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.

Among the wildflowers.
In pristine condition!
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.

At the 2nd stream. Photo looks N.
Wild irises.

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.
At the 3rd pass. Photo looks N.

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.

At the 3rd official trail junction.
Trout Creek Trail No. 763 & Robbers Roost (R), West Trout Creek Trail No. 763.1A (L).
And a more legible different version.

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.

Near the aspens. Photo looks NW.

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.

Enjoying headwaters of Agee Creek.

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.
In the huge meadow. Photo looks WSW.

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.
Zoomed in on the waterfall.

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.
Tiny wildflowers.
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”.

On Trout Peak! Photo looks NW.
Trout survey benchmark.

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.

With Peter Gram on Trout Peak.

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.
The Trout Peak mini-registry.

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!

Lupe alert! Giant deers at 10,600 feet!

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.

Wind River Canyon. Photo looks NNW.
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.

Indian Paintbrush.
Flowering cactus.

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.

Fording Jim Creek.

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.

At the fork. Photo looks N.
The fading signage.

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.

Trail No. 762.1A. Photo looks NNE.

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.
Wildflowers.
Back in open territory again. HP8245 (L). Photo looks NE.
One of countless white moths.
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!

On the knob. Photo looks SE.

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.
Signage at the 2nd trail junction.

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.
A chipmunk that got Lupe’s attention.
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.
N of Burnt Creek. Photo looks NE.

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.
Crossing the marsh. Photo looks N.
Lupe by some lupines.

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.

Fording Singing Brook.
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.

Trout Creek. Photo looks NW.

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.

On the Dingo Bridge.

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.

Agee 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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Dog Tooth Peak & Mitchell Peak, Wind River Range, WY – Part 2: Dog Tooth Paradise to the Summits! (7-4-22)

Day 19 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming!

6:53 AM, base camp at Dog Tooth Paradise – A few raindrops had fallen on the tiny house at first light, but the morning was cool and fair now.  Some high clouds, but they weren’t at all threatening as Lupe stood in a light SW breeze on the bedrock of the 10,200+ ft. ridge.

Behind her, the upper half of War Bonnet Peak (10,369 ft.) and tiptop of Sundance Pinnacle (11,054 ft.) were in sunshine.  Beyond Jackass Pass in the distance, Pingora Peak (11,884 ft.), mighty guardian of the Cirque of the Towers, was bathed in sunlight, too.

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

Wow!  What a spectacular setting, and we haven’t even set out yet!  We are in for one fabulous day sweet puppy!

I’ve been thinking, SPHP.  Let’s climb Dog Tooth Peak (12,488 ft.) first.  It’s closest, highest, and my top priority.

Don’t want to miss out on ol’ Dingo Fang, aye, Loopster?  Consider this, though, Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.) is a mere 6 feet lower, and will have the grandest view of the Cirque of the Towers.  Ought to be able to see Lonesome Lake, too.  Furthermore, if things go well, provided we start with Mitchell, Dog Tooth and Big Sandy Mountain (12,416 ft.) might both be possible.  Since it’s in the middle, climbing Dog Tooth first means an either/or choice from there.

Still quite a few clouds around, SPHP.  I’d rather not take a chance on the weather deteriorating and not make it to Dog Tooth Peak.  Since Mitchell is your highest priority, we can do that next.

And it doesn’t bother you to forfeit any chance at Big Sandy, Loop?

SPHP, yesterday you said yourself that we probably couldn’t get to all 3 in a single day.  So, let’s not bite off more than we can chew, and focus on what’s most important to us.

Alrighty, then!  Sounds like a plan.  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

About to set out for Dog Tooth Peak (R) and Mitchell Peak (L). Photo looks NE.

Leaving the 10,200+ ft. ridge, Lupe headed NE down into the heart of Dog Tooth Paradise.  After leaping over the tributary of North Creek flowing through the center of this incredibly beautiful valley, Loopster began her ascent of Dog Tooth Peak (12,488 ft.) from a little S of Dog Tooth Waterslide, which she’d visited yesterday evening.

Starting up Dog Tooth Peak. Photo looks NE.

Nearly 2,300 feet to the top, up every step of the way!  Although steepish, the initial climb was very enjoyable, and really not hard at all.  Looper traveled along exposed bedrock, winding her way higher through a thin, scattered forest that had sprung up wherever a bit of soil presented an opportunity.  In some places, small streams ran through green meadows below big shelves of rock.

Exploring a meadow. Photo looks NNE.

By the time the Carolina Dog was 400 feet above Dog Tooth Paradise, she was above most of the trees.  The views were already tremendous!  To the S, Temple Peak (12,972 ft.), Scheistler Peak (12, 640 ft.), and much of Big Sandy Lake were in sight.  Continuing to climb, Lupe roamed at will over huge slabs of bedrock.  Watered by snow melt trickling down the rocks, a fair amount of low vegetation remained.

Above the forest. Mitchell Peak (Center). Photo looks N.
Temple Peak (L), Schiestler Peak (Center), and Big Sandy Lake (R). Photo looks S.
Continuing up the slabs. Mitchell Peak (Center). Photo looks N.
Wandering a series of small ledges. Dog Tooth Peak (L of Center). Photo looks NE.

The rate of climb steepened.  SPHP was forced to stop to gasp for air more and more often.  Lupe relaxed or sniffed about as she saw fit.  To the NW, Pylon Peak (12,378 ft.), Watch Tower (12,326 ft.), Sharks Nose (12,229 ft.), Overhanging Tower (12,164 ft.), and Wolfs Head (12,160 ft.) all came into sight strung out along the Cirque of the Towers beyond Jackass Pass.

War Bonnet Peak (L), Mitchell Peak (R). At Center in the gap from L to R: Pylon Peak, Watch Tower, Sharks Nose, Overhanging Tower, and Wolfs Head. Photo looks NW.

The slabs went on and on, but finally did come to an end.  Lupe entered a region of rougher terrain.  Fortunately, lanes of vegetation provided relatively easy routes higher.  Although these lanes never completely disappeared, they became scarcer and scarcer.

Entering rougher terrain above the slabs. Dog Tooth Peak (Center). Photo looks ESE.

The rocks grew bigger.  For a long way, Loopster leapt from boulder to boulder on steep fields of large talus.  SPHP was terrible at this.  Progress was dreadfully slow.  Some scrambling was required, none of it too scary with a little caution.

Among the talus. Photo looks ESE.

Near the top, the rate of climb diminished.  Suddenly there was much more greenery again.  An easy stroll led to a football field size plain strewn with boulders, many of which laid conveniently flat.

Getting close to the top. Photo looks S.

SPHP was initially disappointed to see that the high point a little to the S that Lupe had been climbing toward wasn’t actually the true summit.  A bouldery 60 foot high ridge NE of it was clearly higher.  Almost a vertical wall, getting up there looked problematic, maybe impossible.  Happily, an even higher ridge was a little farther N.

Although similar in appearance, this N ridge wasn’t quite as daunting.

Arriving at Dog Tooth Peak’s summit plain. S high point that Lupe had been climbing toward (L of Center). Photo looks S.
The daunting NE ridge. Photo looks ENE.
The N ridge. Photo looks NNE.

That’s it, SPHP!  Dog Tooth Peak’s true summit!  Look toward the L, I see a cairn up there.

Oh, yeah!  You’re right, Looper!  I see it too now.  Hoo-girl, not sure if we can get up there or not.  Looks dicey near the top.

Well, someone must have done it, SPHP, or there wouldn’t be a cairn.

Yeah, yeah, I know.  That doesn’t mean we can.  Before we break our necks trying, why don’t we have a look from those rocks over by the S edge.  A lot easier to get to, and I bet there’s a splendid view.

Wandering over that way among the boulders, only a little super easy scramble was required to reach some nice flat perches along the S edge.  Spread out before Lupe was a magnificent scene.  Big Sandy Mountain (12,416 ft.), the mountain she wasn’t going to get to visit, was only a mile SSE.  Wind River Peak (13,192 ft.), East Temple Peak (12,600 ft.), and Temple Peak (12.972 ft.) were all beautifully arrayed beyond it.  Part of Deep Lake was in sight, too.

Big Sandy Mountain (L of Center) in the foreground. Wind River Peak (L), East Temple Peak (Center), Temple Peak (R). Photo looks SSE.

After a leisurely look at this fabulous scene, it was time to take on that N ridge!  Lupe headed back that way.

Bound for the N ridge (L). NE ridge (R) Photo looks NNE.

A scramble on big talus went slowly, but successfully to a near vertical wall near the top.  Almost there, but getting spicey!  Lupe couldn’t go any higher.

Hang on, Loopster!  I’ll give you a boost!

Carefully, carefully, SPHP lifted the Carolina Dog as high as possible.

Now, Loop!  Go!

