The Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail, Alaska – Twelvemile Summit Wayside to Table Mountain (8-5-23)

Day 14 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!

8:14 AM, 52ºF, Steese Highway MP 85.5, Twelvemile Summit Wayside – Sigh.  Smoky again this morning.

At the Twelvemile Summit Wayside on a rather smoky morning.

Definitely worse than yesterday, SPHP.  Are we still going?

Can’t win for losing, can we, Loopster?  Yeah, we’re still going.  We’re here now, and the smoke isn’t terrible, so we might as well make the best of it.

Crossing the Steese Highway, Lupe started up the boardwalk path at this end of the Pinnell Mountain National Recreational Trail.

About to set off on the Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail. Photo looks NW.

Relatively new, the boardwalk was in great shape as Lupe followed it NW up a long slope of tundra and low bushes.  Two hills were ahead.  The closest, HP3762, appeared to have some rock formations on top.  The other hill was a huge featureless dome that was considerably higher.

On the lovely new boardwalk. Dome 4150 (L), HP3762 (R). Photo looks NW.

The Carolina Dog hadn’t made it very far before SPHP began to realize that smoke wasn’t the only detraction today.

Ugh!  The mosquitoes are bad, Looper.

Use your bug spray, SPHP.

Didn’t even think to bring it, Loop.  Left it in the RAV4.

We can still go back for it, if you want to, SPHP.

Eh, the mosquitoes weren’t actually all that bad.  Like a fool, SPHP kept going, hoping for a breeze.

As the trail began curving N toward HP3762, the nice, new boardwalk came to an end.  In some places, a much older, deteriorating boardwalk still existed, in others, Lupe followed a dirt path.  Going through a long stretch of larger bushes, mosquitoes and flies plagued SPHP’s left ear, leaving the right one largely unscathed.

Approaching HP3762 (Center). Photo looks N.
On one of the particularly bushy and buggy stretches. Photo looks NNE.

Not sure why they don’t like my right ear, Loopster, but I wish the left one had the same issue.

No whining, SPHP!  You had your chance to go back for the bug spray and didn’t take it.

The trail got fairly close to HP3762, but didn’t go all the way to it, and neither did Lupe.  Instead, the increasingly dilapidated boardwalk took aim at a saddle to the NE along the same enormous, gently-rounded ridge HP3762 was part of.

As close to HP3762 (L) as Lupe got. Photo looks WNW.
A smoky glance back at the Steese Highway (L) from E of HP3762. Photo looks SW.
Approaching the crest of the enormous ridge. Photo looks NNE.

By the time the American Dingo reached the top of the ridge, she was well beyond what remained of the old boardwalk.  The Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail turned NE, soon leading to a steeper climb in rockier terrain.  Bushes vanished, and, to SPHP’s relief, so did the bugs.

Along one of the rockiest stretches. Photo looks NE.

As Lupe gained elevation, part of Table Mountain (4,472 ft.) came into view, still several miles away.  The trail began passing several cool rock formations.  Lupe scrambled up onto one of the first big ones.

Table Mountain (Center) in the distance. Photo looks NE.
Having fun on one of the cool rock formations. Photo looks NNE.
Same spot, looking back at HP3762 (L of Center) and Dome 4150 (R of Center). Photo looks SW.

The giant ridge soon began to level out.  Ahead, a series of hills appeared along it, each one a bit higher than the one before.

Approaching a series of minor hills (Center & R). Table Mountain (L). Photo looks NE.

Along in here, Lupe met a young man who related a most interesting tale to SPHP.  Two days ago, he had set out from the opposite end of the trail at Eagle Summit Wayside.  Without realizing it, this guy had somehow managed to walk into the middle of a very large herd of caribou.  They’d scared him half to death when they all suddenly spooked, springing up and fleeing right past him in all directions.

The backpacker continued on, leaving the Carolina Dog extraordinarily impressed.

Wow!  Can you imagine that, SPHP?  Being right in the middle of the herd!  It doesn’t get any more exciting than that!

An incredible tale to be sure, Loopster, but don’t get your hopes up.  If he’d had an excitable, shrill-barking Dingo with a keen nose along with him, I doubt he would have ever gotten anywhere close to any caribou, much less find himself surrounded.

Among the minor hills, progress was rapid.  The trail bounced along, sometimes going right over the high points, and sometimes skirting them to the L (NW).  Soon Lupe was approaching the last one, which was the highest.

