Brooks Range – The (Mostly) True Adventures of Lupe

Highlights of the Dalton Highway Revisited, Alaska (8-31-22 & 9-1-22)

Days 33 & 34 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!

8-31-22, 9:33 AM, Dalton Highway MP 275, Galbraith Lake campground –

Good morning, and about time, SPHP! How are your paws?

Still sore, but better. Thanks for asking, Loop. Going to be a day or two before I climb any more mountains, though. And how are you?

Ready to do some sniffing, if you’ll let me out of the RAV4, SPHP.

I will. Won’t be joining you, though. This should be a good day to catch up the trip journal while I’m incapacitated. Have fun out there!

The Carolina Dog bounded out of the RAV4 as soon as SPHP opened the door. Apparently, her paws were just fine.

Yesterday’s brief Dingo Summer was gone. Completely overcast. Not a speck of blue sky! The clouds were high enough so that the summits of nearby peaks were in sight, but bigger peaks farther S along the spine of the Brooks Range were hidden.

After yesterday’s relative calm, the S wind was back at it again. Yellow leaves were flying off the tall bushes surrounding the campsite. Last day of August, and the bushes were already looking rather bare. Here on the N side of the Brooks Range, winter was plotting its return sometime in the not too distant future.

Last day of August at the **Galbraith Lake campground**.

SPHP worked fairly diligently on the trip journal, but also eventually did manage to hobble along with Lupe on occasional short strolls.

This region near Galbraith Lake is a nice dry spot when the wind is out of the S like this, SPHP! If we stay here again tonight, maybe we can climb Lake Benchmark Mountain (5,000 ft.) tomorrow?

I’d really like to, Loopster, but conditions are pretty gloomy. If I knew for sure it would be sunny tomorrow, I’d be in favor of staying. However, I’d also like to see if the weather is better S of Atigun Pass. Haven’t forgotten about Poss Mountain (6,180 ft.). Would sure like to get another shot it.

As dark as those clouds are to the S, it’s still going to be rainy down there, SPHP. What will we do, if it is?

Love the Brooks Range, but Alaska is a big place. Lots of other beautiful parts of Alaska that I’m hoping we can visit on this Dingo Vacation, Loop. We’ll find something wonderful to do!

Mid-afternoon, SPHP joined Lupe on a last great romp around the entire Galbraith Lake campground. During gusts of the S wind, yellow leaves continued to fly as the American Dingo enjoyed her last outing on the N side of the Brooks Range.

Sad to even think about leaving! If the sky had started to clear up at all by now, Lake Benchmark Mountain would be on the agenda tomorrow, but conditions remained as overcast and gray as they had been earlier.

8-31-22, 3:38 PM, 55ºF, Dalton Highway MP 276 – After driving 2 miles N up the first big hill, SPHP turned around, then started back down before parking the RAV4 right along the highway.

Last chance for a good look at Galbraith Lake, Looper, but let’s be quick! Don’t want to be sitting here when the next big truck comes along.

**Galbraith Lake** from the Dalton Highway. Photo looks S.

The weather deteriorated during the drive S to Atigun Pass (4,739 ft.), pretty much as expected. 10 miles before Lupe actually got that far, the dry region near Galbraith Lake was left behind. Mist and light rain fell. The mountains were lost in fog. The Dalton Highway turned sloppy. Still hauntingly beautiful, though! Lupe made a couple of brief stops before continuing on.

Upper **Atigun River valley**. Photo looks S.

Start of the Dalton Highway’s nearly 1,000 foot climb to Atigun Pass. Photo looks SSE.

8-31-22, 4:39 PM, 41ºF, Atigun Pass (4,739 ft.) – Somewhat surprisingly, the pass itself was only sporadically foggy, conditions relatively benign. The S breeze driving one cloud after another through the pass was only 10 mph. During breaks in the fog, Lupe could actually see something of the mountains. Everything was wet, but it wasn’t cold enough to be icy, although a skiff of new snow did exist way up near the summits.

Continuing S from the pass, the sky darkened. A dreary, steady rain set in, and the Dalton Highway became a sea of mud. Big trucks ahead of the RAV4 crawled along kicking up a mucky spray. SPHP stopped at the Chandalar Shelf to let them get farther ahead. The American Dingo got out for a few minutes to enjoy a sniff.

The Chandalar Shelf was visible, but Table Mountain (6,314 ft.), where Lupe had such an incredible adventure not that long ago, and all other peaks in this region were completely hidden from view.

The **Chandalar Shelf** from the **Dalton Highway pullout at MP 238**. Photo looks SE.

8-31-22, 6:02 PM, 50ºF, Dalton Highway MP 207 – SPHP was glad to get back to pavement at MP 209, stopping only a couple of miles farther at the pullout near Dillon Mountain (4,820 ft.). The clouds were higher and brighter here, with only light rain.

Hungry, Loop? We haven’t had much to eat today.

Famished, SPHP! Say, isn’t this the start of my 2016 Last Mile North?

Yup! I’ll heat us up something for dinner, then we’ll do your 2016 last mile N hike again, since it’s always relaxing and so much fun.

Chicken and dumplings, plus Ritz crackers, were what was for dinner. Lupe was happy with that.

8-31-22, 7:08 PM – The Carolina Dog was even happier when she got to repeat her 2016 last mile N for the 3rd time on this Dingo Vacation. Still overcast, but the rain was only intermittent by the time she crossed the Dalton Highway, and went past the gate over the access road leading to the Alaska oil pipeline.