Clawing her way forward, Lupe made it.  Suddenly she was above SPHP, smiling back.  Not from the summit, but it couldn’t be much higher.

Come on up, SPHP! The mountain’s fine! Photo looks ESE.

SPHP joined Lupe.  That successful boost had been key.  One last dicey scramble move was all it took.  Child’s play to any real rock climber!

11:39 AM, 56ºF, Dog Tooth Peak (12,488 ft.)Splendor was all around as the American Dingo stood next to the summit cairn in a 15 mph SW breeze.  She’d made it.  Lupe was here!  A dream come true!

At Dog Tooth Peak’s true summit. Wind River Peak (L), Big Sandy Mountain (L of Center), East Temple Peak (Center). Photo looks SSE.

Oh, and what a dream it was!

SPHP, look at where we are!  Really, truly on Dog Tooth Peak!

Yes, we are!  Can you believe it?  Congratulations, Loopster!

SPHP shook Lupe’s paw.  She started to grin.

On Dog Tooth Peak. East Temple Peak (far L), Temple Peak (L). Photo looks S.

It’s a 4th of July to remember, SPHP!

Indeed it is!  And we haven’t even gotten to Mitchell Peak, yet.

Oh, we will, SPHP!  Just you wait and see.  First, though, we’re spending some time right here.

SPHP sat on the huge rock supporting the cairn.  Consisting mostly of flat-lying boulders and a few patches of dirt, the summit region was plenty big to move around on easily enough, but comfy spots were in short supply.  Lupe decided curling up on SPHP’s lap was her best bet.

Seems to be chocolate coconut bar time, Looper!  What do you think?

Thought you’d never ask, SPHP!  Bring it on!

So many awesome views from up here, it was hard to know even where to start, but Wind River Peak (13,192 ft.), monarch of the SE end of the Wind River Range, was certainly high on the list.  It was the 4th highest mountain Lupe had ever climbed, nearly 5 years ago now.

Wind River Peak (R of Center), Big Sandy Mountain (R), East Temple Peak (far R). Photo looks SE.
Wind River Peak (Center). Photo looks SE with help from the telephoto lens.

Naturally, that same glorious view of Big Sandy Mountain (12,416 ft.) with Wind River Peak, East Temple Peak (12,600 ft.), and Temple Peak (12,972 ft.) on display beyond it that Lupe had seen from down along the S edge was even better now.

Wind River Peak (L), Big Sandy Mountain (Center), East Temple Peak (R of Center), and Temple Peak (R). Photo looks SSE.

From way up here, Peak 11930 and Schiestler Peak (11,640 ft.) more to the SSW looked small in comparison.  Nearly 3,000 feet lower than Dog Tooth, Big Sandy Lake was in sight, too.  Bunion Mountain (11,905 ft.) and Laturio Mountain (11,342 ft.) were SW, along with that pipsqueak Sundance Pinnacle (11,054 ft.).

East Temple Peak (far L), Temple Peak (L), Peak 11930 (Center), Schiestler Peak (R), Big Sandy Lake (far R). Photo looks SSW.
Laturio Mountain (far L), Sundance Pinnacle (lower L), Bunion Mountain (L), War Bonnet Peak (Center), Warrior Peaks (R of Center). Photo looks W.

Perhaps the grandest scene, and one of intense interest, was to the NW where War Bonnet Peak (12,369 ft.) and Warrior Peaks (12,406 ft.) on the L, together with Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.) on the R, framed Pylon Peak (12,378 ft.), Watch Tower (12,326 ft.), and several other pinnacles of the Cirque of the Towers.

War Bonnet Peak (far L), Warrior Peaks (L), Pylon Peak (L of Center), Watch Tower (R of Center), Mitchell Peak (far R). Photo looks NW.

Looking NW between Mitchell Peak and Lizard Head Peak (12,842 ft.), a sea of partially snow-clad mountains extended beyond vision along the spine of the Wind River Range.  Real giants were on the horizon, but too far away to identify.

Looking NW along the spine of the Wind River Range. Mitchell Peak (L).

Only 2 miles away, Lizard Head Peak, had a fearsome appearance.

Lizard Head Peak. Photo looks NNW with help from the telephoto lens.

Holy cow, Loopster!  And to think that at one time I thought we might be able to climb Lizard Head.  That ain’t gonna happen!

We could climb it with a helicopter, SPHP!

Across the gigantic canyon of the North Popo Agie River, both Bear Lake and another smaller lake were visible E of Lizard Head.  An enormous ridge was beyond them, with many minor summits along it.  Peak 12,539 was the highest point.  Cathedral Peak (12,326 ft.) was somewhere way out toward the N end.

Lizard Head (L edge), Bear Lake (L), and Peak 12539 (R). Photo looks N.

The North Popo Agie River canyon extended E more than 6 miles to a big bend where it curved NE.  Mount Chevo (11,423 ft.) was in sight beyond the bend.

Mount Chevo (R of Center) beyond the North Popo Agie River canyon. Photo looks E.

12:41 PM – Mitchell Peak was calling!  Lupe’s wonderful, precious hour on Dog Tooth Peak was drawing to a close.  The American Dingo stood next to the summit cairn for the last time with the fabulous panorama to the S beyond her.

On Dog Tooth Peak. Photo looks S.

Hate to go, but are you ready, Loop?

As ready as I’ll ever be, SPHP.  I wish it wasn’t over, but I feel blessed to have ever been here.  Thanks for agreeing to come here first.

Dingo Fang is a splendid summit, Looper.  Glad we came!

Me too, but the adventure continues, SPHP!

Indeed it did!  A very cautious initial descent succeeded in getting past the tricky, assistance-required spot.  Returning to the football field size plain, the Carolina Dog turned NW toward Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.).

Setting out for Mitchell Peak (far R). Bunion Peak (far L), War Bonnet Peak & Warrior Peaks (L), Cirque of the Towers (Center). Photo looks NW.

It was a slow go.  Gradually losing elevation, Lupe leapt from boulder to boulder across an endless mountainside of big talus.  Far ahead, a rock formation extending SW down from the ridge leading to Mitchell Peak appeared to present an insurmountable barrier.

See that gap toward the lower end of the long wall of rock, Looper?  Head for it.  Let’s try to get through there. 

The cool SW wind had been strengthening all day.  As the Carolina Dog finally reached the wall of rock, it roared 50 mph through the gap.  A bit of scrambling was required to even get up to the gap, a task the gale made even more of a challenge.

Lupe made it, though.  Soon she was standing in the wild wind on large, flat rocks N of the gap.  Mitchell Peak was now directly ahead.

Mitchell Peak (Center) from near the gap. Lizard Head Peak (R). Photo looks NW.

A short descent on more big talus got Lupe down to much easier terrain.  Only scattered rocks were here on a sloping plain of low vegetation.  The wind wasn’t nearly as bad, either.  Staying well below the giant saddle way up along the ridge to the NE, Loop continued NW toward the slope SW of Mitchell’s cliffy summit block.

Approaching Mitchell Peak. Lupe aimed for that highest blip (L) on the W ridge. Photo looks NW.

The climb got steep pretty fast, but lanes of vegetation made it fairly easy for quite a long way.  Eventually, Lupe had to scramble up some big talus again, but not too far.  It was clear that being any farther E toward Mitchell’s summit block would have been much worse.

Above the largest talus, the route wasn’t quite as steep.  Life got easier.  Loopster was thrilled when she came to a couple of snowfields melting away in the July sun, but they were too soft to cross without post-holing.  Going around them was a bit of a pain.  150 feet above the uppermost snowbank, Lupe reached a broad plain 300 or 400 feet E of a big knob of rock along Mitchell Peak’s upper W ridge.

High on Mitchell Peak’s SW slope. Photo looks NE.
On the upper W ridge. War Bonnet Peak (L), Pylon Peak (R). Photo looks WSW.

Covered with large, flat-lying rocks, and a fair amount of low vegetation, the plain sloped gradually down to the N toward sheer, unseen cliffs.  To the E, it rose toward the summit.

Heading for the summit. Photo looks ENE.

The hard part was over!  Sweeping around the N side of the summit block, Lupe went virtually unimpeded all the way to the top.

Practically there! Photo looks SSE.

4:38 PM, 55ºF, Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.) – The wind was 25 mph, still out of the SW, when Lupe reached a summit region of massive boulders.  A puny 3 rock cairn sat on the tremendous rock that supported the very highest one, which hung partly out into space toward the S.

True summit (Center), piddly cairn (R), War Bonnet Peak (far R). Photo looks SW.
On Mitchell Peak’s true summit. East Temple Peak (far L), Temple Peak (L), Peak 11930 (Center). Photo looks S.

What can be said?  The amazing 360º panorama from Mitchell Peak was in many ways similar to the one from Dog Tooth Peak only a mile SE.  Even so, if anything, the views were even more superb here.  One view in particular had made an ascent of Mitchell Peak a goal for years.

