forest. Photo looks W.
By Stewart Creek. Photo looks WSW.
Among the willows. Photo looks WSW.
Flashy local beauty along the way.

The trail eventually climbed well above Stewart Creek and turned SW.  Deadfall began to appear.  Some of it was quite large, seriously slowing SPHP down.  Most of the time, though, it wasn’t too bad, and progress continued at a somewhat diminished pace.

After going through several miles of forest, Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 made a single big switchback on a steep slope.  Beyond this switchback, Lupe came to the last of the deadfall before breaking out into the open.

A flight of steps at a rare clearing in the forest. Photo looks WSW.
Dealing with deadfall. Photo looks WSW.

Reaching tree line at 12,000 feet, Lupe entered a region of willows 4-6 feet high.  Meadows provided the first unobstructed views of the big ridges and peaks ahead.  Looking across the valley, the dome shaped summit of Organ Mountain (13,801 ft.) soared above a bowl of snow that was the main source of Stewart Creek.

At tree line. San Luis Peak (R of Center) peeping above the ridge. Photo looks SW.
Organ Mountain (Center). Photo looks SE.

6-21-23, 10:21 AM, Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 at 12,340 feet – Nearing the upper end of the valley, a sunny meadow before a large region of stunted willows looked like a good spot to take a break.  Together, Lupe and SPHP watched 2 people climbing the big ridge on the opposite side of the valley.  Their progress was slow, coming in spurts.

At the break spot near the upper end of the valley. Photo looks SSW.

Is that where we’re going, SPHP?

Yes, indeedy, Loopster.  Before long, the trail’s going to cross tributaries of Stewart Creek, then snake up to the top of that enormous ridge.  Once we get up there, San Luis Peak will only be another mile.

Oh, so not so far then, but still a big climb?

You’ve got it, Looper.  We’ve already come a long way, but we’ve still got nearly 1,700 feet of elevation gain to go.

How far have we gone so far, SPHP?

Distance-wise, the Peakbagger app says 5.6 miles, but it exaggerates some, and that’s from Eddiesville.  Still, the sign at the start of the trail said it was only 5.5 miles to San Luis Peak.  Don’t think that can possibly be right, except maybe as the crow flies.  Got to be longer than that.  Elevation-wise, we’ve already gained 1,900 feet, so we’re only a little over halfway.

Continuing on, the trail descended into the willows, which were only a few feet tall here, and soon led to the main tributary of Stewart Creek, a shallow, clear-running stream emerging from beneath rapidly melting snowfields.  After an easy ford or rock hop, Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 then started up the giant ridge to the S, at times crossing the snowfields, much to the Carolina Dog’s delight.

Crossing the main tributary of Stewart Creek. Photo looks SW.
Enjoying a romp on the snow! Photo looks WSW.

800 feet from the stream to the top of the ridge, a big climb!  Switchbacks made it easier.  Even so, the American Dingo had plenty of time to enjoy the increasingly impressive views of the Stewart Creek valley while SPHP plodded along, or paused to gasp for air.  The trail was in excellent shape, so there really wasn’t anything hard about it, except the ongoing battle against gravity.

Steadily gaining on the ridge. Photo looks SW.
Gazing back down the Stewart Creek valley. Photo looks ENE.

Pikas or marmots whistled unseen, drawing Lupe’s attention.  Every now and then, the American Dingo dashed away to investigate, only to return a few minutes later wearing a big smile.

Some of the steepest spots featured stone or wood stairs.  Took SPHP a while, but bit by bit, Lupe was getting there.  A few early birds appeared, already on their way back down the mountain.  By then, the top of the ridge wasn’t much farther, and San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.) was already in sight beyond it.

Ascending stone steps. Photo looks WSW.
Approaching the top of the ridge. San Luis Peak (Center). Photo looks SW.

Upon gaining the top of the broad ridge, it sloped up toward the W.  Lupe climbed only a little higher before SPHP suggested another rest break.

Seated on scree and tundra, SPHP sat petting Lupe while doing deep breathing exercises. The air felt thin, heck it was thin, up at this already magnificent viewpoint.  Lupe watched as a few more people went by, all heading back down and offering words of encouragement.

Organ Mountain (R of Center) from the break spot on the ridge. Photo looks E.
The beautiful tundra.
Baldy Alto (Center) from the rest break ridge. Photo looks N.

Ten minutes ticked away.

You ready yet, SPHP?

Yeah, let’s do this!  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

Starting the final ascent. San Luis Peak (L). Photo looks WSW.

Looked easy, felt harder than it should have been.  The trail turned to scree as Lupe headed for San Luis Peak’s N ridge.  Every step higher was a victory, and the mood became a mix of weariness and joy.  Conditions were perfect, the trail in great shape and easy to follow as it curved S.  Ultimate triumph was never in doubt.

Up in the scree. San Luis Peak (L). Photo looks SSW.
The joyous climb! Lupe on her way to only her 3rd 14’er ever, and first one in nearly 8 years. Photo looks SSW.

The trail eventually gained San Luis Peak’s N ridge.  Thrilled to see a snowbank here, Lupe immediately plunked herself right down on it.  Many snowy peaks were now in sight way off to the W.  One of them, a mighty spire higher than the others caught SPHP’s attention.  Using the telephoto lens on it, the view was disconcerting.

Cooling off on San Luis Peak’s N ridge. Photo looks W.

Ay, caramba, Loopster!  Could that be Uncompahgre Peak (14,309 ft.)?

What if it is, SPHP?

I’ll tell you what, Looper.  Uncompahgre is on your list of possibilities.  In fact, it’s your next adventure 2 days from now, if all goes as planned, but yikes!  I thought there was supposed to be a trail to the top, but it sure doesn’t look like anything we can climb.

Well then, maybe you’re looking at the wrong mountain, SPHP?

Maybe so, Loop.  They’re all a long way off.  Anyway, has your stomach frozen yet?  Let’s get to San Luis Peak.

150 feet below the summit, a young couple that had just started down a few minutes ago appeared.  Complimenting Lupe, they paused for a brief chat with SPHP.  When the young man said he’d climbed all 58 Colorado 14’ers, SPHP had one question for him.

Yes, that’s Uncompahgre Peak!  Wetterhorn Peak (14,015 ft.) is to the L, with Matterhorn Peak (13,590 ft.) between them.

Wetterhorn Peak (L), Matterhorn Peak (Center), Uncompaghre Peak (R). Photo looks WNW with lots of help from the telephoto lens.

Sheesh!  Really?  Well, whatever.  At least Lupe was going to get to San Luis Peak!  Continuing S, she followed the winding trail up the final scree slopes leading to the summit.

Approaching the summit. Photo looks S.

6-21-23, 1:42 PM, 65ºF, San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.) – On this superb day, everyone else had already come and gone.  Lupe arrived at the summit, finding her first 14’er since Mount Massive nearly 8 years ago deserted.  Nothing wrong with that!

San Luis Peak’s summit region was roughly 60 feet long E/W and 20 feet wide.  Not huge, but plenty of room to move around.  A semi-circular rock wall 2.5 feet tall near the E end served as a wind break, although there was scarcely any breeze at all today.  Toward the W end, a survey benchmark was attached to a single foot-high loose rock.

Lupe was glad to see a rapidly melting snowbank still clinging to the S rim, happily helping herself to bites of it whenever she felt dry.

Newly arrived on San Luis Peak! Organ Mountain (L). Photo looks E.

Wow, what a glorious, memorable day, Loopster!  Mind getting up on that survey benchmark rock for a picture?

How’s this, SPHP?

Fabulous, Loop!  You look terrific!  Smile big now for your 3rd 14’er ever!

Happy Lupe atop San Luis Peak. Photo looks SW.
San Luis Peak survey benchmark.

Satisfied that the photo had turned out well, SPHP shook Lupe’s paw, congratulating her on grand San Luis Peak success.

There was a lot to see!  From the SSE clear around to the WNW, a giant region of snow-capped peaks of the mighty San Juan Range was in view.  SPHP was surprised to see that Bennett Peak, Long Trek Mountain, and Conejos Peak still seemed to be recognizable, despite being very far SE.  Phoenix Peak (13,895 ft.) was much closer.

Phoenix Peak (L of Center). Photo looks SE.