Heading out for a romp along the Alaska oil pipeline. Photo looks NW.

The familiar 1+ mile stroll N along the pipeline right-of-way was as easy and pleasant as always. A little sunshine on the mountains would have been nice, but that clearly wasn’t in the cards. Even so, the cool, moist gloom did nothing to dampen the American Dingo’s spirits, and the fall colors now at their height here added scenic brilliance.

**Dillon Mountain** from the Alaska oil pipeline. Photo looks E.

Falls colors along the pipeline right-of-way. Photo looks NE.

Upon reaching Dillon Creek, Lupe turned W into the mossy forest where nature had rolled out the red carpet for her. The forest rang with the shrill bark of the Most High Exalted Dingo of the Arctic Sisterhood once more, as she sniffed and explored, racing this way and that while searching for squirrels with some success.

8-31-22, 8:01 PM – 0.6 mile from the Alaska oil pipeline, Lupe reached the confluence of the Dietrich River and Dillon Creek. This was the endpoint of her now traditional 2016 last mile N trek. Another 10 miles N, the top of Lupe’s Mountain of the Midnight Sun was wrapped in clouds, as had been the case every time this Dingo Vacation. Nevertheless, it was still amazing just being back at this magical place again.

At the confluence of the **Dietrich River** (L) and **Dillon Creek** (R). Lupe’s **Mountain of the Midnight** **Sun** (L of Center). Photo looks N.

Must have been raining practically every day since we were last here prior to heading N for Deadhorse, SPHP. The river is higher now.

Highest we’ve ever seen it, Loop, but then we’re always here in August. Bet even Dillon Creek is a torrent when the snow melts in late spring.

SPHP shook Lupe’s paw, congratulating the Carolina Dog on her return to this long favorite spot, once the farthest N she had ever been. The evening was cool and gray, but Lupe lingered for a little while. Back to the S, Sukakpak Mountain (4,459 ft.) was nearly cloud-free. Its soaring N fin didn’t look as dramatic as usual against the drab sky.

**Sukakpak Mountain** (Center), **Dietrich River** (R). Photo looks S.

Sadly, unless things changed in a hurry, which appeared very unlikely, Lupe wasn’t going to get to climb Sukakpak Mountain again on this Dingo Vacation.

Not looking too good for Poss Mountain (6,180 ft.), either, is it, SPHP?

Afraid not, Loopster. We may never get there.

A last glance up Dillon Creek, and SPHP sighed.

Well, I suppose it’s time, Loop. Onward! Puppy, ho!

**Dillon Creek** (L), **Dillon Mountain** (R). Photo looks ESE.

The return was marvelous as always. Near the end, Lupe tacked on the short extra jaunt S to where the Alaska oil pipeline crossed the Dietrich River. The Dalton Highway bridge was visible from here, as well as the great N fin of Sukakpak Mountain. The rest of the summit region was back in the clouds again.

We’re going to miss this place, aren’t we, SPHP?

Always, Loop. We’re so lucky we ever got to see and experience it.

**Dalton Highway bridge** (Center) over the **Dietrich River**, **Sukakpak Mountain** (R). Photo looks SSE.

9-1-22, 8:16 AM, 48ºF, Dalton Highway MP 207 – Totally overcast again this morning, a slight bluish tint to the clouds the last hopeful sign to cling to as far as any remaining possibility for another adventure in the Brooks Range. Fog drifted among the mountains as Lupe roamed the forest barking at squirrels, while SPHP straightened out the RAV4.

Don’t go too far, Loop! We’ll be heading S in just a few minutes.

9-1-22, 9:45 AM, 50ºF, MP 175, Coldfoot Camp – Gas was still $7.49 per gallon, but the breakfast buffet was terrific! $16.95, tax included. After a hearty meal, SPHP bought a souvenir at the gift shop, then brought Lupe 5 big strips of bacon. She only got 1 of them right away, though.

Started raining again, so the Brooks Range was definitely over and done with for this Dingo Vacation. Before continuing S, Lupe dropped by the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center just across the highway, and received a 2nd bacon strip.

The **Artic Interagency Visitor Center** at Coldfoot.

9-1-22, 12:32 PM, 57ºF, MP 115 – Intermittent rain kept the rest of the drive S through the Brooks Range sloppy. Nearly 2 weeks after crossing the Arctic Circle, the Most High Exalted Dingo of the Arctic Sisterhood reached it again. Conditions were drier here. A 3rd bacon strip helped celebrate the occasion.

We’ve been up N a while, haven’t we, SPHP? Seems like the Arctic Circle is way down S now!

Yeah! We’ve had quite a time, Loopster. Been fabulous! So glad we came, and went all the way to Deadhorse again!

It’s been wonderful, SPHP! Where to now, though?

Not entirely sure. Don’t have to worry about that quite yet, anyway, Loop. Still have a few stops ahead of us before we get back to Fairbanks. Getting low on supplies, so we’ll buy some there, then figure it out.

9-1-22, 1:28 PM, 49ºF, Dalton Highway MP 98 – Raining again, but Lupe had to stop here! Climbing Finger Mountain (2,202 ft.) wouldn’t take long. Even beneath the dull, gray sky, the colors along the short nature trail winding up to the collection of boulders forming the summit were incredibly vivid. So much orange and red that the scenery looked fake!

**Finger Mountain summit** (L of Center) from the nature trail. Photo looks NW.

Despite the rain, Caribou Mountain (3,179 ft.) was dimly visible 7 miles WNW. Lupe had been there before, too, but that was an all day affair.