Staying toward the R (SE), the trail didn’t go to the top, but this time the American Dingo did.  Venturing off-trail across a mix of sparse tundra and scree, Lupe visited HP4125.  This short side jaunt rewarded her with her first unobstructed view of Table Mountain, now a mere 2 miles away as the crow flies.

The easy, almost level trek through the minor hills. Photo looks NE.
Up on the ridge, the tundra was pretty sparse, but this mushroom was cool.
Approaching HP4125 (L of Center). Photo looks NE.
Table Mountain (Center). Photo looks NE.

10:04 AM, 61ºF, HP4125 – Sadly, the smoke was pretty bad, marring the views in all directions.  Nevertheless, Lupe took a short rest break here, enjoying water, beef jerky, and a light SE breeze.  However, it was soon time to press on.

Returning to the trail, it switchbacked approximately 300 feet down a SE slope before turning NE while crossing a saddle leading to HP3865, the next significant hill along the ridge.  This mostly downhill trek was super easy.  Even while approaching HP3865 elevation gain was minimal, since the trail didn’t go over the top, instead skirting around the L (NW) side.

Starting down the switchbacks. HP3865 (L of Center) in foreground. Photo looks ENE.
In the saddle region after descending from HP4125 (R). Photo looks WSW.
Crossing the saddle W of HP3865 (R). Table Mountain (L), Photo looks NE.
Another glance back at HP4125 (R). HP3865’s N slope (L). Photo looks WSW.

Once Lupe made it to HP3865‘s NNE slope, another 200 foot descent on a few more switchbacks to a broad, rounded saddle was ahead.  From the saddle, an equally broad ridge rose NNE toward Table Mountain.  Like the rest of the trail, none of this terrain was particularly rugged.

Table Mountain (R of Center) from HP3865’s NNE slope. Photo looks NNE.

Cake, SPHP!  At least, until we get to the base of the mountain.

Even from there, the trail shouldn’t be all that steep, Loop.  The topo map shows it angling up the R (SE) side of the mountain.  It won’t even reach the upper plateau until it’s nearly 0.5 mile past the summit.  An easy romp circling back to the high point once up on the plateau, and we’ll be there!

After descending to this final saddle on the way to Table Mountain, Lupe started up the ridge.  The trail got pretty faint, but that didn’t matter in the least, since the overall route was entirely obvious.  Even if it hadn’t been, a series of cairns with wooden poles or tall stones sticking up from them showed the way.

Following the ridge, the vast majority of the terrain continued to be a mix of low tundra and scree, but the American Dingo also passed a few scenic boulders and minor rock outcroppings.

On a photogenic boulder. Photo looks N.
About as rocky as it got. Photo looks N.

As Lupe approached the base of Table Mountain, SPHP became puzzled.  There didn’t seem to be any sign of the trail angling up the mountain’s SE slope as indicated by the topo map.  In fact, the faint trail Lupe was on seemed inclined to veer off to the N.

Approaching Table Mountain (Center). Photo looks NE.

While SPHP studied the mountain, Lupe was focused on something else.  Suddenly dashing ahead, she stopped, putting her nose to the air.

SPHP, look!  Caribou!

Caribou on Table Mountain’s SW slope. Photo looks NNE with help from the telephoto lens.

They were so far off, it took SPHP a moment to spot them.  Sure enough, a small herd of caribou was almost directly ahead, a bit toward the N, grazing on Table Mountain’s SW slope.  Lupe was tremendously excited!  Here was her chance to saunter right into the middle of the herd, just like the young man had!

Yeah, right!  As SPHP expected, the caribou quickly noticed the Carolina Dog’s approach as the trail headed straight for them.  Becoming nervous, and perhaps knowing something about the route along the SE side of the mountain, they ran over that way, eventually disappearing from view.

Naturally, Lupe was keen on following the caribou, but the trail never did turn SE.  Instead, it curved N and began climbing Table Mountain’s massive, but relatively short NW ridge.

Heading up Table Mountain’s NW ridge. Photo looks NNW.

A few rocky stretches presented no difficulties at all, since the trail was in decent shape up here, and a marmot helped divert Lupe’s focus from her disappointment over the caribou’s wary vanishing act.  Near the top, a series of switchbacks finished the climb to the crest of the ridge.  Lupe reached it just below a 10 or 15 foot high escarpment of rock.