To the S, Peak 13,285 at the head of the Spring Creek drainage wasn’t as high Phoenix Peak, but had more snow.  The next line of snowy peaks beyond it was on the far horizon.  Looking SW, the scene was similar.

Peak 13285 (L of Center). Photo looks SSW.
Looking WSW.

Uncompahgre Peak’s fearsome presence far to the WNW was near the limit of how far N the snow went.  Another line of snow-bearing peaks was farther N, but so distant that it was at the edge of vision.

Three peaks directly N were much closer, and more interesting because they could be seen in great detail, these were Column Ridge (13,795 ft.), Stewart Peak (13,983 ft.), and Baldy Alto (13,698 ft.).

San Luis Peak summit region. Uncompahgre Peak (L of Center) on the horizon. Photo looks WNW.
Column Ridge (L), Stewart Peak (Center), Baldy Alto (R). Photo looks N.

Completing the scenic tour was a view from on high of the Stewart Creek valley to the NE, and Organ Mountain (13,801 ft.) almost directly E.

Stewart Creek valley (L), Organ Mountain (R). Photo looks ENE.

Hmm.  Surprising!  Sorry, but there doesn’t seem to be a registry in which to record your glorious ascent, Loopster.

Don’t worry about it, SPHP.  I’m famished!  Anything left to eat?

For you?  Beef jerky, Taste of the Wild, and water, if you want it.

The Carolina Dog did want it, all of it.  SPHP helped her out with the jerky, then polished off a fruit cup, and the last of the trail mix as well.

Must have been the elevation, in addition to the long march in, which SPHP estimated at a little over 7 miles.  For whatever reason, alone atop San Luis Peak, surrounded by magnificence in all directions, a profound weariness set in after eating.  A nap sounded awesome!  SPHP laid on the dirt, legs bent so Lupe could hide partly beneath them from the sun.  With head resting against the pack, SPHP tried to doze.

For more than an hour, the American Dingo scarcely moved.  Once in a while, a faint SW breeze stirred.  If there’d been a thermostat to set it, the temperature couldn’t have been any more perfect.  Lying there with eyes shut, SPHP may have fallen asleep.  Lupe most certainly did.

Mid-afternoon on a Colorado 14’er on the longest day of the year, yet no one came.  All the action had apparently already taken place earlier.  Lupe’s entire traditional summit hour ticked away.  So what?  No rush.  She stayed for another one, and then some.

Relaxing on San Luis Peak. Photo looks WSW.

The long rest definitely made a difference.  Reviving, Lupe and SPHP roamed back and forth, taking pictures while admiring the splendor in all directions.

Loop on the snow over by the survey benchmark rock. Uncompahgre Peak (R) on the horizon. Photo looks W.

6-21-23, 4:07 PM, San Luis Peak – Sad, but true!  For the last time Lupe stood with her paws on the survey benchmark rock, countless snowy mountains beyond her, Uncompahgre Peak looming in the distance.  SPHP shook the Carolina Dog’s paw once more.  4 minutes later she was poised along the summit’s N edge ready to start back to Eddiesville.

About to head down. Column Ridge (L), Stewart Peak (Center), Baldy Alto (R). Photo looks N.

The return on Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 was both scenic and fun, and went much faster than Lupe’s ascent.  Not a soul was on the trail, but 2 were off it.

Turned out the beaver ponds weren’t entirely abandoned, after all.
The presence of 2 beavers meant hope for the future.

6-21-23, 7:20 PM – As Lupe hopped up onto her pink blanket in the RAV4, Eddiesville seemed lonely and quiet compared to yesterday when the CDT’ers were here.  San Luis Peak had been a marvelous, memorable, but long day.  Hobbling around, heating up a can of chili for dinner, SPHP’s paws were sore and raw.

Uncompahgre Peak – 5,000 feet of elevation gain 2 days from now?  Heh!

Loopster, sweet puppy, we’re going to need a new plan!

On San Luis Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado 6-21-23
Lupe’s GPS Track

Links:

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Scrollable San Luis Peak GPS Track

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Bennett Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado (6-19-23)

Days 12 & 13 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!

6-18-23, Monte Vista, San Luis valley, Colorado – After driving to both the E and W ends of town on Hwy 160 to see what was here, SPHP parked the RAV4 in the shade of a line of huge cottonwoods out in front of the high school.

This ought to be a good spot to hang out for a while, Loopster.  I like the looks of this town.  Want to get out and take a stroll?

A walk?  Lupe was all for it!  After wandering up and down several streets looking at the houses, SPHP ventured over toward a park or golf course bordered by an irrigation canal.  On a sunny morning in June with the sun already high in the sky, the American Dingo was hot and thirsty.  Unsuspectingly stepping into the canal, Lupe instantly vanished from sight beneath the murky, deceptively swift-flowing, green water.

OMG!  Lupe!

SPHP was horrified!  The canal was only 5 or 6 feet wide, but no telling how deep it was.  Might easily be 5 or 6 feet, or more.  No matter, going to have to leap in to find her!

No, wait!  Suddenly the Carolina Dog reappeared, breaking the surface, coughing and swimming hard as she was swept downstream.  Lupe wasn’t even wearing her adventure collar, so SPHP couldn’t grab it to help her.

Luckily, despite the steepness of the bank, Lupe managed to haul herself out unaided.  The Carolina Dog shook herself off, spraying water in all directions.

Well, wasn’t that refreshing?  You could have warned me, SPHP!  You know us Carolina Dogs don’t mind wading, but hate to swim.

Oh, Loop!  I’m sorry!  Never dreamed you would just walk right in like that without being able to see the bottom.

Might have been tragic, but no harm done.  The walk went on a while longer now to let the sun dry the Dingo off before returning to the RAV4.  A pleasant morning snooze on her soft pink blanket in the shade of the cottonwoods ensued.  Shortly after noon, though, the American Dingo was on her way back up into the mountains.

6-19-23, 7:22 AM, 51ºF, South Fork trailhead, end of County Road No. 28

You still want to stick with the road past the log barrier, right, SPHP?

Yep.  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

About to leave the South Fork trailhead taking the old road beyond the log barrier. Photo looks NW.

Last evening’s reconnaisance of the two routes leaving the trailhead for the upper South Fork of Rock Creek valley had proven that the old road continuing past the log barrier was the easiest way to go.  Taking the ATV trail spur down to South Rock Trail No. 702 lost 100 feet of elevation right away, most of which was unnecessary.

After trotting around the barrier, Lupe gained elevation at an easy pace on the abandoned road, as it slowly faded away.  More than 0.25 mile led to the road’s apparent end at a clearing studded with tree stumps and scattered deadfall.  A path continuing into the trees quickly led to a mere 15 or 20 foot dip down to the South Fork of Rock Creek.

Following the abandoned road. Bennett Peak (Center). Photo looks NW.
At the clearing where the road ended. Photo looks NW.

The trail went right through the creek, a beautiful little stream lacking a convenient rock hop.  Wanting to avoid soaking wet socks and boots this early in the day, SPHP removed them, flung them over to the opposite bank, then waded across.

South Fork of Rock Creek. Photo looks NW.

Lupe didn’t follow, merely watching as SPHP got ready to go again.

Bennett Peak (13,203 ft.) is calling, Loop!  Are you coming, or not?

The American Dingo hesitated, clearly pondering the situation.  Decision made, Lupe suddenly got a running start and leapt completely over the South Fork of Rock Creek in a single bound.

Show off!

I’m not showing off, SPHP.  Just not taking any chances.

Chances?  What’s gotten into you, Looper?  Oh, I get it!  You’re worried about yesterday’s plunge into the canal.  Why?  You can see the bottom.  This stream isn’t anywhere close to being as deep as the canal was.  No worries here.

Be that as it may, the mighty Dingo leap had already been made.  SPHP followed Lupe up the trail beyond the stream through a meadow on the way to the next stretch of forest.  This meadow proved to be quite soggy.  The path faded away, but continuing NW, Lupe soon reached South Rock Trail No. 702.

No. 702 was basically an ATV route.  Taking it NW through meadows and forest, the trail climbed at an increasing rate as it gradually curved SW.

The entire mountainside seemed to be seeping water.  The Carolina Dog crossed many small streams, which often ran right down long stretches of the trail.  Sheep Mountain (12,492 ft.) came into view.  By the time SPHP was ready to take a breather under a big pine, HP12279 was in sight only 0.5 mile S.

