Wyoming – The (Mostly) True Adventures of Lupe

Albany Peak, Laramie Range, Wyoming (6-8-23)

Days 1 & 2 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!

6-7-23, 4:16 PM, Horseshoe Creek Road, SW of Glendo – Pulling over to the side of the road, SPHP parked the RAV4 near the edge of a small ridge and leapt out.

C’mon, Loopster! Let’s have a look!

Lupe started to follow, but stopped almost as soon as she hit the ground.

Umm, there’s cactus, SPHP!

Only a little, Loop. Just stay right behind me. We aren’t going far at all.

From the edge of the ridge, Horseshoe Creek Road snaked away across a wide, rolling green valley toward rocky ridges and mountains only a few miles away. The closest ones weren’t all that high, but off in the distance beneath an unsettled sky loomed a much more prominent peak.

Laramie Peak! Seems like forever since we’ve been there! Are we going to climb it again, SPHP?

**Laramie Peak (10,272 ft.)** (Center) on the horizon. Photo looks SW.

That would be fun, Loop, but no. However, we are going to try a peak not too far from it tomorrow that’s been on your list of possibilities for many years. We’ll stop again for another look when we get close it.

SPHP had been acting weird lately. Lupe hadn’t realized until this very morning what was going on. Tremendously excited, the Carolina Dog had then followed SPHP in and out of the house countless times as the RAV4 got loaded with gear and supplies, before finally giving up and simply laying down in the shade on the lawn’s thick grass to watch and wait for the inevitable invitation.

That invitation came at 11:09 AM, 79ºF. Beneath clear blue skies, Lupe leapt into the RAV4, and took up her usual position on her pink blanket. Moments later, as SPHP backed out of the driveway, the American Dingo grinned broadly. She could hardly believe it! The long-awaited Summer of 2023 was finally here! Dingo Vacation days of glory ahead!

It began with a scenic drive through the Black Hills, Lupe barking with enormous enthusiasm at cows and horses. By early afternoon, she was in the great state of Wyoming, where skies suddenly looked stormy. S of Mule Creek Junction, SPHP drove through a cloudburst. Fortunately, no hail. Near Lance Creek, skies were blue again, but more rain showers had appeared as the RAV4 sped S.

Another small cloudburst along Horseshoe Creek Road had drifted off to the E. Returning to the RAV4, and resuming the drive SW up the green valley, SPHP reached a junction that looked familiar. Sure enough, after turning S on USFS Road No. 633, SPHP was soon recognizing places Lupe had been to long ago.

No. 633 ultimately climbed higher, and became quite a bit rougher, than SPHP remembered. Once the road topped out, SPHP subsequently failed to notice the turn into the Boy Scout camp at Harris Park where Lupe had once set out for Black Mountain (7,960 ft.). Eh, no matter. Shortly after passing the region where the turn had to have been, SPHP parked the RAV4 again.

Thar she blows, Looper! Our first destination, Albany Peak (7,720 ft.)!

**Albany Peak** (Center) from USFS Road No. 633. Photo looks S.

Sweet, but looks mighty rocky on top, SPHP!

Yeah, I know. Pretty typical for the Laramie Mountains, though. The topo map actually shows two summits of roughly equal elevation. That’s our ace in the hole! If we can get to the top of either one, we’re calling it close enough for Dingo work and claiming a peakbagging success.

Taking a R on County Road No. 71 at the next junction, it continued S past Albany Peak down to Cottonwood Park, a very broad, scenic valley just a few miles SE of Laramie Peak. A couple of roaming pronghorns vanished over a ridge before SPHP could get a photo. When a L turn onto Fletcher Park Road appeared, SPHP took it.

6-7-23, 5:30 PM, USFS Road No. 643 at Elk Park – Lightning flashed now and then, and the distant rumble of thunder was often heard from dark clouds to the S. This region wasn’t at all the dense forest SPHP expected, due to a fire long ago. White tree skeletons decorated a hilly landscape dotted with rounded rock formations. Scattered live trees remained in tall, spindly stands.

Raining to the S, but doesn’t look too threatening here, Loop. Air’s nice and cool now. Want to scout around a bit, just for fun?

I’d love to, SPHP, but how about dinner first?

An entirely reasonable request. SPHP had been munching on honey roasted peanuts and wasn’t that hungry, but Lupe was famished.

Once the Carolina Dog had her fill, the evening’s leisurely explorations began. Following USFS Road No. 643 N for roughly 0.4 mile, Lupe sniffed gorgeous wildflowers along the way before reaching a minor pass. From a small, deadfall-laden rise on the W side of the pass, she had a terrific view of Laramie Peak.

**Laramie Peak** (Center) from the rise W of the pass. Photo looks NW.

Double-pronged Albany Peak was already in sight, 3 or 4 miles NNE. Beyond the pass, SPHP was surprised to see the road continuing a long way toward it.

Hmm, that’s odd.

What’s odd, SPHP?

The map shows No. 643 turning NW not too far from here, then heading down to Cottonwood Creek. Doesn’t show this road winding toward Albany Peak at all, Loop.

Nothing wrong with that, is there, SPHP? Looks like an way to get there.

Yup. I’d been thinking we’d take USFS Road No. 650, which lies 0.5 mile farther E, but I like the looks of this. Maybe we’ll just go this way?

Wandering back S off-road, Lupe came to an enormous boulder cracked in two. SPHP joined her in climbing up onto it. While relaxing up there, suddenly the wild dogs began singing. Her ears straight up, listening, Lupe’s eyes grew big. For 2 minutes the coyotes sang. They were many, not too far away from the sound of it, although none were in sight.

Getting dark. The coyotes’ wild chorus ended as suddenly as it began. To the W, black silhouettes of the spindly trees stood against a pale sky.

Guess we should amble on back to the RAV4, Looper.

6-8-23, sunrise, USFS Road No. 643 at Elk Park – The tiger attacked, biting SPHP’s hand. Blood spurted out. Another moment, and it would all be over, but somehow SPHP got free. Incredibly, the tiger transformed into a big dog, and began attacking other people. Lupe appeared, heroically standing over SPHP, her fur shining in the morning sun now peeping over the horizon.

About time you woke up! Mind letting me out, SPHP?

Huh? Morning already? Yeah, I’ll let you out. In fact, I’ll join you, Loop. Need to clear my mind. I’ve been dreaming like a nut case.

6-8-23, 6:36 AM, USFS Road No. 643 at Elk Park – Lupe stood impatiently next to the RAV4. The sky had clouded up a bit, but the pack was ready.

About to set out for **Albany Peak**. Photo looks N.

Onward! Puppy, ho!

Music to my ears, SPHP!

Heading N on USFS Road No. 643 again, by the time Lupe made it to the minor pass, she was in brilliant sunshine. An absolutely gorgeous day!

Looking back along **USFS Road No. 643**. Photo looks S.

**Laramie Peak** (L of Center) in the morning light. Photo looks NW.

**Albany Peak** (Center) from just N of the 1st minor pass. Photo looks NNE.

Continuing N over the pass, No. 643 began a steady descent. Lupe soon came to a cattle guard where there were signs about a hunting walk-in area, plus a great view of Black Mountain (7,960 ft.) 5.5 miles N.

**Albany Peak** (L & Center) from the start of the hunting walk-in area. Photo looks NNE.

**Black Mountain** (R of Center) from the 1st cattle guard. Photo looks N.

A bit beyond this first cattle guard, the road curved NE, leaving the route No. 643 was supposed to take. It steepened somewhat on the way down to a valley full of young aspens where Lupe drank from a small stream. Beyond this valley, the road climbed again to a junction with another road coming in from the SE.

Heading down into the valley full of young aspens. Photo looks ENE.

Continuing N, then NE, from this intersection, Lupe had opportunities to get more drinks from big mud puddles left over from yesterday’s rains. Most were a muddy brown, but a few were clear. Made no difference to the American Dingo. Lupe tromped through every puddle, getting a few licks from each one. Gradually gaining elevation, she was about a mile past the first creek when the road topped out at a second cattle guard.

**Albany Peak** (L) from the 2nd cattle guard. Photo looks NE.

Sunny and bright, the day was warming up fast. Thus far, Lupe had been out in the open exposed to direct sun, but a pine forest was now in sight ahead. Shade was starting to sound good as she trotted toward it.

Upon reaching the forest, the pines provided welcome relief from the sun. When a rock formation appeared slightly off-road in a clearing on the L, Lupe scrambled up onto it for another look at Albany Peak, which was noticeably closer now. Then it was back to the road, which wound gently down to a second junction with another unmarked road.

**Albany Peak** (R) from up on the rocks. Photo looks N.

Enjoying the shade of the pines. Photo looks NNE.

Going L at this intersection, Lupe quickly came to a shallow valley S of a very rocky ridge. From the W, a tiny stream flowed through a big puddle on the road. A clump of lovely purple wild irises grew just upstream.

It wasn’t much farther to a third unmarked junction. Staying L again, Lupe headed up to a third minor pass. Towering rock formations were now visible off to the R (NE).

Heading up to the 3rd minor pass. Photo looks NW.

