Day 25 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!
1:53 PM, 55ºF, Dalton Highway MP 195.3, side road N of Nugget Creek – Rained all morning, which was OK since it was supposed to be a rest day, anyway, after Lupe’s grand adventures on her first ever backpacking trip in Alaska the past 3 days, but it wasn’t raining now. SPHP closed the trip journal.
All caught up, SPHP?
No, not quite, but getting sick of writing, Loopster. We ought to do something.
Outside the RAV4, the day was glum, darker again than it had been an hour ago. Apparently in need of physical support, heavy gray clouds draped themselves over all the mountaintops.
Sounds good to me, SPHP, but what can we do on a dreary day like this?
Just so happens, I’ve got just the thing in mind, Looper!
2:26 PM, Dalton Highway pullout near MP 207 –
Recognize this place, Loopster?
No, I don’t. Where are we, SPHP?
Ahh, well. That’s because these mountains are hidden to such an extent. You’ll recognize where we are soon enough. This is a favorite spot from some years back, one that used to have a special significance.
I’ll need more of a clue than that, SPHP. We’ve been to so many fabulous places!
Need a few clues, aye? Follow me, Looper!
The RAV4 parked near Dalton Highway MP 207. Photo looks S.
Crossing the Dalton Highway, SPHP led Lupe along a short access road, then turned NE.
The Alaska oil pipeline, SPHP!
By the Alaska oil pipeline. Photo looks E.
That’s right, Loop. Now think – we’re in the Brooks Range, and what mountains did we see off to the N from Peak3780 a few days back?
Sukakpak Mountain(4,459 ft.) and Dillon Mountain(4,820 ft.). Oh, I get it! This is my old last mile N trek from 2016, isn’t it, SPHP?
Sure is, sweet puppy! A perfect, easy stroll even on a gloomy day like this, too. Shall we?
Oh, I can’t wait, SPHP! I love this place! Been ever so long since we’ve been here.
Following the pipeline N for the first time in years, Lupe didn’t see any of the bunnies that used to live in the brush near the manicured service road, or the curious ravens that used to follow her hopping along up on the pipeline itself.
Nevertheless, it was awesome just being here again in the cool, moist air beneath the sullen sky. The Carolina Dog did get to see the shallow pond W of the pipeline again. It hadn’t gone anywhere.
The familiar shallow pond W of the Alaska oil pipeline. Photo looks WNW.
Somewhat more than a mile along the pipeline led to the stream that flows W from the valley N of Dillon Mountain. When Lupe got there, it was running fairly high for this time of year, spread out over a broad, stony floodplain.
Dillon Creek at the N end of the traditional Last Mile N pipeline trek. Photo looks NE.
We used to call this stream Dillon Creek, remember, SPHP?
Yeah. Still seems reasonable. Don’t think it has any other name, Loop.
We go W from here to the confluence of Dillon Creek and the Dietrich River, right, SPHP?
Yup, that’s where your last mile N ended in 2016, Looper.
Looking in the direction of the confluence with the Dietrich River. Photo looks WNW.
Lupe wanted to go to the official end of her 2016 Last Mile N trek down at the confluence. SPHP wanted to, too, but had foolishly forgotten to bring the new red rain jacket, and all the bushes in the forest were still sopping wet.
Are you kidding me? How could you forget your rain jacket, SPHP, after all the rain we’ve seen over the past few days? Look at the sky! Looks like RAIN at any moment, doesn’t it?
Oh, I know. Silly me. Guess I just wasn’t thinking. Sort of thought that we could just wander down that way along the floodplain, but Dillon Creek is right up against the near bank now, and I don’t want to get my boots wet.
Well, it’s kind of a big deal, SPHP. How often are we here, anyway? Hardly ever. Last time was clear back in 2017. This was our big chance!
Sorry, Loop. We’ll do this again soon, and go all the way to the confluence to make it official. How does that sound? We’ll get to do this twice!
Only once good and proper, SPHP. And how “soon” is soon?
Maybe tomorrow, before we continue N, Loop. Or on our way back S a week or two from now.
Oh, well, I suppose that wouldn’t be so bad. Promise, SPHP?
I promise, sweet puppy, provided the weather isn’t dreadful.
OK then, SPHP. Just don’t forget. Remember, you promised!
Since SPHP didn’t want to get wet, it was already time to head back. The return was every bit as pleasant with iconic Sukakpak Mountain, most famous peak along the Dalton Highway, ahead in the distance. Too bad the summit was still in the clouds, but, of course, it was going to be on a day like this.
Heading back along the Alaska oil pipeline. Sukakpak Mountain (R). Photo looks S.Continuing S. Sukakpak Mountain (L). Photo looks SSE.
Near the very end, the American Dingo went right on by the access road back to the Dalton Highway all the way to where the Alaska oil pipeline crossed the Dietrich River. The Dalton Highway bridge was in sight from here with Sukakpak Mountain beyond it. Sukakpak’s great N fin was now cloud-free.
Dalton Highway bridge over the Dietrich River.N fin of Sukakpak Mountain (R). Photo looks SSE.
3:39 PM, Dalton Highway pullout near MP 207 –
Wow, I’m glad we did that, SPHP! Great idea, although it would have been even better if you’d remembered to bring your rain jacket so we could have gone all the way to the confluence. Why are you humans such a bunch of sissies, anyway? Getting a little wet wouldn’t have killed you.
Maybe so, but look at it this way, Looper. You’ve still got my promise to come back again real soon, and do it up right next time.
That will be wonderful, if it actually happens, SPHP. By the way, speaking of what happens, what’s next now?
As rainy as it’s been, Loop, I’m thinking maybe it wouldn’t hurt to drive back to Coldfoot. Bet I can get an updated weather forecast at the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center. Might actually help us decide what we ought to do next.
Not a bad idea, SPHP! You could also go to the restaurant at Coldfoot Camp, and get me another big, juicy, barbecued beef rib from the buffet!
Heh. Maybe, Loop. They don’t serve the buffet until 5:00 PM, though. We ought to be there in plenty of time to order a hamburger instead, which might cost quite a bit less.
Not if you’re buying one for me, too, SPHP! And you better!