South Rock Trail No. 702. Photo looks NW.
By one of many little streams trickling down the trail. Photo looks NW.
Sheep Mountain (L of Center). Photo looks SW.
One of the largest streams flooding the trail.
Getting steeper. Photo looks SW.
HP12279 (L) from SPHP’s break spot. Photo looks S.

Whew!  Guess I’m still not acclimated to the elevation yet, Looper.

No worries, SPHP!  Take your time.  I’m ready whenever you are.

A 15 minute break beneath the pine tree helped, but didn’t make as much of a difference as SPHP had hoped.  Although following the road should have been easy, SPHP trudged slowly after the American Dingo with little energy as Lupe led the way higher.

Tree line wasn’t much farther.  Above it, the open terrain provided an unobstructed view of HP12279, its N slopes still mostly covered in snow.  A bit higher, Lupe came to a junction with Trail No. 702.1, a spur going N to connect with Dry Creek Trail No. 700.  Bennett Peak, a massive, grassy dome, was now only 1.5 miles away as the crow flies in that direction.

HP12279 (L) from tree line. Photo looks S.
Bennett Peak (R of Center) from near the junction with Trail No. 702.1. Photo looks N.

Instead of turning N, SPHP encouraged Lupe to continue SSW on South Rock Trail No. 702.

I thought we were going to Bennett Peak, SPHP.  Are we going to climb HP12279, first?

Looks like a nice, easy summit, Loopster, but Sheep Mountain is a little higher.  I’m thinking we might as well go over it on our way to Bennett.

Another 0.33 mile got Lupe up to an enormous pass between HP12279 and Sheep Mountain.  Silver Mountain (12,420 ft.) was now in sight 2 miles S.  A long ridge with snow along its E flank blocked the views SPHP had expected to see to the SW.

South Rock Trail No. 702 in the giant pass between HP12279 and Sheep Mountain. Silver Mountain (L). Photo looks SSW.

HP12279 was now only 0.25 mile due E.  Shoulda, woulda, coulda, if only SPHP had felt more energetic.  Instead, Lupe abandoned Trail No. 702 heading W for a small stand of trees near the base of Sheep Mountain’s long, rounded S slope.  Upon reaching the trees, another short break was taken in the shade, before tackling the gradual, grassy, rock-strewn trek to the summit.

About to leave South Rock Trail No. 702 for Sheep Mountain (R). Photo looks NW.
Climbing Sheep Mountain’s S slope. Photo looks NW.
Closing in on Sheep Mountain’s summit. Photo looks N.

6-19-23, 9:52 AM, 49ºF, Sheep Mountain (12,492 ft.) – The wind was 10-15 mph out of the W, the sky cloudless, views marred only by a bit of haziness that was worst to the E, when Lupe reached the summit cairn.

Bennett Peak (Center) from Sheep Mountain. Photo looks N.
Silver Mountain (L of Center). Photo looks S.

Made it!  Congratulations on your first ascent of the day, Loopster!

Nothing to it, SPHP.  Looks like an easy romp all the way to Bennett Peak from here, too.

It does!  A lovely high elevation trek that can wait.  Summit hour, Loop!  Let’s relax and enjoy the views.

After shaking Lupe’s paw while she was still on the cairn, SPHP sat down facing away from the wind.  Lupe curled up on SPHP’s lap, gazing E out toward Windy Mountain (12,608 ft.), which overlooked the South Fork of Rock Creek valley she had just come up.

Windy Mountain (L of Center) overlooking the South Fork of Rock Creek valley. HP12279 (far R). Photo looks E.
Drab from afar, the tundra was incredibly beautiful upon closer inspection.

Mountains in sight all around!  Everything nearby looked pretty tame, though.  The closest more dramatic peaks were SW, toward the region Lupe had been exploring recently.  Conejos Peak (13,172 ft.) was easy to spot.  SPHP was also able to pick out Long Trek Mountain (12,866 ft.) , Montezuma Peak (13,150 ft.) and Summit Peak (13,300 ft.).

Conejos Peak (L), Alamosa River valley (Center), Summit Peak (far R). Photo looks SW.
Conejos Peak (L of Center), HP13044 (R of Center), and Peak 12505 (far R). Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.
Zoomed in on Summit Peak (L), Montezuma Peak (Center), Long Trek Mountain (R). Photo looks SW.

Shortly after sharing water and beef jerky, company appeared.  Lupe and SPHP met John Pelner, who had also come up Sheep Mountain’s S slope.  A retired family physician from Colorado Springs, John was very friendly.

Originally born in Wisconsin, where he still has family he visits often, John said he’d been climbing mountains all of his adult life.  He’d been to all of Colorado’s 14’ers, many 13’ers, and at 73, was now working on the most interesting 12’ers.  John had already been to Silver Mountain this morning, and was on his way to both Pintada Mountain (12,840 ft.) and Windy Mountain.  Unlike Lupe, he’d already visited Bennett Peak years ago, and didn’t intend to go there again today.

With Dr. John Pelner on Sheep Mountain. Photo looks SW.

Chatting amiably with SPHP until Lupe’s traditional summit hour was complete, Dr. Pelner then accompanied the Carolina Dog down Sheep Mountain’s N slope.

Heading down Sheep Mountain’s N slope with Dr. Pelner. Bennet Peak (L of Center). Photo looks N.

Upon reaching the saddle leading to Bennett Peak, it was time to part ways.  Bound for Windy Mountain or Pintada Mountain next, John bid Lupe farewell before taking Dry Creek Trail No. 700 NE.  Meanwhile, Lupe began her 1,100 foot journey to the top of Bennett Peak.

Following West Frisco Trail No. 850, an ancient jeep route, the climb NNE up Bennett Peak’s S and SE slopes amounted to a long, breezy slog on largely featureless grass and tundra slopes.  With 400 feet of elevation gain yet to go, the trail turned NW upon reaching the sharp NE edge of the mountain where cliffs and snowbanks added scenic appeal.

Heading up Bennett Peak’s S slope. Photo looks NNE.
Glancing back at Sheep Mountain (Center). Conejos Peak (R). Photo looks SSW with help from the telephoto lens.
Along Bennett Peak’s scenic NE edge. Photo looks NW.

West Frisco Trail No. 850 remained near the E edge of the mountain as it swept up to Bennett Peak’s giant, gently rounded summit region.  A faint spur led to the true summit over near the W end.  As Lupe approached, the remnant of a tattered American flag attached to a pole protruding from a large cairn flapped wildly in a 15-20 mph W wind.

Approaching the summit cairn (R of Center). Photo looks W.
Bennett Peak summit. Photo looks WSW.

6-19-23, 12:40 PM, 54ºF, Bennett Peak (13,203 ft.) – As the Carolina Dog stood atop the summit cairn, an enormous amount of territory was in sight.  A general haziness of the otherwise cloudless sky obscured details of the countless distant snow-capped mountains visible in almost every direction.  Some of the ranges perceptible to the N and W must have been over 100 miles away.

Far to the ENE, Blanca Peak (14,345 ft.) was recognizable beyond the pancake flat San Luis valley.  Long lines of lofty mountains extended both N and S from the Blanca Peak region.  Toward the S and SE, the mountains were lower.  Peering down on nearby Sheep Mountain, Silver Mountain, and HP12279, they now seemed only modest prominences of gently rolling highlands.

Looking W farther into the San Juan Range.
Silver Mountain (L) beyond HP12279, Sheep Mountain (R). Photo looks S.

The most dramatic views were still to the SW, in the region Lupe had so recently explored.  Conejos Peak (13,172 ft.)Summit Peak (13,300ft.), Montezuma Peak (13,150 ft.), and Long Trek Mountain (12,866 ft.) were all once again in sight among many others.

A line of scattered boulders larger than most of other rocks on Bennett Peak extended SW of the cairn.  Wandering over that way, Lupe sniffed among the rocks while SPHP admired the views.

Among the boulders SW of the cairn. Photo looks NE.
The grand, if somewhat distant view to the SW.
Summit Peak (L of Center), Montezuma Peak (Center), Long Trek Mountain (R of Center). Photo looks SW with a bit of help from the telephoto lens.
Conejos Peak (R of Center). Photo looks SW with more help from the telephoto lens.