Alrighty! Starting to get somewhere now, Loopster!

Good news, SPHP! So, where are we?

Believe we’re on USFS Road No. 650 crossing Albany Peak’s SW ridge.

Follow the ridge from here, SPHP?

Nope. Way too rocky. Much easier to stick with this road going N for nearly another mile before turning E somewhere to start our climb.

Which summit are we going for first, SPHP?

The N one, I guess, although Peakbagger.com shows the S summit as the true one.

Either one counts as a success, SPHP?

Yes! Good enough for Dingo work, Looper! Unless we see much more of a difference than I expect.

Continuing N past the 3rd minor pass, the road gradually lost elevation. Once beyond the first big rock formations on the R, it leveled out for a stretch, then resumed a slow climb. Lupe was out in the open again W of Albany Peak. Several enormous steep-sided rock ridges were visible way up near the top.

Approaching **Albany Peak**. Photo looks NNE.

Yikes! Still looks a little dicey up there, SPHP!

Yeah, I know it. Was kind of afraid of that.

Nothing to do about it, but keep going. When an even more primitive spur road appeared that went E right up the slope, Lupe took it. Closer now, the views above weren’t any more encouraging than they had been from a distance. The spur road soon curved N, and leveled out. When it turned NW and started downhill, that was it.

On the rough spur road. **N summit** (L), **S summit** (R). Photo looks NE.

Leave the road here, SPHP?

Yup! This first hillside doesn’t look bad at all. With a little luck, we can simply walk right on up to the top of the N summit.

About to leave the spur road where it turns NW (L). Photo looks NE.

Abandoning the road, Lupe pushed through a band of young aspens in a ravine, crossing a tiny stream in the process. A slope partially strewn with rocks and deadfall was ahead. Aiming L of a towering knob of rock partway up, the American Dingo started her ascent.

Starting up! **Albany Peak N summit** (R). Photo looks NE.

Pretty easy at first, but the slope steepened considerably as Lupe drew near the towering knob. Before Lupe even got to it, SPHP was doing a big bad wolf impression, huffing and puffing.

Hold on, Looper! Let’s take a little break!

What? Already, SPHP?

Yes. Been a long time since your last Dingo Vacation. I’m out of shape!

No worries! You’ve got all summer now to get back into shape, SPHP.

Yeesh. Hope it doesn’t take that long!

After a break spent mostly gasping for air while admiring the already lovely views, SPHP was ready to carry on. The towering knob turned out to be just the lower end of a long wall of rock. Happy in its shade, Lupe climbed along the NW side of the wall, which steadily shrank in height as she got higher.

The towering knob and wall beyond it. Photo looks NE.

Wasn’t that far, but SPHP was ready for another breather once Lupe got past the upper end of the wall, which simply melted into the rest of the terrain. Another higher, and much more formidable wall of rock was now in sight.

The next spine of the mountain. Photo looks SSE.

So the upper end of this next wall is the N summit of Albany Peak, SPHP?

Uh-huh. Sure doesn’t look like we’ll be able to get to the top from this side, though.

Might as well see how high we can go, SPHP. Maybe there’s a way?

Fat chance from the looks of it, but we’ll see what we can do. Should have brought your Dingo wings.

**N summit of Albany Peak** (Center). Photo looks ESE.

Climbing toward the N summit, Lupe was soon scrambling amid a jungle of young aspens springing up from a field of huge talus slabs below the highest part of the rock wall. The Carolina Dog got quite high, but was eventually stymied at the base of a near vertical chute.

Heading for the **N summit**. Photo looks ESE.

At the base of the chute. Photo looks up!

Face it, our goose is cooked here, Loop. If we were decent rock climbers we could do it.

How much higher to the top, SPHP?

Can’t tell for sure, Loopster. About 50 feet, I think.

Well shucks, SPHP! So close, and yet so far! Too bad you’re an indecent rock climber, or I’d send you as my personal representative.

Hah! Not happening. Not going to break my fool neck attempting this. Let’s see if we can work our way around to the other side.

A glance over at what appeared to be the **highest rock** (R of Center) **of the N summit** from the NW side. Photo looks S.

Descending NE along the base of the wall of rock, Lupe reached a point where SPHP was able to boost her up onto the ridgeline, then scramble up after her. The narrow spine of the wall continued a long way NE as it sank toward the Wyoming prairies. Albany Peak’s S summit was now in view, too. Another massive, vertical wall of rock, the S summit towered beyond a lower central wall.

Wow! The S summit is impressive, isn’t it, SPHP?

I’ll say, Looper. So much so, that it’s depressive. We’ll never get to the top!

On the **NE spine of the N summit**. Photo looks NE.

**S summit** (Center) from the NE spine of the N summit. Photo looks SSE.

Due to a 6 foot drop, SPHP had to scramble down off the SE side of the ridgeline first, then help lower Lupe. Traipsing S through a region of boulders, bushes, and young aspens, the Carolina Dog managed to get around to a clear view of the N summit from the SE.

**Albany Peak’s N summit**. Photo looks NNW.

Sheesh! N summit’s not happening from this side, either, Loopster. Let’s take another break.

Some cool, gnarly rock formations, aren’t they, SPHP? A rock climber’s dream! But yes, let’s take a break. Bring any water? It’s hot in the sun! I’m missing those mud puddles.

After a short water break, Lupe ventured up to the base of the N summit wall, but probably didn’t get any closer to the top than she had from the other side. Seeing no reasonable route up, SPHP abandoned all hope of a successful N summit ascent.

Hmm, well, I suppose we might as well take a closer look at the S summit, Loop, even though it appears completely impossible for us.

Follow me, SPHP! We’ll check it out!

Leaping over rocks and deadfall, the American Dingo headed for the central ridge.

Approaching the **central ridge between the two summits**. Photo looks SE.

Even getting over the central ridge didn’t look feasible. A gap toward the S end looked like the best way around it. After passing through the gap, the S summit still appeared every bit as daunting as it had before.

Despite appearances, Lupe continued S. Eventually turning E, she climbed through another region of young aspens, deadfall, and boulders.

Glancing back at the **N summit** from the gap. Photo looks N.

**Albany Peak’s S summit** (R) from beyond the gap. Photo looks ESE.

As the Carolina Dog kept going, the terrain kept steepening. Climbing above most of the trees and deadfall, suddenly there was hope! A long, steep slope of bedrock led skyward.

We can do this, SPHP!

My gosh! It is possible? Looks like we can go all the way to the top, Loop!

The **unexpected, promising route** (Center) to the **S summit**. Photo looks NE.

The bedrock got plenty steep. Paw holds weren’t great in spots. The rock was just too smooth. Nevertheless, Lupe had no difficulties at all. Never even got that scary for SPHP. Within a few minutes, SPHP was joining the American Dingo up on a nice level area next to a knob of rock that was easy to scramble onto.

6-8-23, 10:53 AM, 74ºF, Albany Peak (7,720 ft.), S summit region –

Unfortunately, there was more to Albany Peak than that knob. Opposite it, immediately N of the flat area Lupe had reached, a wall of rock rose another 40 or 50 feet that hadn’t been visible from below. Full of little overhangs, there was clearly no way Lupe could get up there.

**Albany Peak’s S summit** from the knob. Photo looks NNW.

Dingo feathers! We’re skunked, Looper! Tried both sides of both summits, and nothing’s worked.

Don’t worry about it, SPHP! Can’t win ’em all. We’ve done our best. We’ll get to the tops of plenty of mountains on this Dingo Vacation. At least we had hope for Albany Peak until nearly the very end. Besides, we can’t have been that far from the true summit, and the views are awesome right here!

True. Although the wall of rock comprising the S summit blocked views to the N, the Carolina Dog enjoyed sweeping views in other directions. Laramie Peak (10,272 ft.) 5.5 miles due W was the big standout, with Albany Peak’s long, gnarly SW ridge sloping away in runner-up position.

**Laramie Peak** (Center) from Albany Peak’s S summit region. Photo looks W.

**Laramie Peak** (R of Center) beyond **Cottonwood Park**. Photo looks W.

The **S summit’s SW ridge** (R). Photo looks S.

**Albany Peak’s S summit ridge** (L) from up on the knob. Photo looks NNE.

After an initial look around, Lupe went over to the knob searching for a spot to settle in. Roasting in the sun, she lapped up a bowl of water, then curled up in a cubby hole among the rocks where at least her head was shaded. By sitting with legs over this grotto, SPHP was able to provide the American Dingo almost complete shade.

Loopster hiding out in her grotto. Photo looks ESE.

Don’t suppose there’s any chance of getting a chocolate coconut bar since we didn’t make it to the top of Albany Peak, is there, SPHP?

None at all, Looper. As a matter of fact, I forgot to bring them. They’re still at home!

At home! That is tragic news, SPHP! How could on earth could you forget the chocolate coconut bars?

Heh. No excuse. Just plain and simple forgot them, but I did remember something else you’ll like. How about some beef jerky?

Beef jerky proved to be an exceptionally popular substitute for chocolate coconut bars. Lupe also gobbled down an entire bowl of Taste of the Wild before dozing off. Meanwhile SPHP drank a Sparkling Ice.