An official trail marker along the switchbacks. Photo looks ENE.
Near the crest of Table Mountain’s NW ridge. Photo looks NW.
Below the escarpment. Photo looks ENE.

Initially following the base of the escarpment, the trail soon led above it.  Beyond a stretch of gently rising tundra, a second escarpment was only a few minutes stroll ESE.  A cairn was visible at the high point.

Approaching Table Mountain’s summit (R). Photo looks SE.

12:23 PM, 63ºF, Table Mountain (4,472 ft.) – Near the NW edge of the upper escarpment, Lupe stood on a flat, square rock next to the summit cairn.  6 feet on each side, and 2 feet thick, this rock was easily larger than any of the others scattered across an open plain of tundra and scree very similar to the rest of the territory the American Dingo had been traveling through along the Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail.

Despite the smoky haze, the Carolina Dog could see the mountains that weren’t too far away, although the scene lacked as much in crispness and clarity as these hills and ridges lacked any genuine ruggedness.

Beyond Lupe, back in the direction she’d come from, HP3865, HP4125, HP3762, Dome 4150, and the even larger McManus Benchmark Dome (4,200+ ft.) were in sight below a flotilla of small cumulus clouds drifting above the worst of the smoke.

HP4125 (far L), HP3762 (L), Dome 4150 (L of Center) & McManus Benchmark Dome (Center) from Table Mountain’s summit. Photo looks WSW.

The smoke still hasn’t gotten any better, has it, Loopster?  Too bad, but at least it’s not any worse, either.  Kind of cool to see the vast emptiness of the territory we’ve just explored.

Actually, I was rather hoping that the caribou were up here, SPHP.  Maybe a chocolate coconut bar could help me deal with my disillusionment?

SPHP shook Lupe’s paw, congratulating her on her successful ascent, then sat on the big square rock supporting the cairn.

Have a seat, Loop.  I’ll see what I can do about that.  About time for lunch, anyway.

Table Mountain’s NW ridge (Center) from the summit. Photo looks NW.

After sharing beef jerky and water with the American Dingo, SPHP was just about to dig the anticipated chocolate coconut bar out of the pack when Lupe abruptly got up and left.  Glancing up from the pack, SPHP saw what had caught her attention.  People!  They were approaching from the E, and Lupe was trotting over to greet them.

It turned out to be an Alaskan family, or at least most of one, a mother and her 3 children.  Happy and surprised to see Lupe, and also ready for lunch, they joined SPHP over at the square rock supporting the summit cairn.  Taking sandwiches out of their packs, they cheerfully related their tale while stroking and admiring Lupe.

Hanging out with real Alaskans on Table Mountain.

This family lived completely off the grid in a home on 20 acres not too far from the Steese Highway.  Since no road or driveway actually goes to their house, getting to town regularly was difficult.  Consequently, mom home schools all of her children, ranging in age from 7 to 15.

Although they didn’t live all that far away, they’d never explored the Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail before.  Happily, 2 days ago, the children’s uncle had given them a ride to the Eagle Summit Wayside at the opposite end, where, just like the young man Lupe met earlier, they’d set off intent upon backpacking the entire 27 mile trail.  After 2 nights spent along the way, later this afternoon they would complete their journey at the Twelvemile Summit Wayside where their own car was parked waiting for them.

The children were all extremely polite, friendly, and eager to talk about their backpacking experience.  Lupe’s ears perked up when she heard that they’d been counting caribou as they went along as accurately as they could, and were now up to 460!  Most of the caribou had been along the central part of the trail, many miles from the highway.

By the time the family bid Lupe farewell in order to resume their trek to Twelvemile Summit, her traditional summit hour was nearly over.

460 caribou, SPHP!  I know we were going to turn back here, but maybe we should go a little further?

Actually, I’d like to go all the way to Peak 4447, Loop, but that would add an awful lot of round trip distance.  However, if you like, we can explore Table Mountain’s NE ridge.

Sounds great, SPHP!  Let’s do it!

About ready to leave the summit to explore the NE ridge. Photo looks E.

Hitting the trail again, Lupe followed it E, beginning a gradual descent along a sweeping mile long arc out to the N end of Table Mountain’s NE ridge.

Heading for the NE ridge (L). Photo looks NE.
Glancing back at the summit (L) and NW ridge (R). Photo looks W.