After the usual paw-shaking congratulations, SPHP sat down near the cairn, using it as a windbreak.  Annoyed by flies, the American Dingo had a hard time getting comfortable on the rocky ground.  With the sun practically straight overhead, Lupe tried poking her nose under SPHP’s legs for partial relief.

As the wind blew, and flies buzzed, SPHP entered Lupe’s name in the registry contained in a jar found nestled in the cairn.  Water and beef jerky were shared.  SPHP then munched on trail mix, while Lupe had some of her Taste of the Wild.  The views were expansive; so much so that nearly all points of interest seemed far, far away.

Felt good to rest, doing nothing at all way up here in the sky.  Meanwhile, the precious minutes ticked away.  As the American Dingo’s summit hour drew near an end, Lupe returned to the cairn for a final look around.

Conejos Peak (L), Snow Benchmark (Center), Summit Peak (far R). Photo looks SW.

Inevitably, the time for action came once again.

That’s it, Loopster!  Bennett Peak is history.  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

Returning to West Frisco Trail No. 850 along the NE edge, Lupe started SE back down the mountain, returning the same way she’d come up only an hour ago.

2 down, and 1 to go, Looper!

We’re climbing another mountain, SPHP?

Yup.  Windy Mountain (12,608 ft.), dead ahead.  We can abandon the trail and make a nice loop going over HP12778 on the way, with Windy Mountain as a relatively short side jaunt before heading back to the South Fork trailhead.

Windy Mountain (Center) in the foreground. Photo looks SE.

During the initial descent, Lupe had a grand view of Pintada Mountain (12,840 ft.) a mere 2 miles NE where Dr. John Pelton had been headed.

Do you think we’ll see him again, SPHP?  We’ll be crossing his route on the way to Windy Mountain.

Possible, but not likely, Looper.  Doubt he spends an hour at most summits like you do.  He’s probably been there and gone already.

Pintada Mountain (L), HP12844 (R). Blanca Peak (R with snow) on the horizon beyond the San Luis valley. Photo looks ENE with help from the telephoto lens.

Abandoning West Frisco Trail No. 850 where it turned SSW toward Sheep Mountain, Lupe descended ESE to a vast grassy saddle before heading up a gentle rise to HP12778.  Looking back from a cairn here, she had a terrific view of the cliffs along Bennett Peak’s E face.

Bennett Peak from HP12778. Photo look WNW.

Turning SSE from HP12778, the terrain gradually steepened.  By the time Pass 12065 leading to Windy Mountain came into view, a surprisingly steep descent on flat, loose, pink talus was ahead.  Realizing that most of the talus could be avoided by staying a bit farther N, SPHP encouraged a slight course adjustment.

Windy Mountain (L) from the start of the talus slope SSE of HP12778. Photo looks SE.

The wind was roaring 30 mph out of the SW as Lupe crossed Pass 12065 on her way to Windy Mountain’s NW ridge.  Interesting rock formations near the start of the 550 foot climb invited exploration, but the wind was annoying enough to discourage such notions.

Thankfully, as SPHP made this final weary trek higher, plodding after the still unfazed Carolina Dog, the wind gradually slackened instead of getting any worse.  Near the top, a slope of more of the flat, pink talus led to an 800 foot long summit ridge.

Crossing windy Pass 12065, Windy Mountain (L). Photo looks SSE.
Windy Mountain earns its reputation among the rock formations as the ascent begins. Photo looks SE.
Come on, SPHP! We’re nearly there! Photo looks SE.
Near the NW end of the 800 foot long summit ridge. Photo looks SE.

The stroll along the broad summit ridge couldn’t have been easier.  Most of the ridge was covered with small talus, although the SE end featured quite a bit of tundra.  Signs of serious cracking along the rocky SW edge showed where huge chunks of Windy Mountain would one day hurtle down into the South Fork of Rock Creek valley.  Roaming SE in search of the true summit, Lupe continued to gain a little elevation.

Approaching Windy Mountain’s true summit. Photo looks SE.

6-19-23, 4:01 PM, 58ºF, Windy Mountain (12,608 ft.) – The wind was down to 10-15 mph out of the SW by the time Lupe reached a jumble of talus only marginally higher than the rest of the summit ridge.  200 feet farther ESE, a big cairn with a sweeping view of all points E sat at the brink of a precipice along the S edge of the mountain.

After a quick photo at the true summit, Lupe headed over to the cairn and its dramatic perch.

At the true summit of Windy Mountain. Photo looks ESE.
By the cairn. Photo looks SE.
Blanca Peak (L) on the horizon. Photo looks E.

3 mountains in one day!  Ought to be worth another round of beef jerky, SPHP!

Oh, of course, Loopster!  Give me just a moment.

After shaking Lupe’s paw in congratulations once again, SPHP grabbed a jar from the cairn, then sat down on the tundra a little back to the W.

Let’s see if John Pelner actually got here today, or not, Loop!

Opening the jar, SPHP checked the registry within.

So what does it say, SPHP?

Sure enough, John was here!  His entry is the 4th one so far this year.  I’ll add your name, too, Loopster.  And guess what?  John left us a present.

A present?  What kind of a present, SPHP?

A Nature Valley granola bar, Loop.

Anyone could have left that, SPHP.  Doesn’t have our names on it, does it?  How do you know John left it?

Because it seems to be fresh, instead of petrified.  Anyway, whether John left it for us, or not, let’s eat it!

It’s all yours, SPHP.  I’m sticking with beef jerky, speaking of which, bring it on!  And how about some water, too?

As usual, beef jerky and water for all!  Lupe polished off the last of her Taste of the Wild, too.  Munching on the Nature Valley granola bar while resting in the breeze up on Windy Mountain with the last big climb of the day out of the way, life seemed mighty fine.

To the NW, Bennett Peak and Pintada Mountain blocked more distant views.  No doubt John Pelner had been to Pintada today, too.

Bennett Peak (L), HP12788 (L of Center), HP12844 (R). Photo looks NW.
HP12844 (L), Pintada Mountain (R). Photo looks NNW.

Windy Mountain was high enough to still see the fabulous view SW of Conejos Peak, Summit Peak, and all the other snow-capped mountains.

Silver Mountain (far L), Conejos Peak (L). Summit Peak, Montezuma Peak, and Long Trek Mountain (all far R). Photo looks SW.

From the S edge over by the cairn, Lupe could see County Road No. 28, snaking its way up to the South Fork trailhead where the RAV4 waited, visible as a lone blue speck 1,400 feet below.

Peering down on County Road No. 28. Peak 11930 (R of Center). Photo looks S.

The RAV4!  Soon time to be heading back.  The American Dingo lingered on Windy Mountain, but didn’t quite complete her traditional summit hour.  52 minutes after first reaching the true summit, she was back at it again, enjoying the view of HP12279, Sheep Mountain, and all the snowy peaks beyond for the last time.

Summit Peak (far L), HP12279 (L), Sheep Mountain (R). Photo looks WSW.

Descending Windy Mountain’s NW ridge, the wind picked up again as Lupe got close to Pass 12065.  Once down to it, the Carolina Dog turned SW, continuing her descent into the South Fork of Rock Creek valley.

The mountainside was steep.  No trails, but Lupe was able to follow grassy lanes through the forest most of the way down.  The wind died completely away, which was nice after being in it virtually all day long, and a giant deer provided a bit of excitement.

Near the end, Lupe encountered an unavoidable stretch of thick forest where deadfall slowed SPHP’s progress.  Managing to lose another 150 feet of elevation, the Carolina Dog finally reached a beautiful, park-like meadow that quickly led to South Rock Trail No. 720.

Turning SE down the valley, the trail soon crossed the South Fork of Rock Creek.  The creek was bigger here than where the American Dingo had bounded over it this morning, but Lupe had no qualms about fording it this time, easily wading across.  She then waited while SPHP forded the stream 3 times, after forgetting the camera the first time over.

Fording the South Fork of Rock Creek at day’s end.

One more trudge higher!  Fortunately, only 100 feet of elevation gain was all that was required before popping out of the forest at the end of County Road No. 28 where the RAV4 waited alone at the trailhead.