Sorry, you can’t order from the menu now. Restaurant closes at 4:15 PM to get ready for the buffet. $27.95 tax included, all you can eat. Buffet opens at 5:00 PM, runs until 9:00 PM.
What time is it?
4:16 PM.
Figures.
That was fast, SPHP! Did you bring me a hamburger?
No. They said we’re having the buffet, Loop, but not for a little while yet. Let’s go get that weather forecast.
The Arctic Interagency Visitor Center did have a 5 day forecast. Not a very good one. Temperatures were fine. High’s in the 50’s, and lows in the 40’s ºF. No wind to speak of, either. Every day overcast, foggy, or at least mostly cloudy, though, with a significant chance of rain. A mere 40% tomorrow, but 60% or more after that.
About time, SPHP! Anything left at the buffet? More importantly, did you bring me another luscious, barbecued beef rib?
Nope. Buffet was different tonight, Loopster. No ribs. Chicken or pulled pork. Since we’ve had plenty of chicken earlier on this Dingo Vacation, I brought you pulled pork. Think you’ll like it. Here you go. Have at it!
7:09 PM, 60ºF, Dalton Highway MP 195.3, side road N of Nugget Creek –
We’re staying here again tonight, SPHP?
Yeah, why not? Nice and quiet and secluded. I like it! So, how was that pulled pork?
Scrumptious, SPHP! Thank you! Too bad we can’t get the big buffet every night on this Dingo Vacation. Have to admit that the pulled pork lacked the bone crunching satisfaction of the barbecued ribs, though.
Glad to hear you enjoyed the pork, Loop. Figured you would. Want to take a stroll? Hardly any traffic out on the Dalton Highway at this hour.
Walking only a little way N along the quiet highway, a magnificent sight soon came into view off in the distance.
SPHP, look! There’s sunshine on Sukakpak! It’s out of the clouds!
It was true. Even some blue sky over that way. Time to keep a promise!
Back to the RAV4, Loopster! We’ll get a few pictures, then do up your 2016 Last Mile North the way it ought to be done this time.
Blue skies over Sukakpak Mountain! Photo looks NE.Sukakpak Mountain from the Dalton Highway. Photo looks NE.Dillon Mountain beyond the Bettles River. Photo looks ENE.
7:55 PM, Dalton Highway pullout near MP 207 – This time as Lupe set out along the Alaska oil pipeline, she turned S first, going the short distance to where the pipeline crossed the Dietrich River. Best to get another look at Sukakpak Mountain(4,459 ft.) from this angle before the clouds had a chance to regroup.
Dalton Highway bridge over the Dietrich River with Sukakpak Mountain beyond. Photo looks SSE.Sukakpak Mountain. Photo looks SSE.
It was a perfect evening as Lupe followed the Alaska oil pipeline N once again. Thrilling to see so much blue sky around! Maybe the weather forecast was wrong? If so, the Carolina Dog might get a chance to climb Sukakpak Mountain tomorrow! That would be so incredibly fantastic!
Following the Alaska oil pipeline N for the 2nd time today. Photo looks NE.
Full of such happy, stimulating thoughts, Lupe reached Dillon Creek in what seemed like no time at all. SPHP was prepared, already wearing the new, red rain jacket. Pushing past an initial line of alders and other tall bushes, Lupe headed W into the forest.
A luxurious Christmas carpet of thick, green moss, and short red bushes greeted the American Dingo. Although there were many tall bushes, too, the forest was fairly open, and easy to navigate. Displaying great energy and enthusiasm, Loopster sniffed and explored her way W through this hidden, special place, where it instantly felt like she was being magically transported back to a day long ago.
On the Christmas carpet. Photo looks W.
After 0.6 mile, Lupe reached the E bank of the Dietrich River. Down on the rounded stones and sand of the floodplain, Lupe followed the river upstream to the confluence with Dillon Creek.
8:47 PM, confluence of the Dietrich River and Dillon Creek – This was the place! Where does the time go? It had been more than 6 years now since Lupe had first been here on a beautiful August day. The dark blue mountain Lupe had seen the day before back then from the summit of Sukakpak Mountain, the one that SPHP had dubbed the Mountain of the Midnight Sun, was in sight again off to the N, it’s summit lost in cloud.
Confluence of the Dietrich River (L) and Dillon Creek (R). Mountain of the Midnight Sun (L of Center) in the distance. Photo looks NNE.
Remember how we thought this was as far N as we would ever be back in 2016, SPHP?
I’ll never forget that, Loop. It was as far N as we went then. For a whole year, I was always sorry we turned around without finding out what was beyond this point.
We returned, though, in 2017, SPHP, right back here before going all the way to Deadhorse!
Yeah, that was awesome, such fun times, Loopster! Really only thought we’d get as far as the N Slope in 2017. Everyone we’d talked to said that Deadhorse was just an ugly industrial place, and that going any farther wasn’t worth it. Once we got to the N slope, though, we couldn’t stop and turn around again. Would have regretted it forever!
Turned out to be marvelous, SPHP! Like going to the end of the world!
Indeed it was, Looper. Only bad thing was that no Dingoes were allowed on the Arctic Ocean tour. Had to go as your personal representative.
We’re going to Deadhorse this year, too, right, SPHP?
Absolutely, sweet puppy! Not turning around after coming this far again until we’re at the very end.
Many adventures to look forward to, to be sure! Right now, though, on this wonderful evening, Lupe lingered at this marvelous, magical place, remembering.
To the SE, Dillon Mountain was a mountain of gold! To the S, the spires of Sukakpak soared skyward in the late evening sun. Miles N loomed the dark blue mysteries of the Mountain of the Midnight Sun. Turned out it had a real name, Snowden Mountain(6,420 ft.), but Lupe had never climbed it. Too steep for SPHP.
Dillon Creek (L) and Dillon Mountain (R). Photo looks SE.Sukakpak Mountain (Center). Photo looks S.Sukakpak Mountain. Photo looks S.Mountain of the Midnight Sun (L of Center) from the confluence of the Dietrich River (L) and Dillon Creek (R). Photo looks NNE.