Oh, my gosh, Loopster!  Look at that!  The entire Cirque of the Towers!

Wow, this must be the best vantage point possible, SPHP!  We’re looking down on all of them!

Yup, just by a little bit, though.  The only thing that might be better would to be right on top of one of those towers so close to the rest.

I’d choose Pingora Peak (11,884 ft.), SPHP, it’s so cool looking.

An excellent choice, Looper!  Wolfs Head (12,160 ft.) appears so narrow and sharp it would slice us in two.

No reason to worry about that.  Neither Lupe nor SPHP would ever be on any of them.  They were all there, though, Warrior Peaks (12,406 ft.), Pylon Peak (12,378 ft.), Block Tower (12,210 ft.), Sharks Nose (12,229 ft.) , Overhanging Tower (12,164 ft.), and Bollinger Peak (12,232 ft.).

The famous Cirque of the Towers (L) from Mitchell Peak. Pingora Peak (Center). Photo looks NW.
Warrior Peaks (L), Cirque of the Towers (Center), Pingora Peak (R). Photo looks WNW.
Pylon Peak (L), Watch Tower (L of Center), Block Tower and Sharks Nose (Center), Overhanging Tower (R of Center), Pingora Peak (far R) with Wolfs Head (slightly L), Bollinger Peak and Mount Geikie (R) beyond. Photo looks WNW with help from the telephoto lens.

While the Cirque of the Towers was spell-binding, there was so much else to see, too!  Lizard Head Peak (12,842 ft.) was only 1.5 miles N.  Lupe could see little Skunk Knob (11,099 ft.) SE of it, where she had once been years ago.  E of Lizard Head was Peak 12539‘s giant ridge.

Lizard Head Peak (R), Skunk Knob (lower L). Photo looks NNW.
Lizard Head Peak (Center). Photo looks N.
Peak 12539 (R of Center), Lizard Head Peak (far L). Photo looks NE.

Of course, the view of Dog Tooth Peak (12,488 ft.) was spectacular with both Big Sandy Mountain (12,416 ft.) and Wind River Peak (13,192 ft.) in the background.

Dog Tooth Peak (Center), Big Sandy Mountain (R) with Wind River Peak beyond. Photo looks SE.
Dog Tooth Peak (L), Big Sandy Mountain and Wind River Peak (Center), East Temple Peak (R). Photo looks SE.

East Temple Peak (12,600 ft.), Temple Peak (12,972 ft.), Peak 11930, and Schiestler Peak (11,640 ft.) were naturally all a little farther away now, but the angle was such from Mitchell Peak that more lakes were visible.  In addition to Big Sandy Lake, all of Deep Lake was in sight.  Most of Temple Lake was, too, but it was a little hard to distinguish still almost entirely covered in snow and ice.  Part of Clear Lake, and a few others could be seen as well.

Big Sandy Mountain & Wind River Peak (far L), East Temple Peak (L), Temple Peak (Center), Schiestler Peak (R) with Peak 11930 beyond. Big Sandy Lake (far R). Photo looks SSE.
East Temple Peak (L), Temple Peak (Center), Schiestler Peak (R) with Peak 11930 beyond. Photo looks S with help from the telephoto lens.
East Temple Peak (L) with Deep Lake below it. Temple Peak (R) with frozen Temple Lake below it. Part of Clear Lake (foreground). Photo looks SSE with lots of help from the telephoto lens.

Despite Mitchell Peak’s summit region consisting of a ridge of large talus, it was actually fairly easy to move around, with plenty of space to do so.  After Lupe got up on the true summit, SPHP shook her paw, showering her with profuse praise and congratulations.  What an incredible couple of big mountains she’d climbed today!  A second and final celebratory chocolate coconut bar of the day was shared.

Surprisingly, no sign of a registry.  Hadn’t been one on Dog Tooth, either.  No registry wasn’t what mattered here, though.  After searching around, only a couple of feet W of the little cairn, SPHP saw the white outline of a rectangle on the upper surface of the massive flat rock supporting the true summit boulder.

Oh, no!  It’s gone, Loop!  It must have been attached right there.

What’s gone, SPHP?

The plaque commemorating Finis Mitchell!

The Finis Mitchell that Mitchell Peak is named after, SPHP?

Precisely, Looper!  Finis and his wife ran a fishing camp for many years near Mud Lake back down at Big Sandy Opening.  He’d been all over the Wind River Range during his life, and wrote Wind River Trails, a guide book that seems quaint these days.  At the end of the book is a photo of the plaque commemorating Finis’ 11 ascents of Mitchell Peak.  I really wanted to get a photo of you standing next to that plaque, but we’re too late!  It’s not here anymore!

The missing plaque was the only real disappointment of this epic, joyful day.  For more than an hour, Lupe and SPHP sat together, or wandered, gazing at the magnificent Wind River Range scenes in all directions.

Wind River Range from Mitchell Peak. Photo looks NW.
Same view with help from the telephoto lens. Skunk Knob (Center) near bottom. Texas Pass (far R). Photo looks NW.

5:47 PM, Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.) – 4th of July!  One to remember!  SPHP didn’t realize it until much later upon seeing that photo of the Finis Mitchell plaque in Wind River Trails again, but this was sort of a coincidence, too.  Finis Mitchell’s first ascent of Mitchell Peak had been on the 4th of July back in 1923.

99 years later to the day, Lupe also stood alone on Mitchell Peak for the first time in a stiff SW breeze next to the little cairn only a foot or two from where both Finis Mitchell and his plaque had once been.

99 years later on Mitchell Peak. Photo looks SW.

The inevitable sad moment of departure had arrived, as it always does.  While Lupe lingered at the summit, SPHP started down first.

Final moments on the summit. Photo looks S.

SPHP called.  Lupe came running, bounding down the boulders.

One more thing we need to do before we completely leave the mountain, Loopster.

Oh, and what’s that, SPHP?

We should have a look at Lonesome Lake.  Couldn’t see it from the summit, and I’d like to see it again.

From up here?  That would be awesome, SPHP!

Then follow me, Loop.

After heading NW through the talus, SPHP led Lupe down to the cliffs along Mitchell Peak’s N edge.  Sure enough, Lonesome Lake was there, nestled at the base of Pingora Peak (11,884 ft.), partly in its shadow.

Cirque of the Towers (L), Pingora Peak (Center), Lonesome Lake (R). Photo looks NW.

Lonesome Lake is as beautiful as ever, SPHP!

Remember when we were down there, Looper?  We’d already been to the Cirque of the Towers, discovered that really cool waterfall, then came down to Lonesome Lake on our way to Skunk Knob (11,099 ft.).

I remember it was a sunny day, SPHP.  Sunlight was sparkling on the waves with Mitchell Peak soaring skyward past the lake.  Seems like a long, long time ago now.

That’s right, Loop!  And it has been a while.  That was back in 2015.

The SW wind blew constantly during nearly the entire descent.  Staying even a little farther W on the steep part below Mitchell Peak’s upper W ridge, Lupe was able to avoid nearly all the big talus she’d run into on the way up.  Once down to the much easier terrain SW of the big saddle on the ridge between Mitchell and Dog Tooth, the Carolina Dog ran free, displaying great energy as she led the way, roaming and sniffing at will, while marmots whistled warnings of her approach.

Incredibly beautiful, the long descent was interesting and somewhat more complicated than SPHP expected.  Lupe traveled S down slabs of bedrock past snowbanks, ledges, and a multitude of small streams.

The American Dingo was in the forest, almost all the way down to Dog Tooth Paradise when the wind finally quit.  Not much farther now.

Near sunset, base camp at Dog Tooth Paradise – SPHP was tired, but Lupe was still animated, sniffing around a while before finally entering the tiny house.

Big Sandy Mountain (12,416 ft.) tomorrow, SPHP?

I’d love to, but afraid not, Loop.  We’re completely out of food.  I didn’t bring enough.

That wasn’t entirely true.  A couple handfuls of peanuts remained.  Not for long, though!  Peanuts for dinner.  Even Lupe ate them, and when the last one was gone, still running on empty, on the magnificent day she’d been to 2 splendid Wind River Range peaks, it was time for goodnight.

On Mitchell Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming 7-4-22

Links:

Next Adventure                           Prior Adventure

Dog Tooth Peak & Mitchell Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Big Sandy Opening to Dog Tooth Paradise (7-3-22)

East Temple Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Big Sandy Opening to Clear Lake (7-18-20)

East Temple Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 2: Deep Lake to the Summit (7-19-20)

Big Sandy to Jackass Pass & Cirque of the Towers, Wind River Range, WY (9-1-15)

Cirque of the Towers, Lonesome Lake, Skunk Knob & Jackass Pass, Wind River Range, WY (9-2-15)

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.