Not a soul was around, as Lupe relaxed in the RAV4.  While SPHP heated up a can of chicken and dumplings for dinner, the cliffy S face of Windy Mountain was illuminated by early evening sunlight.  A beautiful end to a wonderful breezy day spent happily roaming the spacious highlands on the way to and from Bennett Peak.  (End 6:16 PM)

Windy Mountain from the South Fork trailhead. Photo looks NE.
On Bennett Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado 6-19-23
Lupe’s Sheep Mountain & Bennett Peak GPS track (ascent)
Lupe’s Bennett Peak & Windy Mountain GPS track (descent)

Links:

Next Adventure                      Prior Adventure

Lupe’s Scrollable GPS Track – Sheep Mountain & Bennett Peak (ascent)

Lupe’s Scrollable GPS Track – Bennett Peak & Windy Mountain (descent)

Want more Lupe adventures?  Choose from Lupe’s Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacations to Colorado, New Mexico, Canada & Alaska Adventure Index, Dingo Vacations Adventure Index or Master Adventure Index.  Or subscribe free to new Lupe adventures.

New Cousin Dixie! (6-29-23 to 7-2-23)

6-29-23, 3:00 PM – Lupe’s fabulous 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico had ended only yesterday.  So many chores to catch up on!  SPHP was still mowing the back yard when Uncle Joe and Aunt Andrea arrived.

Of course, Hotel Lupe’s long standing policy is that humans stay free as long as they are accompanied by a responsible canine.  Uncle Joe and Aunt Andrea came fully prepared.  For the first time ever, they’d brought new Cousin Dixie with them!  An AKC registered Australian Shepherd, Dixie was only a little over 2 months old.

New Cousin Dixie at home in Arvada, Colorado.

Lupe was barking with joy at Uncle Joe and Aunt Andrea’s arrival, which initially scared Dixie a little.  That didn’t last!  Soon Dixie was trying to herd her big cousin and wanting to play.  Lupe didn’t quite know what to make of this new pipsqueak interloper, sometimes growling a warning, or even snapping at Dixie.

This is my new cousin, SPHP?  She’s cute enough, but so small, and rather … what shall I say? … annoying!

Dixie’s just a puppy, Loopster.

I’m a puppy, too, SPHP, but I’m not so… so… hyper!

Well, of course, you’re my Sweet Puppy, Loop, but Dixie is very young.  The whole world is brand new to her.  She’s full of energy and excited to learn all about everything, including you!  So be nice to Dixie.  She’ll grow up fast, and we’ll have lots of fun with her.

Do you think Dixie will want to go on any Black Hills, SD expeditions, SPHP?

Oh, I’m sure of it!  No doubt Uncle Joe will want to take Dixie up into the hills with us while they’re here for the next few days.  Dixie’s too little to go very far yet, but we’ll have a good time.

6-30-23 – SPHP was right.  New Cousin Dixie very much wanted to be an explorer, too!  After the whole gang enjoyed an early morning stroll through the park on the Geyser Loop, Aunt Andrea had eventually gone to spend the day with Grandma.  Uncle Joe and Dixie were free to head up into the hills, which was exactly what they wanted to do.

Where to, though?  Dixie’s first Black Hills, SD Mini-Expedition should be something quite easy.  SPHP suggested Centennial Trail No. 89.  The Deer Creek trailhead would be a good place to start.

At the Deer Creek trailhead with new Cousin Dixie.

6-30-23, 11:01 AM, Centennial Trail No. 89, Deer Creek trailhead – Upon arrival, Dixie was happy and enthusiastic, but at the same time seemed to realize she was about to embark on some serious business.

Mentor and mentee, about to set out on the first of many adventures together.

The plan was simple.  Everyone followed the spur trail leading from the Deer Creek trailhead up to the main Centennial Trail No. 89 route.  Once there, Dixie could explore S or N.

Dixie doing great, but soon began devoting most of her abundant energy toward herding Lupe.  The American Dingo did her best to ignore the pesky Aussie, often growling a warning.

Upon reaching the main trail, Dixie wound up going S.  Centennial Trail No. 89 soon crossed the road to Silver City, then proceeded gradually up the side of a forested valley to the junction with Deerfield Trail No. 40.  An unlikely new feature was here.  A silver disco ball was hanging over the junction.  Lupe and SPHP had never seen it before.

Sticking with Centennial Trail No. 89, Dixie continued S.  The trail went down into Smoker Gulch.  1.2 miles from the trailhead, Uncle Joe decided this was far enough for Dixie’s first Black Hills adventure.

Dixie on Centennial Trail No. 89.
Taking a break with Cousin Dixie.

The day was warm, the sky blue with puffy white clouds, and the grass, green and lush.  During a short rest break, Dixie became interested in digging, while Lupe ventured out into the tall grass.

Amid the tall grass in Smoker Gulch.

And that was it for Dixie’s first Black Hills, SD Mini-Expedition.  On the way back to the Deer Creek trailhead, Uncle Joe showed off his funky disco dancing form at the intersection with Deerfield Trail No. 40.

Heading back on Centennial Trail No. 89.
Dancing fool Uncle Joe beneath the disco ball.

7-1-23, 10:24 AM – This morning’s activities were similar to yesterday’s.  After an early morning group romp through the park, this time on the Downstream Loop, Aunt Andrea once again went to spend the day with Grandma.  Dixie, Uncle Joe, Lupe, and SPHP were now at Centennial Trail No. 89’s Rapid Creek trailhead below the Pactola Reservoir dam.

About to set out on Centennial Trail No. 89 from the Rapid Creek trailhead.

Heading SE toward the Tamarack trailhead, Centennial Trail No. 89 was flat as a pancake and on the verge of being overgrown.  Dixie displayed great courage crossing 2 bridges over Rapid Creek.  The big stream was running high, and Joe was quite impressed by what a great trout stream Rapid Creek appeared to be.

Joe and Dixie already over the first bridge.
Rapid Creek was running high, full bank to bank.

Dixie made it past the Tamarack trailhead all the way to USFS Road No. 165.1D in Tamarack Gulch before reaching a spot near an ancient cabin.  At this point, Uncle Joe said she’d gone far enough for a 2 month old puppy.  After a short rest break, it was time to head back to the Rapid Creek trailhead, once again about 1.2 miles away.

Dixie crossing the Rapid Creek bridge near the Tamarack trailhead during the return.

Another beautiful day, but Uncle Joe may have been right.  Constantly trying to herd your big Carolina Dog cousin is a lot of work.  Near the end, Cousin Dixie was starting to get tired.

Wildflowers along the way.
Dixie starting to feel weary.

Not to worry, though.  Uncle Joe to the rescue!

Dixie returning in style.

7-2-23 – The next day was nearly the same routine.  An early morning Geyser Loop stroll through the park, followed by another Black Hills, SD Mini-Expedition, this time from the end of Horse Creek Road to USFS Road No. 249.  Incredibly, SPHP somehow forgot to bring the camera.  Oops!  Nevertheless, everyone had a great time.

7-3-23, 6:55 AM – Hard to believe, but it was already time for Dixie, Aunt Andrea, and Uncle Joe to head back home to Arvada, Colorado.  While Uncle Joe was packing their car, Lupe and Dixie roamed the back yard, enjoying the soft green grass together.

Dixie and Lupe in the back yard.

7-3-23, 7:07 AMWell, they’re off, Loopster, on the way back to Colorado!  Thank you for not getting too snarly with Dixie.  I know your patience was being sorely tested at times.  So, what do you think of your new cousin?  Isn’t she darling?

No doubt Dixie means well, but she’s a herding fanatic, SPHP!  Do you have any idea how trying puppies can be?

Oh, really?  Tell me about it, Sweet Puppy!

New Cousin Dixie at 5 weeks old

Links:

Next Black Hills Expedition              Prior Black Hills Expedition

Centennial Trail No. 89 Brochure & Map

Want more Lupe adventures?  Check out Lupe’s Black Hills, SD & WY Expeditions Adventure Index, Master Adventure Index, or subscribe free to new Lupe adventures!

Long Trek Mountain, San Juan Mountains, Colorado (6-17-23)

Days 10 & 11 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!