Birds were singing. At one point there was a strange cry like that of a crane or heron. SPHP didn’t see any, but did get a glimpse of two giant deers to the SE. Sunny and warm when Lupe first arrived, cumulus clouds were building, sometimes casting pleasantly cool shade. Time slipped away.

“Summit” hour is about up, Loopster! A few more pictures before we go?

Lupe was all for it. Before departing, she got up on the highest big rock she could easily reach next to the S summit wall, then returned to the top of the knob.

On the big rock next to the **S summit wall** (R). Photo looks S.

Final moments up on **the knob**. Photo looks SE.

Satisfied, SPHP?

Yup. Let’s scoot! Onward! Puppy, ho!

The way back. **Laramie Peak** (R). Photo looks WSW.

Looking down the steep bedrock descent. Photo looks SW.

Although Lupe got down the steep scramble quickly and easily enough, SPHP had to exercise considerable caution. Once down, the American Dingo took a shortcut heading W back to the spur off USFS Road No. 650. Part of this region was meadow, but most of it involved pushing through a combination of young aspens, deadfall, and talus of varying degrees of steepness. All went well. Once down to the road, Lupe retraced her original route.

By the time she made it back to where the wild irises were growing in the little stream, the sky had almost completely clouded over. Raindrops began falling as SPHP donned the red rain jacket. Lupe enjoyed trotting along the winding roads in a cool light rain. Noticing a wigwam W of USFS Road No. 643, she went to investigate. By then, the RAV4 wasn’t much farther.

Checking out the wooden wigwam. Photo looks SW.

Nearly back to the RAV4 (Center). Photo looks S.

6-8-23, 2:05 PM, USFS Road No. 643 at Elk Park –

Albany Peak was fun, SPHP! Great to be back in the Laramie Mountains! Still fairly early, what’s next on the agenda?

A bite to eat, then we’re hitting the road, Loop. We’re on our way to Colorado. Going to stay at Hotel Mika tonight!

We’re leaving the Laramie Range already, SPHP? That’s sad! And what’s this about Hotel Mika?

Yup, afraid we have to leave the Laramie Range, Looper. At least we got a taste of it again. Your Uncle Joe and Aunt Andrea are expecting us tonight in Arvada. Hotel Mika is Hotel Dusty under new management now that both Cousin Dusty and Cousin Laddie are gone.

A cat is running Hotel Dusty now, SPHP?

Yup. Any objections, Loop? You’ll still get to stay in the luxurious Cowboy Room tonight!

The Cowboy Room? Well, what are we waiting for? Onward! SPHP, ho!

Driving SE on Fletcher Park Road on the way to I-25, SPHP kept an eye on Albany Peak in the rearview mirror until a cloudburst swept over it, hiding it from view. Despite never quite getting to the summit, Lupe was right. Her brief return to the Laramie Range had really been fun!

**On the knob near Albany Peak’s S summit**, Laramie Mountains, Wyoming 6-8-23

**Lupe’s Albany Peak GPS track (return)**

In the lap of luxury! Relaxing in the **Cowboy Room** at **Hotel Mika**.

Links:

Prior Dingo Vacation Next Adventure

Lupe’s Scrollable Albany Peak GPS Track

Laramie Peak, Wyoming (8-9-15)

Black Mountain, Laramie Range, WY (6-8-17)

Jack Squirrel Peak, Laramie Range, WY (6-19-17)

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.

Trout Peak, Absaroka Range, Wyoming – Part 2: Agee Creek to the Summit! (7-9-22)

Days 23-26 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming!

7-8-22, 9:16 AM, Agee Creek – Slept long and hard last night, yet still got off to a slow start. The sun was well up, the morning clear and bright, when Lupe emerged from the tiny house. Last night’s rain was but a memory now. The Carolina Dog sniffed around while SPHP puttered about getting ready for the trek ahead.

Low camp near Agee Creek. Photo looks NW.

SPHP was feeling lethargic, but inevitably it was that time.

Onward! Puppy, ho!

Returning to Trout Creek Trail No. 763, Loopster headed NW up a gentle incline. A mere 250 feet, and she reached the 3rd signed trail junction of her journey to Trout Peak thus far.

Trout Creek Trail No. 763 & Robbers Roost (R), West Trout Creek Trail No. 763.1A (L).

We want West Trout Creek Trail No. 763.1A. Stay L, Loop.

No. 763.1A led straight to a sunny hillside of burnt trees. After gaining some elevation, the trail crossed a mucky spot created by a tiny tributary of Agee Creek. Once past the mire, the rate of climb diminished. Lupe came to a live forest of aspens and a few pines in a broad shallow valley.

The shade was wonderful, but didn’t last long. Beyond the aspens, the trail soon led to the flat top of a dusty ridge. A lone wooden pole stood on end with a couple more poles on the ground nearby. The upper Agee Creek drainage basin was now in sight ahead. The N half was all grassy slopes, the S half a mostly dead forest. Robbers Roost (12,040 ft.) was to the NW. The ridge Lupe needed to get to was also in sight.

**Upper Agee Creek drainage** (Center). **Robbers Roost** (R). Photo looks W.

The trail went W from here, coming down off the ridge. Directly ahead, several lines of brown volcanic rocks ran down the open slope Lupe was traversing. The trail dipped enough to pass below the largest of these rock formations where a couple of big pillars reminiscent of yesterday’s Middle Finger Rock stood.

As Lupe drew near the largest pillar, a hawk began screeching, wheeling through the sky overhead. A nest was visible more than halfway up the SE side of the pillar.

Oh, I’ve got a name for that big pillar now, SPHP! And it’s not offensive like the one you chose for the first column we saw yesterday.

No offense intended, Loop, Middle Finger Rock was simply what sprang to mind. Descriptive, not offensive! Anyway, you can name this one. What’s your pleasure?

How about “Raptor Rock”? It’s perfect, SPHP!

I agree, and marvelously inoffensive, Looper. Raptor Rock it is!

Approaching **Raptor Rock** (L of Center). Photo looks WNW.

**Raptor Rock**. Nest visible more than halfway up. Photo looks NW.

Raptor Rock may not have been offensive, but apparently Lupe and SPHP were. The hawk continued to circle screeching displeasure. Fun to watch, but rude to stay too long. After enjoying several minutes of dizzying aerobatics, Lupe continued on her way.

**War hawk**, or soon to be one, if Lupe and SPHP didn’t move along.

Passing **Raptor Rock** (L). Photo looks NE.

The trail soon led to a tributary of Agee Creek, then partway up a slope full of sagebrush. Swinging around to the S side of this slope, the entire upper Agee Creek basin was on display, beautifully defended and boxed in by a high ridge to the WNW. Forested nearby, plenty of open terrain was visible farther on below the enormous ridge.

**Upper Agee Creek basin**. Photo looks WNW.

See where that high ridge comes swooping down over toward the L, Loop? That’s where we’re headed. We need to get over that lower part to return to the Trout Creek valley again. By the looks of these GPS tracks posted by Duane Gilliland and Richard Hensley, they must have gone clear around most of this forested region.

Seems easy enough, SPHP. We aren’t going to have to cross Trout Creek again, are we?

Nope, only a couple of tributaries. Doubt they’ll be a problem.

The trail soon petered out. After going a little farther without finding it again, exploring the forested part of the basin began to seem like a good idea. By now Loopster was feeling hot in her fur coat beneath the July sun. She’d be mighty happy to come across Agee Creek again.

Bushes surrounding the forest made this a questionable decision at first, but SPHP waded through them without too much trouble. Sure enough, Lupe came to one of Agee Creek’s branches almost right away.

Working WSW amid mostly dead trees, Lupe came more rivulets, plus some marshy areas as well. The ground eventually dried out, providing firmer support. Sagebrush reappeared. Traveling through a gigantic meadow of purple wildflowers, Lupe lingered whenever possible in the shade of isolated stands of trees.

**Upper Agee Creek basin** past the wetlands. Photo looks SW.

Beyond the meadow, Lupe reached considerably steeper terrain where a forest had burned. Wandering a maze of deadfall, she found more open territory above it. The ridge separating the upper Agee Creek basin from the Trout Creek valley wasn’t much farther now. SPHP called a halt when the Carolina Dog got to it.

Whew! Seemed harder getting here than it ought to have been. Guess I’m still sort of worn out from yesterday. How long does it take to get in shape anyway, Loop? We’ve been climbing mountains for 3 weeks!

We’re doing OK, aren’t we, SPHP? Here’s the Trout Creek valley again. How much farther do we have to go?

Still quite a long way, Loopster. There’s a flat spot on the topo map at 10,600 feet about 3 miles W of here in the upper valley. Would be great if we could camp there tonight. 3 miles may not sound like much, but that’s as the crow flies, and we’re about to enter more rugged territory.

More scenic, too! The rounded ridge Loop was on featured a few wind-swept trees, but consisted mostly of open ground. The American Dingo enjoyed a great view of the Trout Creek valley from here almost all the way W to the 10,600 foot area SPHP was referring to. Trout Creek was hidden far down in the forest below.