Dog Tooth Peak & Mitchell Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Big Sandy Opening to Dog Tooth Paradise (7-3-22)

Days 16-18 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming!

7-1-22, almost noon –  July already!  While SPHP moseyed about cleaning and organizing, Lupe had spent most of this beautiful morning relaxing on her pink blanket, displaying no sign of ambition.

C’mon, Looper!  We’ll be moving on soon.  Last chance for a sniff before we head out.

Rather reluctantly leaping out of the RAV4, Lupe joined SPHP on a short stroll along Road No. 10399 out to Greys River Road and back again.  She then wandered down to Greys River for a drink.

This is a wonderful spot!  I love it here, SPHP!  You haven’t even caught up the trip journal yet.  Why do we have to leave?

Because you’ve climbed all the mountains we intended to around here on this Dingo Vacation, Loopster, and I’m not in a trip journal mood.  So we might as well start getting into position for the next big thing.  Besides, I’m kind of looking forward to a nice, long, scenic drive.  You’ll enjoy it, too!

Will there be any cows and horses to bark at?

Can almost guarantee it, Loop!

And what is the next big thing, SPHP?  Where are we going?

The Wind River Range, Looper!  Ever since reading Wind River Trails by Finis Mitchell, I’ve always wanted to climb Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.).

7-2-22, 1:28 AM, pullout along Hwy 352 near the turn to New Fork Lake – The only thing wrong with the drive to Pinedale was that it wasn’t long enough.  Lupe had arrived in plenty of time to enjoy not one, but two sniffs along Pine Creek.  Not inclined to stray too far from civilization this evening, near sunset SPHP had driven W out of town, admittedly the wrong way as far as getting to the Big Sandy Opening, but this pullout was a quiet enough spot late at night.

Lupe had been happy in the RAV4 most of the day, but the Carolina Dog wanted out now.  SPHP grabbed the flashlight.

OK, let’s go!

Moonless, the night was very dark, the Milky Way overhead but a faint glow.  Enjoying the cool air, Lupe sniffed along the tall grass bordering the pullout.  A surprisingly busy highway during the day, silence reigned now.  15 minutes of star-gazing pondering the universe sufficed.

7-2-22, predawn hours – Ugh!  Awake again.  Not due to the American Dingo this time, though.  In fact, Lupe never even seemed to notice, but there’d been increasingly bold scurrying in the RAV4 every night since this Dingo Vacation started.  About time to put an end to it, but how?

Grabbing the flashlight, SPHP shone it around.  A set of beady black eyes stared back a moment, then vanished.  Aha!  Knew it!  An idea formed.  Might work!  SPHP opened the door of the RAV4, and hopped out.

Where are you going, SPHP?

Stay put, Loop.  I’m gonna catch that mouse!

Getting a big, clear plastic bag out of the back, SPHP put some of Lupe’s Taste of the Wild in it.  Then placing it on the floor behind Lupe’s seat with the bag kept open, SPHP turned off the flashlight.

Didn’t take long.  The scurrying recommenced, right into the trap!

Closing the bag suddenly, SPHP turned on the light.  Got him!  Trapped like a rat, a really small one.  Moments later, SPHP released the mouse unharmed into the grass along the pullout before returning to the RAV4.

Hah!  So easy!  I should have thought of that sooner, Loop.  Mouse must have been getting pretty hungry in here.

The words were scarcely out of SPHP’s mouth, when scurrying resumed.  What?  Two mice?  Inconceivable!  But front and back, here and there, bold scurrying commenced anytime the light was off.

The Taste of the Wild trap worked a second time.  This time, just in case, SPHP released mouse 150 feet from the RAV4.  Blissful silence reigned even after the light was turned out.  Finally, that was that!

For 20 minutes, then the scurrying returned.  3 mice?  No, not possible!  That same dang mouse must know how to get back into the RAV4.

You’re no help at all, Loopster!  Can’t you do something about this mouse?

Like what, SPHP?  I’m a Carolina Dog, not the breed you need in a case like this.

Really?  What does breed have to do with it?  And what breed would you recommend?

A cat would be a good choice, SPHP.

A cat!  Maybe so, but a cat isn’t technically a canine, Loop.  Hate to break it to you, but cats are a different species entirely.  Cats are felines.

No need to slander cats, SPHP, just because they aren’t very bright.  Cats are canines, too, you know!  Not their fault they’re too mentally deficient to be decent members of the pack.  They’re loners by nature.  And despite their obvious handicaps, you’ve got to admit they are excellent mousers.

Cats are canines, too?  No, they aren’t silly Dingo!  But whatever, we’re fresh out of cats in any case, and apparently you aren’t going to lift a paw to help me.

Well, here’s a thought, SPHP.  Since you seem to be almost as good at catching mice as a cat, how about next time you play catch and release, run back to the RAV4 and drive away.  Mouse will never catch us.

Hmm.  Not a bad plan, Loopster!  Might be the only thing that will work.

Except it didn’t.  Mouse was wising up.  This time it took a while before the mouse dared enter the plastic bag.  SPHP snapped it shut.

Did you get him, SPHP?

Nope, doesn’t look like it.  Shoot!  Thought I had him.

SPHP reset the Taste of the Wild trap only to see the mouse scurry out of the bag before turning off the light.

Well, dang it!  I did have him all along, and now I don’t!

Major fail, SPHP!

Bold, in-your-face scurrying continued whenever the flashlight was off the rest of the night, but mouse wasn’t falling for the Taste of the Wild in the plastic bag trick again.

7-2-22, 8:00 AM – What a night!  The morning sun was already well above the Wind River Range when SPHP woke up.  No scurrying now that it was light out, but the stowaway was almost certainly still on board as SPHP fired up the RAV4.

In Pinedale, Lupe enjoyed another long sniff along Pine Creek.  By noon, SPHP had the trip journal fairly close to being caught up.  An afternoon drive to Boulder, then along the Lander Cut-off was great fun and very scenic, with terrific views of the Wind River Range the whole way.

7-2-22, 2:30 PM, Big Sandy Opening – Actually a few parking spots left at the trailhead when Lupe arrived.  SPHP was amazed, considering it was 4th of July weekend.  Tucking the RAV4 neatly into a spot, work on the trip journal resumed despite all the activity outside.  Meanwhile, the Carolina Dog was perfectly content snoozing on her pink blanket.

By 4:05 PM, the journal was caught up again.

What are you doing, SPHP?

Getting ready, Loop.

You aren’t seriously considering setting out now, are you?  Late afternoon already, and it was kind of a short night last night with all the antics you and mouse went through.  Why not stay here tonight, rest up, and hit the trail in the morning when we’re fresh?

Days are long this time of year, Looper.  If we head out now, maybe we can shave enough distance off this evening to put us within striking distance of Mitchell Peak tomorrow?

7-2-22, 5:30 PM – Finally ready, but as SPHP registered near the start of Big Sandy Trail No. 099, someone was not amused.  Lupe clearly didn’t want to go.

Loop reluctant to leave the trailhead.

Took a good deal of pleading and persuasion, but Loop finally followed SPHP over a small rise into the forest.  Almost immediately, a sign for the Meeks Lake Trail appeared.

By the Meeks Lake Trail sign.

A little beyond the sign, the broad, heavily-trafficked trail broke out of the forest, entering a flat meadow.  Lupe remained unenthused.  Even the sight of  Laturio Mountain (11,342 ft.) ahead failed to lift her spirits.

Laturio Mountain (L & Center) from Big Sandy Trail No. 099. Photo looks NNE.

C’mon, Loop, cheer up!  We aren’t going to do anything difficult today, just make some tracks.  Going to be alright, you’ll see.

It became almost a contest of wills.  SPHP led the way, while Lupe played an extreme version of her stalking game.  The American Dingo wouldn’t budge an inch until SPHP was not only out of sight, but gone for a while.  Forced to wait, SPHP had to resort to the whistle a few times.

Took way longer than it should have to cover the easy 0.75 mile to where Continental Divide Trail No. 096 split off from Trail No. 099 to Big Sandy Lake, but Lupe finally got there.

At the junction. Straight ahead to Big Sandy Lake, or L to Meeks Lake. Big Sandy River (R). Photo looks NE.
Junction signage.

The Carolina Dog’s reluctance to continue on diminished after taking much less frequented Trail No. 96, but Loop still hung back playing her stalking game for a while.  At least she was staying closer than before.

Playing the stalking game along Trail No. 096.

The trail wound gradually higher through a forested region.  Mosquitoes had been bad back at the Big Sandy Opening trailhead, and were worse here.  An enveloping cloud of the blood-thirsty little vampires whined in almost instantly during any pause.  Lupe caught up when SPHP finally stopped to slather on some Eucalyptus cream, followed by a liberal spraying of Repel.

Hold still, Looper.  I’ll put a little on you, too!

