2016 Laramie Mountains, Wyoming – Page 2 – The (Mostly) True Adventures of Lupe

Pitcher Hill, Bisbee Hill, Markley Hill & Poland Hill, Laramie Mountains, WY (5-30-16)

Morning, and a glorious new day from the looks of it! Lupe, of course, was already awake. She was eager to dash outside the G6. SPHP let her out. While Lupe sniffed around the boulders and searched the trees for squirrels, SPHP consumed peach yogurt. Nearby, the rugged high points of Eagle Rock (8,320 ft.) were lit up by the sun. Lupe had been up there just yesterday evening.

The yogurt disappeared. Time to go! Lupe and SPHP headed E on USFS Road No. 714, but stopped briefly 0.33 mile SE of Eagle Rock. The whole SE face of the mountain could be seen from here. SPHP still wondered if the middle high point or one farther to the N was the true summit. From this vantage point, it looked like the high point to the N was slightly higher.

Eagle Rock (8,320 ft.) from the SE. — **Eagle Rock (8,320 ft.)** from the SE.

Flowers in the fields SE of Eagle Rock. The orange ones were unusually shaped. SPHP had no idea what kind of flower they were.

Lupe’s next peakbagging goal was Pitcher Hill (7,840 ft.) located less than 5 miles ESE of Eagle Rock. SPHP expected no trouble finding it. In fact, SPHP had seen a big hill from Eagle Rock that was probably it. The stony top of the hill looked like something Lupe wouldn’t even be able to climb. SPHP hoped Lupe could find a way up.

USFS Road No. 714 curved S, as expected. Then it curved W. Any time now, the intersection with No. 712 should appear. It didn’t. SPHP drove on. Finally, it was clear something was wrong. Eagle Rock was again off to the N, and not that far away. SPHP stopped to check the maps. This had to be No. 712 already, but where had No. 714 turned into No. 712? SPHP was supposed to have turned E, not W, on No. 712 there.

SPHP turned the G6 around. A couple of miles later, it all became clear. SPHP found the junction. No. 712 going W was a good gravel road, just like No. 714. Going E though, it was only a minor dirt side road. That was why the junction hadn’t even looked like a junction. Fortunately, No. 712 going E was still good enough to be passable for the G6, provided SPHP drove very slowly.

The G6 crawled along No. 712 going E. A side road to the S marked as No. 712.D appeared. Just beyond it was No. 710. This all looked right according to the map. No. 710 passes 0.25 mile N of Pitcher Hill. SPHP turned onto No. 710, but went only a short distance further before parking the G6. Lupe would start from here, even though she was still 0.75 mile NW of Pitcher Hill.

There was one problem. Where was Pitcher Hill? This was open rolling grassland. Lupe had a good view of what was around, but Pitcher Hill was missing! The big stony hill that SPHP had been assuming was Pitcher Hill was in sight, but it seemed to be a long way off to the S. Could that really be it? It didn’t seem right at all. Lupe and SPHP went up a gentle rise to the SE for a better look.

SPHP stopped up at the top of the gentle rise to study the maps. It was for certain Lupe wouldn’t be able to climb Pitcher Hill, if SPHP wasn’t even able to figure out where it was! Lupe wondered what was going on. Why are we stopping here?

SPHP had two maps of the area. They both showed Pitcher Hill, but they didn’t agree on its location! At least it was clear that the prominent stony hill SPHP had thought was Pitcher Hill couldn’t possibly be it. That hill was too far away to the S. It was almost certainly where the Russell Benchmark (8,227 ft.) was.

The stony mountain in the distance was the one SPHP had thought was Pitcher Hill. However, it was clear from the maps that it was too far away and in the wrong direction. So where was the real Pitcher Hill? Photo looks S.

The old Medicine Bow National Forest map showed Pitcher Hill was 0.5 mile SSW of where Lupe was on the opposite (S) side of Lodgepole Creek. Although the creek wasn’t in view, Lupe could see a gap that the creek must be flowing through in that direction. If the Medicine Bow National Forest map was right, Pitcher Hill had to be the modest looking hill on the far side of the gap.

SPHP’s old Medicine Bow National Forest map placed Pitcher Hill on the S (opposite) side of Lodgepole Creek. If the map was correct, Pitcher Hill was the hill shown on the L in this photo.

The Peakbagger.com topo map showed Pitcher Hill was 0.75 mile to the SE and on the N (same) side of Lodgepole Creek. A low forested ridge was seen in that direction, but it didn’t look very impressive at all, hardly even worthy of a name. Was that Pitcher Hill?

According to the Peakbagger.com topo map, the unimpressive forested ridge in the background was Pitcher Hill. USFS Road No. 710.A is seen in front of it. Photo looks SE.

For a minute or two, SPHP pondered, still uncertain. In the end, SPHP concluded the Peakbagger.com topo map had to be right. The topo map was much more detailed than the old Medicine Bow National Forest map. The topo map showed that Pitcher Hill didn’t boast much elevation gain. Small wonder it didn’t look very impressive.

Well, Lupe was out peakbagging, and if Peakbagger.com said that low ridge to the SE was where Pitcher Hill was, that was the hill Lupe was going to climb! Lupe was happy when SPHP finally made a decision and started moving again. Lupe and SPHP crossed USFS Road No. 710.A and entered a scraggly pine forest, approaching Pitcher Hill from the NW.

Lupe and SPHP skirted around the NE side of the first rocky high point. It was clear there was higher ground a short distance beyond it. Soon Lupe was up on top of the NW end of the Pitcher Hill (7,840 ft.) summit ridge.

Lupe up on the NW end of the Pitcher Hill summit ridge. A lower rocky point she went around the NE (R) side of is shown on the R. Photo looks NW toward the junction of USFS Road No. 710.A (L) and No. 710 (R). — Lupe up on the NW end of the Pitcher Hill summit ridge. A lower rocky point she went around the NE (R) side of is shown on the R. Photo looks NW toward the junction of USFS Roads No. 710.A (L) and No. 710 (R).

Looking SE along the narrow summit ridge, SPHP saw that the true summit was farther SE. It was only a matter of a few feet higher than where Lupe was already, but of course Lupe would go over there. SPHP also saw something else. Lupe’s nemesis was here! Cactus!