A faint trail left the ridge descending into the valley, but SPHP didn’t trust it not to vanish completely once down in the forest. Rather than taking the trail, Lupe stayed high. Peak 12120 was in sight along the huge ridge at the far end as she headed W.

Heading into the **upper Trout Creek valley**. **Peak 12120** (Center). Photo looks W.

The decision to stay high seemed a good one. Lupe enjoyed tremendous views while making great progress. Eventually the open slope she was on flattened and widened out to some degree. Loopster passed a line of posts running N/S down the mountainside. Some of the posts had coils of unused barbed wire around them.

It didn’t take long to reach a wide valley coming down from the N carved by a tributary of Trout Creek. Robbers Roost (12,040 ft.) was visible at the upper end, and looked like it wouldn’t be a difficult climb from here. Trout Peak was the American Dingo’s top priority, though. Loop kept on going to the stream, where she promptly laid down to cool off.

Approaching the valley of the first stream coming down from the N. **Robbers Roost** (Center & R). Photo looks NW.

Cooling off in the **first tributary of Trout Creek**. Photo looks NNW.

After her refreshing dip, climbing SW out of the stream valley, Loopster found herself on a steeper, rockier slope. Staying high no longer looked as viable as before, so a gradual descent began during this next traverse. Progress was much slower here. As Lupe drew near the upper edge of the forest, a jumble of rocks was hidden among thigh-high bushes.

On the steeper slope beyond the first stream. **Peak 12120** (L). Photo looks W.

At first, the forest wasn’t much of an improvement, but descending a bit more, game trails helped speed things along. The ordeal ended with an even better view of Robbers Roost from along the edge of a second valley carved by another tributary of Trout Creek. Partway up this stream, a waterfall roared down a rockier part of the gorge.

**Robbers Roost** (Center) from the **second tributary of Trout Creek**. Photo looks N.

This second stream was definitely somewhat bigger and livelier than the first one. SPHP had to walk a little way upstream to find a spot where it could be rock-hopped. Once across, a 50 foot climb up a steep bank got Lupe to a small, sloping meadow. Crossing it in just a few minutes, she entered the forest again.

Down by the **second tributary of Trout Creek**.

The sloping meadow beyond the second stream. Photo looks SW.

Wandering WSW, the Carolina Dog came across a trail heading the right direction. The trail persisted, becoming quite clear as it went up a 200 foot high headwall that had been visible earlier on. Once above the headwall, the trail vanished in another meadow.

More forest ahead. Still climbing, but more slowly, Lupe stayed in the meadow which angled NW. Above the trees, a beautiful strip of green territory opened up to the W, bordered by the forest on the S, and a mountainside to the N.

This region was easy traveling, a gradual uphill trek where at times a faint trail pointed the way. Lupe came to a third, much smaller stream gurgling down from a big snowbank to the N.

Heading W along the strip. Photo looks W.

Near the W end of the strip, Lupe came to a shallow depression. To the SW, a beautiful giant bowl was across the valley. SPHP wearily dropped the pack.

Want to stop here, Loop? Please say yes, because I’m about done.

The scenery is marvelous, SPHP! Is this the 10,600 foot region we were aiming for?

No, that’s still a little farther. Saw that area from a distance on the way here, but the terrain is about to get quite a bit steeper ahead, and I just don’t feel like I have the energy to do it right now, Loop.

Are we close enough to get to Trout Peak (12,244 ft.) tomorrow, SPHP?

Oh, I’m pretty sure we are, Looper. We’re at about 10,000 feet here, and while it would sure be nice to get that extra 600 feet out of the way today, I’ll have an easier time of it tomorrow with a lighter pack. We can ditch the tiny house and sleeping bags right here, if we stay. Trout Peak is only 1.25 miles N now. We’ll get there.

5:54 PM, high camp, upper Trout Creek valley – Another early end. Still a few hours of daylight left, but SPHP had the tiny house set up. Loopster relaxed on the grass nearby with a grand view of the big bowl on the far side of the Trout Creek valley.

The big bowl from the tiny house. Photo looks SW.

Dinner, then a nap. At dusk, the Carolina Dog emerged from the tiny house to sniff around a little more. Lupe discovered an old antler, and proudly carried it around in her mouth, every now and then stopping to gnaw on it for a minute or two before ultimately deciding it was too big and difficult to deal with.

Stars appeared. Such amazing solitude! A wonderful evening.

A wind came up later on, flapping the tiny house practically all night. It was a strange, intermittent affair with periods of complete calm between gusts. The American Dingo snoozed like a rock, though. Amazing what sufficient exercise can do.

7-9-22, 7:10 AM, high camp, Upper Trout Creek valley –

Daylight in the swamps, SPHP! And, oh, what a gorgeous day it is, too! Up and at ’em!

Alright, alright! Give me a few minutes, and I’ll be right with you, Looper.

Miss Eager Beaver the next day. Photo looks SW.

We’ve got to go back, Loop!

Back? Back where, SPHP?

To that last little stream we passed below the big snowbank it was coming from. I was listening to the wind last night, and suddenly realized we only have one bottle of water left. We’ve got to fill up before taking on Trout.

The little stream was a 0.25 mile back E, but it didn’t take long to get there and tank up again. A quick return to the tiny house, and it was

Onward! Puppy, ho!

Heading WNW, the terrain steepened, but wasn’t difficult, especially with a lighter pack. Lupe roamed green slopes at will. Soon a sloping ridge came into view.

There’s our ticket to success, Loopster! Trout Peak’s S ridge.

Looks easy, SPHP!

Yeah. That’s the way Duane Gilliland, Mark Adrian, Desert Rat, Bob Bolton, and Richard Hensley went a year ago. They know what they’re doing! We’re just following in their pawsteps. Gonna be cake!

Heading for **Trout Peak’s S ridge** (Center & R). Photo looks NW.

Except it wasn’t. Gradually turning NW, Lupe kept climbing. Soon she was looking down on an upper bowl off to the SW where the 10,600 foot flat region that SPHP had hoped to get to yesterday was. Nothing wrong with that, but going a little farther, suddenly a very steep-sided ravine was ahead. A long, continuous snowbank with a near vertical edge ran along the opposite upper W side.

The **upper bowl** (Center). Photo looks SW.

The **problematic ravine**. **HP11843** (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.

Well, shoot! We’re too high already! We started up too soon, Loop. How are we going to get past this darn ravine?

We can go back down, if you want to, SPHP. Get back on the right track.

Eh. I don’t know. Hate to have to do that. You know me, Loopster. Let’s go a little higher. Maybe there’s a decent spot to cross?

The Carolina Dog didn’t care either way. Up she went, but the situation didn’t improve as far as being able to get past that ravine. If anything, it got worse. No relief in sight. Meanwhile, lots of beautiful open terrain was immediately beyond the ravine. Looked like it went all the way to Trout’s S ridge only 0.5 mile away.

**Trout’s S ridge** (Center & R) beyond the ravine. **HP11843** (R edge). Photo looks NW.

Fiddlesticks! So pathetically easy, and I’ve messed it up! We’re not going to be able to get over there, Looper. Hang on. Lemme check the map.

Are we going to have to go back down, SPHP?

No, I don’t think so. Looks like this all connects. Kinda steep, but it really couldn’t be easier. Shouldn’t run into any problems until we’re almost all the way up to HP11843, which we can already see from here. Doesn’t look too bad. I bet we can find a way. It’s that last 50 or 100 feet of rock bands that may be tricky.

Up then, SPHP?

Yup. Let’s do eet!

Lupe kept climbing. The long, steep slope above was grassy, and full of little wildflowers. Hardly any rocks, and no obstacles at all, other than the limits of lung, heart, and leg endurance. The views kept improving. Looper had plenty of time to enjoy them during SPHP’s frequent pauses to gasp for air.

Heading higher. **HP11843** (L), **Trout Peak’s SE ridge** (Center). Photo looks N.

**Both SW bowls** (L & Center) of the **upper Trout Creek valley**. Photo looks SW.

1,000 feet up before the rate of climb finally diminished. Lupe was now high enough to have a terrific view of Robbers Roost (12,040 ft.).

**Robbers Roost** (R of Center). Photo looks NNE.

The broad, rounded slope got rockier and narrower as Lupe continued N on an easier stroll higher. The ridge she’d reached was soon destined to merge with another one coming up from HP10721. Trout Peak’s summit was already in sight.

Doing great! A little rockier, but not that steep. **HP11843** (L), **Trout Peak** (R of Center). Photo looks NW.

After reaching the ridge junction, Lupe turned NW along Trout Peak’s SE ridge. A nice level stretch led to an increasingly steep climb toward the rock bands forming the prow of HP11843. There were actually 2 prows, the second one a little lower formed by a thinner band of rocks.

Heading for the prow of **HP11843** (Center), **Trout Peak summit** (R). Photo looks NW.

As Lupe closed in on the prow, SPHP studied that upper band of rocks. Hard to say whether Loopster would be able to scramble right on up to HP11843, or not. Sort of looked possible, but might pan out either way.