Lupe regained a little elevation as the trail traversed the NW side of a modest rise before resuming the descent to a broad saddle.  Here, the trail continued NE over the edge of the ridge, vanishing on its way to a couple more peaks along the official route.  Peak 4447 was somewhere out there, but SPHP wasn’t certain if it was among the ones in sight.

Regaining a little elevation. NE ridge (L). Photo looks NE.
Descending to final saddle (Center). NE ridge (L), more peaks along the official trail (R). Photo looks NE.

Abandoning the trail, Lupe turned N as she reached the broad saddle, which was a slightly brighter green than the rest of the tundra.  Crossing this region, it turned out to be wet, but another a modest rise soon got the Carolina Dog back on dry ground.

Staying toward the W edge, Lupe went all the way out to the N end of Table Mountain’s NE ridge.  Table Mountain looked quite a bit different from this angle.  Sadly, no caribou were out this way.  At the moment, a few brown and white mushrooms were about the most scintillating and exotic form of life on the entire ridge.

Table Mountain summit (Center) from the NE ridge. Photo looks SW.
Exotic mushrooms were about it for excitement on the NE ridge.

Going a little E along the N edge, Lupe had the best view yet of some of the territory the rest of the trail went through.  Far to the NE, SPHP was virtually certain that Pinnell Mountain (4,934 ft.), the trail’s high point, and Porcupine Dome (4,915 ft.) were in sight, both nearly lost in the smoky haze.

Pinnell Mountain (R of Center) faintly in the distance. Photo looks NE with help from the telephoto lens.

We were way over there, Loopster, on Pinnell Mountain only a little over 11 months ago, remember?

Of course, I do, SPHP.  A cold wind was blowing, and we looked this way while waiting for sunset, wishing we could do the entire Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail like the young man and the Alaskan family we met today.  When sunset arrived, it was glorious!

You looked like you were floating among the golden clouds, Looper!  Later that evening, fog rolled in, and it got mighty cold in the tiny house.

What an adventure, SPHP!  Already seems like a long time ago.  Have to admit I’m glad that I don’t have to be cold and wet on the way back to Twelvemile Summit Wayside today, like I was returning from Pinnell Mountain.

2:22 PM, N end of Table Mountain’s NE ridge – Well, Lupe was right, this was it.  Time to head back.  If SPHP had brought Lupe’s tiny house and lugged all the necessary supplies along today, she could have continued on to Peak 4447 and beyond.  What an exciting time the American Dingo would have had among 460 caribou!

Discouraged by the smoke, though, SPHP hadn’t brought the tiny house.

Sometimes, I just don’t know what to do, Loop.

We do the best we can, SPHP.  Always another adventure somewhere, isn’t there?  Table Mountain has been fun and easy.  Nothing wrong with that!

On the way back, Lupe simply retraced her route, paying another brief visit to Table Mountain’s summit before switchbacking down off the NW ridge, another hours long romp among the rolling hills and ridges of the Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail ahead.  (End 5:31 PM, 70ºF)

Returning to Table Mountain’s summit (L of Center). Photo looks W.
Heading down the NW ridge switchbacks on the way back to the Twelvemile Summit Wayside. HP3865 (L), HP4125 (Center), HP3762 (R of Center), Dome 4150 (R), McManus Benchmark Dome (far R). Photo looks SW.
On Table Mountain, Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail, Alaska 8-5-23
Lupe’s GPS Track

Links:

Next Adventure                        Prior Adventure

Lupe’s Scrollable GPS Track

The Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail

The Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail, Alaska – Part 1: Eagle Summit to Porcupine Dome (9-2-22)

The Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail, Alaska – Part 2: Porcupine Dome to Pinnell Mountain (9-2-22)

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.

Black Hills, SD Expedition No. 327 – Pillar Peak, Peak 5452 & Dome Mountain (4-4-24)

8:02 AM, about ready to leave home –

Seriously, SPHP?  We’re making yet another attempt on Peak 5452?

Yup!  One more try, Looper.

Well, it better work this time, SPHP.  These multiple fails are starting to be embarrassing.

Don’t worry, Loopster, you know what they say – fourth time’s a charm!

Third time!  It’s supposed to be the third time that’s a charm, SPHP!

Eh, who’s counting?

I am, SPHP!  Three fails already trying to get to Peak 5452!  Doesn’t that mean anything to you?