Although SPHP hadn’t seen any cactus at all in the Laramie Mountains until now, and none on the way from the G6 to Pitcher Hill, there was plenty of it along the summit ridge. Lupe understood it was there, too. She became very cautious. SPHP put her leash on her to better help her avoid injury. After a short break at the NW end of the summit ridge, Lupe and SPHP started SE for the true summit.

Part of Lupe's cactus-infested route to the true summit of Pitcher Hill, seen just ahead. Photo looks SE. — Part of Lupe’s cactus-infested route to the true summit of Pitcher Hill, seen just ahead. Photo looks SE.

The Pitcher Hill summit ridge was quite narrow, very rocky and somewhat discontinuous. Cactus was abundant. Lupe and SPHP had to scramble up and down the rocks. It would have been fun, if the cactus hadn’t been around to make the whole process worrisome. Lupe made it, though! A tricky little climb brought Lupe to the true summit of Pitcher Hill.

Lupe reaches the true summit of Pitcher Hill (7,840 ft.)! Lodgepole Creek is seen below on the L. Photo looks SE. — Lupe reaches the true summit of **Pitcher Hill (7,840 ft.)**! Lodgepole Creek is seen below on the L. Photo looks SE.

The true summit wasn’t very far from the SE end of the summit ridge. Lupe went all the way to the end of the ridge. The views from Pitcher Hill were amazingly good, considering how unimpressive this ridge had seemed when Lupe and SPHP first saw it. The SE end of the ridge was sunny and open, offering a panoramic view.

The Russell Benchmark from the real Pitcher Hill. Photo looks SSW.

Lodgepole Creek from the SE end of Pitcher Hill. Photo looks E.

There was an easier way up to the summit of Pitcher Hill than Lupe had taken. It looked very easy to come up from the SW almost right to the summit. Lupe couldn’t go down that way, though. SPHP had left the backpack back at the NW end of the summit ridge.

Lupe and SPHP made one more scramble back over to the NW end of the ridge to retrieve the backpack, dodging cactus again all along the way. Scraggly pines provided some shade there, so Lupe and SPHP took another short break. For a minor objective, Pitcher Hill had made things rather interesting. The views, though not spectacular, had been surprisingly worthwhile.

Lupe and SPHP returned to the G6 (9:49 AM), staying on the road once Lupe reached No. 710. SPHP saw only one cactus down off the Pitcher Hill summit, but didn’t want to take an unnecessary chance of Lupe getting injured. Pitcher Hill was lower than any of the other peaks Lupe climbed in the Laramie Mountains on this trip. Perhaps that was why it was the only place Lupe encountered any cactus.

Lupe’s next two peakbagging goals, Bisbee Hill (8,480 ft.) and Markley Hill (8,520 ft.), were a pair of hills close to each other that Lupe had seen the day before from the top of much higher Pole Mountain (9,040 ft.). At least SPHP knew how to find them! Lupe and SPHP set out in the G6 to find a place from which Lupe could start her climbs.

Bisbee Hill (L) and Markley Hill (Center) from USFS Road No. 712 (Telephone Road). Happy Jack Hwy No. 210 where SPHP ultimately parked the G6 is seen on the R. Photo looks SSE.

Almost straight W of Bisbee Hill, SPHP found a perfect place to park the G6 at the S end of a long pullout along the W side of Happy Jack Hwy No. 210 (10:30 AM, 57°F).

While SPHP had complete confidence Lupe would have no problems climbing Markley Hill, Bisbee Hill was another matter. It looked very rocky and steep. Bisbee Hill was only 0.25 mile away, so Lupe and SPHP crossed the highway and headed for it first.

Bisbee Hill wasn't that high, but the huge rock knob of a summit looked rather daunting for a Carolina Dog. Would Lupe find a way up? Photo looks E from Happy Jack Hwy No. 210. — Bisbee Hill wasn’t that high, but the huge rock knob of a summit looked rather daunting for a Carolina Dog. Would Lupe find a way up? Photo looks E from Happy Jack Hwy No. 210.

Lupe and SPHP had an easy climb up the forested slope to the long saddle between Bisbee and Markley Hills. As the ground leveled out, Lupe turned N toward Bisbee Hill. When SPHP first saw the W half of the S face of the mountain, hope almost disappeared that there would be any way for Lupe to get up on Bisbee Hill. It was a sheer cliff!

Getting a little closer, though, the E half of the S face came into view. It looked much more promising. Lupe began her climb of Bisbee Hill (8,480 ft.) from there. Lupe’s route was kind of steep and rocky, of course, but the way up was surprisingly easy. Soon Lupe was perched on the highest rocks near the W end of the summit! Success!

Hah! Piece of cake! Lupe sits on the true summit of Bisbee Hill (8,480 ft.). Photo looks W. The G6 is parked along Happy Jack Hwy No. 210 on the L. — Hah! Piece of cake! Lupe sits on the true summit of **Bisbee Hill (8,480 ft.)**. Photo looks W. The G6 is parked along Happy Jack Hwy No. 210 on the L.

Thickly forested Markley Hill, Lupe's next peakbagging objective, is seen not too far away beyond Lupe's rump. Photo looks S from Bisbee Hill. — Thickly forested Markley Hill, Lupe’s next peakbagging objective, is seen not too far away beyond Lupe’s rump. Photo looks S from Bisbee Hill.

Lupe and SPHP shared water and a couple of chocolate coconut granola bars to celebrate Lupe’s successful ascent of Bisbee Hill. After a little while spent relaxing and enjoying the views, it was time to go. SPHP started down first. Lupe waited for the signal that she could come, too.

Lupe waits on top of Bisbee Hill for SPHP’s signal that it’s OK for her to begin her descent. Photo looks NNE.

Lupe and SPHP went back down the E half of the S face of Bisbee Hill. It seemed to be the only possible safe route down, and left Lupe and SPHP at a good point from which to start the trek along the long saddle going S to Markley Hill.

Once down off Bisbee Hill, Lupe continued losing elevation slowly as she explored the forest for 0.33 mile on her way to Markley Hill. Arriving at the lowest part of the saddle N of Markley Hill, Lupe discovered a little clearing and a nice surprise.