The American Dingo easily made it up to the lower prow. Plain as day, she would also be able to get near the top of the upper one, but success still didn’t appear assured.

Above the lower prow, but still below **HP11843** (Center). Photo looks NW.

Guess we won’t know until we get there, SPHP.

Yeah, that last little bit still looks mighty steep, Loop. If it goes, that would be great. Certainly the most direct route, but I’m kind of leaning toward traversing this S slope. Looks like we ought to be able to get over to the S ridge from here.

That’s also pretty steep, SPHP. Looks like loose scree, too. Sure you don’t want to give the prow a try first? It’s really not that much higher now.

SPHP demurred. To heck with the prow! Over to that S ridge where Lupe was supposed to have been all along!

Heading for the **S ridge**. Photo looks WNW.

Went fine at first, but halfway across the scree was, indeed, very loose. Little rock showers clattered down the mountain with every step. Even some big stuff wasn’t stable at all. In the end it worked! Lupe reached firm rock along the edge of the S ridge. A quick scramble, and she was there.

The American Dingo now stood on super easy terrain, just small rocks and a bit of scattered vegetation. Still hundreds of feet higher to go, but no sweat! Off to the N, a giant green ramp led up to a hilltop.

That’s it, SPHP! Trout Peak’s summit!

Absolutely! Got it made in the shade now, Looper!

What shade, SPHP?

Just an expression, Loop.

**Trout Peak** (L) from the **upper S ridge**. **HP11843** (R). Photo looks N.

Before heading for the summit, Lupe went over to HP11843 first, which was close by, and really not much of a detour. A quick glance over the edge convinced SPHP that the traverse to the S ridge hadn’t been a bad decision.

The jaunt from HP11843 to the summit was a joyful one! No worries, no obstacles. Lupe was thrilled to find a snowbank still melting away to thrash around on.

**Trout Peak** (R of Center) from **HP11843**. Photo looks N.

On the Dingo refrigerator. **Peak 12120** (L). Photo looks SW.

7-9-22, 11:41 AM, 60ºF, Trout Peak (12,244 ft.) – The wind was 15 mph out of the SW when Lupe reached a semi-circular low wall of rocks up on Trout Peak’s summit ridge. The sky was smoky near the horizons, but visibility was otherwise good. Within the wall of rock, a white tube of the sort that nearly always contains a registry was next to a survey benchmark stamped with the lovely word “Trout”.

The very highest ground looked like it might be a bit farther NW along the summit ridge, which was hundreds of feet long, or maybe a rock along the N edge right here. Coming up from the S, Trout had been a nothingburger romp up the big ramp, but the N edge was a precipice.

Lupe had barely gotten to the summit when the unexpected happened.

SPHP! Someone’s coming!

What? Lupe hadn’t seen a soul since leaving the Jim Creek trailhead 2.5 days ago, and one minute after reaching Trout Peak she had company? Glancing up from the survey benchmark, SPHP saw it was true. A man was rapidly striding this way from the NW.

Moments later, Lupe met Peter Gram.

Peter Gram was soft-spoken and had a relaxed demeanor. He gave Lupe a pat and chatted with SPHP for most of the 20 minutes or so he stayed on Trout Peak. The tale Peter told was fascinating.

Peter had once lived in the Black Hills region where Lupe and SPHP are from. He’d graduated from high school there years ago, and had enjoyed rock climbing in the Black Hills. Peter now lives in Wyoming, working remotely for a Silicon Valley company.

Considering Trout Peak a mere day hike, Peter had left Spout Springs at 6:00 AM this morning. Initially intending to come over Robbers Roost on the way here, he’d gotten near that summit only to find it blocked by a grizzly with 2 cubs.

Forced to retreat, traveling fast and light, Peter had descended into the deep valley N of Trout Peak, and made his way over to the NNW ridge. Not quite noon, yet Peter had already hiked 12 miles, and accumulated over 8,000 feet of total elevation gain just this morning. He attributed his incredible speed and endurance to having taken up running 100 mile marathons 5 years ago.

Including the 3 grizzlies on Robbers Roost, Peter had run into a total of 9 so far. There’d been more grizzlies on Trout Peak’s NNW ridge. Peter had even taken a fabulous video of 2 enormous grizzlies fighting, or maybe playing, on a snowbank not too far from here.

During the course of the conversation, Peter mentioned he’d climbed all 14’ers in the 48 contiguous states. Since it was a long way back to Spout Springs, he eventually excused himself with a friendly good-bye. His plan was to head down to HP11843 where Lupe had come up, scramble down to the ridge leading to Robbers Roost, and hope mama grizzly and her cubs would have moved on by the time he got there.

Then just like that, as quickly as he had arrived, Peter was on his way.

Wow! Doesn’t happen very often, but every now and then we meet some incredible people in the mountains, don’t we, SPHP?

You know, Looper, the mountains are full of humbling experiences. That was another one. Super nice and incredibly capable guy! Thought of telling him about the chipmunk we saw 2 days ago, but somehow I just couldn’t.

Well, you do what you can. Might as well be happy with it. Someone else can always do it higher, faster, farther, better. Just the way it is.

Bet you’re ready for a chocolate coconut bar, Loop! Stand on that highest rock near the edge, then we’ll split one to celebrate the success of our 2.5 day trek to Trout Peak.

Can we toast Peter’s under 6 hour success with some water, too, SPHP? I’m parched!

Oh, but of course, sweet puppy!

Along the **N edge**. **Beartooth Mountains** in the distance. Photo looks N with help from the telephoto lens.

Neither Peter nor SPHP had been able to open the white tube containing the official Trout Peak registry. However, there was also a green bottle of Valerian Root near it that SPHP opened without difficulty. Inside, a few long pieces of paper were stapled together. The top page contained the only entries. Mark Adrian, Bob Bolton, Duane Gilliland, and Richard Hensley, the same group whose GPS tracks and trip reports had inspired Lupe’s visit to Trout Peak today, were all there, and an apparent entry by “jh – NoDak” among the others might have been a clue as to Desert Rat’s true identity.

The only other entry was by Josh Super on 8-1-21.

The benchmark, tightly sealed white tube, and Valerian Root bottle.

Peter Gram hadn’t bothered to sign this flimsy registry before moving on, but SPHP made certain Lupe’s name got added.

There was a lot to see! After relaxing together for a while with Lupe curled up on SPHP’s lap near the survey benchmark, it was time to get up and have a look around. The chocolate coconut bar was long gone, and so was the last of the package of beef jerky SPHP had brought along.

The SE end of the summit ridge was closest, so the American Dingo went that way first. Robbers Roost (12,040 ft.) where Peter Gram would soon be shooing away grizzlies was only a mile E. Rattlesnake Mountain (9,116 ft.), Cedar Mountain (7,880 ft.) and the Buffalo Bill Reservoir were a lot farther SE.

**Robbers Roost** (L), **Rattlesnake Mountain** (Center), **Cedar Mountain** (R of Center), **Buffalo Bill Reservoir** (R). Photo looks SE.

To the NE, Lupe looked down on the huge, deep bowl Peter had visited NW of Robbers Roost after conceding the mountain to the grizzlies. Looking S, the ridge leading to Peak 12120, and the region Josh Super had explored was in view. The narrow ridge W of Peak 12120 featured several unusual and aesthetically pleasing blocky high points.

**Robbers Roost** (far R). Photo looks NE.

**Peak 12120** (L of Center) in the foreground. Photo looks SW.

A journey of several hundred feet was required to reach the NW end of the summit ridge. The view of Trout Peak’s NNW ridge was interesting. It featured a big, flat meadow with ragged cliffs along the edges. How had Peter come up it? The Beartooths were all snowy on the N horizon. With the help of the camera’s telephoto lens, it was possible to pick out Castle Mountain (12,612 ft.).

The twin spires of Pilot Peak (11,699 ft.) and Index Peak (11,240 ft.) were more easily discernable far to the NW, but looked small from here. Windy Mountain (10,262 ft.) was much closer, but not as high.

Part of **Trout Peak’s summit ridge**. **Robbers Roost** (far L), **Rattlesnake Mountain** (L), **Cedar Mountain** (Center). Photo looks SE.

**Trout Peak’s NNW ridge** (L), **Pilot Peak** and **Index Peak** (L) tiny on the horizon. **Windy Mountain** (Center) in shadow. **Beartooths** beyond. Photo looks NNW.

**Castle Mountain** (R of Center) in the **Beartooths**. Photo looks NNW with lots of help from the telephoto lens.

To the W, Dead Indian Peak (12,216 ft.) lined up almost directly behind Dewey Mountain (12,220 ft.). A snowy mountain far beyond both may well have been Sunlight Peak (11,922 ft.).

**Dewey Mountain** (Center). Photo looks W.

**Dewey Mountain** (Center) with **Dead Indian Peak** (slightly R) beyond. Snowy **Sunlight Peak** (slightly L) beyond both. Photo looks W with help from the telephoto lens.

Mountains stretched away in every direction as far as Loopster could see, except to the E, where it was clear they eventually came to an end. A big bowl NW of Peak 12120 with many snow-capped mountains in the distance was a favorite scene, but it was all splendid, a vast wilderness waiting to be explored!