My, isn’t this fun, SPHP?  So glad we’re getting to serve as local blood banks, and I’m not stuck in the RAV4 snoozing peacefully with a full tummy after a decent meal.  Why, mouse might start scurrying around, and make me bat an eye!  Wouldn’t that be awful?

Yeah, I know, the mosquitoes are horrid, Loop.  I hate ’em too.  If ever there was a species I’d be glad to cheer on to extinction, they fit the bill.

Reeking of Eucalyptus, the journey resumed.  Poor Lupe!  Mosquitoes still kept attacking her eyes, lips, and paws where SPHP hadn’t dared to apply any Repel or Eucalyptus.  SPHP killed hundreds on her to no avail.  Constant motion was the only real defense.

After 0.33 mile, Trail No. 096 crossed a stream.  An easy rock-hop, this was the outlet stream from Meeks Lake.

Fording the Meeks Lake outlet stream.

Beyond the stream, the trail climbed another 100 feet before leveling out and turning NNW.  Soon patches of blue could be glimpsed in the thick forest W of the trail, but a good view of Meeks Lake never materialized.  Lupe was already beyond the lake when the trail forked again upon reaching a clearing.

Meeks Lake Trail No. 096 continues toward the L. Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 goes R. Photo looks N.
The fading signage.

Lupe had been here before.  Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 angling off to the R was the way to go.  Combined with Trail No. 096, it was a slightly longer, but far more secluded route than Big Sandy Lake Trail No. 099, which it would eventually rejoin past Diamond Lake.

After crossing the flat clearing, No. 100 started to climb as it headed NE back into the trees.  Before long, the surrounding forest was a complete shambles.  Deadfall everywhere, some of it gigantic!

Re-entering the forest on Diamond Lake Trail No. 100. Photo looks NE.
What a mess!

Fortunately, the USFS service had made a valiant, and largely successful, effort to keep the trail deadfall-free.  Still some deadfall to contend with, but not anywhere near the nightmare it might have been.  After gaining 200 feet over 0.25 mile, Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 topped out going over a minor pass.  A steady descent began, and the forest was soon looking much healthier again.

7-2-22, 7:03 PM – By the time Lupe made it to V Lake, the evening was drippy and gray.  Scheistler Peak (11,640 ft.), Temple Peak (12,972 ft.), and Peak 11930 were only dimly in view.  For a while, mist or light rain fell.  Multiple blue tents were up on an open hillside NW of the lake, along with the only people seen since leaving Big Sandy Trail No. 099.

Scheistler Peak (far L), Temple Peak (Center), and Peak 11930 (R of Center) from V Lake. Photo looks ESE.

Beyond V Lake, the trail was quite flat as Lupe continued NE through huge meadows, parts of which were swampy, and stretches of forest where the ground was firmer.  Progress was rapid on this easy terrain.  The Carolina Dog forded several small gravelly streams, none of which presented any difficulty.

N end of V Lake (R). Scheistler Peak (far L), Temple Peak (Center), and Peak 11930 (R of Center). Photo looks ENE.
Wading in one of the gravelly streams.

Reaching a big slab of exposed bedrock, 3 mountains were visible ahead for the first time.

Mitchell Peak (L), Dog Tooth Peak (Center) & Big Sandy Mountain (R). Photo looks NE.

Hey, hey, Loopster!  Told ya this was a good idea.  Looks like we’re starting to get somewhere.  There’s Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.)!

Which one is Mitchell, SPHP?

The one on the L, Loop.

Do those other 2 peaks have names, too?

They most certainly do!  That’s Dog Tooth Peak (12,488 ft.) in the middle, and Big Sandy Mountain (12,416 ft.) on the R.

Dog Tooth Peak!  What an awesome name, although Dingo Fang Peak would have been even better.  Let’s climb Dog Tooth Peak, too, SPHP!  It’s the highest one.  In fact, we could climb all 3.

Glad to see your enthusiasm returning, Looper!  I’ve actually been hoping we can climb Dog Tooth in addition to Mitchell.  I knew you’d like that name!  Big Sandy is fine with me, too, of course, if we have time.  Might be a bit much in one day, though, and I didn’t bring enough supplies to stay up here very long.

A mile past V Lake, Diamond Lake came into view.  The trail passed through another semi-swampy big meadow NW of the lake.

Temple Peak (L) and Peak 11930 (Center) from Diamond Lake. Photo looks SE.

Beyond the meadow, Lupe stuck with Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 a little farther as it went back into the forest.  Light was soon starting to fade.  SPHP marched off into the pines NW of the trail.

This ought to be about far enough for today, Looper.  We don’t want to go so far that we reach Trail No. 099 again.  Much more secluded here.

Fine, fine, but hurry, SPHP!  Set up the tiny house.  I’m getting eaten alive!

The mosquitoes were horrendous!  Setting up the tiny house in record time, it was a tremendous relief to scramble inside, and zip that door shut!  After a bite to eat before it got dark, pleased how it had all gone, SPHP drifted off to sleep thinking Lupe was well-positioned for an ascent of Mitchell Peak, and maybe even Dog Tooth Peak tomorrow.

7-3-22, black as pitch – No telling what time it was.  Flashes of light so faint SPHP wasn’t even sure they were real soon brightened.  Lightning!  Before long, the pitter-patter of raindrops.  Nothing too serious, probably just a shower.  After pulling part of Lupe’s sleeping bag over her, SPHP rolled over and went back to sleep.

7-3-22, morning – Light out, but still raining.  Lupe had slept long and hard.  Even so, apparently she still felt listless, perfectly content to laze about on her red sleeping bag.  Also lethargic, SPHP laid listening to the rain, trying to doze.  Face it, getting soaking wet while facing a horde of vampires, wasn’t much of an incentive.  None dared leave the tiny house.

7-3-22, 10:30 AM – It had finally quit raining.  Slathered in Eucalyptus cream and coated with the last of the Repel spray, SPHP unzipped the door of the tiny house.

Going to try to do this fast!  Just stay inside, Loop, until I’ve got the tiny house ready to roll up.

No worries there!  The American Dingo hadn’t the slightest intention of disobeying that order.  Clouds of mosquitoes enveloped SPHP.  Happily, chemical warfare was working.  Only got bit once before having to kick Loop out of the tiny house.  Hoisting the pack as soon as possible, a hasty retreat back to Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 ensued.

Heading NE, it turned out Lupe had spent the night only a few minutes from the junction with Big Sandy Lake Trail No. 099.

Signage at the junction of Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 and Big Sandy Lake Trail No. 099.

For some grand, mysterious reason there were no mosquitoes to speak of along Big Sandy Lake Trail No. 099.  The day was getting sunnier, and the trail was busy.  Lots of people both coming and going.  Plenty of dogs to sniff with, too!

Lupe had started out playing her stalking game again, but soon gave that up and trotted right along.  The trail ran NE, climbing at an easy pace.  By noon, the Carolina Dog was wading in the cold, shallow waters at the SW end of Big Sandy Lake.

Big Sandy Lake. Dog Tooth Peak (L) & Big Sandy Mountain (Center). Photo looks NE.

Continuing along Big Sandy Lake’s W shore on Trail No. 099, forest soon gave way to a big meadow.  The scenery was magnificent, and it was lunch time, too!

Doesn’t get much better than this!  Want to take a break, Loop?  I brought beef jerky.

An offer too good to refuse!  Heading W up a short grassy slope, a sunny perch was settled upon on some big rocks.  Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.), Dog Tooth Peak (12,488 ft.), and Big Sandy Mountain (12,416 ft.) were all on display.  Directly across the lake, Scheistler Peak (11,640 ft.) was most impressive.

Mitchell Peak (L), Dog Tooth Peak (R), Big Sandy Mountain (R edge). Photo looks NNE.
Big Sandy Mountain (Center). Photo looks NE.
Scheistler Peak (Center). Photo looks SSE.

See that gigantic wall of rock?  That’s Haystack Mountain (11,978 ft.), Loop.  The pointier peak to the R that looks like you’re walking a plank is East Temple Peak (12,600 ft.).

Haystack Mountain (Center), East Temple Peak (R). Photo looks SE.

East Temple Peak!  Why we were there only a couple of years ago, SPHP!  Remember how beautiful Deep Lake was, and how we couldn’t find the tiny house in the middle of the night?

Sure do, Loopster!  How could I ever forget all that?

7-3-22, 1:21 PM, N end of Big Sandy Lake – A very pleasant hour in the warm sunshine had shot on by.  The beef jerky had, of course, been a huge hit.  After crossing the alluvial plain where Lost Creek spread out into various trickles only a few inches deep, Lupe was now at the next trail junction.

Junction of Trails No. 099 and No. 098 at the N end of Big Sandy Lake.
Junction signage.

Which way, SPHP?

Go L, Loop, unless you want to climb East Temple Peak again!