A big snowdrift was on the S edge of the clearing! Lupe was excited! She frisked on the snow, cooling off and having a great time.

Overjoyed Lupe frisks on the snow drift at the base of Markley Hill. Anyone want to play with a really cool American Dingo?

The climb up Markley Hill was straightforward. Lupe and SPHP went up a long moderately steep slope through the forest. When Lupe reached the top of a broad ridgeline coming up from the NW, she turned SE following the ridge higher. More rocks and boulders appeared as Lupe got close to the summit, but they presented no serious obstacle. Soon Lupe was on top.

Lupe on the true summit of Markley Hill (8,520 ft.). Photo looks S. — Lupe on the true summit of **Markley Hill (8,520 ft.)**. Photo looks S.

Markley Hill had appeared heavily forested from a distance, so SPHP wasn’t anticipating there would be much in the way of views. However the summit area was rockier than expected, and there were fewer trees than SPHP had thought. Lupe actually did have partial views toward the S and SW.

**Pole Mountain (9,040 ft.)** (R) from Markley Hill. Photo looks SW.

Although there were partial views to the S and SW, not much could be seen to the N except trees. Here Lupe is on the highest rock on Markley Hill. Photo looks NNE toward the forest.

Lupe and SPHP didn’t dilly-dally too long up on Markley Hill before starting back to the G6. Lucky Lupe got to frisk around briefly on the big snow drift one more time. By 11:59 AM, Lupe and SPHP were back at the G6.

SPHP started driving S on Happy Jack Hwy No. 210. The plan was for Lupe to climb Point Crawford (8,840 ft.) and Bennett Hill (8,440 ft.) next. SPHP knew they were only a few miles away to the SW. Lupe and SPHP left Happy Jack Hwy to take USFS Road No. 707 (Headquarters Road). No. 707 goes by both peaks less than 0.5 mile to the E of them.

After driving by on No. 707, SPHP still wasn’t quite certain exactly which high points were Point Crawford and Bennett Hill. SPHP turned N on USFS Road No. 705 (Blair-Wallis Road). It was getting to be lunch time, and despite a lack of rain in the forecast, clouds seemed to be building up fast in the SW. Maybe it was time for Lupe to eat, and take a little break from peakbagging? A sign at the intersection had indicated the Wallis picnic ground was only 0.5 mile N.

It turned out there weren’t any signs at the Wallis Picnic Ground itself. SPHP drove right on by. When the picnic ground didn’t materialize farther up the road, SPHP turned around and went back.

The Wallis picnic ground appeared to be defunct. A wooden rail fence enclosed a big flat round parking area next to Middle Crow Creek. Across the creek, tucked next to the shady forest, was a small building and a couple of picnic tables. Rather inconveniently, the bridge to that side of the creek was gone. The only sign around was a small one nailed to a wooden fence railing saying “No Overnight Camping”.

Lupe next to Middle Crow Creek at the defunct Wallis picnic ground. The bridge across the creek to the old picnic tables was out.

Clouds sprinkled rain, but didn’t accomplish much. While having lunch in the G6, SPHP studied the topo map. SPHP suspected that a somewhat barren big hill in view to the NE was Point Crawford, but was less certain about the location of Bennett Hill. A small forested hill in view to the SE might be it, or Bennett Hill might have been one of the high rock outcroppings that had been in view from the E on USFS Road No. 707.

The light rain stopped, but there were still big clouds around. It felt cooler out. Instead of tackling a big hill like Point Crawford, SPHP decided Lupe should go farther S and check out Turtle Rock (8,600 ft.) and Poland Hill (8,480 ft.). It meant another little drive, but that was OK.

Lupe and SPHP had seen Turtle Rock before from a distance. Turtle Rock was a dramatic looking mountain. Rock walls forming a giant horseshoe shape rose up from the surrounding grasslands. Several distinct high points were spread out along the ridge. The maps showed that Vedauwoo Glen campground was hidden inside the horseshoe, surrounded by the giant rock walls except at the only entrance from the S.

In truth, SPHP didn’t think there was any way Lupe could climb Turtle Rock. From a distance, the nearly solid rock mountain looked too steep and unforgiving. As the G6 approached Turtle Rock from the SW on USFS Road No. 700, climbing Turtle Rock seemed even less feasible than before.

Turtle Rock from USFS Road No. 700. It really didn't look like anything Lupe and SPHP could climb. Photo looks NE. — Turtle Rock from USFS Road No. 700. It really didn’t look like anything Lupe and SPHP could climb. Photo looks NE.

Some sort of event must have been going on at Turtle Rock. SPHP drove on No. 700 all the way to the intersection with No. 720, which leads to Vedauwoo Glen campground. Vehicles were coming and going. More than 50 were parked in the fields near the intersection. A big sign said this was a fee area.

Hmm. Crowds, fees and an unclimbable mountain. Not exactly the combination Lupe and SPHP normally seek out. Mentally, SPHP crossed Turtle Rock off Lupe’s list of peakbagging goals. Turtle Rock looked awesome, but climbing it wasn’t gonna happen!

On the way to Turtle Rock, Lupe and SPHP had driven by S of Poland Hill. Poland Hill hadn’t looked all that promising either, but at least it was a much smaller rocky crag. Maybe Lupe could get to the top? SPHP doubted it, but it seemed worth a try. Lupe and SPHP drove back W on No. 700. Shortly before reaching I-80, SPHP parked the G6 at the start of USFS Road No. 700.G (2:01 PM, 54°F).

Poland Hill (8,480 ft.) is a mile W of Turtle Rock. SPHP didn't take this photo until Lupe was on her way back to the G6. Photo looks NNE. — **Poland Hill (8,480 ft.)**, seen here, is a mile W of Turtle Rock. Photo looks NNE.

Lupe and SPHP began the journey to Poland Hill heading NW on No. 700.G near a fence line. The road came to a low spot, climbed a small hill, and started losing elevation again as it turned NE toward Poland Hill. When the road curved farther E on its way to a pond that was now in view, Lupe and SPHP left the road.

A wide marshy area filled with tall bushes and aspen trees was directly ahead. Lupe had no problems going right on through it all, but SPHP had a much trickier time trying to find a way over 3 separate small streams and a lot of wet, mucky ground. SPHP finally managed to get across without getting too wet and muddy.