**Peak 12120** (L) and the bowl NW of it (Center). Photo looks SW.

7-9-22, 1:19 PM, Trout Peak (12,244 ft.) – Peter had left more than an hour ago. Now Lupe’s time had come. The American Dingo stood in the SW breeze atop that high rock along the brink of the N edge only a few feet from the survey benchmark for the last time. When and if she might ever actually get to explore more of this wonderful part of the Absaroka Range was an unknown, part of the uncertain future.

Final moments on **Trout Peak**. **Beartooths** beyond. Photo looks NNW.

The Carolina Dog had made it to Trout Peak, though, despite it being a 2.5 day journey at SPHP’s pace, and that was all that mattered today.

Onward! Puppy, ho!

A brief pause for a last look at all the glory before descending the broad green ramp leading down to HP11843, and Lupe was on her way.

About to start the descent to **HP11843** (L). **Peak 12120** (R). Photo looks SW.

Going down was so easy and fun! Spectacular views all around every step of the way. This time Lupe did go down Trout Peak’s S ridge, taking the route originally intended for her ascent. Turned out to be rockier than expected, but not difficult at all. Views of the upper Trout Creek valley far below were incredible.

On the S ridge. **Trout Creek valley** (R). Photo looks SE.

Eventually Looper got down close to where the 10,600 foot plain SPHP had hoped to pitch the tiny house at last night was just across the way. Good thing that last effort required to get there had never been made. Someone else had already claimed it!

An enormous snowbank occupied part of the valley. The Carolina Dog had a blast on it! Exploration of this new part of the Trout Creek valley continued until the tiny house finally appeared ahead.

**Tiny house** (Center) in sight! **Rattlesnake Mountain** (L), **Cedar Mountain** (Center). Photo looks SE.

Lupe ate, then relaxed enjoying the fabulous view of the big bowl across the valley while SPHP packed up the tiny house.

How far are we going, SPHP?

As far as we can before it gets dark, Loop, or until one of us just can’t go any farther.

This time SPHP did a much better job of following West Trout Peak Trail No. 763.1A. Lost it once for 15 minutes in the forest, but otherwise it all went well. Most of this route was considerably lower than where Lupe had been on the way in yesterday.

7-9-22, 7:05 PM, Trout Creek valley – SPHP lasted long enough for Loop to make it past both tributaries of Trout Creek coming down from the N, but that was it. The tiny house was set up on a grassy meadow just E of the last stream. Lupe had been energetic all this way, but now even she was looking tired, wanting to rest while watching the evening sunlight leave the mountains.

**Robbers Roost** (L) now far up the valley. Photo looks NNW.

The mountain across the way. Photo looks SW.

7-10-22, 3:46 PM, 90ºF, Jim Creek trailhead – It was a long march back over all the same hills and ridges, following the same trails, and crossing all the same streams as 3 days ago, but the American Dingo had done it. Although the RAV4 was baking hot, Lupe couldn’t wait to leapt back up onto her pink blanket.

Crazy Dingo! You’re going to cook in there!

SPHP opened all the windows, and the rear hatch. A hot, desert breeze blew the super-heated air out of the RAV4 in no time. Lupe was panting hard, but didn’t seem to care. Soon enough, SPHP had everything back in order. The AC was on, the RAV4 on its way back to Hwy 14/16/20, and life was good!

Lupe’s Trout Peak adventure was over. What a grand time it had been!

As it turned out, Trout Peak was also the final adventure of this entire Dingo Vacation. There’d been plans for a stop in the Bighorns next, but E of Cody a ferocious wind swept in out of the N. 51ºF, temp dropping, and a gale when Loop arrived N of Bald Mountain (10,042 ft.).

Well, Loopster, I’m no Peter Gram. Cramping up, and feeling worn out. Been a fabulous trip to Wyoming, but we can be home yet late tonight.

Is that what you want to do, SPHP?

Yeah, let’s go get cleaned up, rested up, and resupplied. Big things ahead, you know! Canada’s opened up!

We’re going to Canada again, SPHP? We haven’t been there in 3 years!

Darn tootin’ we’re going to Canada, Dingo! And Alaska, too!

(End, home, 7-11-22, 1:06 AM)

On **Trout Peak**, Absaroka Range, Wyoming 7-9-22

Links:

Next Adventure Prior Adventure

Trout Peak, Absaroka Range, WY – Part 1: Jim Creek to Agee Creek (7-7-22)

Francs Peak, Absaroka Range, Wyoming – Part 1: The Meadow Creek Trail & Beyond! (7-15-20)

Francs Peak Absaroka Range, Wyoming – Part 2: HP12064 – Part 2: HP12064 to the Summit! (7-15-20)

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Trout Peak, Absaroka Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Jim Creek to Agee Creek (7-7-22)

Days 20-22 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming!

7-5-22, 7:34 AM – What a gorgeous morning in the Wind River Range! Across the North Creek valley War Bonnet Peak (12,369 ft.) soared into the blue flanked by Sundance Pinnacle (11,054 ft.) on the L, and more distant Pingora Peak (11,884 ft.) beyond Jackass Pass on the R.

**Sundance Pinnacle** (L), **War Bonnet Peak** (Center), **Pingora Peak** (R). Photo looks NW.

I’m going to miss Dog Tooth Paradise, SPHP!

Me too, Looper, but this is it, I’m afraid. We’re 100% completely, totally out of food.

We’ve got supplies at the RAV4, though, don’t we?

Of course we do, Loop. Just nothing left in the pack here. Brunch when we get to the trailhead!

Not a soul was on any of the trails, even super popular Big Sandy Trail No. 099. Lupe trotted ahead in fine spirits. SPHP’s spirits improved, too, after stopping to goop up with Eucalyptus cream which helped ward off the mosquitoes. When the opportunity arose, Loop once again took the less traveled route past Diamond Lake and V Lake. A long march, but a scenic one, and downhill or level nearly the entire way. Famished, Loopster arrived back at Big Sandy Opening at 11:07 AM.

By mid-afternoon, the American Dingo was in Lander. 94ºF on the way into town, but it didn’t seem that bad relaxing at the city park beneath the big old cottonwood trees. Loop could always wet her paws in the Middle Popo Agie River, which although quite a bit lower than it had been only 2 weeks ago, still had good flow.

7-6-22 – The morning turned cloudy shortly after sunrise. Only 64ºF at noon leaving Lander, but the day warmed up on the road N. 86ºF in the Wind River Canyon on the way to Thermopolis, hot enough for SPHP to enjoy a swim in Rattler Whirlpool, although Lupe preferred wading or laying in the shade watching.

Southbound train from **Rattler Whirlpool**. Photo looks NW.

The hour spent at Rattler Whirlpool was the highlight of the day, but wasn’t all that happened. On the way to Meeteetse, SPHP pulled off Hwy 120 for a while to allow a hailstorm ahead drift off to the E. Rained in Cody while picking up supplies. A little after that, Lupe was enjoying chocolate-coated mini-doughnuts while watching seagulls swooping over Buffalo Bill Reservoir from a pullout along Hwy 14/16/20 with a view of Cedar Mountain (7,880 ft.).

7-6-22, 7:10 PM, Hwy 14/16/20, 7 miles W of the W end of Buffalo Bill Reservoir –

Well, shoot! Here’s the Shoshone River bridge. How could I have missed the turn, Loop? I was watching for it!

Don’t ask me, SPHP! I’m watching for cows and horses. What turn are you looking for, anyway? Where are we trying to get to?

At the moment, we’re just looking for the Jim Creek trailhead. Should have been a road going N less than a mile back, but I didn’t see one. Hang on, I’ll turn around.

The second pass did the trick. Heading W, the turn had been hidden by a ridge until almost the last moment, but Jim Mountain Road was easy to spot going E. A big brown building and an odd sign were at the turn.

At the start of **Jim Mountain Road** on the N side of Hwy 14/16-20 which goes to Yellowstone’s E entrance W of Cody.

Signage at the start of Jim Mountain Road.

Why so puzzled, SPHP? What do the signs say?

Well, one says this is the way to the Jim Mountain Trailhead, which is where we’re trying to get to, although I thought it was Jim Creek, not mountain. The other says “Recreational Users: Please use Four Bear Trailhead 1/4 mile E”.

That is strange, SPHP. Does that mean recreational users aren’t allowed at the Jim Mountain Trailhead? Aren’t we recreational users? Maybe it’s only for business travelers?

Almost does seem to imply we aren’t welcome here, Loop, since we’re most definitely recreational users. After all, this is your Dingo Vacation, not your Dingo Business Trip. Why would that be, though? I’ve never heard of a trailhead that wasn’t for recreational users before. Furthermore, most business travel doesn’t involve an awful lot of wandering around in the mountains.

So, what are we going to do, SPHP?

Well, my Dingo partner in crime, let’s have a look at the Jim Mountain Trailhead before deciding.

Going N on Jim Mountain Road, which was good gravel, the road soon wound steeply up onto a sagebrush-covered ridge before resuming its course N. This whole area was a subdivision of nice homes spaced out on small acreages.