Actually, it does, Loop.  It means we’re going to start running out of new routes to even make an attempt, if we don’t succeed pretty soon.  We’ll get there, though.  Today!

9:13 AM, 62ºF, Camp 5 Trailhead –  Such a beautiful morning!  Already incredibly warm for an early spring day, too.  Lupe leapt out of the RAV4 in fine spirits.  A S wind was swaying the treetops, but there was scarcely a breeze at ground level.

We’re in for a long, but memorable day, Loopster!  If we manage to tag Peak 5452, you’ll essentially be done with accessible Lists of John peaks with at least 300 feet of prominence in the Black Hills.

If you want my opinion, SPHP, the way things have been going, I’d say Peak 5452 is only semi-accessible, at best.

Confidence, Sweet Puppy!  Onward!  Puppy, ho!

Whether Peak 5452 was actually in the cards, or not, Lupe knew it was going to be a marvelous day for an adventure in the Black Hills.  Leaving the Camp 5 trailhead, she headed S on Lost Gulch Road (USFS Road No. 172), eager to make the most of it.

Setting out from the Camp 5 trailhead. Photo looks NNE.

Quickly coming to and crossing the Boulder Creek drainage, a short climb led to a field where the road flattened out.  A fork was ahead.

Heading for the Boulder Creek drainage on Lost Gulch Road. Photo looks SE.
At the fork. Lost Gulch Road on the R. Photo looks S.

Staying toward the R, Lupe stuck with Lost Gulch Road as it headed for the trees, then began climbing as it curved W up a valley.  She soon came to another junction where Lost Gulch Road curved sharply S.  USFS Road No. 172.1J, signed here as ATV Trail No. 8041, continued W.

Take No. 8041, Loop, but wait up a minute.  I’m getting hot!

Climbing gradually into the forest on Lost Gulch Road. Photo looks SW.
Near the start of ATV Trail No. 8041. Photo looks W.

Lupe waited while SPHP removed a couple of layers, then kept going.  No. 8041 promptly snaked up onto a ridge to the N, where it curved W again, following the ridge higher.  Lupe soon caught sight of a familiar mountain off to the SW.

Pillar Peak (5,465 ft.)!  I knew we’d been this way before.  Are we going there first, SPHP?

Might as well, Loop.  Pillar Peak is only 1.25 miles E of Peak 5452, and we’ll be going right by it.

Pillar Peak (L) from ATV Trail No. 8041. Photo looks SW.

No. 8041 continued steadily higher, gradually turning S.  Lupe went at least another mile before the road topped out along Pillar Peak’s E flank.  After a short descent into the upper end of a valley, No. 8041 curved SW toward a pass.  Upon getting there, it was about time for a break.

Approaching the pass. Photo looks SW.
Break time at the pass SE of Pillar Peak. Photo looks N.

A little Taste of the Wild and water was all Lupe needed.  Continuing S over the pass, ATV Trail No. 8041 almost immediately ran into USFS Road No. 172.1H.  Taking No. 172.1H a short distance W, Lupe abandoned the road to begin climbing NNW up a shallow, thinly forested valley.

Heading for Pillar Peak’s SE slope. Photo looks NNW.

The valley quickly led to a steeper slope.  The American Dingo gained 300 feet of elevation from where she’d left No. 172.1H before the terrain began leveling out.  With only scattered small trees in this region, a nice view of Bear Den Mountain (5,641 ft.) was back to the S.

Bear Den Mountain (L of Center) beyond Lost Gulch. Photo looks S.

Climbing at an easier pace now, a short relatively open stretch of low bushes and a bit of deadfall led to the crest of a small rise.  As soon as Lupe got there, Pillar Peak’s rocky summit was dead ahead.

Pillar Peak’s summit (Center). Photo looks WNW.

11:26 AM, 71ºF, Pillar Peak (5,465 ft.) – Lupe stood on the true summit, a view of Terry Peak (7,069 ft.) and Deer Mountain (6,651 ft.) in the distance beyond her.

How’s this pose, SPHP?  Good enough to earn me a chocolate coconut bar?

Absolutely, Loopster!  Congratulations on your 5th ascent of Pillar Peak!

Deer Mountain (L of Center), Terry Peak (R of Center) on the horizon. Photo looks SW.

After shaking Lupe’s paw, SPHP produced the desired chocolate coconut bar, and split it with her.  Just getting this far seemed like a pretty good romp.  SPHP found some dry grass to sit on.  Lupe curled up nearby.