Lupe and SPHP continued N up a much drier grassy hillside, and arrived on flatter, very thinly forested ground strewn with scattered boulders and odd rock outcroppings W of Poland Hill. The view of the rest of the way up was not the least bit encouraging.

Lupe on one of the odd rock outcroppings near Poland Hill. This view of the rest of the way up wasn't very encouraging. Photo looks NE. — Lupe on one of the odd rock outcroppings near Poland Hill. This view of the rest of the way up wasn’t very encouraging. Photo looks NE.

Lupe and SPHP scouted out the W side of the line of rocks at the top of Poland Hill. It was clear there wasn’t any feasible way up for Lupe from any other direction. Poland Hill had two high points. A huge rock at the N end was definitely the true summit. Some big rocks near the S end formed the second highest point. The S high point appeared to be 5 to 10 feet lower than the N summit.

In between the high points was a line of huge, rounded rocks. Near the top of the hill, the rocks were so huge, and the sides so steep, it didn’t look possible to go over or around them. If there was any way up, Lupe would have very limited mobility along the ridge. It wouldn’t be possible to maneuver from the N summit toward the S high point or vice-versa.

At first glance, SPHP didn’t see any way up at all. However, a little scouting around revealed a way up some boulders that brought Lupe all the way up onto the ridgeline. She arrived at a point very close to the S high point. SPHP considered getting even this high a victory for Lupe.

Lupe reaches the ridgeline on Poland Hill a little way N of the S high point (not pictured). Photo looks NE.

Close to where Lupe came up, she discovered a secret, hidden grotto. The rocks just N of the S high point contained a depression several feet deep and a dozen feet wide. At the bottom was a cool pool of water with green plants growing in it.

Lupe perches above the secret hidden oasis on Poland Hill. Turtle Rock can be seen in the background. Photo looks E.

Although it had been mostly sunny on the way to Poland Hill, clouds were now moving in again. What had been a light W breeze, became a strong W wind. The air felt colder. Lupe didn’t enjoy the wind at all.

Lupe sits exposed to a strong W wind up on Poland Hill. Turtle Rock is again visible in the background. Photo looks E.

The true summit of Poland Hill at the N end of the ridge is the big boulder seen beyond Lupe. Lupe stands above the N rim of her secret oasis. Photo looks N.

Lupe had come up quite close to the S high point. Lupe and SPHP could both see it. It was right there! So close, and yet so far. SPHP explored a big crack between boulders, but it soon became apparent there simply wasn’t any practical way up. Lupe posed for a photo of the S high point on the highest rock she could reach safely.

Almost there, but not quite! Lupe on the highest rock she could get up to on **Poland Hill (8,480 ft.)**. The close, but unattainable, S high point looms over her. Photo looks S.

Lupe never did get to the top of Poland Hill, not even to the top of the S high point. She was probably 25 feet +/- short of the true summit, considerably closer than that to the top of the S high point, but still not close enough to claim success, even for Dingo work, on such a small mountain.

Lupe didn’t care. She’d crossed streams and marshes, climbed high boulders, discovered a secret hidden oasis, and gazed upon distant mountains while exposed to the wild and free W wind! Speaking of which, Lupe was entirely ready to get down out of the annoying wild and free W wind. SPHP took a couple more quick photos of the views, and Lupe began her descent.

Looking NE toward Twin Mountain (8,831 ft.) and the Sherman Benchmark from Poland Hill. — Looking NE toward **Twin Mountain (8,831 ft.)** and the Sherman Benchmark from Poland Hill.

Turtle Rock from Poland Hill. Photo looks E.

Lupe and SPHP ventured much farther W toward a house and private property near the edge of the Medicine Bow National Forest on the way back to the G6. This allowed Lupe (actually SPHP) to avoid the worst of the marshy land to the S. Sadly, there were lots of Lupe Treasures along the way. SPHP gathered up as many as possible, but wasn’t truly prepared to carry much.

The W wind was still blowing briskly when Lupe reached the G6 (3:46 PM, 54°F). Lupe hopped right in the G6 ASAP to escape it, leaving SPHP struggling to keep the Lupe Treasures from blowing away. From a peakbagging standpoint, Lupe’s journey to Poland Hill had been a near miss, but still a failure. As an adventure, though, it was a complete success!

Lupe at her hidden grotto on Poland Hill. — Lupe at the hidden grotto on Poland Hill.

Lupe Treasures gathered: 13 aluminum cans, assorted pieces of Styrofoam.

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Peak 8840 & Eagle Rock, Laramie Mountains, Wyoming (5-29-16)

Lupe had already had a great day in the Laramie Mountains of Wyoming! She’d gotten an early start and climbed The Summit (8,880 ft.), Leg Benchmark (9,055 ft.), and Pole Mountain (9,040 ft.). SPHP had more peakbagging exploits in mind for her, but rain showers had delayed her start for Peak 8840. It was OK. Lupe and SPHP ate lunch in the G6 while waiting for the rain to end.

The sun came out. It was time to go (3:24 PM, 59°F)! The G6 was parked at the intersection of USFS Roads No. 703 & 714. Lupe and SPHP got out, and crossed the terrible cattle guard where No. 703 continued N. The cattle guard was in such bad shape, SPHP hadn’t even dared to take the G6 across it.

Peak 8840 was an easy peakbagging goal. It was only a mile N of the G6. Lupe could follow No. 703 (Pilot Hill Road) almost all the way there. Peak 8840 wasn’t much of a peak, just a high spot along a big ridge. Lupe was already up on the ridge, so she would only gain 200 feet of elevation. Lupe was going to Peak 8840, anyway. Peakbagging doesn’t always have to be an ordeal!

The road wound around a bit as it went over a sparsely forested rise. On the other side of the hill, No. 703 continued N. To the NNW, Lupe saw a big hill with several towers on top.

Lupe came over a rise to see this big hill with towers on it up ahead. No. 703 (Pilot Hill Road) is seen continuing past the R (E) side of the hill. Photo looks NNW. — Lupe came over a rise to see this big hill with towers on it up ahead. No. 703 (Pilot Hill Road) is seen continuing toward the R (E) side of the hill. Photo looks NNW.