You can go back to a place you love after a long absence, but it’s never quite the same. Even if the place hasn’t changed, you have. What once was, is no more. Happily, despite a 5 year absence, Lupe’s 2016 last mile N hadn’t changed much at all, and the spirited Carolina Dog was once again looking forward to fabulous adventures ahead.
Doesn’t get any better than that!
Before we go, SPHP, we should get a souvenir! Something to remember this place and time. How about a snazzy rock for my rock collection?
Great idea, Loopster! I’ll have a look around, see what I can find.
A smooth white pebble with a gold swirl plucked from Dillon Creek only a few feet from the Dietrich River seemed a good choice. Lupe gave it a sniff of approval, and it was time to go.
The souvenir pebble.
Then it was back through the magical forest to the Alaska oil pipeline, and the easy stroll S in the cool evening air with Sukakpak Mountain ahead, the sky blue with promise for what tomorrow might bring. (8:52 PM)
Heading back along the Alaska oil pipeline. Photo looks S.Evening at Sukakpak Mountain (L of Center). Photo looks S.Lupe’s 2016 Last Mile North Revisited, Brooks Range, Alaska 8-23-22
Days 23 & 24 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!
8-21-22, 6:03 AM, E of Nugget Creek near Victor Gulch – The American Dingo was still sleeping like a rock when SPHP poked a nose outside the tiny house.
Daylight in the swamps, Loopster!
What? Already, SPHP?
Yup, yup! Better get with it! Long climb ahead of us, if things don’t get any worse. Nearly 4,200 feet!
What’s it like out there this morning, SPHP?
Completely overcast. Kind of looks and feels like rain soon, but except for a little fog right at the summit, Poss Mountain(6,180 ft.) is cloud-free.
Doesn’t sound that promising, SPHP.
Yeah, it’s right on the edge of being acceptable at the moment, but who knows? Anything might happen, Loop. It’s the weather, you know. If it clears off even a little bit, this will be our big chance, so we best get into position to take advantage.
Suppose you’re right, SPHP. Can we eat first? I’m starving!
Sure. How about some Taste of the Wild? You can munch away while I break camp.
We aren’t coming back here, SPHP?
Nope. Not going over Peak3780 again. It was beautiful, but I’m thinking there must be easier ways out.
Poss Mountain (Center) from low camp near Nugget Creek in Victor Gulch. Photo looks SSE.
Once SPHP had the tiny house packed up and was ready, Looper set off heading SE, gradually gaining elevation while crossing an open slope of thick, spongy tundra and low bushes.
During last evening’s descent from Peak 3780 to low camp, the big open ridge N of Peak 5500 had looked not only like the best way to get closer to Poss Mountain, but a great place to establish high camp, too. To get to that ridge, though, Lupe was going to have to descend slightly into Victor Gulch to ford the E fork of Nugget Creek.
On the way down to the creek, the brilliantly colored bushes were much taller, and more of an obstacle. Forcing a way through, the Carolina Dog got down to an alder thicket right along the stream. Nugget Creek still had substantial flow up here, cascading swiftly down dark rocks.
E fork of Nugget Creek in Victor Gulch.
Can’t rock hop it, and it looks too swift, powerful, and deep for you to safely ford it here, Loopster. Let’s look for a more tranquil spot.
Continuing upstream despite the alders, a shallower, less turbulent spot soon appeared. SPHP went first, wading across without any problem.
You can do this, Looper! C’mon over.
Without hesitation, Lupe cast herself into the icy stream. Moments later, she was shaking herself off next to SPHP.
Gee, thanks, Loop!
If I can plunge in practically up to my neck, you can endure a few drops, SPHP. Onward!
Safely across Nugget Creek. Photo looks downstream.
For some reason, there were hardly any alders on this side. Pushing up a steep bank through small trees and more colorful bushes, Lupe was quickly through them. A long, open tundra slope continued hundreds of feet higher. Heading SW, the rate of climb gradually diminished as the Carolina Dog gained close to 500 feet of elevation.
Lupe was now up on the broad, gently sloping toe of Peak 5500‘s N ridge. The tundra was gorgeous up here, a mix of crimson, green, and gold. Unfortunately, instead of improving, the weather was looking less favorable. The top of Poss Mountain was now in the clouds.
Lower end of Peak 5500‘s N ridge. Poss Mountain (L), Peak 5500 (R). Photo looks SSE.
Turning S, the American Dingo continued her climb at a much easier pace. An intermittent light mist began to fall. Really didn’t amount to much, but the way the sky was looking, SPHP paused to put on the new red rain jacket. Lupe simply had to put up with the mist. It didn’t curb her enthusiasm in the least, as she ran and sniffed her way toward big rock formations visible ahead along the crest of the ridge.
Approaching rock formations (L) farther up the ridge. Peak 5500 (R). Photo looks SSE.
Upon reaching the rock formations, Lupe had a blast exploring them! Toward the W, they formed a dramatic line of sheer cliffs that dropped down to a broad, gently curving slope. The E side offered a spectacular view of a smooth tundra slope swooping ever more steeply down into Victor Gulch. A large waterfall tumbled into the deeply eroded chasm.
Below the first cliffs. Peak 5500 (R). Photo looks SSE.The Victor Gulch chasm (R). Photo looks NE.
The line of cliffs was not continuous, making it easy to switch from one side to the other. As Lupe continued her climb S, she visited both. The line of cliffs toward the W grew taller and even more impressive. Over on the E side, the gently curved upper valley from which Nugget Creek plunged into Victor Gulch was soon visible ahead.
Along the base of the W facing cliffs. Peak 5500 (Center) ahead. Photo looks S.Nugget Creek (L) begins its plunge from the upper valley into Victor Gulch. Peak 5500 (R). Photo looks S.
From right up on top of the rock formations, Peak3780, where Lupe had been only yesterday, was in view back to the N.
Yeah, too bad this weather has turned so soupy, Looper. The upper valley over by Nugget Creek looks like a great place to establish high camp. Let’s head over that way.
Heading for the upperNugget Creek valley (Center). Photo looks SSE.
The upper valley looked gorgeous, but the tundra proved to be boggy. Well before Lupe reached Nugget Creek, SPHP had a change of heart.