Looking for a turn L on USFS Road No. 405 roughly 1.5 miles from the highway, Wapiti Heights Drive appeared instead, which had to be the same thing, since another sign confirmed this was the way to the Jim Mountain Trailhead.

Evidently on the right track. Photo looks NW.

7-6-22, 7:42 PM, Jim Creek Trailhead, Shoshone National Forest – Wapiti Heights Drive wound around to the W losing elevation even faster than the climb up onto this ridge had been. The road passed more homes all the way to the end where No Trespassing signs were near a gate. The gate was open though, so SPHP simply drove through right on up a little rise to the trailhead.

The sun was already getting low when Lupe arrived. SPHP parked the RAV4 at one of 5 or 6 spots separated by long metal pipes evidently meant for vehicles pulling trailers, and the Carolina Dog leapt out. A lone outhouse stood on a small hill. Beyond it a couple of single track trails headed N up a sagebrush-dotted slope toward a 600 foot high wall of brown rock a mile away with a volcanic look about it.

The only trailhead information was the usual boilerplate about being in bear country, and a sign about investing in stocks.

**Jim Creek trailhead**. Photo looks NNW.

Important trailhead tip: Don’t forget to bring your horse.

Hmm. “Camping Permitted Only With Saddle/Pack Stock” Knew there was something I was forgetting, Loopster. I forgot to pack a horse!

While Lupe sniffed around the perimeter of the empty parking lot, SPHP noticed lots of prickly pear cactus among the sagebrush. 4 or 5 hitching posts were nearby, but no horse poop, hay, or trampled ground. Despite the homes on the ridge, Jim Creek felt like the trailhead that time forgot.

7-7-22, 8:05 AM, 71ºF, Jim Creek Trailhead – Hardly a cloud in the sky as SPHP got the pack ready. Brilliant morning sun on the line of brown cliffs to the NW highlighted the rugged volcanic stone. Lupe sniffed lazily about, or laid in the shade of the RAV4, watching.

About ready to leave the **Jim Creek trailhead**. Photo looks NW.

Bringing the tiny house again, SPHP?

Heh, yeah, it’s a long way to Trout Peak (12,244 ft.), Looper. Maybe I’ll just ditch the rain jacket here at the RAV4, though? No rain at all in the forecast the next several days. Do I really need to cart it all the way to Trout Peak and back? Might be better off packing extra sunscreen!

Your call, SPHP. How long will we be gone?

At least 3 days, maybe 4, Loop. Last year Josh Super did Trout in only 2. Took the scenic route way up on the ridges, but as SPHP Not-So-Hot, I’m not at all sure I can go that way, and absolutely positive we won’t make it to Trout Peak and back in any 2 days.

What route are we going to take then, SPHP?

You know, Loop, I’d always figured that we’d try for Trout from the N, from Dead Indian Pass, or come up Dead Indian Creek near Dead Indian campground along Chief Joseph Scenic Highway No. 296. That’s such a long trek, though, I wasn’t sure I could lug enough supplies to last us.

I sure wouldn’t be inclined to go that way if I were an Indian, SPHP! Chief Joseph Scenic Highway, that’s the way to the Beartooths, isn’t it?

Right on, Looper! Anyway, I’d always wondered what the best approach was, and then one day I saw that Duane Gilliland, Mark Adrian, Desert Rat, Bob Bolton, and Richard Hensley had also been to Trout Peak last year right about this time. They took a series of trails from here at the Jim Creek trailhead that got them close to the mountain. After a look at their GPS tracks and reading their trip reports, I’m convinced we stand a good chance of actually getting to Trout Peak, if we follow their lead. Easier than how Josh Super went, and not as far as coming in from the N.

And you said there are trails most of the way, SPHP? Shouldn’t be that hard then, if they’re in decent shape.

My thoughts, too, Loop. A nice long march with a fair amount of up and down, but no super steep territory until we get close to Trout Peak.

Sounds good! Are you ready yet, SPHP?

Yes! A word to the wise, though, Loopster. Lots of cactus around here, so stick to the trail until we get past it. Onward! Puppy, ho!

Heading N on Trail No. 762, Lupe stayed right at SPHP’s heels. The day was warming up fast beneath the full sun, as the American Dingo went up a long sagebrush-dotted slope. Soon her pink tongue was hanging out. Hardly any shade at all, so whenever a lone, scraggly juniper tree did appear, Lupe wanted to take advantage of it.

A deserty experience, this first long trudge featured beauty, too. Insects hummed among a surprising variety of wildflowers, some of which were on the dreaded cacti.

Climbing steadily, progress was good as the trail headed for the N end of the badlandy volcanic cliffs. After gaining 700 feet of elevation, No. 762 leveled out and turned NW straight for them. A big cairn was up here, and the Jim Creek valley was now in sight to the N.

Approaching the volcanic cliffs. Photo looks NW.

**Jim Creek valley** from the cairn. Photo looks NNE.

Near the base of the cliffs, the trail turned N. More trees appeared. The trail bounced along for a bit with little net elevation gain through a land of interesting rock formations. The first, an improbable vertical pillar. Four Bear Benchmark (7,606 ft.) was in view off to the E.

This pillar is quite the landmark, SPHP! What shall we call it?

How about Middle Finger Rock, Looper?

That’s just rude, SPHP!

It was, but the name stuck.

**Middle Finger Rock** (R of Center). **Four Bears Benchmark** (far R). Photo looks ENE.

Among more rock formations. **Four Bear Benchmark** (R). Photo looks E.

Leaving the rock formations behind, the trail began climbing again as Lupe entered the Jim Creek valley. A nice forest provided welcome relief from the hot sun. At first, Jim Creek could only be heard somewhere well down the slope to the E, but after 0.5 mile, the Carolina Dog came to a ford. Jim Creek was too big for SPHP to rock hop, but not very deep. Wading across was easy, and the cold water felt good on the paws.

0.2 mile beyond the ford, Lupe came to a signed fork. No. 762 angled L here destined for the Jim Mountain (10,430 ft.) region. Trail No. 762.1A, aka the Jim Mountain cut-across, went R. SPHP checked the map.

Stay R here, Loop. Take No. 762.1A.

No. 762.1A continued N up the valley, gradually turning E. Jim Creek had gone the other way, and hadn’t been seen since the ford, anyway. For a while, there was little to be seen except trees.

The trail had been going SE, and was beginning to flatten out and turn E again, when Lupe reached a small clearing. HP9536 and HP9351 were now visible off to the NW. A little past the small clearing, the Carolina Dog came to a much larger one. After going through a gap in a barbed wire fence, No. 762.1A turned NE up a long open slope toward HP8245.

Thousands of white moths flitted among wildflowers and sagebrush. There were big views here with Rattlesnake Mountain (9,116 ft.), the Buffalo Bill Reservoir, and Cedar Mountain (7,880 ft.) all in the distance to the E. Table Mountain (8,504 ft.) was easily identifiable beyond the Shoshone River valley to the S. Already tiring from the long uphill march, even Lupe paused to relax and look around.

**HP9536** (L) and **HP9351** (R of Center) from the small clearing. Photo looks NW.

Back in open territory again. **HP8245** (L). Photo looks NE.

**Table Mountain** (L of Center) while Lupe takes a break. Photo looks SSW.

Instead of going all the way to the top of HP8245, Trail No. 762.1A curved E upon approaching the steepest part. Lupe traversed a slope of brilliant yellow wildflowers at this turn, beyond which the trail passed more rock formations. A final rocky knob appeared at HP8245‘s SE corner.

Yellow wildflowers at the curve E on **HP8245‘s upper S slope**. Photo looks NE.

**Sheep Mountain** (L), **Four Bear Benchmark** (far L). Photo looks SE toward the **Shoshone River valley**.

Hey, that knob’s kind of cool! Want to get up there, Looper? I’ll give you a boost.

Sure, but be careful. Don’t drop me, SPHP!

According to the topo map, this is the trail’s high point for today, Loop. Want to take a break here? Water and a chocolate coconut bar in it for you, if you do.

If there’d been any doubt about taking a break, which there really wasn’t, the chocolate coconut bar offer sealed the deal. After an assist getting off the knob, Lupe sat down next to SPHP.

So, were done climbing for the day? How high are we here, SPHP?

About 8,120 feet, Loop. I figure we’ve gained roughly 1,900 feet in about 3.5 miles from the trailhead so far. We aren’t done climbing, though, by any means. Quite a bit of elevation gain yet to come, but interspersed with some equally long downhill stretches, too. Won’t have much to show for our trouble other than distance traveled. We’ll have a net loss from here.

Easier than going uphill all the time, SPHP!

True enough, Looper, but you know I always hate to surrender hard won elevation gains just to rinse and repeat.

Nearly noon when Lupe hit Trail No. 762.1A again. Right away there were changes. For the first time, the trail began a long, gradual descent through a forest that had burned. Loopster started coming to deadfall. Fortunately, not enough to cause much of a problem. Hardly any shade, but on the other paw, the fire had opened up the views to some extent. So many dead trees were still standing, though, that the American Dingo seldom enjoyed a clear one.