The trudge N on dirt road No. 703 wasn’t too exciting. Although big clouds could still be seen off in various directions, it was sunny and kind of hot out. The ridge Lupe was on was 0.25 mile wide, and even more in some places. No. 703 went around the E side of the hill with the towers on it, gaining elevation slowly along the way.

The road leveled out when Lupe got NE of the towers on the hill. It was so sunny and warm, Lupe and SPHP took a break under a big pine tree a short distance W of the road. SPHP put on sunscreen, and then consulted the topo map. Peak 8840 had to be at the top of the long gentle slope now visible to the NE on the other side of No. 703.

Lupe and SPHP returned to No. 703 and kept going. Before long, the road started curving NW on its way to Pilot Hill, still 1.75 miles away. Pilot Hill (8,859 ft.) was actually a bit higher than Peak 8840. Lupe would have gone there, too, except Pilot Hill wasn’t in the Medicine Bow National Forest. SPHP wasn’t sure there was legal access, and didn’t care to walk all the way over there to find out.

Where No. 703 turned NW, Lupe and SPHP left the road. Despite being in the national forest, there was a barbed wire fence near the road. Lupe and SPHP slipped under it. Lupe trotted up the long grassy slope toward the summit of Peak 8840. It was an easy, if unspectacular, hike.

Nearing the summit, SPHP turned around to look at the view. Suddenly the need for speed was apparent! Although it was still warm and sunny out on Peak 8840, a big cloud was approaching from the SW. Rain was pouring from it. The cloud was still miles away, but wouldn’t take too long to get here. Lupe and SPHP started hurrying toward the highest point at the end of the long slope.

The summit proved to be right where it looked like it would be. Several big dead pine trees were standing there. NE beyond the summit, the ground sloped down only slightly toward a long snow drift a couple of feet deep. Beyond the snow drift was the living forest that lined the N edge of the mountain.

Lupe at the summit of **Peak 8840**. Photo looks SW toward the approaching storm.

On the summit of Peak 8840. The summit didn't offer any dramatic views. — On the summit of Peak 8840. The summit didn’t offer any dramatic views.

SPHP wasn’t entirely convinced right away that Lupe had made it to the true summit of Peak 8840. Clearly there wasn’t any higher ground to the S, W or N, but a ridge extended out to the E from the summit. It wasn’t possible to see far enough to rule out higher points along the E ridge.

Despite the approaching storm, Lupe and SPHP made a hasty exploration of the E ridge. There weren’t any higher points on it than the summit Lupe had already been to. However, there were some much better viewpoints. Lupe and SPHP went all the way to the E end of the ridge. Near the end, on the S side, Lupe came to a well-constructed cairn of reddish/pinkish rocks.

Lupe on the cairn of reddish/pinkish rocks near the end of the E ridge of Peak 8840. Photo looks S.

Lupe posed for a couple of photos on the reddish/pinkish rock cairn with nice views to the S in the background. Then Lupe checked out the views from the N side of the E ridge.

There was some pretty remote, dry looking territory N of the E ridge of Peak 8840. Photo taken with the telephoto lens looking N.

Pilot Hill (8,859 ft.) from the E ridge of Peak 8840. Photo looks NW. — **Pilot Hill (8,859 ft.)** from the E ridge of Peak 8840. Photo looks NW.

With the exploration of the E ridge complete, Lupe and SPHP hastened back to the summit of Peak 8840. There wasn’t much time to lose. The storm was getting closer. Lupe returned to Pilot Hill Road and made for the G6.

For the last 10 or 15 minutes, Lupe and SPHP got sprinkled on. Thunder could be heard in the distance, although Lupe saw no lightning. Less than a minute after reaching the G6 (4:57 PM, 50°F), the rain hit. It wasn’t a cloudburst, but it rained steadily for 15 minutes. Lupe was safe and dry in the G6.

Lupe looking kind of smug about her just in the nick of time escape from the rain.

The rain eased up, but didn’t stop entirely. SPHP started the G6 and drove E on USFS Road No. 714. The day was now wearing on, but Lupe had one more peakbagging goal left ahead of her – Eagle Rock (8,320 ft.).

The first views of Eagle Rock weren’t very encouraging. It looked very rocky, and perhaps impossible for Lupe to climb. SPHP stopped the G6 0.5 mile WSW of Eagle Rock to wait for the rain to clear. SPHP hoped Lupe would see a rainbow. A double rainbow started to form, but faded before it really became distinct.

Lupe and SPHP explored a group of big rocks in a grassy field SW of the road while raindrops continued to splash down sporadically. Lupe was perfectly happy sniffing around. SPHP continued to contemplate Eagle Rock.

Eagle Rock from the WSW near USFS Road No. 714.

Even after the rain completely ended, there continued to be big clouds around. Now they were off to the N. Thunder could occasionally be heard. Slowly the situation calmed down. SPHP found a place to park the G6 at a small pullout along No. 714.1F less than 100 feet N of its intersection with No. 714 (6:40 PM, 44°F).

Lupe and SPHP left the G6 and followed No. 714.1F going N toward the W side of Eagle Rock. No. 714.1F went through a strange area where there was a maze of little roads. This looked like an abandoned campground, or at least a dispersed camping area with a number of sites. Big mud puddles covered the road in some places. Some of the puddles were fed by small streams trickling out of a marshy aspen forest.

Eagle Rock from the SSW near USFS Road No. 714.1F.

Lupe on No. 714.1F on her way to Eagle Rock. Big mud puddles covered the road in several places. Some of the puddles were fed by tiny streams trickling out of the marshy aspen woods.

Before long, No. 714.1F climbed out of the aspen forest and into the pines. When SPHP figured Lupe had gone far enough N, it was time to turn E to start the climb up the short, but steep slope to Eagle Rock. Soon Lupe was quite high up on the mountain.

It had been apparent from a distance that the top of Eagle Rock consisted of a line of very rocky and distinct high points, each crowned by stacks of large, rounded boulders. Even from near the top, though, it wasn’t entirely clear which of these high points was the true summit. SPHP could rule out the high points toward the S, but depending on where one was, either the middle or N high points looked like the summit.