Sorry for the confusion, Loop, but let’s nix the valley. No point in setting up in a swamp. Let’s stick with the original plan, and find a spot back up on the ridge instead.
Returning to the ridgeline, the American Dingo continued S past all the cliffs to where the ridge was more rounded on both sides. Going all the way to a saddle next to Peak 5500’s N face, this looked like an ideal spot.
Lots of bare dirt in this region, but SPHP began erecting the tiny house on a suitably soft patch of tundra. Suddenly, there was movement high on Peak 5500. A mountain goat! Excited, Lupe dashed off toward it. The lone goat had no intention of making her acquaintance, promptly disappearing over a W ridge.
SPHP hadn’t even finished setting up the tiny house, when fog swept in from out of nowhere, and hid everything. After a few minutes, it drifted away, but Poss Mountain was now almost entirely shrouded in clouds. Only the lower black and gold slopes were visible. Not good!
However, Lupe was not discouraged in the least. Enthralled with this spectacular location, she had already turned her attention to exploring the immediate vicinity, sniffing excitedly around the base of scattered boulders. Finished with the tiny house, SPHP enjoyed watching her enormous enthusiasm.
The air had been completely calm all this time, but a sudden gust of wind sent all the bags for the tiny house, including the ones for the poles and stakes, flying NW. High in the air, they swirled away so lightly and easily, it was as if they’d been designed for flight. In a flash, they were way down the W slope!
After them, Loop! Don’t let them get away!
Barking excitedly at this new sensation, Lupe raced off in hot pursuit. SPHP eventually managed to recover 2 of the 3 bags. However, the bag for the poles flew beyond vision, disappearing hundreds of feet lower. Gone for good! Never going to find it! Fortunately, not a huge tragedy. SPHP was more upset at having it litter this unspoiled land than its loss.
8-21-22, 10:53 AM, high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500 – While returning to the tiny house with the recovered bags, mist turned to rain. Lupe was perfectly positioned for an attempt on Poss Mountain(6,180 ft.), but it clearly wasn’t going to happen under these conditions.
At high camp on a dreary day. Peak 3286 (R foreground). Photo looks WNW.
Might as well go inside, Loop. We can dry off, have something to eat, and rest up while waiting for the weather to improve.
That last part seemed like a long shot.
SPHP dozed off and on, as it rained for hours. At times, Lupe attempted to snooze, too, but she was too corked up to remain in the tiny house for long. The Carolina Dog had already discovered that pikas or marmots were living unseen beneath a few big boulders scattered nearby. This temptation was simply too much. Loop kept going out in the rain to race back and forth from one boulder to the next, sniffing like a mad Dingo at the many access holes around them leading into hidden burrows below.
Out in the rain and mist, Lupe had a superb time roaming at will. It wasn’t until it started raining harder that she finally returned sopping wet to the tiny house, and settled down on her red sleeping bag.
8-21-22, 3:00 PM, high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500 – Waking, SPHP found the American Dingo peacefully asleep. However, something had changed. It wasn’t raining! Full of hope, SPHP peered outside. Those hopes were immediately dashed. Dense gray fog.
Hey, Loop! Wake up. It stopped raining.
It did? Are we going to climb Poss Mountain, SPHP?
No, afraid not. Foggy out. Evidently, Poss Mountain isn’t happening today, but we could explore the ridge a bit.
The American Dingo was eager to get back out there again. Wandering N along the ridge, most of the fog soon drifted away, revealing another big boulder at a high point. After continuing the foray N to the brink of the cliffs just for the fun of it, Lupe returned to the high point boulder.
On the boulder at the local high point of Peak 5500‘s N ridge. Photo looks SE.
You sure look happy here, Looper. Didn’t realize you thrive so under such gloomy conditions.
Even without climbing Poss Mountain, this place is awesome, SPHP! Pikas, marmots, a mountain goat, all this fantastic open tundra, big rock formations, and dark mountains. All mysteriously hidden and revealed in the ever-shifting fog. A Dingo could hardly ask for more!
Hmm. I see. Well, how about a trip farther up the Nugget Creek valley, Loop? We could find out what’s up that way, and reconnoiter whatever might be visible of possible routes up Poss Mountain.
Sounds like fun, SPHP! Let’s do it!
Abandoning the high point boulder, Lupe headed S back to the tiny house before angling SE into the upper Nugget Creek valley.
Leaving the high point boulder (R). Photo looks N.Returning to the tiny house (L). HP5500 (R of Center). Photo looks S.Heading into the upper Nugget Creek valley. Photo looks SE.
Staying high enough on the W side of the valley to avoid the wet tundra down by the creek, Lupe explored all the way to the S end of the valley where it curled SW. Another 1,000 feet higher, Peak 5500‘s true summit was visible from here, barely in the clouds.
Peak 5500 summit (Center). Photo looks WSW.
Doesn’t look that hard to get up there, SPHP! We could climb Peak 5500!
Believe you’re right, Looper, but let’s save our strength. Still hoping we might get a shot at Poss Mountain.
Getting mighty late in the day to do that, SPHP, even if conditions improve, which they aren’t.
I know, Loop. Poss Mountain has denied us today, but the weather might be better tomorrow. Would hate to fail at Poss because we unnecessarily wore ourselves out on Peak 5500 in this gloom.
Suit yourself, SPHP. It was just a thought.
Looking E across the valley, a couple of spots looked like feasible starting points for an attempt on Poss Mountain in the morning. They both led to some pretty steep terrain, but what was visible below the clouds looked doable. SPHP favored the spot closest to the S end of the valley.
Well, Loop, we aren’t going to try it now, so I suppose we might as well head back.
Heading down the upper Nugget Creek valley. Poss Mountain (R). Photo looks N.
Rain on the way back to the tiny house continued intermittently during the early evening. After dinner, Lupe slipped out while SPHP wasn’t looking. No doubt off in search of pikas and marmots again.
Funny thing about these pikas. Apparently they were expert gardeners. SPHP had noticed that beautiful thick tundra flourished for 2 or 3 feet around the circumference of the huge boulders they liked to congregate beneath, even though those boulders were otherwise sitting in barren areas of nothing but dirt.