**Caribou Mountain** (Center) beyond the **Dalton Highway**. Photo looks WNW.

Of course, the American Dingo couldn’t complete the tiny scramble to the top all on her own. Those 2 summit boulders were way too tall! As usual, SPHP helped Lupe out with a boost.

How many times have I been up here, SPHP? Do you remember?

This is your 7th ascent of Finger Mountain, Loop!

Lucky me, SPHP!

You certainly are, Loopster! Bet you hold the Dingo world record for Finger Mountain ascents!

7th time on the none-too-roomy **Finger Mountain summit**.

**Finger Mountain wayside** (L). **Dalton Highway** (R). Photo looks SE.

As a reward for Lupe’s latest successful ascent of Finger Mountain, SPHP doled out the 4th of the 5 bacon strips from Coldfoot Camp.

You gorged yourself at the breakfast buffet, SPHP! I know you did! Why so stingy about doling out my bacon strips?

Gives you something to look forward to at every stop, Loop. You should be glad I’m distributing them one by one.

Even Carolina Dogs have a hard time celebrating deliberate deprivation, SPHP!

9-1-22, 2:44 PM, 56ºF, MP 56 – Be that as it may, the Carolina Dog seemed happy enough to get the 5th and final bacon strip upon reaching the bridge over the Yukon River again. A tour bus arrived at the same time. Fortunately, the local tour started off with everyone paying a visit to the nearby Yukon River Camp. Meanwhile, Lupe had the N bank of the river all to herself during a short sniff along the water’s edge.

Along the **N shore of the mighty Yukon River**. Photo looks W.

**Dalton Highway bridge** over the **Yukon River**. Photo looks S.

9-1-22, 4:14 PM, 57ºF – Well, sadly, inevitably, it was over. Once again, the Most High Exalted Dingo of the Arctic Sisterhood stood by the sign at the start of the Dalton Highway, two full weeks of glorious adventures along this road to the true Arctic now in the rear view mirror.

Back at the **start of the Dalton Highway**.

I understand what you mean about the advantages of doling out the bacon strips gradually now, SPHP! Are you sure you don’t have one more?

Sorry, Loop. 5 was all I had. You ate the last one back at the Yukon River.

In that case, you should have brought me 6 from the buffet, SPHP! Surely, the start of the Dalton Highway is worthy of a bacon strip!

Absolutely, Loop! Next time, I’ll have to be more careful with the count.

A lot of good that does me now, SPHP!

Life has its little disappointments, Loopster. Let’s just be grateful for all the marvelous adventures we’ve had.

Oh, I am, SPHP! We had some grand times along the Dalton Highway. Hope it won’t be so long next time before we return!

9-1-22, 5:50 PM, 57ºF, Fairbanks – The pavement was actually dry along much of the Elliot Highway, but by the time Lupe reached Fairbanks the sky was spitting rain again. SPHP spent a couple of hours getting free potable water at Pioneer Park, buying supplies, and fueling up the RAV4 at the now super cheap by comparison price of a mere $4.49 per gallon.

This roasted lemon pepper chicken was a great idea, SPHP! Delicious!

Yup, we’ve done a number on it, too, Loop. Not much left.

So, what now, SPHP?

Depends. Let me check the weather forecast on our fancy schmancy new iPhone. Hmm. Not that great. Sunny tomorrow, but rainy after that.

Any mountains we can climb around here in a day, SPHP?

Oh, I think we’ve got a good option on your list of possibilities, Loop. Been on your list for years. Maybe it’s about time we checked it out?

Onward then, SPHP!

9-1-22, 8:00 PM, Fairbanks – The sky was merely overcast when Lupe left Fairbanks heading N again. At Fox, SPHP took the Steese Highway. Rain showers returned as the light began to fade.

9-1-22, 8:53 PM, Upper Chatanika River State Recreation Site – A sniff along the Chatanika River proved to be Lupe’s last chance to stretch near the end of a day spent mostly in the RAV4. She didn’t go far, but if the forecast was right, the Carolina Dog would be back in action tomorrow!

**N of Atigun Pass**, Dalton Highway MP 254, Brooks Range, Alaska 8-31-22.

Links:

Next Adventure Prior Adventure

Lake Benchmark Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-19-17)

Dillon Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-15-16)

Lupe’s Last Mile North, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-14-16)

Sukakpak Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-13-16)

Cathedral Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-17-17)

Caribou Mountain, Alaska (8-16-17)

Dalton Highway Visitor Guide

Want more Lupe adventures? Choose from Lupe’s Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacations to Wyoming, Canada & Alaska Adventure Index, Dingo Vacations Adventure Index or Master Adventure Index. Or subscribe free to new Lupe adventures.

Peak 5050, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-30-22)

Part 2 of Day 32 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!

2:37 PM, 51ºF, West Galbraith Peak (4,560 ft.) –

Alrighty, Loop! Sad, but true, summit hour is over. Ready to move on?

I was enjoying just hanging out up here, SPHP, but I suppose we better get going if we want to make it to Peak 5050.

Agree completely, Looper. This is fabulous, but Peak 5050 will be, too!

Let me tag the summit one more time, SPHP, then we’ll be on our way.

**West Galbraith Peak summit**. **Peak 5050** (R of Center). Photo looks SW.

After a brief farewell return to West Galbraith Peak’s high point, Lupe started down the mountain’s NW slope. The valley W of the mountain was the Carolina Dog’s first objective. 1,000+ feet of steep scree had to be negotiated before she’d get there.