Lupe below the very highest rocks of the middle high point of Eagle Rock. SPHP believes this may well be the true summit, but isn't entirely certain. There were high points farther N that also seemed like possible candidates too. — Lupe below the very highest rocks of the middle high point of Eagle Rock. SPHP believes this may well be the true summit, but isn’t entirely certain. There were high points farther N that also seemed like possible candidates, too.

Lupe visited the middle high point first. Slowly and carefully, Lupe and SPHP also worked around to competing high points farther N. The SE face of Eagle Rock was virtually a cliff, but it was possible to maneuver around on the ridgeline or just to the W of it. In truth, Lupe never got right up on top of the very highest rocks, but she got within 5 or 10 feet each time – close enough for Dingo work!

Lupe near the high point farthest N. The actual top is 5 to 10 feet higher and close to where SPHP took this photo from, and Lupe had already been there, too. Photo looks SW along the very rocky Eagle Rock summit ridge. What may be the true summit, the middle high point, is seen just to the L of Center. — Lupe near the high point farthest N. The actual top is 5 to 10 feet higher and close to where SPHP took this photo from. Lupe had already been there, too. Photo looks SW along the very rocky Eagle Rock summit ridge. What may be the true summit, the middle high point, is seen just to the L of Center.

After visiting the N high point, Lupe returned to the middle high point to see how high up she could get. Here she is sitting right next to the very highest rock. Photo looks N.

Lupe sits between the highest rocks of the middle high point. The rock on the left may be the true summit of Eagle Rock. Just a foot or two behind Lupe is a cliff, but American Dingoes have much better sense than to go over cliffs. Photo looks ESE.

Lupe still near the middle high point of Eagle Rock. One of the N high points she visited is seen beyond her some distance away. From some angles, the N high point looked to be the true summit of Eagle Rock. Photo looks NE.

Scrambling around among the boulders on Eagle Rock was a lot of fun. It was certainly a much more interesting summit than Peak 8840 had been. SPHP was pleased with how very close Lupe was able to get to the absolute tops of the very highest rocks. Even though she technically fell a little bit short, Lupe was definitely claiming Eagle Rock as a peakbagging success!

After climbing Eagle Rock, Lupe returned to the G6 (8:02 PM, 5-29-16). She spent the night car camped along No. 714.1F near the mountain. The next morning, Lupe saw this view of Eagle Rock from the SE. From this angle, it looks like the true summit is at the N high point on the R.

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The Summit & the Headquarters National Recreation Trail to the Leg Benchmark & Pole Mountain, Laramie Mountains, WY (5-29-16)

Lupe’s luck was about to change! Five long days of unrelenting Dingo boredom while SPHP helped clean out the house in Laramie, Wyoming were over. Lupe was in the G6, speeding SE on I-80 toward The Summit for her first taste of peakbagging fun on this whole trip. She was finally going to get to play in the mountains, and the excited Carolina Dog could hardly wait.

At Exit 323, SPHP turned off I-80. A few minutes later, SPHP parked the G6 at a long pullout on the E side of Old Hwy 30, close to the start of USFS Road No. 724 (7:43 AM, 53°F). The hike up No. 724 to the top of The Summit (8,880 ft.) was trivial, less than 0.25 mile long with an elevation gain of only 70 feet.

Nevertheless, Lupe was joyous! Being outside exploring anything new was so much better than moping around being ignored back at the old house. SPHP was almost equally glad. SPHP had been allergic to the dusty air in the old house, which had been locked up for many years. Breathing easier already, SPHP was looking forward to several great days of freedom in the Laramie Mountains.

The top of The Summit was a huge, round, flat, forested area. A variety of small buildings and large towers were scattered across the landscape. No one was around. Lupe and SPHP wandered among the pines and towers looking for the highest point on the mountain. The trees hid the views for the most part, but there was a view of Turtle Rock (8,600 ft.) from the SE edge of the big hill.

Lupe reaches the biggest tower on **The Summit (8,880 ft.)** in the Laramie Mountains of Wyoming. Photo looks SW.

Looking SE toward Turtle Rock (8,600 ft.) from The Summit. Taken with the telephoto lens. — Looking SE toward **Turtle Rock (8,600 ft.)** from The Summit. Taken with the telephoto lens.

There were also partial views to the S and SW where it was possible to see much higher snow-capped peaks. They were far away – probably in Colorado. SPHP looked around for a clear view of them, but couldn’t find one. Toward the E central part of the summit area, Lupe came across a big rock that appeared to be the highest point on The Summit.

Lupe perches on the summit rock of The Summit. Photo looks N.

A better view of what most of the top of The Summit looked like. Photo looks S.

Two more of the towers on The Summit. These were only a little way NW of the highest rock on the hill. Photo looks NW.

Climbing The Summit was a quick and easy start to Lupe’s day, but just made Lupe and SPHP eager to explore more scenic, less developed peaks. Lupe headed back down USFS Road No. 724 to the G6.

As Lupe and SPHP neared the G6 again, SPHP decided to continue on past it up a dirt road on the E side of Old Hwy 30. The dirt road led straight to a big dirt parking lot. From the S end of the parking lot was a much better view of some of the distant snow-capped peaks Lupe had only glimpsed from up on The Summit.

E of The Summit and practically right next to the E side of Old Hwy 30 was a big dirt parking lot with this great view of snow-capped peaks far away to the S in Colorado. Photo taken with the telephoto lens. — E of The Summit, and practically right next to the E side of Old Hwy 30, was a big dirt parking lot with this great view of snow-capped peaks far away to the S in Colorado. Photo taken with the telephoto lens.

The huge snowy mountains were gorgeous and inspiring, but they were far away. Besides, there was clearly still way too much snow up on the high peaks for Lupe adventures. In another 6 weeks, the story would be different, but not yet. Lupe and SPHP returned to the G6 (8:19 AM, 50°F).

SPHP had a couple of nearby peakbagging goals in mind for Lupe – the Leg Benchmark (9,055 ft.) and Pole Mountain (9,040 ft.). SPHP hoped Lupe could reach them from the Headquarters National Recreation Trail. The Summit trailhead at the W end of the trail was less than a mile away.

Lupe and SPHP hopped in the G6, crossed I-80, and drove to the trailhead. A sign said a fee was required to park there. Just over the hill, though, along I-80 was a huge rest stop with free parking. So SPHP drove to the rest stop to park the G6 (8:29 AM, 50°F). Lupe took up peakbagging interstate highways – a sign said this rest area was the highest point on I-80!