6-16-23, 3:50 PM, USFS Road No. 380 a mile NW of Lake De Nolda – Dang!  Almost to where this steep mountainside road was going to top out, big snowbanks started appearing on it.  Fortunately they only covered half of the road, so the RAV4 could squeak past them.  Only one more to go, when suddenly a green ATV appeared coming the opposite direction.

SPHP pulled the RAV4 over to hug the mountain so the ATV could get by.  Instead, the driver stopped.

From South Dakota, huh?  Where are you and your dog going, anyway?

Crater Lake trailhead.  Believe it’s only another mile or two.

You’ll never get there!  Road’s completely blocked by a huge snowbank 0.25 mile ahead.  There’s a decent place to turn around, though.

Thanks for the beta, sir!  Appreciate it.

The turnaround point turned out to be an abandoned side road on the L, fortunately situated just before the massive, road-blocking snowbank.  Instead of turning around, SPHP merely pulled in and parked.

Lupe leapt out as soon as SPHP opened the door.  Looking WSW along the side road, 3 snowy peaks were in sight only 2 or 3 miles away.

Wow, really gorgeous!  Which one is Summit Peak (13,300 ft.), SPHP?

Not entirely certain, Loopster.  Probably the middle one.  It’s the highest.  Let me check the map, just to be sure.

The longer SPHP compared the map against the view, the less it seemed possible that middle peak could actually be Summit Peak.

Huh!  I was wrong, Loop.  Got it now.  Long Trek Mountain (12,866 ft.) is on the R, the middle peak is actually Montezuma Peak (13,150 ft.), and that big ridge on the L is HP12312 way out along Long Trek’s SE ridge.

Sweet!  And so whatever happened to Summit Peak, SPHP?  You know, our next main objective?

Either we can’t see it from here, Loop, or it’s that mountain poking up over beyond the end of HP12312.  That would be about the right spot for it.

HP12312 (L), Montezuma Peak (Center), Long Trek Mountain (R). Summit Peak (far L) in the distance. Photo looks WSW.

Really?  Way over there, SPHP?  But look at all the snow!

Yeah, I know, Looper.  We may not get there without doing some winter camping, and I’m not up for that.

So what are we going to do, SPHP?

We can call it and leave now, Loopster, or stick around and do what we can.  Who knows?  Maybe it’s possible as a day hike.  Thought it would be, but that was before I realized how much snow is still in the San Juans.

I like it here, SPHP.  Let’s stay!

Me, too, Loop.  But I’m going to think about it.  No sense in biting off more than we can chew.

SPHP pondered the maps.  Really no need to go all the way to the Crater Lake trailhead.  This spot appeared to provide decent access to the same region.  Hate to leave without getting anything at all accomplished, and although Summit Peak was a long snowy march away, Montezuma Peak and Long Trek Mountain weren’t all that far.

Half an hour after deciding to stay in order to let the American Dingo have a go at it tomorrow, dark clouds came sailing in from out of the SW.  Snowed impressively for the next half hour.  Just a squall.  Blue sky reappeared.

6-17-23, 8:18 AM, 43ºF – Four days before the summer solstice, and last night had been the coldest one yet on this Dingo Vacation.  Got down to what, the upper 20’s ºF?  Maybe.  Even though the sun had already been rapidly warming things up for a while, there was still frost on the RAV4.  Of course, this side road off USFS Road No. 380 was at 11,450 feet.

SPHP had slept poorly, not only due to the cold, but also because some rodent had spent the wee hours scurrying and gnawing away wherever it pleased in the RAV4’s undercarriage.  Didn’t quit until SPHP finally opened and repeatedly slammed one of the doors.

Meanwhile, a certain Carolina Dog had slept like a baby.  Should  have brought a Carolina Cat!  This morning, Lupe spotted the likely gnawing culprit, a mouse in the bushes 15 feet from the RAV4.  After she dashed in and out half a dozen times trying to catch it, SPHP saw the mouse take refuge beneath the RAV4 again.

Simply marvelous!  Thanks so much, Loop!

You’re certainly welcome!  For what, SPHP?

The mouse just went back under the RAV4.  I saw it.

Oops!  Sorry, SPHP!

Never mind.  Not important.  I’m just grumpy.  Pack’s ready.  If we’re to have any shot at all at Summit Peak, we’d better get going, Looper.

What are the magic words, SPHP?

Oh, of course.  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

The sky was clear as a bell as Lupe set out heading W along the side road straight into a chilly 15 mph wind.  Nevertheless, the blue sky, crisp air, and dazzling snow white mountains soon had spirits soaring.  After all, the snowfields Lupe encountered at Conejos Peak (13,172 ft.) recently hadn’t been much of a problem.  Maybe the Carolina Dog really would get to Summit Peak today?

About to head out. HP12312 (R of Center), Montezuma Peak (R), Long Trek Mountain (R edge). Photo looks SW.

The road took Lupe on a gradual descent into the Prospect Creek valley.  Bordered by forest, the scenic valley was a mix of meadow, snowbanks, and scattered bushes.  Entire hillsides were covered with plants sporting huge, bright green leaves.  As evidenced by last year’s crop laying among them, these robust plants would eventually grow stalks several feet tall.

Merely a little over 2 miles away as the crow flies, Lone Trek Mountain was the American Dingo’s minimum objective of the day.  Making great progress going downhill on the road, it hardly seemed possible that Lupe wouldn’t get at least that far with ease.

Hopes rose rapidly for both Montezuma Peak and Summit Peak, too.  Yeah, baby, Lupe going to get there!

Prospect Creek valley. Montezuma Peak (L), Long Trek Mountain (L of Center). Photo looks W.
Prospect Creek. Photo looks S.
Among the extraordinarily healthy-looking big green plants. Photo looks E.

After 0.67 mile, Lupe reached Prospect Creek.  Now washed out, the road clearly used to cross it.

Long Trek Mountain (Center) from Prospect Creek. Photo looks W.

The territory farther W along the N side of the creek looked like lovely, easy ground, but was sopping wet.  Backtracking higher to drier terrain, Lupe abandoned the road.  Continuing W, even up here she ran into plenty of soggy spots.

Despite wet paws, progress remained excellent.  Lupe quickly reached a fork in the valley where a major tributary of Prospect Creek came down from the NW.  A large snowbank provided a convenient bridge over this stream.

Continuing up the Prospect Creek valley. Photo looks W.
By the snow bridge over the NW fork of Prospect Creek. Photo looks NW.

A line of trees stood up on the opposite bank.  After crossing the bridge and getting past these trees, a flat clearing was ahead.  Hardly any snow here, but beyond a stand of half dead forest at the far end, a slope with a significant amount of snow on it was visible through the trees.

Traveling W across the clearing, a mountain was in view off to the NW.

In the clearing beyond the stream. Photo looks WNW.
Peak 12550 (Center). Photo looks NW.

That’s a fine looking mountain, SPHP!  Not much snow on it, either.  We ought to be able to climb that one with ease.

Unfortunately, if we want to maintain any possibility of getting to Summit Peak, that’s the wrong way, Loopster.  Have to agree with you, though.  Does look eminently climbable.  Must be Peak 12550 according to the map.

After passing through the half dead forest, the first snow climb began.  Steepish, but not that bad.  Even SPHP was able to march right on up.  Above the snow, the terrain leveled out again.  Continuing WNW, Lupe came to a series of broad, flat benches separated by steeper snow climbs.

6-17-23, 9:24 AM – The American Dingo had now reached the toe of a vast, more gently sloping region rising toward Long Trek Mountain.  Looking ESE back down the Prospect Creek valley, Lookout Mountain (12,448 ft.), Sheepshead (12,240 ft.), and Prospect Mountain (12,245 ft.) were in sight.

Lookout Mountain (L), Sheepshead (L of Center), Prospect Mountain (Center) beyond the Prospect Creek valley. Photo looks ESE.

Ahead to the W, long lines of evergreens separated a patchwork of large meadows, substantial portions of which were buried under snowfields.  Clad in snow, Long Trek Mountain was now only 1.25 miles WSW.

As Lupe pushed on, roaming the grasslands when possible, and crossing snowfields when necessary, the sky gave increasing cause for alarm.

Montezuma Peak (L), Long Trek Mountain (R of Center). Photo looks WSW.

Not a cloud in the sky when we set out, SPHP.  Now, not a sky in the cloud!