As usual, SPHP was slow as molasses, giving Lupe plenty of time to enjoy the spectacular views during the descent. While she was still fairly high, Imnavait Mountain (3,702 ft.) was in sight way out on the North Slope. Peak 4916 dominated the line of silvery mountains 2 miles NW, while Peak 4500 crowned the big ridge on the opposite side of the valley the American Dingo was heading for.

Starting the descent from **West Galbraith Peak**. **Imnavait Mountain** (L) way out on the **North Slope**. Photo looks NNE.

**Peak 4916** (L of Center). Photo looks NW.

**Peak 4500** (L), **Peak 4916** (R). Photo looks W.

Although aided by lanes of tundra during the lower part of the descent, it still took SPHP more than an hour to reach the valley floor. Pathetic! Ever a true friend, Lupe didn’t complain. In truth, she didn’t seem to be in much of a hurry herself. Upon reaching the valley, she chose to relax for a while near a small stream.

Down in the valley. **HP3500** (R of Center). Photo looks NNE.

Catching a few Dingo winks on the soft tundra.

After sharing some beef jerky with the American Dingo, SPHP munched on honey roasted peanuts.

Going to be a long, long day, Looper, but shouldn’t be hard to get to Peak 5050 from here. Think we just need to head up this valley until we reach the pass right next to it, then up we go!

A long day, but a gorgeous one, SPHP! Look at how much blue sky there is now! Hasn’t been this sunny since we got to the Brooks Range.

Looking back up **West Galbraith Peak**. Photo looks ESE.

Yeah! Best weather in nearly 2 weeks, Loop! Wonder how close we really are to the Gates of the Arctic National Park? Wish we had a map. I’m dying to know, now that we’ve decided to do this.

Maps are your department, SPHP. Hope Peak 5050 does turn out to be in the park. Gates of the Arctic NE Peak (5,050 ft.) would be so cool!

That’s for sure! Won’t know, though, until we get back home and I can do some research, Looper. In any case, this is all incredible territory, park or no park. Hard to believe we’re really here.

After a nice rest break, Lupe headed SW up the valley. The first part was sort of steep and a bit rocky. Staying toward the E side was best. Before long, the stream disappeared and the valley widened. Climbing a broad slope of plants with white seed heads, it seemed clear that some kind of a top was just ahead.

Among the white seed heads. Photo looks SW.

Above the white seed head plants, the terrain did begin leveling out. An easy jaunt got Lupe to an enormous pass W of West Galbraith Peak.

**West Galbraith Peak** from the pass. Photo looks E.

Continuing SW, the huge pass became mushy. Saturated with moisture, it threatened to become a sea of mud. Meanwhile, views of the territory Lupe was now approaching were most intriguing.

A long valley did extend SW toward the region where Peak 5050 was, but what SPHP hadn’t expected was the giant gap of gently sloping terrain to the SE. Beyond the gap, the biggest glacier on Mount Kiev (7,775 ft.) was once again in sight.

The **valley leading to Peak 5050** (Center). Photo looks SW.

Continuing over the pass. **Glacier** (L of Center) on **Mount Kiev**. Photo looks S.

In order to avoid the mud, Lupe headed for the W side of the pass, then climbed a little way up onto firmer ground. Resuming her SW course, views of the region beyond the SE gap kept getting better and better.

Near the **W side of the pass**. **Mount Kiev** (R of Center). Photo looks S.

The **SE gap**. **Peak 6800** (R) in the clouds. Photo looks SSE.

Wow! Look at that, SPHP! We could roam for forever and a day in these big valleys between the mountains.

Yes! Fires the imagination, doesn’t it, Loop? Not a tree in sight! This looks so much like the classic unspoiled Arctic we’ve always dreamed of!

While the view was nearly perfect, it wasn’t completely so. Down by the creek on the way up the valley, Lupe had scared up another small flock of the gray birds with white wings like the ones she’d seen on the way to Imnavait Mountain a week ago. She also seen a few other smaller birds, but that had been it for wildlife.

As Lupe stared out over the vast valleys between the mountains, nothing at all moved. No caribou, fox, musk ox, lynx, or bear in sight. Not even a snowshoe bunny. Stunningly gorgeous, but so empty! So quiet!

Needs more squirrels, SPHP!

Heh, no trees, Loop.

How about some marmots or pikas then, SPHP?

You’d think we’d see something, wouldn’t you, Loopster? But we don’t. C’mon. Onward! Puppy, ho!

Continuing SW, Lupe headed for the valley leading to Peak 5050.

Super easy terrain! Even SPHP made rapid progress while Lupe roamed ahead. Soon she was in the valley, starting the trudge toward the pass that would get her to Peak 5050. Especially in the lower part, the valley was carpeted with brown moss. Near a tiny stream, there were places where the moss was still bright green.

Some of the relatively rare bright green moss.

The stream soon vanished. The valley steepened and became rockier. As Lupe approached the pass, SPHP wondered what she would see on the other side?

Surprise! Upon reaching the pass, a second pass was ahead. Beyond a 50 foot drop, the valley Lupe had been following continued higher. This upper section actually drained into a narrow gorge to the R (N).

The **second pass** from the first one. **Peak 5050** (R). Photo looks SW.

Start of the **narrow gorge** (Center) that drained N. **Peak 5050** (L). Photo looks WNW.

Peak 5050 was right there, though. All Lupe had to do was get up to that second pass, and she’d be perfectly positioned to climb it. Fortunately, the 50 foot drop wasn’t a sheer one. After a steepish, rocky descent, the American Dingo kept going.