Lupe takes up peakbagging interstate highways at The Summit rest stop at Exit 323 in Wyoming. — Lupe takes up peakbagging interstate highways at The Summit rest area at Exit 323 in Wyoming.

Abe Lincoln glowers down on I-80 from The Summit rest area at Exit 323 in Wyoming.

Lupe and SPHP headed for the Summit trailhead of the Headquarters National Recreation Trail, where Lupe started her quest to climb the Leg Benchmark and Pole Mountain.

Lupe at the start of the W end of the Headquarters National Recreation Trail. Photo looks NNE. — Lupe at the start of the W end of the Headquarters National Recreation Trail. Photo looks NE.

Lupe hadn’t gone very far, when she made a great discovery. A huge, deliciously cold snowbank covered a fairly long stretch of the trail. Lupe frolicked on it, and got cooled off. Lupe eventually came to a few more scattered snowbanks along the trail, but none anywhere near the size of this first one.

This big snowbank near the W end of the Headquarters National Recreation Trail made for one very happy Carolina Dog! Photo looks NE.

The Headquarters National Recreation Trail was fun and easy. The trail headed generally E winding its way through a pine and aspen forest. There was some up and down along the way, but nothing too drastic. Lupe netted a few hundred feet of elevation gain, but that was about it.

After a little while, Lupe came to a sign where the trail divided. To the left was Cardiac Bypass. To the right was a Scenic Overlook. Lupe and SPHP took the Cardiac Bypass. Almost immediately it became clear that there was a viewpoint a little higher up a short distance off the trail. Lupe and SPHP left the trail to check out the view.The view was splendid! The Summit, which Lupe had climbed only a short while ago, was visible to the W. Far beyond The Summit, Medicine Bow Peak (12,013 ft.) could be seen in the Snowy Range. Several other high snowy mountain ranges were spread out across the far S and SW horizons.

Lupe at the viewpoint a little off the Cardiac Bypass of the Headquarters National Recreation Trail. The Summit is the hill on the L. Snowy Medicine Bow Peak is seen on the horizon on the R. Photo looks W. — Lupe at the viewpoint a little off the Cardiac Bypass of the Headquarters National Recreation Trail. The Summit is the hill on the L. Snowy Medicine Bow Peak is seen on the far horizon on the R. Photo looks W.

Medicine Bow Peak (12,013 ft.) (Center) using the telephoto lens. Lupe climbed Medicine Bow Peak and other nearby peaks on her Summer of 2015 Dingo Vacation. Photo looks W. — **Medicine Bow Peak (12,013 ft.)** (Center) using the telephoto lens. Lupe climbed **Medicine Bow Peak** and other nearby peaks on her Summer of 2015 Dingo Vacation. Photo looks W.

SPHP knew the Headquarters National Recreation Trail did not go directly to either of Lupe’s two peakbagging goals, the Leg Benchmark and Pole Mountain. The trail gets closest to the Leg Benchmark, but passes to the W of it.

After Lupe had followed the trail some distance, SPHP became anxious to figure out just where Lupe should leave the trail to start climbing the Leg Benchmark. When a rocky high point appeared on the N side of the trail, Lupe and SPHP climbed up to see what lay ahead.

Lupe climbed this rock formation N of the trail. SPHP hoped to see the Leg Benchmark from here. Photo looks N.

American Dingo scout, Lupe, near the top of the rock formation.

Beyond Lupe is a first look at the long high ridge of the Leg Benchmark. Photo looks ESE.

The long high ridge of the Leg Benchmark was in view, but still a little way off. Lupe and SPHP returned to the Headquarters National Recreational Trail and continued E.

Crocuses were blooming along the trail. In the Black Hills, crocuses started blooming in April. — Crocuses were blooming along the trail.

Before long, the trail started to gradually lose elevation. Lupe came to a three-way intersection. To the right (S), the National Headquarters Recreation Trail continued toward Browns Landing. To the left (NE) the Summit Loop Trail headed up a hill.

Lupe had come to several trail intersections before, including at least a couple that were marked as part of the Summit Loop Trail. SPHP didn’t really know where the Summit Loop Trail went, but Lupe did need to gain some elevation going NE up to the ridgeline, before turning SE toward the Leg Benchmark. Lupe and SPHP took the Summit Loop Trail.

The Summit Loop Trail climbed steadily. When it reached the ridgeline, there was a little open ground where the trail bent around to the NW. Lupe and SPHP left the trail heading SE and entered the forest again. Lupe went up and over one forested rise, down across a shallow saddle, and then began her ascent of the Leg Benchmark ridge from the NW. She soon reached another high rock formation where she could get a better view of what lay ahead.

Pole Mountain finally came into view at this high point along Lupe's route to the Leg Benchmark. Photo looks SE. — Pole Mountain finally came into view at this high point along Lupe’s route to the Leg Benchmark. Photo looks SE.

Lupe having fun near the rocks of a high point on the way to the Leg Benchmark. Photo looks SE.

Lupe reached a few false summits along the way, but SPHP knew she was getting close. When Lupe started coming to survey benchmarks, SPHP knew she had arrived. Lupe found four survey benchmarks altogether! The third one, which was on the very highest rock, actually said “Pole” instead of “Leg”.

Lupe had made it to the Leg Benchmark (9,055 ft.)! It hadn’t been nearly as hard as SPHP had feared. Lupe’s next goal, Pole Mountain, was in clear view to the ESE. There was a lot more to see from the Leg Benchmark, too. At least four distant snow-covered mountain ranges were visible on the far horizon from the S around to the W.

Lupe and SPHP stopped for a nice long break up at the Leg Benchmark. It was a great place to be! The Leg Benchmark seemed to be the dominant high point of these mountains.

Lupe at the last false summit. The true summit where the Leg Benchmark is located is in view just ahead. Photo looks SE.

This was the first benchmark Lupe came to on her way to the Leg Benchmark. This one was perhaps 40 feet away from the true summit.