After offering Lupe more Taste of the Wild, water, and a duck jerky, SPHP munched on an apple.  Pillar Peak’s open summit featuring small rock outcroppings 3 or 4 feet high provided views in every direction.

Many peaks Lupe had been to were visible from here, although some were quite far off.  Due to its isolated location on the prairie several miles beyond the Black Hills, Bear Butte (4,431 ft.) stood out.  In nearly the opposite direction, Custer Peak (6,809 ft.) was high enough to be seen over the intervening hills.

Bear Butte (L of Center). Photo looks NE.
Cone-shaped Custer Peak (R of Center) on the horizon. Photo looks SSW.

In addition to Bear Den Mountain, Whitewood Peak (5,141 ft.) and Peak 5400 were among the more notable closer hills and ridges.

Whitewood Peak (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.
Peak 5400 (L). Photo looks ESE.
Bear Den Mountain (Center). Photo looks S.

You’re forgetting the most important one, SPHP!

I’m just saving it for last, Loopster.

And last, but certainly not least, the forested hill of primary interest not only today, but during 3 prior failed attempts, the elusive Peak 5452 sat in clear view only 1.25 miles due W.

Terry Peak (L), Peak 5452 (Center) in the foreground. Photo looks W.

Less than 3 weeks ago the American Dingo had been even closer to Peak 5452 while on Dome Mountain (5,510 ft.), yet had run out of daylight to get there due to the difficulty of the intervening terrain.  Hoping to avoid another failure, a certain sense of urgency existed about getting on with today’s attempt.  Even so, Pillar Peak was such a grand viewpoint and old favorite, that Lupe stayed for her full traditional summit hour.

Once that final minute ticked away, though, it was Onward!  Puppy, ho!  Well, sort of.  Even after leaving Pillar Peak’s summit, Lupe scrambled around a bit on nearby rock formations offering snazzy views.

Terry Peak (L) from some of the Pillar Peak rocks. Photo looks W.
A glance back at the Pillar Peak summit block (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.

Leaving Pillar Peak, Lupe began by setting off in the same direction she’d come up from, but quickly turned due S.  The intent was to head straight for the saddle leading to Dome Mountain.  A steepish, somewhat rocky descent got her down to it.

Bear Den Mountain (L). Saddle leading to Dome Mountain (Center). Photo looks S.
Entering the saddle region. Bear Den Mountain (L). Photo looks S.

So far, Lupe had been in familiar territory, however, that was about to change.

Alrighty, Looper!  Time to head W young Dingo!  Let’s see if we can do it.

Peak 5452 or bust, SPHP!

Peak 5452 was in sight straight ahead as Lupe roamed W down a grassy slope toward stands of young aspens and a few pines.

Heading for Peak 5452 (Center). Photo looks W.
Pillar Peak (L) as seen shortly after starting down the valley. Photo looks NNE.

It soon became apparent that Lupe could easily avoid the worst of the young aspen thickets by staying toward the S, along the base of Dome Mountain.  This route worked out well as the descent steepened.  Even SPHP was making great progress.

S (L) of most of the aspens. Peak 5452 (R of Center). Photo looks W.
Another look at Pillar Peak (L) after descending from the saddle (far R). Photo looks NE.

Winding along Dome Mountain’s lower N slope, Lupe passed some big rocks, eventually coming to a small stream.

Among boulders at the base of Dome Mountain. Photo looks WSW.
In the tiny stream.

After getting a drink while crossing the stream, Lupe had to climb a little up into the pines in order to keep heading W.  The terrain soon leveled out somewhat, allowing the Carolina Dog to simply maintain about the same elevation as she followed the contour of the mountain through a lumpy area.  A few deer spotted running through the open forest along in here added a moment of excitement.

Before going much farther, glimpses of a deep valley appeared ahead.  SPHP checked the map.

It’s another 400 feet down into the Two Bit Creek valley from here, Loop.  We’ll likely cliff out if we try to keep going W.

Which way then, SPHP?

Go N, Loopster.  We can lose some elevation on the way down to a saddle S of HP5032.  If the slope isn’t too steep, maybe we can turn W again there?

On the way down to the saddle, Lupe passed a number of small mining exploration pits.  Once there, a tall rock formation was visible atop a rise a bit farther N from a little clearing below it.

Is that rock tower HP5032, SPHP?