About to head for the **second pass** after getting beyond the first one. Photo looks SW.

**Peak 4500** (Center). **West Galbraith Peak** and the **first pass** (far R). Photo looks NNE.

When Lupe got there, the second pass proved to be as big as a football field both in width and length. Continuing across it, Peak 5176 was in view on the far side. A third, slightly higher pass was also in sight, but beyond a much deeper drop into another valley draining N.

**Peak 5176** (L), and the **third pass** (R). Photo looks SW.

Clearly, getting to that third pass would be considerably more difficult, but as much fun as it would be to roam forever, Lupe didn’t need to go any farther. Peak 5050 was immediately NW of this second pass. Still 600 feet higher, only the lower slopes were visible from here.

**Peak 5050** from the **second pass**. Photo looks NW.

Heading NW, Lupe attacked the mountain. Tundra-covered slopes gave way to steep scree similar to that experienced on West Galbraith Peak. Utilizing lanes of vegetation whenever possible, Lupe scrambled higher. Once the rate of climb diminished slightly, she angled WSW toward a S ridge where knobs of bedrock were visible.

Upon reaching this ridge, the Carolina Dog had only another 200 feet of elevation gain left to go. The rest of the ascent wasn’t hard at all.

On the **S ridge**. Summit not in sight yet. Photo looks N.

7:09 PM, 47ºF, Peak 5050 – Dark clouds hung over the Brooks Range when Lupe reached the true summit on a short ridge running SW/NE. A reasonably large area of moderately sloping scree surrounded this ridge providing plenty of space to move around. With scarcely a breeze, and sunnier skies N and E, conditions were still quite pleasant.

The views were incredible! 8 miles SW, beyond the third pass that Lupe hadn’t made it to, a long high ridge sporting a line of glaciers was among the first to grab attention.

We’ve seen those glaciers before, SPHP, but from much farther away!

We have, Loopster, from Imnavait Mountain (3,702 ft.). That ridge is Peak 7386. It’s beyond the Itikmalak River valley.

At the **true summit of Peak 5050**. Glaciers on **Peak 7386** (Center) beyond the third pass. **Peak 5176** (L). Photo looks SW.

**Peak 5176** (L), **Peak 7386** (Center). Photo looks SW.

**Peak 7386**. Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.

The big glacier on Mount Kiev (7,775 ft.) that had been visible from West Galbraith Peak (4,560 ft.) earlier today was also in view.

**Glacier on Mount Kiev** (far L), **Peak 5376** (Center), **Peak 7386** (R). Photo looks SSW.

**Glacier on Mount Kiev** (R of Center). Photo looks S.

**Mount Kiev** (L), **Peak 7447** (R). Photo looks S with help from the telephoto lens.

Having left the Galbraith Lake campground more than 9 hours ago, Lupe was glad to see a couple patches of brown tundra on Peak 5050’s summit ridge where she could rest. SPHP sat next to her, as the American Dingo made herself comfortable.

Well, we made it to Peak 5050, SPHP! Wonder if we’re in Gates of the Arctic National Park now?

Don’t know, Looper. I’m certain we’re at least seeing it from here when we look SW.

Wouldn’t happen to have another chocolate coconut bar, would you?

Sorry, I don’t, Loop. Didn’t realize we were going to go this far when we set out this morning. Only brought the one we ate on West Galbraith Peak. I’ve got a chocolate chip Cliff bar we can split, though.

That’ll do, SPHP!

Congratulating Lupe on her successful ascent of magnificent Peak 5050, SPHP shook her paw, then shared the Cliff bar with her. Basking now and then in evening sunshine, glory was all around!

Looking back to the NE, West Galbraith Peak (4,560 ft.), looking much lower from here, partially blocked the view of Galbraith Lake. Lake Benchmark Mountain (5,000 ft.) was lined up directly behind it.

**Peak 4500** (L), **West Galbraith Peak** (Center) with **Galbraith Lake** & **Lake Benchmark Mountain** beyond it. **Peak 5308** (R). Photo looks NE.

Imnavait Mountain (3,702 ft.) and Slope Mountain (4,010 ft.) were still in view, too, way out on Alaska’s North Slope.

**Peak 4916** (far L), **Imnavait Mountain** (L), **Slope Mountain** (R), **Peak 4500** (far R). Photo looks NNE.

**Imnavait Mountain** (L), **Slope Mountain** (Center), **Peak 4500** (R of Center), **West Galbraith Peak** & **Lake Benchmark Mountain** (far R). Photo looks NNE.

Peak 6800 was SE. Nearly 1,000 feet lower than Mount Kiev, which was always up in the clouds only a few miles away, Peak 6800‘s summit was cloud-free.

Sitting together on the biggest patch of brown tundra at the true summit, the sense of remote isolation was profound. Peak 5050 almost felt like a different world, a new, unspoiled world of unknown and unsuspected mysteries, dangers, and epic beauty.

Relaxing on **Peak 5050**. **Peak 6800** (L), **Mount Kiev** (R). Photo looks SSE.

It’s like we could go on forever, and never see anyone again, Loop!

Forever wouldn’t be nearly as long as you think, SPHP, once we ran out of supplies. Speaking of which, I’m famished! I sure hope you brought some!

Lupe had some Taste of the Wild from her silver bowl. SPHP shared some delicious beef jerky with her. Must have been enough to take the edge off her hunger. Eyes grown heavy, for a while the Carolina Dog snoozed on her soft, lofty perch on the N side of the Brooks Range.