8-21-22, 8:04 PM,high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500 – It wasn’t all about pikas and marmots. While SPHP dozed, the Carolina Dog spent quite a bit of time lying outside the tiny house just looking at the views, always searching for some sign of movement.
The cloud cover had lifted some. Poss Mountain remained shrouded, but Lupe could see many lower peaks off to the W, along with part of Minnie Creek Lake, and portions of the Middle Fork of the Koyukuk River close to where she’d started out from yesterday morning.
Minnie Creek Lake (L of Center). Photo looks WNW.
Want to go see the big waterfall in Victor Gulch, Loop?
She did, but it turned out that the waterfall seen earlier in the day wasn’t visible from this far S due to how deep it was in Victor Gulch. Lupe had a fantastic time anyway, racing across the tundra like a Dingo possessed. Rain sprinkled yet again during the return to the tiny house.
Sniffing around near Victor Gulch. Photo looks N.
Late evening brought more ambling forays N along the ridge. Gloomy and dark, Poss Mountain remained eternally shrouded in fog. Specks of blue sky to the N provided a glimmer of hope for tomorrow, as a bright white spot in the clouds slid toward the horizon.
Dusk arrived. The American Dingo spent a final dim hour lying on the wet tundra watching wisps of fog drift among distant mountains before retiring for the night.
What a glorious, restful day it had been! With high camp only a little over a mile W of Poss Mountain’s summit, Lupe was perfectly positioned for tomorrow, too. Hadn’t rained for a while now, either. Maybe those blue specks really did portend good news in the morning?
In any case, it would be Lupe’s last chance. First light would tell the tale.
A relaxing evening at high camp. Photo looks NNW.
8-22-22, the wee hours,high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500 – The sad news came well before first light. Rain on the tiny house again! It rained for hours, and was still raining when Lupe went out at daybreak. Foggy, little or no visibility, and a chill, steady rain.
Criminy, Loopster! Looks like ark building time!
Retreating back into the tiny house, it was actually time for breakfast and another snooze.
8-22-22, 8:33 AM, high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500 – Not raining now, and the fog had blown away from the ridge.
Now’s our chance, Looper!
Really? To climb Poss Mountain, SPHP?
No! To get out of here while we can stay dry for at least a little while. Still totally overcast out there, and we’ve seen what to expect. Sooner or later the rain and fog will be back. Hate to bail on Poss Mountain when we’re so close, but no telling how long we’d have to wait for decent conditions.
Disappointing, but that’s the way the cookie crumbles. Everything out! SPHP packed up the tiny house, and Lupe was on her way.
Final moments at high camp. Minnie Creek Lake (Center). Photo looks WNW.
Leaving the high camp ridge, SPHP led Loop WSW along Peak 5,500’s steep N slope. Staying fairly high, she crossed a number of rock slides and ravines during a gradual descent. Slow going, but the Carolina Dog came to some nice stretches of tundra, too. An hour into it, the clouds developed a blue tinge.
Some gorgeous tundra on Peak 5500’s NW slope. Photo looks SW.
Maybe we should go back, SPHP?
Pay no attention to this little bit of blue, Looper! Just a trap. You’ll see!
Took 2.5 hours to work around to the first rock formations on the giant, rounded ridge NW of Peak 5500. Lupe had skirted along through a lot of rock, tundra, and even a swampy region with tall bushes and a stream to get here.
Smooth sailing now, though! Turning NW, the Carolina Dog made rapid progress on firm, gently sloping terrain. Stunningly beautiful tundra led from one interesting, isolated rock formation to the next.
Glancing back to the E, Poss Mountain’s summit was completely cloud free for the first time in two days. Annoyed, SPHP muttered something about being taunted by the mountain’s evil spirit, and continued NW.
On one of the first rock formations along Peak 5500‘s NW ridge. Photo looks NW.Poss Mountain (L), Peak 5500 (R). Photo looks E.
The big rounded ridge was a wonderfully fun, easy, downhill romp! Spectacular scenery on all sides, and what rock formations there were presented no difficulties. A grand view of the Nugget Creek valley was off to the N, sandwiched between Peak3286 and Peak3780. Minnie Creek Lake was coming into sight again to the NW.
Peak 3286 (L), Nugget Creek valley (Center), Peak 3780 (far R). Photo looks N.Minnie Creek Lake (L). Photo looks NW.Closing in on Minnie Creek Lake. Photo looks WNW.
A mile E of Minnie Creek Lake, Lupe reached a minor hill along the big ridge. A small rock formation stood along a low ridge of flat gray rock. On the surrounding gentle slopes, little bushes of brilliant crimson and orange put on a stunning display of Arctic beauty.
Peak 3286 (L) and Peak 3780 (R) from a Dingo display formation. Photo looks N.Poss Mountain (L) and Peak 5500 (R of Center) from the colorful hill. Photo looks ESE.
What an incredible place! Can we stop here for a while, SPHP?
Sure, let’s take a break, Loop. This is fantastic!
8-22-22, 12:03 PM – Lupe curled up on the tundra. SPHP threw a maroon jacket over her. While the Carolina Dog napped, SPHP munched on trail mix. Pondering the gorgeous views, SPHP speculated on what route Lupe ought to take back to the Dalton Highway from here?
Peak 3878 (L) and Minnie Creek Lake. Photo looks W.
2 viable options seemed to make sense. Proceed to Minnie Creek Lake, then NW down the Over Creek valley, or up and over Peak3286.
Any preference, Loop?
Which is easiest, SPHP?
Probably Minnie Creek Lake, Looper. Downhill all the way, whereas we’d have to climb more than 700 feet to get over Peak 3286. Of course, Peak 3286 could be sort of a consolation prize for not having made it to Poss Mountain. Not a comparable peak at all, but it’s something.
I’m feeling more energetic after this nap, SPHP. Let’s climb Peak 3286. After all, we came to climb mountains!
From the dazzling hill overlooking Minnie Creek Lake, Lupe roamed freely down a vast slope toward an enormously broad saddle leading to Peak 3286. The last part of this journey was thick with spongy tundra. The saddle itself proved tussocky, always difficult terrain.