Don’t tempt me, SPHP!  I’d do it in a heartbeat.

For the first time, Big Sandy Trail No. 099 climbed aggressively, winding N through a forest.  Loopster gained 400 feet of elevation before the trail flattened out.  Ahead, a big gap was visible between two towering peaks.

War Bonnet Peak (L), Mitchell Peak (R). Photo looks N.

That’s War Bonnet Peak (12,369 ft.) on the L, Looper.  Part of Mitchell on the R.  We’re only a couple of miles from Jackass Pass.

We’re going to Jackass Pass, SPHP?  You mean we’ll be visiting the Cirque of the Towers and Lonesome Lake again?  Been forever since we’ve been there, and so spectacular!

Sadly, no.  We’ll have to leave the trail before we get to Jackass Pass, Loop, if we want climb Mitchell Peak.

And Dog Tooth Peak, too, SPHP!  Don’t forget Dog Tooth.  I’ll bite you, if you do!

That ought to remind me, Miss Dingo Fang!

7-3-22, 2:05 PM – As Lupe trotted N along the flat section, it was clear any attempt at an ascent today would mean she’d only get to one summit at best.  Too late already, and to tell the truth, SPHP wasn’t feeling even that ambitious.  Maybe better to pitch the tiny house somewhere, and rest?  Might be possible to hit 2 summits tomorrow with an early start.

Seemed like a better plan.  Checking out the grassy slopes W of the trail, the best place to camp was already taken, but there was another spot a bit farther on that might do.

Loop, leave the trail here!  Let’s go up there and take a look around.

How come, SPHP?

We got off to too late a start due to the rain.  Let’s find a place to camp. We’ll wait on mountains until tomorrow.

A short climb led to a great view from some big rocks, but the little patch of relatively level grassy ground next to the rocks proved too rocky.

Haystack Mountain (L), East Temple Peak (L of Center), Temple Peak (R of Center), and Scheistler Peak (R) from the viewpoint. Photo looks SSE.

Terrific view, but this isn’t going to work, Looper.  We’re going to have to keep looking.  Oh, that’s sad!

What’s sad, SPHP?  Keeping looking?

No, I see a dead animal on top of a big rock 50 feet away.  Poor thing!

What kind of a dead animal, SPHP?

Not sure, Loop.  Let me take a look with the camera’s telephoto lens.  Hmm, well, that’s surprising.

What’s surprising, SPHP?  Don’t keep me in suspenders!

Suspense, not suspenders, Loop.  Think it’s a marmot, or maybe a pika.  What’s surprising is how lively it looks for a dead one.

The “dead” marmot.

Oh, I love marmots, SPHP!  Pikas, too.  Hope it’s not dead.  Which is it, alive or dead?

Since I’ve seen it move now, and it’s eyes are open, I’m revising my earlier opinion, Loopster.  Clearly alive.

As much as Lupe would have liked to play a game of hunter and prey with the marmot, that really wasn’t possible.  The marmot’s lofty perch was eminently secure.  Returning to Trail No. 099, the trek N continued, but not very far before the trail dropped down to cross North Creek.

North Creek was a fairly good-sized rushing stream, but SPHP managed to rock hop it while Lupe waded on through.  Now on the E side of the stream, the trail immediately began winding higher.  Lupe gained a good 100 feet of elevation before it leveled out again, heading N.

Let’s leave the trail here, Looper.  The topo map shows sort of a big flat ridge not too much higher up this slope to the E, and a shallow valley on the other side where there’s a tributary of North Creek.  Might be our best shot at finding some level ground.

Abandoning Trail No. 099 yet again, Lupe started up a thinly forested slope that didn’t look very promising.  The topo map was right, though.  Before long, the terrain began to level out.  Soon the Carolina Dog was on top of a wide ridge of exposed bedrock.  Scattered, scrawny trees grew wherever the bedrock harbored a bit of soil.

Oh, my gosh, Loop!  This ridge is gorgeous, and the views are spectacular!  We’ve got to find a place to pitch the tiny house up here.

Look over there, SPHP!  Isn’t that the top of Pingora Peak (11,884 ft.) over by the Cirque of the Towers beyond Jackass Pass?

Oh yeah, you’re right, Looper.  How awesome is that?  We’re staying here!

7-3-22, 3:32 PM – A small, shallow patch of flat pine-needle covered soil was found that sufficed.  Before long, SPHP had Lupe’s tiny house up.

Base camp at10,200+ ft. Haystack Mountain (L), East Temple Peak (L of Center), and Temple Peak behind trees (R). Photo looks SSE.

Despite an easy day, a certain weariness had set in for both human and Dingo.  The sky was clouding up again, too, the weather a bit unsettled, although there hadn’t been any more precipitation.  Occasional brief gusts of wind shook the tiny house.

Hate to say it, but I feel like a nap, Loop.

Me too, SPHP!  Why don’t we take a snooze, and see what develops?  If it’s nice out, we can emerge and do some exploring this evening.  If not, we’re already as snug as a bug in a rug.

Great minds think alike, Looper!

7-3-22, 6:07 PM – A long nap had done wonders, even for the weather.  Lupe emerged from the tiny house to mostly blue skies and sunshine.  An evening of joy and beauty was in store as Lupe and SPHP explored this fascinating region together.

NW, War Bonnet Peak (12,369 ft.) and Sundance Pinnacle (11,054 ft.) dominated the W side of the North Creek valley.  The distinctive, massive rounded spire of Pingora Peak (11,884 ft.) was visible in the distance.

Warbonnet Peak (Center), Pingora Peak (R) in the distance. Photo looks NW.
Sundance Pinnacle (L), Warbonnet Peak (Center), Pingora Peak (R). Photo looks NW.
War Bonnet Peak (L), part of Mitchell Peak (R), Pingora Peak (L of Center) beyond Jackass Pass. Photo looks NNW.

The ridge of bedrock that Lupe’s tiny house was pitched on at 10,200+ feet extended S several hundred more feet.  Venturing out that way, the Carolina Dog enjoyed superb views of Haystack Mountain (11,978 ft.), East Temple Peak (12,600 ft.)Temple Peak (12,972 ft.), and Schiestler Peak (11,640 ft.).

The 10,200+ foot ridge (R) serving as base camp. Schiestler Peak (L). Photo looks S.
The grand panorama. Haystack Mountain (L), East Temple Peak (L of Center), Temple Peak (R of Center), Schiestler Peak (R). Photo looks SSE.
Haystack Mountain (L), East Temple Peak (Center), and Temple Peak (R). Photo looks SSE with help from the telephoto lens.
Temple Peak (L) and Schiestler Peak (R). Photo looks S with even more help from the telephoto lens.
East Temple Peak (L), Temple Peak (R of Center). Photo looks SSE with help from the telephoto lens.
Fully zoomed in on East Temple Peak (Center). Photo looks SSE.

Back to the N was a tremendously encouraging view of Lupe’s two prime objectives, Dog Tooth Peak (12,488 ft.) and Mitchell Peak (12,482 ft.).

Mitch Peak (L) and Dog Tooth Peak (R). Photo looks NE.
Mitchell Peak (Center). Photo looks NNE with help from the telephoto lens.

The shallow valley shown on the topo map just E of this ridge was in sight too.  Lying at the base of Dog Tooth Peak’s gigantic SW slope, the valley looked exquisitely beautiful.

Look, SPHP, it’s Dog Tooth Paradise!  Let’s go down there!

Toward the N end of the valley, a pond was fed by a crystal clear stream.  Below the pond, the stream flowed S over bedrock, or next to meadows full of tiny wildflowers.  Upstream from the pond, Lupe discovered Dog Tooth Waterslide.

Setting off to explore Dog Tooth Paradise. Mitchell Peak (L), Dog Tooth Peak (R). Photo looks NE.
Sundance Pinnacle (L) and War Bonnet Peak (R of Center) from Dog Tooth Paradise. Photo looks NW.
Down by the stream. Sundance Pinnacle (L), War Bonnet Peak (R). Photo looks NW.
Dog Tooth Waterslide. Photo looks NNE.

While the sun sank slowly in the NW, Lupe roamed and sniffed her way around Dog Tooth Paradise to her heart’s content.  She came to a place where an enormous slab of bedrock supported scattered pieces of Dog Tooth Peak that had broken off and come tumbling down the mountain.

Temple Peak (L), Scheistler Peak (R). Photo looks S.

A sense of magic grew.  Somehow, in an over-crowded world, this hidden valley only 10 minutes from the heavily trodden trail to Jackass Pass was an unknown gem, unvisited and unspoiled.

You’re right, Loopster!  This is Dog Tooth Paradise!  How lucky we are to have found it!