**Peak 6800** (L), **Mount Kiev** (Center), **Peak 7447** (R of Center), **Peak 5376** (far R). Photo looks S.

Facing WNW toward the setting sun, SPHP sat crunching away on honey roasted peanuts while looking down an arm of the mountain that ended with a plunge into a deep canyon. Beyond the next ridge, a series of long jagged ridges extended from the Brooks Range toward the North Slope where lakes and rivers Lupe had never seen before, not even from Imnavait Mountain, glistened.

Gazing down **Peak 5050’s NW arm**. Photo looks NW.

**Edge of the North Slope** (Center). Photo looks NW with help from the telephoto lens.

Lupe was most likely as close as she ever would be to that unknown land beckoning on this gorgeous late August evening. Technically, this wasn’t a new world, but an ancient, yet still pristine, one. Entirely new to Lupe and SPHP, though, and that was all that mattered.

One thing for sure, days like today are what being the Most High Exalted Dingo of the Arctic Sisterhood is all about, aren’t they, Loopster?

Absolutely, SPHP! If only every day could be like this one! After a 3 year absence, I really have returned to the true Arctic, haven’t I?

Long overdue, but here we are, Loop. And isn’t it grand!

Tragically, summit hour was ending. A final look around, and time to go.

**West Galbraith Peak** (L) with **Lake Benchmark Mountain** beyond it. **Galbraith Lake** (Center), **Peak 5308** (R of Center). Photo looks NE.

**Peak 4916** (far L), **Imnavait Mountain** (L), **Slope Mountain** (R). Photo looks NNE.

**Land of mystery** from **Peak 5050**. Photo looks NW.

**Peak 7386** (L of Center). Photo looks SSW.

8:14 PM – The spur of the moment decision to venture on to Peak 5050 had been a stupendous success! Still lots more adventure yet to come during the long trek back. While SPHP started down, Lupe lingered on the summit waiting for the signal to come along.

Final moments on **Peak 5050**. Photo looks N.

Alrighty, Looper! Onward! Puppy, ho!

The return was amazing! Would have been even better if SPHP’s paws hadn’t started developing blisters. As light slowly faded from the Arctic sky, Lupe led the way for hours, SPHP limping after.

Leaving the 2nd pass. **Peak 4500** (L), **West Galbraith Peak** (Center). Photo looks NE.

It was pretty dark by the time Lupe made it back to the little stream W of West Galbraith Peak. No need to go over the mountain again. Lupe just kept going down the valley until she could angle NE through the pass S of HP3500.

11:30 PM, N of West Galbraith Mountain – August was nearly over, and the sun had already been down for 1.5 hours, yet there was still a little light in the sky as Lupe emerged from the pass. Off to the N, a rosy glow illuminated the smooth horizon leading to the North Slope.

Should have taken a photo. Waiting for midnight, it was gone. At times, a few lights showed the location of the Galbraith airstrip. A couple of fires at the campground soon went out. In darkness, aided only by the flashlight, what SPHP expected to be an easy downhill march proved to be confusing, rumpled terrain. Weary and ready for it all to end, Lupe soldiered on over one unanticipated minor hill after another.

Finally did end, though. Suddenly the campground access road was just ahead. Upon reaching it, a painful, hobbling success was assured.

8-31-22, 1:11 AM, Galbraith Lake campground – Exhausted, Lupe leapt up onto her pink blanket in the RAV4. Too tired to eat, she was out like a light, happily on her way to Dingo Dreamland where it really is possible to roam toward that unspoiled, ever-beckoning Arctic horizon forever.

Note: Months later, SPHP checked online maps and discovered that Peak 5050 is not in Gates of the Arctic National Park, and did not deserve the proposed name of Gates of the Arctic NE Peak (5,050 ft.). However, Peak 5176 less than a mile SSW is right on the boundary of Gates of the Arctic National Preserve. As the highest mountain along or within the boundary in that region, it would merit the name Gates of the Arctic NE Peak.

**Gates of the Arctic NE Peak** **(5,176 ft.)** (L) from **Peak 5050**. Photo looks SSW.

On **Peak 5050**, Brooks Range, Alaska 8-30-22

Links:

Next Adventure Prior Adventure

Lupe’s Peak 5050 GPS Track (Return)

Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve Map

Lake Benchmark Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-19-17)

Slope Mountain & Highlights of the Dalton Highway Revisited, Alaska (8-22-17 & 8-23-17)

Imnavait Mountain, North Slope, Alaska (8-22-22)

BLM Dalton Highway Visitor Guide

West Galbraith Peak, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-30-22)

Part 1 of Day 32 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!

9:58 AM, 42ºF, Galbraith Lake campground –

Think everything’s about ready, Loopster! Shall we?

We shall, SPHP!

Full of enthusiasm, Lupe left the campsite trotting SW through the tall, yellow bushes, heading straight for the nearest mountain, the one SPHP had finally decided to call West Galbraith Peak (4,560 ft.).

About to set out for **West Galbraith Peak** (R of Center). Photo looks SW.

The sky was still almost entirely overcast this morning, but the fog that had rolled in late yesterday evening was gone, and the mountains were below the clouds. An unexpected, but happy turn of events.

Lupe was ecstatic! She raced away across the tundra, exploring and sniffing far ahead of SPHP.

Leaving the **Galbraith Lake campground**. **Lupe** (R). Photo looks WSW.