Entering the burnt forest just beyond Rocky Knob. Photo looks NE.

A rare unobstructed view. Part of **Rattlesnake Mountain** (L), **Cedar Mountain** (Center), part of **Buffalo Bill Reservoir** (R). Photo looks ESE.

The trail soon curved sharply NW, descending into a valley where it then turned NE. Lupe had lost more than 400 feet of elevation by the time she reached a junction where an old sign was propped up against a tree. This was the end of Jim Mountain cut-across Trail No. 762.1A.

Heading into the next valley. Photo looks NW.

Well, Loop, seems we’ve got a choice of Trout Creek Trail No. 763 to the L, or Four Bear Trail No. 763.1B to the R.

Oh, that’s an easy one, SPHP! Trout Creek must be close to Trout Peak, so we better go that way.

Going L, as the Carolina Dog had correctly surmised, it was only 200 feet to a tiny stream. A stand of live trees here provided some shade. After a drink, Lupe curled up beneath a couple of small, leafy bushes.

This must be Gunnysack Creek, Loop. Not exactly a raging torrent is it? We’re pretty close to the source.

Enough to get a drink, and a raging torrent would only be a problem, SPHP.

Yeah, we’ll be coming to quite a few streams, so let’s hope none of them are torrents, unless there happens to be a decent bridge.

I wouldn’t count on that, SPHP.

Taking a break by tiny **Gunnysack Creek**.

Trail No. 763 continued N, but not straight N. As the map indicated, Lupe came to a series of streams separated by big ridges. A zig-zag pattern kept repeating itself on the way to each stream. First, the trail would climb NE up onto the next ridge, which might involve anywhere from a 100 to 300 foot elevation gain. The trail would then flatten out, heading N across the ridge before angling NW descending into the next valley where Lupe would ultimately reach the next stream.

Most of this region had once been heavily forested. However, nearly the entire forest had burned. Trail No. 763 did pass through scattered stands of live trees, always nice due to the shade provided, but these stretches were never very long. Up on the ridges, Lupe often journeyed through meadows where sweeping views were available toward the E.

From the very first ridge past Gunnysack Creek, an indication of trouble was ahead. The morning’s clear blue skies were long gone. Cumulus clouds were building, and the sky was starting to look dark to the N.

Crossing the **first ridge N of Gunnysack Creek**. Photo looks NNW.

The first stream N of Gunnysack Creek was a S tributary of Laughing Water Creek, which came next. Although larger than Gunnysack Creek, both were easily stepped over or rock-hopped.

At the **S tributary of Laughing Water Creek**. Photo looks WSW.

Cooling off in **Laughing Water Creek**. Photo looks WSW.

Burnt Creek came after Laughing Water Creek, and was also an easy rock hop. Trout Peak (12,244 ft.) finally came into view, which allowed SPHP to positively identify Robbers Roost (12,040 ft.) as well.

**Trout Peak** (Center), **Robbers Roost** (R). Photo looks NW.

Continuing N, occasional glimpses of Trout Peak gradually improved. Meanwhile, the weather was looking more iffy. Thunder sometimes rumbled in the distance.

Starting the descent to **Stockade Creek**. Photo looks NW.

**Trout Peak** (L), **Robbers Roost** (R). Photo looks NW with help from the telephoto lens.

Your decision to leave the rain jacket back at the RAV4 isn’t looking so great now, Einstein.

Yeah, wish I had that one back, Loop, but there hadn’t been a drop of rain in the forecast. Supposed to be sunny and hot for 4 days!

And it was, for 4 hours!

Stockade Creek was too big to rock-hop. Still an easy ford, but caused some delay as SPHP went through the routine of removing boots and socks to wade it barepaw. The cold water did feel good, although SPHP wasn’t looking forward to experiencing it dropping out of the sky.

A little past Stockade Creek, Lupe came to an old wooden bridge over a marshy spot. The sky now looked quite dark ahead.

Fording **Stockade Creek**. Photo looks SW.

Nothing happened, though. The sky brightened again crossing the next ridge. A temporary respite, perhaps. On the way to Singing Brook, Lupe came to a flat field of yellow and purple wildflowers. This appeared to be a great place to camp, but Trout Peak was still a long way off. Lupe needed to get farther before calling it a day.

Sunnier again on the way to Singing Brook. Photo looks NNE.

In the field of yellow and purple flowers. Photo looks N.

Thus far, the trails had been easy to follow, but No. 763 vanished as Lupe crossed the field. Continuing the same way, SPHP was surprised when there was no sign of the trail at the edge of a 10 foot deep ravine full of deadfall and bushes. Searching W (L), the trail was soon rediscovered at a better spot to cross the ravine.

It wasn’t much farther to Singing Brook, which also proved to be too big to rock-hop, but another easy ford. Once across, it also proved to be the only creek Lupe had come to with any signage.

By the **Singing Brook** sign. Photo looks W.

Beyond Singing Brook, Trail No. 763 went around the E end of the next ridge, then turned N entering the Trout Creek valley. Glimpses of Trout Creek were to the E, and from the white water and roar it was making, Trout Creek was clearly a far more serious proposition than any of the other streams Lupe had come to today.

Oh, my gosh, Loopster! Let’s hope there’s a bridge!

No such luck.

Aye yi yi, Looper! How are we going to get across this?

Trout Creek wasn’t huge, but it was absolutely full bank to bank of swift water plunging down a series of rapids. Trail No. 763 led straight into it at a sharp bend between a cascade immediately upstream, and a logjam immediately below. Sticking a trekking pole into the turgid stream a mere foot from the near bank, the water was easily mid-thigh on SPHP, and way over Lupe’s head.

Clearly any attempt to cross here would doom the Carolina Dog to being instantly swept downstream. A moment later, Lupe would be pinned underwater against the logjam by the full force of the merciless torrent, a certain death sentence from which no rescue would be possible.

What did the trip reports you read say, SPHP?

None of them made any mention of this, Loop. Maybe the flow was a lot less then?

We didn’t come all this way just to turn around, SPHP! There must be somewhere we can cross. Which way does the trail go on the other side?

NNW up the valley, Looper.

Let’s go upstream then, SPHP. There’s lots of deadfall, maybe we can find a big log that will get us across?

Seemed like the only possible solution. Traversing wet ground that had apparently been beneath the flood until very recently, Lupe worked her way around the near side of the cascade, clambering over a jumble of deadfall in the process.

Continuing upstream, the search began for a suitable deadfall bridge. Trout Creek was straighter and less threatening up this way, and quite a few logs had fallen over the creek, which was all encouraging.

Several hundred feet upstream, a big log appeared that looked like it might do.

Approaching the potential **Dingo Bridge** over **Trout Creek**. Photo looks NW.

A fall wouldn’t be any fun, but Trout Creek didn’t appear to be the death trap here that it was down where the trail crossed it.

From what we’ve seen, this is probably about as good as it’s going to get, Loop. Stay here, I’ll go first.

Taking baby steps, SPHP started across. The log seemed sturdy enough, if not as wide as SPHP would have liked. Halfway across, confidence and the urge to get to that opposite bank grew. A few quick, big steps, and the ordeal was over and done with.

Your turn, Loop!

Without the slightest hesitation, the Carolina Dog leapt up onto the log, and raced over Trout Creek like it was nothing.

Show off!

4 on the floor for added stability and confidence, SPHP!

Being safely past Trout Creek was cause for immediate joy and relief! Bounding up a short steep bank, Lupe then crossed a flat area chock full of more deadfall before reaching Trail No. 763 again. Back in business! Turning NNW, a gradual climb soon led to a big gap in the ridge to the E. The trail turned NE here, going right through the gap, leaving Trout Creek behind.

Once through the gap, the trail turned NW. Lupe had reached the Agee Creek valley, and soon came to a pleasant little stream. Happily, Agee Creek presented none of the dangers of Trout Creek.

Continuing NW, Agee Creek was easily heard nearby, but hidden in a ditch full of trees and bushes. The sky was looking more threatening again when Lupe came to a small clearing sporting a stone fire ring. A sign for another trail junction was in sight only 250 feet ahead.

7-7-22, 5:15 PM, Agee Creek – Hours of daylight left, but SPHP was weary. Loop had accumulated roughly 3,000 feet of total elevation gain over the course of 9.5 miles since leaving the trailhead this morning.

How are you feeling, Looper? We haven’t made it as far as I’d hoped, but at least we’ve made it to our minimum goal for the day. Looks like rain. Want to stop here?

You mean for the night, SPHP? I’m happy with that. Better than getting drenched!

SPHP had no sooner dropped the pack than big raindrops started to fall. Retreating to the shelter of a large pine, the shower lasted only 5 or 10 minutes. SPHP managed to get Lupe’s tiny house set up and the rain cover on before it started raining again.

Didn’t matter, Loopster had made it into the tiny house just in time. A hearty dinner with beef jerky for dessert! Then warm and dry, snuggly wrapped in her red sleeping bag, it was off to Dingo Dreamland while the rain came down.

Awaiting dinner at **low camp near Agee Creek**, Absaroka Range, Wyoming 7-7-22

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