Haystack Mountain, East Temple Peak, Temple Peak & Schiestler Peak from Dog Tooth Paradise, Wind River Range, Wyoming 7-3-22

Links:

Next Adventure                            Prior Adventure

Dog Tooth Peak & Mitchell Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 2: Dog Tooth Paradise to the Summits! (7-4-22)

East Temple Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Big Sandy Opening to Clear Lake (7-18-20)

East Temple Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 2: Deep Lake to the Summit (7-19-20)

Big Sandy to Jackass Pass & Cirque of the Towers, Wind River Range, WY (9-1-15)

Cirque of the Towers, Lonesome Lake, Skunk Knob & Jackass Pass, Wind River Range, WY (9-2-15)

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.

Mount Fitzpatrick, Salt River Range, Wyoming – Part 2: Upper Crow Creek Lake to the Summit! (6-30-22)

Day 15 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming!

6-30-22, the wee hours, Upper Crow Creek Lake – Coming to for the 2nd time tonight, SPHP stuck the little flashlight out of the tiny house, and swept the faint beam around the surrounding area.

There she was!  15 feet away, Lupe was laying all by herself out on cold, bare ground, silently contemplating the brilliant stars in an otherwise ink black sky.  Sniffing the night air and listening, she glanced over.

I’m fine, SPHP!

Yeah, I see that, Loop.  Glad you’ve got sense enough to never wander too far off and get lost.  Still, I always feel like I’ve got to check on you every so often.  Maybe you ought to come back into the tiny house?  Warm up, and have a nice snooze.  Big day coming up.  Mount Fitzpatrick (10,907 ft.), if we can get there!

There’s something primeval about the night, SPHP.  I love being out here!

I know.  I always feel it, too.  The night whispers to one’s soul, especially alone in the wilderness with the unfathomably ancient universe ablaze above.  Well, enjoy, but don’t stay out too long.  Don’t fall asleep out there.  You never know.  We may not be as entirely alone as it seems.

First light, Upper Crow Creek Lake – Wrapped in her red sleeping bag, the Carolina Dog was snoozing peacefully, all toasty warm.  Across the lake, Peak 10525 was exquisite in the morning alpenglow.  SPHP felt restless and uneasy, maybe a bit queasy.  The sky promptly clouded up, the alpenglow vanishing.  Suddenly, Peak 10525 was drab and lifeless compared to what it had been only moments ago.

Should probably get going, but lethargy triumphed.  Maybe it would be better to wait a while, get some more sleep?  Simply smart to give this summer day a chance to soften the snowfields on Mount Fitzpatrick’s steep N face, right?  Seemed logical enough, and a perfect excuse.  SPHP took an Alka-Seltzer Cold Plus, rolled over, and tried to get back to sleep.

Morning, Upper Crow Creek Lake – Yikes!  That certainly worked.  Nearly 10:00 AM!  Although still not all that energetic or confident, SPHP did feel better.  Resting nearby in brilliant sunshine, Lupe was outside the tiny house again, calmly watching the world.

Shoot!  You should have woken me up, Loop!  Didn’t mean to sleep so long.

Hated to do that to you, SPHP.  You were really sawing wood.

You mean snoring?  I never snore.

Oh, really?  Coulda fooled me, SPHP!

Well, never mind that.  Getting you some Taste of the Wild.  Eat it quick, and we’ll split some beef jerky as a morning picker-upper.  Then we better get with it.

Beef jerky?  Awesome!  Bring on that Taste of the Wild, SPHP.  It’s doomed!

10:02 AM, Upper Crow Creek Lake – At least someone was feeling feisty!  Right after setting out, the were-puppy attacked, forcing SPHP to fend it off or get bitten.

Ow!  Dang it, do you really have to do that to me every time you get excited?

Just a love, nip, SPHP!  Admit it, you love the were-puppy, too!

True enough.  Most of me does.  I’m glad you’re so high-spirited and feeling frisky, but you really ought to know that my ankles and calves aren’t as fond of the were-puppy as you might imagine.  C’mon, Mount Fitzpatrick time!  Onward, puppy ho!

Heading W, Lupe led the way, Mount Fitzpatrick already in sight only a mile away.

Setting out for Mount Fitzpatrick (Center). Photo looks WSW.

Flat terrain quickly led to a snow-filled valley W of Upper Crow Creek Lake.  Part of this valley was exposed rock.  Seemed better to climb along a partially tree-lined ridge a bit farther N.

Plenty of snow and rock this way, too, but it worked out pretty well.  After gaining some elevation, the Carolina Dog reached some relatively flat, bare ground.  Several use trails were in this region.

Starting up. Mount Fitzpatrick (L). Photo looks WSW.
Glancing back at Upper Crow Creek Lake after some initial progress. Photo looks E.
Entering flatter, more snow-free territory after following the ridge. Photo looks WNW.

Choosing the best use trail, Loop followed it W on a fairly steep S-facing slope overlooking the snowy valley.  The snow-free trail made for an easy traverse.  Gradually gaining elevation, the trail eventually curved NW.  Passing through a short stretch of forest, Lupe arrived at a broad, snowy saddle.

This was the saddle that the valley W of Upper Crow Creek Lake swept up to.  A deep snow-filled depression was to the N, and Peak 10788 was visible to the NW.

Traversing the hillside N of the snowy valley. Photo looks WSW.
Arriving at the saddle. Peak 10788 (R). Photo looks NW.
Snow-filled depression (L) from the saddle. Photo looks N.

Going W across the saddle, Lupe began climbing a steep, mostly bare slope leading up a 300 foot high ridge.  Finding the use trail again, Loop was able to follow it most of the way, but once above the steepest part, the trail vanished again in a snowy forest.

Avoiding the trees as much as possible, a snow trudge higher finally got her to some more bare ground along the E side of the ridgeline.  Upper Crow Creek Lake was in view again.

Crossing the saddle, about to start up the next ridge. Photo looks WNW.
Approaching the trees. Mount Fitzpatrick (L of Center). Photo looks SSW.
Peak 10143 (L), Upper Crow Creek Lake (Center), Peak 10525 (R). Photo looks E.

The territory W of the ridge Lupe had reached wasn’t nearly as steep.  A wide, relatively shallow valley was so full of snow that a tarn shown on the topo map must have still been buried beneath it.

Of more immediate interest, Mount Fitzpatrick’s N face was now fully in sight to the S.  Snowfields covered most of it.  Unequipped for a snow climb, the lower half looked impossibly steep.

However, there was good news, too.  Toward the E side of the N face, a broad swath of ground was almost entirely snow-free.  Although also very steep, an E approach looked quite feasible.  In fact, a fair amount of greenery was visible, which usually meant decent traction.  A sloping rock band visible above the greenery appeared potentially problematic.  Might be a line of cliffs along it?  Hard to say how formidable from here.

Sometimes on snow, but mostly on rocky terrain, Lupe headed S, aiming for the E side of Mount Fitzpatrick’s N face.  The Carolina Dog actually lost some elevation before getting to where the decisive ascent began.

Mount Fitzpatrick’s N face. Photo looks SSW.
Heading for the mostly snow-free E side of the N face (L). Photo looks S.
Looking back at the region N of Mount Fitzpatrick after starting up. Peak 10788 (Center). Lupe came up along the trees on the R. Photo looks NNW.

Hopes were soaring as Lupe started up!  The slope was very steep, but no worse than many others she had been on.  For a long way, plenty of low vegetation made for good, firm traction.  By the time Loop reached the slanting band of rock SPHP thought might be a problem, the rate of climb was diminishing.  The American Dingo was already higher than most of the exceptionally steep massive snowfield to the W.

The rock band proved to be no issue at all.  While it did form a long wall, as expected, the wall was crumbling and low.  Loop simply scrambled up one of the easier spots.  Nothing to it!

Approaching the rock band wall. Photo looks SW.
Up and over toward the L! Photo looks SSW.

Patches of greenery existed even above the wall, but they soon gave way to much rockier terrain.  Still climbing, though now on less of an incline, Loopster turned SW traversing an extensive boulder field between the massive snowfields below, and a long, narrow snowbank above.

Above the wall of rock. Photo looks SSW.
Traversing the boulder fields. Photo looks SW.
Charging onward below the upper snowbank. Photo looks SW.

Near the upper end of the long snowbank, Lupe turned S, surging up and over it in a few bounds.  Immediately above the snowbank, she reached a rounded ridgeline of broken rock with sparse vegetation scattered throughout.  This was Mount Fitzpatrick’s E ridge.

By now it was clear that the American Dingo was already very high on the mountain.  Turning W, a 50 foot climb was all it took before a cairn appeared only a little farther ahead.

On the upper E ridge. Photo looks W.
Approaching the summit cairn. Photo looks W.

12:58 PM, 58ºF, Mount Fitzpatrick (10,907 ft.) – Smiling broadly, Lupe stood with her front paws propped up on the summit cairn.  Peak 10788 and others strung out along the same ridgeline were in view beyond her, Grand Teton (13,770 ft.) faintly visible on the N horizon.  Skies were sunny that way, but much stormier looking to the S.