Shortly after crossing the campground access road, Lupe made it to the stream that passes S of it on its way to Galbraith Lake. This stream was bigger than SPHP expected and rather rocky.

Approaching the stream. **West Galbraith Peak** (R). Photo looks SW.

**West Galbraith Peak** (Center) from the big stream. Photo looks SW.

Following the stream toward the mountain on the exposed streambed was more trouble than it was worth. Too rocky! Returning to the bank overlooking the stream, the Carolina Dog discovered a use trail, which made life easy.

Before long, the floodplain broadened out a great deal. The lip of the bank Lupe was on turned W. Climbing steadily, she was soon quite far from the stream, although she could still see and hear it.

Heading W along the upper lip of the floodplain. Photo looks W.

Approaching West Galbraith Peak, the stream curved SSW. Several glaciers were visible at the far upper end of the valley in the vicinity of Mount Kiev (7,775 ft.), which was high enough to be up in the clouds. That whole region looked mighty enticing, but much more rugged and beyond the scope of anything SPHP was prepared for today.

**Glaciers near Mount Kiev** (L), **West Galbraith Peak** (R). Photo looks SSW.

**Mount Kiev region**. Photo looks S with help from the telephoto lens.

In the opposite direction, rolling hills led toward Alaska’s North Slope, which was out of sight, but not all that far away. Bits of blue sky, and the vastness of the open terrain beckoned there, too.

**Alaska’s North Slope** is just over the horizon. Photo looks N.

Looking NE back downstream, Lake Benchmark Mountain (5,000 ft.) and Peak 5308 were in sight, as well as part of Galbraith Lake.

**Lake Benchmark Mountain** (L), **Peak 5308** (R), **Peak 5430** (far R), **Galbraith Lake** (Center). Photo looks NE.

The edge of the high ground Lupe was following swept around in a wide arc, eventually turning S, too. Gradually gaining elevation, the American Dingo explored a bench of tundra below West Galbraith Peak’s NE slopes on the R (W) that overlooked the stream on the L (E).

Continuing S for more than 0.5 mile, this bench began to narrow before shriveling away. A steep E ridge coming down off West Galbraith Peak was directly ahead. The intention was to at least get to this ridge to see what might lay beyond it, but by the time Lupe was starting to get close, she was having to traverse rock slides.

Nearly to the **E ridge** (R). Photo looks S.

Lupe could have made it to the E ridge. She was nearly there when, looking up the mountain, a nice long stretch of brown tundra appeared on the R. It was steep, but extended hundreds of feet up the mountain.

You know, Loop, might be easier to head up right here. Tundra looks good, and the rockier region above it doesn’t look bad, either. Appears we can intercept the E ridge somewhere up there without much trouble. Doubt we’ll see a better route around the next bend, anyway. Want to try it?

Fine with me, SPHP, but what does the topo map say?

Don’t have any maps of this area, Loopster. West Galbraith Peak is just one of those spur of the moment “Bet we can climb that one!” peaks.

Turning W, Lupe started up the tundra.

Heading up **West Galbraith Peak**. Photo looks W.

It was a long, steep climb, but perfectly doable. Lupe had plenty of time to study the intricacies of the tundra, or admire the views during SPHP’s frequent breaks to gasp for air.

Tundra eventually became scarce, reduced to small tufts and occasional larger patches. Lupe continued higher, angling WSW toward the E ridge on good-sized scree that was rough and irregular in shape. It generally held together well, rarely shifting much and providing good support.

Back to the NE, Lupe could see nearly all of Galbraith Lake now.

Amid the scree, heading for the **E ridge** (L). Photo looks WSW.

**Galbraith Lake**. **Lake Benchmark Mountain** (L of Center), **Peak 5308** (R), **Peak 5430** (far R). Photo looks NE.

By the time Lupe reached the E ridge, she was already at 4,100 feet with less than 500 feet to go. The views to the S were even better now, and a bit of blue sky raised hopes of sunshine before too long.

The **glaciers** (Center) from **West Galbraith Peak’s E ridge**. Photo looks S.

Blue sky near **Mount Kiev**. Photo looks S with help from the telephoto lens.

Another view was more disconcerting. Much of West Galbraith Peak’s long summit ridge was now in sight. A high point way over at the SSW end looked like it might well be the true summit. Getting to it appeared potentially problematic.

**SSW high point** (L), **NNE high point** (far R). Photo looks SW.

Scrambling WNW, Lupe continued higher. Scree all the way! Still quite steep, but parts of the ascent weren’t bad at all. Almost no talus up here, only a little near an outcropping of bedrock that was easily avoided. Soon Lupe was closing in on the mountain’s NNE high point.

Heading for the **NNE summit** (L). Photo looks WNW.

**NNE summit** (L of Center). Almost there! Photo looks W.

1:37 PM, 51ºF, West Galbraith Peak (4,560 ft.) – Lupe’s perch on the NNE summit was sufficient, but certainly not any bigger than it needed to be. Looking SSW along the long summit ridge, SPHP was satisfied.

On the **NNE summit**. **SSW summit** (L). Photo looks SW.

Hard to say for certain, Looper, but I think we’re golden!

So we’re already at the true summit of West Galbraith Peak, SPHP?

Believe so, Loop! Might be an illusion, but if that SSW high point is any higher, it can’t be by much. Think I’d actually bet on this being the true summit.

Kind of a narrow ridge, SPHP. Are we going there, anyway, to make sure?