HP5032 (Center)? Photo looks NNE.

Might be, Loopster.  It’s certainly in the right vicinity, although the real HP5032 might actually be a little farther N.  Doesn’t really matter, though.  We don’t need to go up there.  Let’s have a look at the slope leading down into the Two Bit Creek valley.

The forested slope to the W was steep, but fairly open and uniform.

Looks good to me, SPHP.  Can you manage it?

As long as it doesn’t get much steeper farther down, yeah, no problem!

The long, steady descent went well until frozen Two Bit Creek appeared below.  A line of 20 foot tall cliffs bordered the creek on each side.

Oh, good grief!  There’s got to be a break in the cliffs somewhere, Looper.  Try going S.  Looks the most promising over that way.

Going S worked.  A short scramble down a less vertical spot got Lupe down to Two Bit Creek, which could be heard gurgling below a thick layer of ice.

On frozen Two Bit Creek. Photo looks N.

So far, so good!  Now all the American Dingo had to do was find a way past the cliff on the W side of the stream.  Trotting 50 feet farther S over the ice, Lupe found an easy way up just beyond a bend.  Climbing W, she soon came to a view of Peak 5452’s lower E slope directly ahead.

An easy route out of the valley was just around this next bend. Photo looks SSE.
Peak 5452 ahead! Photo looks W.

From Two Bit Creek, Peak 5452’s summit was more than 800 feet higher.  The steepest part of the climb came in middle on an open slope sporting a few rock outcroppings.  It was windy up here, but Lupe gained views of Pillar Peak and Dome Mountain as she kept climbing.

Steepest part of the climb. Photo looks NW.
Pillar Peak (Center) from partway up Peak 5452. Photo looks E.

The forest above was more open than expected when SPHP managed to reach it, yet provided a surprising amount of protection from the wind.  The rate of climb diminished as Lupe headed for the S end of Peak 5452’s summit region.  When she got there, views were limited to heavily tree-broken glimpses.

In the open forest. Photo looks WNW.
S end of the summit region. Photo looks SW.

Turning N, an easy stroll higher soon led to a small clearing in the pines.

Peak 5452’s summit. Photo looks N.

3:27 PM, 63ºF, Peak 5452 – The wind was 20 mph out of the S up in the pines, but only a light breeze at ground level.  20 feet W, the forest had been thinned, yet not enough to provide any decent views.

So, this is it, SPHP?  Peak 5452’s true summit?

Yup!  Such as it is, we’re finally here, Loopster.  Can you believe it?

I can’t tell you how happy I am to be here after all these attempts, SPHP.  You better have another chocolate coconut bar in the pack!

I’m glad, too, Loop!  And yes, I made sure I brought a chocolate coconut bar for the occasion.  We’ve surely earned this one!

SPHP shook Lupe’s paw, congratulating the Carolina Dog with much praise for all her valiant attempts to reach Peak 5452, finally brought to a successful conclusion, then produced the highly anticipated chocolate coconut bar.  Water, 2 duck jerkies, and Taste of the Wild completed Lupe’s repast, while SPHP drank a strawberry Equate.

Anyone else would have left almost immediately.  Peak 5452’s summit had little to commend it.  No views, just a perfectly ordinary, dull, flat spot in the forest.  Yet there was no sense of disappointment at all.  Lupe had seen Peak 5452 from a distance so many times that both she and SPHP had known what to expect.

Seemed like it had been a long trek to get here.  Felt good to sit on the pine needles together simply listening to the wind moan in the pines.

Taking it easy on Peak 5452.

Since Lupe wasn’t likely to ever visit this out of the way peak again, she remained for her full traditional summit hour, enjoying this long-sought experience as much as possible.  At one point she wandered a bit farther N with SPHP to make certain there was no higher spot on the mountain.  There wasn’t.

Returning to the clearing, Lupe laid down on the pine needles, making herself comfortable.  As treetops swayed in the wind, SPHP spoke calmly of the American Dingo’s 3 prior attempts to get here, reflecting on each one while stroking her soft ears.  Her Peak 5452 adventures were nearly history now, soon to be events of the past rather than something to strive for and look forward to.

Relaxing on the pine needles. Photo looks WNW.

So, Peak 5452 is the last of the Lists of John peaks in the Black Hills with at least 300 feet of prominence that we’ll be visiting, SPHP?