After crossing the boggy tussocks, Lupe made her escape. Starting her ascent of Peak 3286, she began climbing a steeper slope covered with bushes chest high on SPHP. These bushes would have been trouble, if not for a maze of open lanes among them. Thus saved from any serious bushwhacking, progress was decent as Lupe continued higher.
Heading down to the tussocky saddle. Peak 3286 (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.Among the colorful bushes. Peak 3286 (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.
Regaining nearly 200 feet of elevation, the American Dingo reached a nearly level region of tundra and far fewer bushes. Aiming W of cliffs along Peak 3286’s upper SE face, Lupe quickly crossed this plain, and started up the next slope full of bushes, which was dotted with trees.
During a final glance back at Minnie Creek Lake, Peak5400 was starting to disappear from view.
Crossing the tundra plain. Peak 3286 (R). Photo looks NNW.A last glance back at Minnie Creek Lake (R). Peak 5400 (L of Center). Photo looks SSW.
I knew Poss Mountain has just been taunting us today, Loopster! Look at that! The weather is going to pot on us. We better hustle!
As the slope steadily steepened during the ascent to Peak 3286’s W ridge, hustling was easier said than done. More lanes among the bushes here helped again, but SPHP had to keep pausing to gasp for air.
The sky was leaden, the air heavy with humidity, as Lupe reached the base of a line of small cliffs. Forcing her way through extraordinarily dense vegetation, the Carolina Dog managed to traverse 50 feet E to where a break in the cliffs permitted a 30 foot scramble above them.
No obstacles up here! Instead, a broad, featureless, maroon and brown tundra plain rose gradually NE.
On the Peak 3286 summit plain. Photo looks NE.
Hurry, Loopster! Let’s tag the summit before the rain hits! Onward! Puppy, ho!
8-22-22, 2:07 PM, Peak3286 – It was only 400 feet to the summit, a 100 foot long nearly flat region on the brink of SSE facing cliffs. Opposite the cliffs, a gently rounded slope began gradually dropping away.
Happily, Lupe had arrived just in time to spend a few precious minutes enjoying the views. Beneath the threatening sky, the entire incredible world she’d spent the last 3 days exploring was on display.
To the SE, Poss Mountain’s elusive summit was back in the clouds again, but Lupe could see her beloved 4,000+ foot ridge where the tiny house had been, and she’d had such a fun time yesterday in a land of mist and rain where pikas, marmots, and a lone mountain goat lived.
A glance at the steep alder-infested slope below HP3400 across the deep Nugget Creek valley made perfectly clear why Lupe’s repeated attempts to traverse it 2 days ago had all been doomed to failure from the start. HP3400 and Peak3780, both of which she’d ultimately visited, were in sight high above it.
Peak 3780 (L) beyond the Nugget Creek valley, Poss Mountain (R). Photo looks E.
Our first backpacking trip ever in Alaska has been amazing, hasn’t it, SPHP?
Yes! Absolutely, Loop, but I’m sorry, we can’t stay here.
Five minutes after arriving at Peak 3286’s summit, scattered raindrops were already starting to fall. SPHP put on the new, red rain jacket, hood and all.
Cripes! How do you even tighten this hood? Never used it before.
Don’t ask me, SPHP, and don’t complain! I’m going to get soaked, aren’t I?
Afraid so, sweet puppy! Well, never mind the hood. Onward! Puppy, ho!
Raindrops were falling thick and fast as Lupe started down Peak 3286’s NNW slope.
About to head down. Middle Fork of the Koyukuk River, Alaska oil pipeline, and Dalton Highway (L). Sukakpak Mountain (R) and Dillon Mountain (far R). Photo looks NNW.
The terrain rapidly steepened. For a long way, a lip was always ahead, an indication of even steeper ground to come. Looked like Lupe would cliff out, but having seen this side of the mountain before, SPHP knew she wouldn’t.
As though sent by Poss Mountain, an E wind sprang up. In a driving, heavy rain, poor Lupe got soaked to the bone. The hood kept blowing off SPHP, but the red rain jacket otherwise did it’s job. Never complaining, Lupe led the way on thick tundra, which made the descent easier.
Head for that upside down gingerbread man, Looper! That’s the old, long abandoned construction camp where we stayed 3 nights ago.
On the brink of the steep descent. Peak 3470 (L), construction camp (L of Center), Nugget Creek (R). Photo looks NW.
At last, the whole runout slope was visible below. The rate of descent slowly decreased. Once low enough, the going got easier, although the construction camp Lupe was aiming for was no longer in sight.
The runout slope appears below. Peak 3470 (L), Nugget Creek (R). Photo looks NW.Safely down, the adventure continues! Peak 3470 (R of Center). Photo looks WNW.
Still more than a mile to the old construction camp! Loopster braved tussocks and forests. She crossed a weird ravine full of mud and brown grass. Impenetrable dense thickets of alders were to the R (NE) along Nugget Creek, which was close enough to be heard, but never seen. The American Dingo discovered a trail through sopping wet bushes head high on SPHP.
A 2 track road finally appeared off to the R. Going to it, 300 feet along the road got Lupe to the abandoned construction camp. Nothing to it now! The rain and wind had ended a little while ago. Continuing NW, Lupe headed for Peak 3470 looming ahead.
Peak 3470 (Center) from the long abandoned construction camp. Photo looks NW.
Before getting to the Dalton Highway, Lupe looked back one more time. There in the distance beyond the Nugget Creek valley gap between Peak 3780 and Peak 3286, the lower slopes of Poss Mountain were visible, the summit still hidden in clouds.
8-22-22, 4:40 PM, 43ºF – Scarcely any traffic on the Dalton Highway as Lupe trotted the last 0.25 mile NE. Once back to the RAV4 parked at the side road just N of Nugget Creek, she hopped up onto her pink blanket, eagerly awaiting dinner since supplies had completely run out during the return.
SPHP threw another blanket over the thoroughly drenched Carolina Dog to help warm her up, then produced a dinner of beef stew, Ritz crackers, cheese, and a whole bag of Fritos.
Nothing but health food again, Loop! Enjoy!
Although denied at Poss Mountain(6,180 ft.), Lupe’s fabulous day in the mists and fog at high camp up on the 4,000+ foot ridge only a mile W of the summit would always be fondly remembered. The American Dingo had climbed both Peak3780 and Peak 3286 on her first backpacking trip in Alaska, too!