Unconventionally put, Sweet Puppy, but I get your drift.  Not getting any warmer, either.  Feels like it could snow!

Avoiding a wide, shallow valley to the S, Lupe stayed on higher ground, still wandering W or WNW.  As she continued gaining elevation, SPHP kept an eye on the weather.  Meanwhile, the Carolina Dog was entering a world of snow.  Fewer, shorter trees, less and less snow-free ground.

Long Trek Mountain (Center). Photo looks WSW.
Entering the world of snow. Photo looks W.

This is awesome, SPHP!  Makes one feel like a real explorer, doesn’t it?

For sure!  Please keep a nose out for the Continental Divide Trail.  I may not see it amid all this snow.  It’s somewhere between us and that highest ridge to the W.

Bare ground grew scarce.  The trek became a long, gentle snow trudge higher.  Driven by the wind, intermittent waves of snow granules began pelting the Carolina Dog.  A small dry spot next to an old, 4 foot high stunted tree provided a semi-sheltered spot to take a short break.

No sign of the CDT yet, SPHP.

I know.  Can’t be much farther W, but I doubt we’ll see it.  Might not do us any good, anyway, with all this snow, even if we do.  Maybe we should just head SW more directly toward Long Trek Mountain?

The wind, which had died down to a considerable degree earlier, was now picking up again.  A steadier, general snowfall began.  SPHP shared some eagerly accepted beef jerky with Lupe, then, during a lull in the storm, the trek continued, now heading SW.

Started snowing again.  Fog swept in, obliterating Long Trek Mountain.  Lupe went on, still occasionally coming to stretches of bare ground.  The terrain was easy, sloping only gradually up to the W.

Long Trek Mountain disappears. Photo looks SW.

After crossing a long stretch of snow, another short break was taken next to another lone, stunted tree.  Visibility was down to 150 feet.

I dare say our chances of getting to Summit Peak (13,300 ft.) suddenly aren’t looking all that good, SPHP.

Nope.  I’ve pretty much given up on it, Looper.  We’ll be lucky to get to Long Trek Mountain the way things are going.

Do you think we’ve crossed the CDT yet, SPHP?

No.  We’ve been paralleling it.

In snow and wind, Lupe pressed on through the storm, now heading NW to avoid losing elevation.  Before long – Lo and behold!  A cairn marking the course of the CDT appeared in the gloom at the edge of a snow-free region only a short distance ahead.

By the cairn (R of Center) marking the Continental Divide Trail. Photo looks SW.

Huh!  Well, how about that, Loopster?  Guess we can follow the CDT at least a little way, after all.

However, turning SW again, Lupe got only a few hundred feet along the CDT before worsening conditions forced SPHP to call a halt.  Shelter was taken by another gnarled tree the size of a bush.

6-17-23, 10:45 AM, Continental Divide Trail – The W wind blew 30 mph, and it was snowing hard as Lupe sought refuge.  Must be getting close to freezing, because the snow was starting to stick.

Holy, moly, Looper!  Get on my lap, so we can keep each other warm.  We’ll wait it out right here.

SPHP wrapped an old red sweater around Lupe, tying the arms beneath her neck.  Before curling up on SPHP’s lap, she looked like Super Dingo, her red cape flapping wildly in the gale.  SPHP was wearing every other layer available – gloves, jackets, stocking cap, hood.  Huddled together by the protective bush, the situation seemed incredible.

Super Dingo questions the wisdom of this whole project during a lull in the storm.

Calmly, Lupe watched in amazement as the ground turned white.  Snow and fog swept by, driven by the wind.  It was an absolute blizzard!  At times visibility was practically zero, at other times, the fog opened up, and an Arctic vista would appear.  Snow was flying everywhere.  Views came and went, suddenly appearing then vanishing like ghosts.

Incredibly, little birds were flitting around out in the storm.  Generally unseen, except momentarily, their cries sounded like “It’s a snowstorm!  It’s a snowstorm!”  A more ominous sound came from the NW.

Thunder, SPHP!

Stay with me, Loop.  Don’t try to run away from it!  You’ll get lost!

Time passed.  The blizzard raged on.  Still on SPHP’s lap, Lupe enjoyed Taste of the Wild and plenty of beef jerky.  SPHP munched on trail mix.

So glad I brought all this sunscreen along, Loop.  Been a real lifesaver!

You’re a riot, SPHP!  How’s the beef jerky supply holding out?

Fine.  Want another piece, Loop?

I’m thinking of a number between 1 and 100, SPHP.

Ha!  Forget it.  I’ll give you one.  You’d make yourself sick, if I let you.

6-17-23, 11:55 AM, 31ºF, Continental Divide Trail – The whole world was white or gray.  Still foggy in some directions, Long Trek Mountain hadn’t reappeared, but the Carolina Dog could see a long way in others, and it had finally stopped snowing.  The sky kept brightening and darkening.  The wind now came only in great gusts with periods of calm between.

During a lull, Lupe got up and rolled in the new snow.

Really, Loop?  You’re that warm?  Here I thought I was keeping you from freezing to death.

Are we going to Lone Trek Mountain, or not, SPHP?

After the storm. HP12312 (L). Photo looks SE.

No.  What’s the point in it, Loop, while it’s still lost in the clouds?  Actually, I feel sleepy after eating all that trail mix.  May take a nap.  Depending on what happens, we might go on to Long Trek Mountain afterwards.

If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em!  SPHP laid down next to the tree bush.  Lupe decided she might as well snuggle up, too.  Huddled together in the occasional flurries, wind, and fog of the lingering storm, it was off to Dingo dreamland …

In the fog, a low, threatening growl.

What is it, Loop?  What’s out there?

Shhh!  Something’s coming, SPHP.  It’s almost here!

The American Dingo suddenly spang to her paws, barking furiously, as a figure appeared amid the gloom.

Poor Shannon, “Footsie” her CDT name, just about had a heart attack.

SPHP apologized.  Footsie bore no grudge.  In fact, she was more than willing to join the huddle by the tree.  She hadn’t seen anyone in more than 2 days before Lupe’s outrageously dramatic appearance, and felt like talking.  While Footsie sat there stroking Lupe and sharing in the beef jerky, SPHP encouraged her to share her story.

Footsie was from Michigan, and had become a fan of long trails after completing the Superior Trail along the N shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota.  Last year she’d done the Pacific Crest Trail, where she’d met her current boyfriend.  He had to work until late July, but would be joining her on the CDT then, or they’d take on the Appalachian Trail, hiking S from the N end.

Footsie’s journey N on the the CDT from the Mexico border began back on April 25th.  Learning that Lupe had been to Mount Taylor along the CDT in northern New Mexico, Footsie was enthusiastic.  Mount Taylor was where the CDT really started getting good!

Footsie chatted about all kinds of trail-related stuff – how she kept in touch with her mother every evening (a Garmin unit), how she financed her activities (work), how she kept herself supplied (hitchhiking), places she’d been to, and other trails she wanted to do.

It was all very interesting.  Meanwhile, the weather was improving.  The wind kept blowing, but the fog was once again lifting in some directions, revealing big, ever-changing views.  Patches of blue sky appeared, and it warmed up a bit.  By the time Footsie ended her tale, all the new snow had melted.

Having done 7 miles earlier, Footsie hoped to go another 5 before calling it a day.  That would put her within a mere 15 miles of Wolf Creek Pass tomorrow, where she could hitch a ride into Pagosa Springs for supplies.  Before departing, Footsie was happy to pose with Lupe in front of Long Trek Mountain, which was back in view again.

With Footsie along the CDT near Long Trek Mountain. Photo looks SW.
Shannon “Footsie” and “Scary Dingo” Lupe.

6-17-23, 2:11 PM, Continental Divide Trail – Conditions were worsening again as Footsie departed, heading N along the CDT.  Another dark gray cloud was coming over Long Trek Mountain from out of the W, and the wind was picking up.  Yet, if Footsie could manage, Lupe could, too.  However, the American Dingo was headed in the opposite direction.

Didn’t take long to reach the end of the snow-free ground.  Long Trek Mountain’s summit was hidden in fog again, as Lupe began climbing SSW along a giant snowfield on the E flank of the mountain.  Another dark figure appeared up on Long Trek Mountain’s SE ridge.  Someone else was heading this way!