The survey benchmark at the true summit. This was the third one Lupe found, and actually said Pole instead of Leg. Nearby Lupe found a fourth benchmark, but SPHP didn't take a picture of it. — The survey benchmark at the true summit. This was the third one Lupe found, and actually said Pole instead of Leg. Nearby Lupe found a fourth benchmark, but SPHP didn’t take a picture of it.

Lupe stands on the highest rock of the Leg Benchmark. Photo looks NNW.

Lupe still at the highest point of the Leg Benchmark ridge. Photo looks SE along the ridgeline. — Lupe still on the highest point of the Leg Benchmark ridge. Photo looks SE along the ridgeline.

When the leisurely rest break was over, Lupe and SPHP set off continuing SE along the Leg Benchmark ridgeline. The ridge went on for quite a distance, with only modest elevation loss. Gradually the forested slope to the NE became less steep, and it wasn’t as far down to the saddle between Leg Benchmark and Pole Mountain.

The saddle over to Pole Mountain had been clearly visible from up on top of Leg Benchmark. Most of it was flat, open terrain that would be easy to cross. Lupe followed the Leg Benchmark ridgeline down to where it looked like a straight shot over the saddle to Pole Mountain. Then Lupe and SPHP turned NE, leaving the ridge and plunging down into the forest.

Lupe SE of the Leg Benchmark summit before she left the ridgeline. The nearby grassland is part of Browns Landing. Turtle Rock (8,600 ft.) is the rocky three-pronged peak seen in the distance L of Center. Photo looks S.

Turtle Rock (8,600 ft.). Photo looks S using the telephoto lens. — **Turtle Rock (8,600 ft.)**. Photo looks S using the telephoto lens.

The slope wasn’t bad going down off the ridge. Near the bottom, Lupe was delighted to encounter a wide band of snowdrifts 2 or 3 feet high still melting in the shade of the trees. Lupe had fun cooling off on the snow before leaving the forest. As soon as she left the trees, Pole Mountain was directly ahead to the ENE across the open ground of the saddle.

The W face of Pole Mountain features a long, massive rock outcropping. Clearly, Lupe and SPHP couldn’t climb that! In fact, SPHP wasn’t entirely certain Lupe would be able to find any way to the top. However, it did look like the situation would be more promising farther E along the S face. Lupe and SPHP crossed the flat, open saddle and started climbing. As Lupe climbed, she worked her way E across the S side of the mountain.

The top of Pole Mountain (9,040 ft.) was quite rocky, but Lupe did find an easy way up about midway along the S slope. The summit ridge extended 200 feet in a NW/SE direction. The highest point was toward the middle, but somewhat closer to the NW end, not far at all from where Lupe came up. Lupe and SPHP went to check out the true summit and NW end of the mountain first.

Lupe atop the NW end of the Pole Mountain summit ridge. Leg Benchmark is the high point (R of Center) on the ridge seen in the background. Photo looks WNW.

The Leg Benchmark (9,055 ft.) summit from Pole Mountain. Photo looks WNW using the telephoto lens. — The **Leg Benchmark (9,055 ft.)** summit from Pole Mountain. Photo looks WNW using the telephoto lens.

Lupe stands on the true summit of Pole Mountain (9,040 ft.). Photo looks SE along the summit ridge. — Lupe stands on the true summit of **Pole Mountain (9,040 ft.)**. Photo looks SE along the summit ridge.

The view of the Leg Benchmark ridge from the NW end of Pole Mountain was great! After spending a little time there appreciating the fine view, Lupe went to check out the SE end of the summit ridge. Although a bit lower, the SE end of the summit featured a panoramic view of high plains extending far off to the E.

Lupe farther SE along the summit ridge of Pole Mountain, near where she climbed up. Photo looks SE.

A huge area of high prairie was visible all around to the E of Pole Mountain. This photo looks NE toward Bisbee Hill (8,480 ft.) (L) and Markley Hill (R), both of which Lupe climbed the next day. — A huge area of high prairie was visible E of Pole Mountain. This photo looks NE toward **Bisbee Hill (8,480 ft.) (L)** and **Markley Hill (8,520 ft.) (R)**, both of which Lupe climbed the next day.

As beautiful as the panorama to the E was, it was hard not to focus on the distant snow-capped peaks of Colorado to the SW. Rain showers were starting to develop in that direction, too.

Lupe on a rocky ledge near the SE end of the Pole Mountain summit. Distant snow-capped peaks of Colorado and light rain showers were in view beyond her. Photo looks SW. — Lupe on a rock ledge near the SE end of the Pole Mountain summit. Distant snow-capped peaks in Colorado and light rain showers were in view beyond her. Photo looks SW.

Using the telephoto lens, the high snowy mountains in Colorado looked impressive and forbidding. Photo looks SW.

After a pleasant stay, the time came for Lupe to leave Pole Mountain. The Carolina Dog went back down the same S slope where she had come up, and crossed the grassy saddle over to the start of the forest covering the long Leg Benchmark ridge. She then climbed through the forest up to the ridgeline, and made a second ascent all the way to the true summit of Leg Benchmark.

Lupe among the snowdrifts at the base of the Leg Benchmark ridge. Photo looks WSW.

Lupe returns to the top of Leg Benchmark for her 2nd ascent of the day. Pole Mountain, where she had just been, is seen beyond her. Photo looks ESE.

Lupe and SPHP enjoyed one more rest break up on Leg Benchmark. It was a great place, and it seemed like a shame to leave it, but Lupe had plenty more to do in the Laramie Mountains before the day was done. Lupe and SPHP left Leg Benchmark for the final time, and began the trek back to the G6.

Lupe returned to the Headquarters National Recreation Trail. The American Dingo retraced her earlier route along it. She did make one change, however. Instead of taking the Cardiac Bypass, she took the trail to the Scenic Overlook. The Cardiac Bypass wasn’t all that much shorter, and the Scenic Overlook trail loops right back to it after providing some of the very best views Lupe found anywhere along the Headquarters National Recreation Trail.

By 1:58 PM (68°F), Lupe and SPHP were back at the G6. Lupe had already had a wonderful day in the Laramie Mountains, but it was still relatively early. A happy Carolina Dog jumped in the G6. Then Lupe and SPHP headed N looking for the next adventure.

Lupe relaxes up on Leg Benchmark during her final ascent of the mountain.

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