More or less, Loop.  No doubt we’ll return to some we’ve been to before, and might visit one or two more new ones, but I don’t think there are any more you haven’t been to that are both accessible and would involve an adventure like this.  Kind of the end of an era for us.  Lists of John gave us a reason to visit quite a few peaks we’d never considered before.

4:27 PM – Speaking of adventures, Lupe’s summit hour was up.

Ready to roll, Loopster?

I suppose, SPHP.

Good.  I’d been thinking we might hit Peak 5400 on the way back, but it’s too late for that.  However, we might be able to get to Dome Mountain (5,510 ft.).  Want to pay it one last visit?

Do you really think we can get there before dark, SPHP?

Yes, but not the way we tried last time, Looper.

Despite having just been there twice less than 3 weeks ago, Lupe was willing to visit Dome Mountain again.  Going farther S before turning E during her Peak 5452 descent, she followed a very windy edge where Dome Mountain was in view.

Dome Mountain (Center) from Peak 5452. Photo looks SSE.
Another angle. Dome Mountain (L of Center). Photo looks S.

After crossing Two Bit Creek at the same place as before, Lupe made the steep climb back up to the saddle S of HP5032.

Back on the E side of Two Bit Creek. Photo looks SW.

So, how do we get to Dome Mountain’s summit from here, SPHP?

SPHP needed a moment to gasp for air before replying.

Turn S, back the way we came again, Looper, but this time just keep going.  Don’t turn E.

Another substantial climb through the forest had SPHP dragging by the time the terrain began leveling out again.  Turning SE along a broad, flat ridge, Lupe had a blast exploring this easy ground, still displaying great energy.  Even SPHP was soon able to pick up the pace again.

Climbing gradually as the flattest ground led S again, Lupe discovered a snow bank.  The snow was only a few inches deep, but covered quite a bit of territory.  Feeling frisky, the American Dingo delighted in rolling around on it, paws thrashing, while chomping mouthfuls of the delicious wet snow.  Once beyond the snow, she began circling around to the W.

6:55 PM, 57ºF, Dome Mountain (5,510 ft.) – Lupe made the short, rocky scramble to the summit, arriving just in time to enjoy the alpenglow.  Once again, SPHP shook the Carolina Dog’s paw, congratulating her on her unexpected return to this remote peak.

Back at Dome Mountain’s true summit. Pillar Peak (Center). Photo looks NE.

Unfortunately, the chocolate coconut bar supply was completely wiped out.  Taste of the Wild and water were a poor substitute, but that was it for remaining supplies.  When the Taste of the Wild was gone, too, Lupe curled up on SPHP’s lap to watch the sunset.

Not as windy here as over at Peak 5452, now more than a mile NW.  As the sun sank toward the horizon, the breeze weakened further.  Felt kind of funny being here again so soon, but also like the right decision.

For 20 minutes, Lupe and SPHP enjoyed being on Dome Mountain.

7:15 PMStill a long way back to the RAV4, Loopster.

Aww, the sun isn’t even down yet, SPHP.  Sunset might be awesome!

I know, Loop, but it would sure be nice to at least make it back to a road before it gets dark.

A last look around, and Lupe was on her way.

A final glance at Peak 5452 (L of Center). Photo looks NW.
Sunset from Dome Mountain. Terry Peak (L of Center).
Leaving Dome Mountain. Photo looks SW.

As dusk deepened, SPHP overshot the region where Lupe should have turned N toward the ridge that would have gotten her back to the saddle S of Pillar Peak.  Due to this unforced error, the American Dingo wound up exploring a valley that took her NE.

If it hadn’t been for a faint, long abandoned road, the entire valley would have been a miserable bushwhack.  As it was, only the last part after the ancient road completely faded away was like that.  A pitch black descent while thrashing through a dense tangle of bushes and trees ensued, alleviated only by the weak beam of the small flashlight.

In the end, Lupe eventually popped out on USFS Road No. 172.1H, 0.5 mile S of where she’d left it many hours ago.  The Carolina Dog’s Peak 5452 adventures were all but over now, only a long road hike, nearly all of it downhill beneath the silent stars, remained.  (End 9:39 PM, 51ºF)

On Peak 5452, Black Hills of South Dakota 4-4-24
Lupe’s Expedition No. 327 GPS Track

Links:

Next Black Hills Expedition                Prior Black Hills Expedition

Lupe’s Scrollable GPS Track

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