Naw! Don’t think it’s worth the trouble, Loopster. Looks like we could get there, if we’re careful, but seems unnecessary. If this ridge was wider, we’d do it. Would be interesting to see how things look from over there.

Well, good! I’m ready for a break anyway, SPHP! Can we just hang out here then?

Why, of course! Right after I shake your paw, Loopster! Congratulations on your successful ascent of another fabulous peak in the Brooks Range!

An eagerly accepted chocolate coconut bar and beef jerky were shared in celebration of the joyous occasion. Although the absolute high point was small and rocky, patches of tundra nearby were sufficiently large to provide a selection of comfortable perches.

At what appeared to be the **true summit of West Galbraith Peak**. Photo looks SW.

**Lake Benchmark Mountain** (L), **Peak 5308** (Center), **Peak 7090** (R). Photo looks ENE.

The views were incredible! Off to the S, the glaciers in the Mount Kiev region were disappearing among rain showers, making the silvery peaks in that direction even more mysterious.

Rain showers toward **Mount Kiev**. Photo looks S.

Loopster catching a few winks, apparently not overly concerned. Photo looks S.

Skies were sunnier toward the E. Galbraith Lake and the Atigun River were in sight. Lake Benchmark Mountain (5,000 ft.) was the highest point N of the river beyond Galbraith Lake. The series of peaks farther S were progressively higher toward the SE. Peak 7090 stood out, but both Peak 7200 and Wellsung Mountain (7,580 ft.) were more daunting.

**Galbraith Lake** and the **Atigun River**. **Lake Benchmark Mountain** (L), **Peak 5308** (R), **Peak 5430** (far R). Photo looks NE.

**Lake Benchmark Mountain** (Center), **Peak 5308** (R). Photo looks NE.

**Peak 7090** (L of Center), **Peak 7200** and **Wellsung Mountain** (R). Photo looks SE.

Imnavait Mountain (3,702 ft.) and Slope Mountain (4,010 ft.) were in view way out on the North Slope. To the NW, a line of silvery peaks hid whatever was beyond it.

**Imnavait Mountain** (L edge) and **Slope Mountain** (L of Center) both on the horizon. **Lake Benchmark Mountain** (R). Photo looks NNE.

**Imnavait Mountain** (L of Center) and **Slope Mountain** (R). Photo looks N.

Although cloudy, conditions were near perfect. Comfortably warm, and no bugs despite no breeze at all. With beautiful sights in all directions and plenty of time to enjoy them, SPHP began daydreaming about other peaks Lupe could climb in this region some day.

Relaxing on **West Galbraith Peak**. Photo looks WSW.

Early enough, SPHP. Maybe we could climb another mountain today?

Yeah, but we’d get back mighty late, if we did that, Loopster.

So what, SPHP? Look at where we are! Surrounded by amazing territory on a perfect day on the N side of the Brooks Range! How often do we get an opportunity like this? We could at least do some more exploring!

Maybe you’re right, Loop! Your traditional summit hour will be over here pretty soon. Should we pick out another objective?

At first, the line of peaks to the NW seemed to offer the best possibilities that were reasonably nearby. The American Dingo ought to enjoy a truly spectacular panoramic view of the North Slope from over there!

How about that pointy peak off to the SW, SPHP? It’s even higher!

You mean the one on the R side of that pass, Loop?

**Peak 5050** (Center). Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.

Yes! Kind of steep, but it’s not as rugged as the stuff on the other side of the pass. I’m almost positive we could climb it, SPHP.

Yeah, I believe you’re right, Loopster. If we can get down to the valley W of us here, we should be able to follow it all the way to that pass before scrambling to the top.

Gazing down West Galbraith Peak’s NNW slope, 1,000+ feet of scree led down to the valley in question.

Peering down **West Galbraith Peak’s NNW slope**. Photo looks NNW.

So, what do you think, SPHP? Can you do it? I know I can!

Steep, but clearly manageable, Loop. It’ll take me a while, but we can get down to the valley alright. Don’t think we’ll have a problem from there.

Want to try for that pointy peak then, SPHP?

Sure! I like this idea, Looper! In fact, that mountain might even be within the NE corner of Gates of the Arctic National Park.

Oh, are we that close to the Gates of the Arctic, SPHP? How awesome would that be, climbing a mountain there!

Super awesome, Loop, but I’m not sure exactly how far we are from the park. Can’t be too far from it, though.

If that mountain turns out to be inside the park, or even on the border, we could call it Gates of the Arctic NE Peak (5,050 ft.), couldn’t we?

Yeah, that would probably make sense, Loop. Would have to see a map to be sure. I’m all stirred up about it now. Want to go for it?

Yes, but not until my summit hour is done, SPHP. West Galbraith Peak is an incredible place, too! Let’s enjoy our time here. Then we’ll go.

Fair enough, Loopster. Sounds like a plan!

Surrounded by splendor on all sides, Lupe relaxed on the soft tundra as her final precious minutes up on West Galbraith Peak (4,560 ft.) ticked away. Meanwhile, SPHP enjoyed the fabulous Brooks Range views, now drawn especially to the magnetic one off to the SW.

Next objective and potential **Gates of the Arctic NE Peak** (R). Photo looks SW with lots of help from the telephoto lens.

Enjoying summit hour on **West Galbraith Peak**, Brooks Range, Alaska 8-30-22

Links:

Next Adventure Prior Adventure

Lupe’s West Galbraith Peak GPS Track (Ascent)

Lake Benchmark Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-19-17)

BLM Dalton Highway Visitor Guide