At the base of the snowfield. Conejos Peak (L) in the distance. Photo looks SSE.
Another CDT’er (R of Center) approaches! Photo looks S.

20 minutes after Footsie went on her way, Lupe met Svie, who knew her.  Convinced that Footsie was at least several days behind him by now, Svie was stunned to learn that she was actually ahead.  Svie chatted amiably with SPHP for 10 minutes.  He had done the Appalachian Trail, and was shocked by how much more challenging the CDT was.

Speaking of which, the weather was still deteriorating.  Another mini-blizzard struck as Svie continued N.  Heading SSE, Lupe aimed for Long Trek Mountain’s SE ridge, where Svie had just been.

Continental Divide Trail along Long Trek Mountain’s E slope. Photo looks NNW.
Heading for the SE ridge. Photo looks SSE.

The mini-blizzard was still raging when Lupe reached a cairn on bare ground on the SE ridge.  With no protection at all here, the Carolina Dog curled up on SPHP’s lap next to the trail.  Frequent loud thunder was coming from a short distance N, so SPHP didn’t dare let her climb the mountain.

Waiting for the thunder to end. Photo looks E.

Thunder began coming from the S, too, but after 20 minutes, it was all well to the E.  No longer snowing as hard, either.  With only 500 feet of elevation gain separating the CDT from the summit, Lupe started up.

Thunder gone, about to leave the CDT trail and head up. Photo looks NW.

Long Trek Mountain’s SE ridge was a rounded, moderately steep ramp.  Hardly any snow on it.  Halfway up, Lupe came to a number of big rock formations, but they were all easily avoided.

Climbing Long Trek Mountain’s SE ridge. Photo looks NW.
Approaching the first rock formation. Photo looks NW.
Easily by-passing more formations. Photo looks NW.

6-17-23, 3:21 PM, 34ºF, Long Trek Mountain (12,866 ft.) – Exposed to the full force of a 25 mph W wind, Lupe made it to the summit cairn.  Sadly, not a thing to see up here in the fog.

Made it! Long Trek Mountain summit. Photo looks NNE.

Get up on the cairn, Loop!  I’ll shake your paw while you’re standing on it.

The wind is cold, SPHP.

Yeah, I know.  Just get up there for a moment.  I want to congratulate you on climbing Long Trek Mountain on such a wild day, then we’ll retreat a bit to where the wind isn’t so bad.

Partway up the cairn. Photo looks W.
There we go! Success!

Retreating 25 feet back to the SE, more beef jerky was the Dingo-favored celebratory item of choice.

Well, too bad about Summit Peak, but at least we got to one mountain, Loopster.  Funny thing is, even though we’ve only gone 3.25 miles to get here, sure seems like Long Trek Mountain has lived up to its name.

We won’t be forgetting Long Trek Mountain anytime soon will we, SPHP?  Wish we could have hit Montezuma Peak and Summit Peak, too.  Maybe we can return some day?

Worth considering, Looper.  I’ll keep them on your list of possibilities.  Perhaps for later in the season, though.  Supposed to be summer, but it’s still winter up here!

Sitting there in the frigid fog and wind, it was tempting to simply call it good and head back.  After all, Lupe had made it to the summit.  No point in lingering under present circumstances, was there?  Yet neither human nor Dingo stirred.

Maybe it was just inertia?  Whatever the reason for staying, SPHP knew immediately it had been the right decision as soon as a small patch of blue sky appeared.  Took a while, but the clouds lifted, taking the fog with them.  Lupe could see!  The persistent W wind blew harder than ever as big clouds streamed by, but blue sky continued to fan out in all directions.

Montezuma Peak (13,150 ft.) and Summit Peak (13,300 ft.) appeared in all their fabulous snow-clad glory!  Gazing SE, there was a mountain SPHP had been hoping to see.

Loop!  There’s Conejos Peak (13,172 ft.), where we were 2 days ago!

HP12312 (L), Conejos Peak (Center) in the distance. Photo looks SE.
Summit Peak (L) in the clouds, Montezuma Peak (Center). Photo looks SSW.
Summit Peak (L), Montezuma Peak (R of Center). Photo looks SSW.

Clouds hid Crater Lake deep in a valley to the W, but looking NW, Lupe could see part of that same valley.

A glimpse of deep valleys below the clouds. Photo looks NNW.

Peak 12550 and Peak 12498 were in sight only 1.5 miles NNE.  Although Lupe had just come from the NE, the views in this direction were most surprising.  The terrain wasn’t nearly as snowy as it had seemed.  On the horizon, Bennett Peak (13,203 ft.) looked like merely a big hill.

Peak 12550 (L), Peak 12498 (R), both just beyond the snow. Photo looks NNE.
Bennett Peak (Center) on the horizon. Photo looks NE.

No doubt about it, though.  The view to the S was the most magnificent of all.  Montezuma Peak and Summit Peak kept drawing SPHP’s eye like a magnet.

Montezuma Peak isn’t that far, SPHP.  Want to go for it?  We could do it!

Summit Peak (L), Montezuma Peak (Center). Photo looks SSW.

Tempting!  Snowy, but the terrain leading to Montezuma Peak appeared to be otherwise obstacle free.  Hmm…  The snow hadn’t been difficult to deal with, it just made everything more awesome!

The terrain (Center) leading to Montezuma Peak (R edge). Summit Peak (R). Photo looks S.

I’d love to, Loopster, but it’s not a warm day, and it’s already getting late in the afternoon.  I know you could get there, but it would take me too long.  We wouldn’t get back until well after dark.

This is our chance!  We’re here now, SPHP!

Usually a great argument, Loop, but Summit Peak was our main objective, and we didn’t even get close.  So maybe we really will be back, and can climb both then.  Heck, maybe we could even bring your tiny house?

Oh, that would be super!  Promise, SPHP?

The future is always uncertain, Looper, but I promise to keep these peaks on your list of possibilities.  We’ve returned to climb many others after having seen them on earlier Dingo Vacations before.

Whether this truly satisfied the Carolina Dog is debatable.  Long Trek Mountain had turned out to be a big success, and a very memorable day, yet Lupe still gazed somewhat wistfully at Montezuma Peak.

She wasn’t alone.

Summit Peak (far L), Montezuma Peak (L). Photo looks SW.

6-17-23, 4:25 PM, Long Trek Mountain (12,866 ft.) – For the last time, the Carolina Dog stood atop the summit cairn, blue sky now beyond.  Montezuma wasn’t going to happen, at least, not today.  Lupe’s summit hour was over, and who knew if she would ever really be back?  Instead of leaving right away, SPHP let her linger, experiencing all the glory of Long Trek Mountain a while longer.

Atop Long Trek Mountain’s summit cairn for the final time. Photo looks NW.
Surrounded by magnificence! Photo looks SW.

Somewhere miles away, Footsie and Svie were heading N, continuing their separate epic journeys along the Continental Divide Trail.  They would never be back, but it had been fun meeting them, sharing a small part of a crazy early summer day.

Someday we’ll be over on Summit Peak looking back this way, won’t we, SPHP?  And we can remember being here, and Footsie and Svie, too.

Hope so, Loop, but relish the moment.  All we ever have is today.

I always do, SPHP.  Carolina Dogs are good at that.

I know.  Love you, Loopster.  You’re the best!  But just like Footsie and Svie, it’s time for our own epic journey to continue as well.

I know what you’re saying, SPHP.

Yup.  Together always!  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

Bathed in sunshine, Lupe left Long Trek Mountain, heading back down the SE ridge, HP12312 at the far end, and new friend Conejos Peak from only 2 days ago in the distance.

Starting down. HP12312 (L), Conejos Peak (R of Center). Photo looks SE.

Once back to the Continental Divide Trail, Lupe turned N.  For a little while now, she would get to follow Footsie and Svie’s footsteps where they’d hiked this very day, not so long ago, in snow and wind along the beautiful E flank of Long Trek Mountain.  (End 6:16 PM, 46ºF)

Back at the Continental Divide Trail. Peak 12550 (R). Photo looks N.
On the E slopes of Long Trek Mountain. Photo looks NNW.
With “Footsie” near Long Trek Mountain. San Juan Mountains, Colorado 6-17-23
Lupe’s GPS Track (Ascent)

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