We had a blast! Don’t give up on Poss Mountain, SPHP! Let’s come back on a sunnier day, and try again. We can explore Minnie Creek Lake, and climb Peak 3878!
Continuing N tomorrow, Loopster, but, yeah, why not give Poss another shot sometime? I’m game! In fact, we’ll be coming back this way before this Dingo Vacation is over. Maybe we can try it then?
Oh, I hope so, SPHP! Bet that mountain goat on Peak 5500 will sure be surprised to see me again, won’t he?
Exploring near Poss Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska 8-21-22
Part 2 of Day 21 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!
10:11 AM, 47ºF – After leaving Finger Mountain(2,202 ft.), the Dalton Highway gradually descended to the Kanuti River, crossed it, and began to climb again.
Hey, Loop! Skies are pretty cloudy up ahead, and the last forecast we had said 70% chance of rain in Coldfoot today, so I don’t think there’s any big rush to get there. We’re coming to a big hill that I’d more or less forgotten about since the last time we were here in 2017. Should be an easy climb. Are you interested?
Will we still get to the Arctic Circle today, SPHP?
Oh, yeah! No sweat! We’re practically to it already, Looper. In fact, we’re so close that I’m thinking of naming this hill Subarctic Peak, since it’s only about 5 miles S of the Arctic Circle.
Subarctic Peak, SPHP? I like it! Sounds like a cool name for my first new Alaskan peak in 3 years. Let’s do it!
11:26 AM, 49ºF, near MP110 – The Dalton Highway went right on up and over Subarctic Peak’s E shoulder. Parking the RAV4 alongside an Alaska oil pipeline access road conveniently close to the high point, SPHP then shared a light lunch of cheese and Ritz crackers with the Carolina Dog.
Well, that ought to be about enough, Looper. You were urpy this morning, remember? Ready for a romp up Subarctic Peak?
Yes, but I’m even more ready for more cheese and crackers, SPHP.
I know, but let’s not overdue it. C’mon! Onward! Puppy, ho!
Setting out for Subarctic Peak (L). Photo looks W.
Trotting a short distance NW to the Dalton Highway’s high point, Lupe came to a sign.
What does it say, SPHP?
Says “Beaver Slide”, Loop.
Beaver Slide? Odd, what’s that supposed to mean, SPHP?
It means I was wrong, Loopster. I just assumed this hill didn’t have a name, but it does. Beaver Slide is a name assigned by the truckers who first drove the Dalton Highway during its construction.
Well, it’s a funny name, SPHP. You mean to tell me that the first new peak I’m climbing in Alaska is actually Beaver Slide? Subarctic Peak sounded way more daunting, maybe even dangerous!
Maybe so, Loop, but it is what it is. Besides, maybe Beaver “Slide” actually does imply some real danger to a trucker on the long approaches during icy conditions?
Going a little beyond the crest of the Dalton Highway prior to crossing over to the W side, the ditch was full of water. Backtracking to the high point, the ditch was drier. Lupe was reluctant to follow SPHP through thick vegetation toward a line of tall bushes until discovering a faint path that got her past them.
Emerging from the tall bushes, the path continued up a mixed slope of tundra and much lower bushes. A couple of sizable rock outcroppings were ahead. Beyond them a series of high points were in sight along Beaver Slide Mountain’s N ridge.
Heading for the N ridge. Photo looks WNW.
The path went W up a shallow drainage that was wet in spots. Only a few days past mid-August, but the tundra was already sporting amazing autumn colors. Brilliant reds of the alpine bearberries were the most dazzling of all.
On a dazzling carpet of alpine bearberries.Alpine bearberries.
Passing between the 2 rock outcroppings, the path turned NW along the back side of the larger one. Lupe left the trail here to scramble up onto a small stony ridge. Gazing ESE back toward the start, the RAV4 was only a blue dot down by the Dalton Highway and the Alaska oil pipeline.
Dalton Highway and Alaska oil pipeline from the first stony ridge. Photo looks ESE.
To the W, an easy tundra slope led up to a saddle between the 2 high points farthest N along Beaver Slide Mountain’s N ridge.
The saddle (L of Center) on Beaver Slide Mountain’s N ridge. Photo looks W.
During the gorgeous trek up to the saddle, Lupe passed a few more wet spots, but the tundra was dry by the time she reached it. Several rocky high points were now visible off to the S, the most distant one being the apparent summit. Another high spot was only a short distance N.
Beaver Slide Mountain summit (L of Center). Photo looks S.Northernmost high point (R of Center) along the N ridge. Photo looks N.
I know it’s the lowest one, but want to check out the N high point, SPHP?
Sure! Why not, Loop? We’re almost there already.
At the N high point, a knob of rock made a terrific Dingo perch offering some great views. The Dalton Highway and Alaska oil pipeline were off to the E and N. The 3 high points the American Dingo would head for next were due S. Perhaps the most intriguing view was of a big dome 7 miles WNW.
On the N high point. Summit (R of Center) in the middle. Photo looks S.Beaver Slide Mountain’s N high point. Lupe started from the side road (L) linking the Dalton Highway and the Alaska oil pipeline. Photo looks SE.Dalton Highway heading off to the N. Photo looks NNW.The intriguing dome (Center). Photo looks WNW.
That’s a cool dome, SPHP! Looks like it wouldn’t be hard to get to, either.
Maybe someday, Miss Ambitious, but we’re not going that far today.
Does it have a name, SPHP?
Nanuk Benchmark (2,688 ft.), Looper. Or Nanuk Dome, if you prefer.
If we’re not going there today, SPHP, at least put it on my list of future possibilities.
I will, Loopster! Ready to continue on to the next high point?
Might as well hit ’em all, SPHP!
Following the broad ridge S to the next high point, Lupe was soon there. Like the N high point, this one featured a rocky Dingo perch, too.
Heading for the next high point (L). Photo looks S.On the 2nd high point. 1st (N) high point (R). Photo looks N.
Two higher points were still farther S. Lupe passed a smaller crag on the way to the third high point, which was capped with a ridge of boulders. Getting up onto the third high point required a little bit of a scramble, but nothing the Carolina Dog wasn’t up to.