Peak 10788 (L of Center), Grand Teton (Center) faint on the horizon. Photo looks N.

We made it, SPHP!  Mount Fitzpatrick wasn’t so hard after all, was it?

Have to admit I can scarcely believe how well it has all gone, Loopster.  After those first glimpses of Peak 10525 yesterday, I was almost certain we were doomed to failure.  Glad we didn’t try this a week ago, though.  Might still have been enough snow back then to prevent us from getting up here.  That big snow-free stretch on the E side of the N face was key.

Good call delaying Fitzpatrick until after Mount McDougal (10,780 ft.) and the Snake River Range, SPHP!  Worthy of a chocolate coconut bar!

Believe you’re on to something there, Looper!  Should be one in the pack.

Mount Fitzpatrick’s summit was crescent-shaped, with 2 lobes extending E and SSW from a circular central region 20 feet in diameter where the cairn was.  Plenty of room to stroll around a bit, and nothing at all up here to block the views in any direction.

After a pawshake congratulating Lupe on her latest peakbagging success, SPHP grabbed a white plastic tube from the center of the cairn, then sat facing E on bare ground nearby.  Assisted by a famished Carolina Dog, a chocolate coconut bar performed its disappearing act.  Loop then curled up on SPHP’s lap.  Munching an apple, SPHP had a look at the registry contained within the white tube.

The registry consisted of loose full-sized sheets of paper printed out with columns for name, date, address, and comments.  2 or 3 pages had been completely filled out, easily sporting 50 to 60 names dating back as far as 2010.  At least 3 dogs had been up here, too.  Unfortunately, the entire registry, including all the extra pages, was sopping wet.

Just a mess, aye, SPHP?  Too bad!

Yeah, these blank pages aren’t going to be usable.  I’m just going to pack them out, but we might as well leave the pages that are already completed, since most of the entries are still legible.

You’re not going to add my name to the registry, SPHP?

Oh, of course I will, Loop.  I’ll tear a page out of our small notebook.  Not the best, but at least your ascent will be noted as long as that page lasts.  Really not much else we can do at this point.

One of the completed registry pages.

Loop’s registry entry taken care of, SPHP returned the white tube to the cairn, which featured one other item of interest.

Want your registry entries to last longer than a piece of paper, Loop?  Elly Rainey has a solution.

Who is Elly Rainey, SPHP?

No idea, Loopster, but we could have run into her here sometime in 2018.

Elly Rainey registry entry.

Oh, that’s awesome, SPHP!  An entry carved in stone!  That’s a great idea.

Would be if I were as ambitious as Elly.  Not sure I want to be carrying rocks up every mountain we climb, Loop.

Maybe Mount Fitzpatrick is of some special significance to Elly?

Seems like that might well be the case, Looper.  She would have had to bring a much bigger rock to explain why, though.

The storminess to the S was slowly drifting E.  Lupe alternated between relaxing on SPHP’s lap, and wandering about sniffing and looking at the views.  In addition to the Tetons to the N, the Gros Ventre Range was on the NNE horizon, and the Wind River Range NE.

Much closer, Mount McDougal (10,780 ft.) and Triple Peak (11,127 ft.) were both identifiable NE beyond the Greys River valley in the Wyoming Range.  Mount Coffin (11,242 ft.) and Wyoming Peak (11,378 ft.) were in sight to the SE.

Less than a mile away, Peak 10525 was due E .  Way below it, a sliver of Upper Crow Creek Lake was visible just to the N.  Lupe’s tiny house might have been visible down there, too, if not hidden by trees.

Mount McDougal (L) and Triple Peak (R of Center) beyond the Greys River valley. Photo looks NE.
Peak 10315 (R) with Mount Coffin (Center in shadow) & Wyoming Peak (just to the R) beyond. Photo looks SE.
Mount Coffin (L), Wyoming Peak (Center), and Mount March Madness (R). Photo looks SE with help from the telephoto lens.
Peak 10525 (Center). Photo looks E.

Immediately W, a long, straight ridge running N/S defined the opposite side of the Swift Creek valley.  Unfamiliar mountains in Idaho were on the horizon beyond it.  Quite a bit closer, Red Top Mountain (10,411 ft.) was identifiable to the SW.

Swift Creek valley (lower R) and Red Top Mountain (Center). Photo looks SW.
Swift Creek valley (L & Center). Photo looks NW.

Much of Mount Fitzpatrick’s N face was so steep that it couldn’t be seen from the summit, but the region Lupe had traveled through below it was visible.

Peak 10788 (L). Lupe had come up from the lower R. Photo looks N.

The best views of all, while a considerable amount of snow still lingered on N slopes, were to the S.  Greysalt Mountain (10,769 ft.) and Mount Wagner (10,709 ft.) stood out.

Greysalt Mountain (L of Center) and Mount Wagner (R) in the distance. Photo looks S.

The Carolina Dog was more interested in a steep snowbank clinging to Mount Fitzpatrick’s upper SE face.  She ventured out onto it to cool off and eat some snow.

Mount Wagner (L), Red Top Mountain (R). Photo looks SW.
Greysalt Mountain (R) in the distance. Photo looks SSE.

2:26 PM – The weather was perfect, visibility and the views awesome!  However, nearly an hour and a half had shot by.  Lupe now stood by the cairn on Mount Fitzpatrick for the last time.

Final moments on Mount Fitzpatrick. Photo looks W.

Hate to go, Looper, but it’s over.  Take a good look around, we’ll be leaving this region tomorrow, and it may be a long time before we ever come back.

That’s just sad, SPHP!  It’s been marvelous, and Mount Fitzpatrick turned out great, didn’t it?

Sure did, Loop.  Thrilled that we actually got here.  Yesterday I was afraid we wouldn’t.

The American Dingo had already lost 80 feet of elevation heading down the E ridge, when SPHP suddenly stopped.

Hang on, Loop!

What’s up, SPHP?

Heading down the E ridge. Photo looks W.

I’ve been trying to remember to take a photo with our new iPhone from each summit we’ve been visiting on this Dingo Vacation.  Think I forgot to again.  Would you mind going back up for a few minutes?

I’d be delighted to, SPHP!

So the American Dingo returned briefly to Mount Fitzpatrick’s summit.  Once the iPhone photo was taken, Lupe enjoyed one last chance to gaze again upon the glorious scenes in all directions from the highest peak of the Salt River Range.

Back on top! Photo looks S.

Oh, the fun wasn’t over yet!  Lupe still had a wonderful long day ahead of her on the way back out.  Although she made minor variations to her route up Mount Fitzpatrick, for the most part her descent was the same.

Back down at the saddle overlooking the snowy valley W of Upper Crow Creek Lake. Peak 10525 (L). Photo looks SE.
Approaching Upper Crow Creek Lake again. Peak 10525 (R). Photo looks E.

When Lupe got back to the tiny house, SPHP was surprised when she didn’t try to get in.  Instead, Loop laid down among the buttercups in the corner of the two logs by the white stone fire ring.  While SPHP packed up the sleeping bags and the tiny house, she relaxed while enjoying the fabulous view of Upper Crow Creek Lake and Peak 10525.

As soon as SPHP had everything ready, it was time to head back to Trail No. 079 at Pass 9060.

Leaving Upper Crow Creek Lake and Mount Fitzpatrick (R of Center). Photo looks SW.

Down in the North Crow Creek valley along Trail No. 044, Lupe saw a couple of deer and an elk.  When she got to the fords of Crow Creek, she plunged right through like a pro.  With boots, socks, and paws already soaking wet from the snow back at Mount Fitzpatrick, even SPHP didn’t hesitate to do the same.

9:03 PM, 53ºF, Crow Creek trailhead along Greys River Road – The last of the alpenglow was on the highest peaks when Lupe made it back to the RAV4.  She was eager to leap in and get back on her pink blanket, while SPHP mucked around getting everything loaded.

Once that was done, Loop enjoyed Ol’ Roy for dinner, as SPHP drove S.  Too tired to do anything else, SPHP munched a packet of Ritz crackers, sharing some with the Carolina Dog.  It was dark when SPHP finally parked the RAV4 at the end of Road No. 10399 near Greys River.

For the 4th and final time on this Dingo Vacation, Lupe would get to spend the night at this favorite spot.  She drifted off to Dingo Dreamland knowing Mount Fitzpatrick had been a grand and beautiful success.  What a fun adventure!

And Lupe would always remember her quiet night beneath the stars by lovely Upper Crow Creek Lake.

Mount Fitzpatrick, Salt River Range, Wyoming 6-30-22

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Mount Fitzpatrick, Salt River Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Greys River Road to Upper Crow Creek Lake (6-29-22)

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