Summit (Center), and the 3rd high point (R of Center). Photo looks S.Approaching the 3rd high point (Center). Photo looks S.3rd high point (L), 1st high point (Center), 2nd high point (R). Photo looks N.On the 3rd high point. Photo looks SSW.Beaver Slide Mountain summit (L) from the 3rd high point. Photo looks SSW.
Only one more high point to go! From the 3rd high point, it still looked like the true summit of Beaver Slide Mountain, too, although there might possibly be something a little higher still unseen beyond it.
The S end of the 3rd high point was so precipitous that Loopster had to scramble down to the E before continuing her trek S.
Beaver Slide Mountain summit (Center). Photo looks S.Starting the scramble down off the 3rd high point. Photo looks NW.Passing a couple of minor ridges on the way to the summit. Photo looks WSW.
1:07 PM, 52ºF, Beaver Slide Mountain(2,600 ft.) – The slope leading to the true summit was both gentler and longer than any of the other high points had been. The summit region was much more spacious, and less rugged, too. Lupe arrived to find a metal rod jutting up from the rocks, but that was it.
Heading up to the true summit. Photo looks S.At the true summit of Beaver Slide Mountain. Photo looks N.
Congratulations, Loopster! May I shake your paw?
Of course, SPHP! Talk about easy! Beaver Slide Mountain is cake! Nothing dangerous about it at all.
Well, I kind of figured this one wasn’t too tough, Loopster, but look at these views! Worthwhile, wouldn’t you say? Personally, I think they’re marvelous!
Oh, I most definitely agree, SPHP. Glad we came! Naturally, I’d appreciate these views even more, if you happen to have a chocolate coconut bar.
Luck of the Dingo, I do!
Sitting down together in a 10 mph NW breeze, the chocolate coconut bar quickly vanished without a trace. For nearly half an hour, Lupe stayed on SPHP’s lap surveying the magnificent views in all directions. Beneath mostly cloudy skies, Beaver Slide Mountain itself never seemed to be in sunshine, but patches of sunlight could be seen drifting across a vast empty land of rolling hills and valleys.
The Dalton Highway and Alaska oil pipeline were still in sight to the E. A tiny blip was identifiable as the top of Finger Mountain(2,202 ft.) far to the SE only because the Dalton Highway went right by it.
Dalton Highway and Alaska oil pipeline (Center & R). Photo looks NE.
Nearly due S, Caribou Mountain(3,179 ft.) was 7 miles away. Lupe had been there 5 years ago. Seeing it again from here produced a wistful, funny feeling.
Caribou Mountain (Center) on the horizon. Photo looks S.
7 miles WNW, Nanuk Dome (2,688 ft.) continued to entice. A few miles closer, and Lupe would have set out for it today.
Nanuk Dome (L). Photo looks NW.Nanuk Dome (Center). Photo looks WNW.
But it was the view more directly W here, where unspoiled hills and ridges extended seemingly to the end of the world somewhere beyond vision, that felt most compelling. Lupe could roam there forever!
An unspoiled world! Photo looks W.
1:49 PM, Beaver Slide Mountain –
Getting sunnier, SPHP. It’s wonderful here, but if we aren’t going to go any farther, maybe we should head back? I still want to visit the Arctic Circle today, and if we get far enough N afterwards, maybe we can be ready to do something in the Brooks Range tomorrow?
Alrighty, Looper. Hate to leave, but I guess that makes sense. If it’s sunny in the Brooks Range tomorrow, you’re right! We won’t want to miss out.
Final moments on Beaver Slide Mountain. Photo looks N.
The return was a super easy, scenic romp across the beautiful tundra. Lupe went by all the high points she’d visited during her ascent, but did not climb any of them again.
Approaching the 3rd high point (Center) on the way back. Photo looks N.Leaving an enchanted land! 3rd high point (L). Photo looks SW.
Once back to the RAV4 (3:00 PM, 59ºF), the Arctic Circle was only another 5 miles N. Didn’t take long to get there, but so many people were coming and going that Lupe had to wait quite a while for her turn in front of the big sign.
3 years ago, the Arctic Circle was as far N as the American Dingo made it. She’d arrived along the Dempster Highway in Yukon Territory in a miserable cold rain on the verge of becoming a snowstorm that might easily have stranded the old G6. Through the gloom, Lupe had seen new snow on the Richardson Mountains before SPHP felt obliged to beat a hasty retreat.
She hadn’t been this far N since.
6:00 PM, Coldfoot, MP175 – No stopping Looper today, though! 60 miles N of the Arctic Circle at Coldfoot Camp in the Brooks Range, she waited in the RAV4 while SPHP gorged on the evening buffet. The only choice available from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the buffet was $27.95, tax included.
So, was it worth it? You should have seen the Carolina Dog’s eyes light up when SPHP produced a big barbecued beef rib with plenty of savory meat attached. Munching and crunching away, Lupe devoured it, bone and all! So deliciously satisfying!
Gasoline was a mere $7.499 per gallon. The Brooks Range is no place to get stingy! SPHP let the RAV4 quench its thirst.
Coldfoot Camp. One operational gas pump. Better get it while the getting’s good!
The Arctic Interagency Visitor Center right across the Dalton Highway from Coldfoot Camp was open until 9:00 PM, giving SPHP a chance to play tourist after dinner while Lupe relaxed in the RAV4.
Sign at the turn off the Dalton Highway to the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center.At the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center.
The visitor center proved to have lots of free brochures, some really nice displays, and a friendly, helpful staff. SPHP liked the dioramas best, and even attended a 40 minute long ranger talk held just before closing time.
Top of the world display.Diorama with a stuffed grizzly.A wolverine.Mountain sheep.Another diorama.
9:40 PM, Dalton Highway N of Coldfoot – After crossing 2 bridges over the Middle Fork of the Koyukuk River, a side road appeared on the R beyond MP195. After making the turn, this side road led to an enormous open space. Ahead stood a huge mountain, all golden in the late evening sun. A skiff of new snow was visible near the top.
Poss Mountain. Photo looks SE.
This must be the place, Loop!
What place, SPHP? Are we going to climb that mountain?
