San Juan Mountains – Page 2 – The (Mostly) True Adventures of Lupe

San Luis Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado (6-21-23)

Days 14 & 15 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!

6-20-23, mid-morning – Up bright and early, Lupe had made it down out of the mountains and back to Monte Vista, the little San Luis valley town that had become somewhat of a favorite, in time for breakfast. Now she stood peering into the murky green water of the canal near the high school and golf course.

Not taking the plunge this time around, Looper?

I’ve learned my lesson, SPHP. You never did leap in to save me.

Would have, but you managed to rescue yourself. Can’t say that I’m not glad you did.

Returning to shadier streets, the walk continued. Lupe waited until she was back in the RAV4 to lap up water SPHP poured into her silver bowl, then snoozed or watched squirrels in the big cottonwoods. Meanwhile, SPHP feasted on what remained of the orange juice and lemon Danishes left over from breakfast while working on the trip journal.

By noon, the American Dingo was on her way out of Monte Vista again, this time heading N on Hwy 285. Turning W at Saguache, the afternoon drive on Hwy 114 up the unspoiled, arid Saguache Creek valley was very scenic. Blue flowers bloomed in abundance in a valley so broad that Saguache Creek seemed seriously under-sized for it.

20 miles on Hwy 114 led to a L turn onto County Road NN14, a gravel road in superb condition that continued W, ultimately going over 10,032 foot Cochetopa Pass before descending again. 20 miles on NN14 brought Lupe to Upper Dome Lake, where 5 pelicans floated on the rippling blue water. SPHP initially missed USFS Road No. 794, because it was signed as Saguache County Road 15GG at the turn.

No. 794 wasn’t bad as it wound SSW toward a collection of high peaks still sporting some snow, but wasn’t the gravel super highway County Road NN14 had been, either, especially after passing a road grader that was smoothing out some issues. 7 miles in, at a curve near Cold Spring, the most exciting thing ever happened. Coming from the R, several sheep suddenly crossed the road right in front of the RAV4.

Lupe was beside herself with joy and enthusiasm! Barking furiously, she leapt frantically up and down on her pink blanket, claws scraping the RAV4’s dashboard. Exciting, no doubt, but Lupe had seen sheep before. What was different this time was how close they were, and that they kept coming! A continuous stream of sheep poured across the road, as the Carolina Dog became ever more hysterical.

Tens, scores, hundreds, maybe thousands of sheep crossed the road, many glancing nervously toward the maniac in the RAV4. Still they came! Pandemonium reigned. After 15 minutes, when a couple of large sheepherding dogs appeared, and one trotted over and put his huge paws up on Lupe’s window, peering in to find out what all the fuss was about, the American Dingo completely lost her mind, transforming into a foaming-at-the-mouth savage, the definition of ferocity!

At the very end, a cowboy brought up the rear. Obviously a good guy, since he was on a white horse, the cowboy rode calmly behind the last baaing sheep, as he and his dogs followed them into a valley. Trembling, with sides heaving, Lupe gasped.

SPHP, please! Water!

And thus, the magnificent sheep drive of Saguache County Road 15GG passed into the annals of history. As far as American Dingo legend has it, there was never anything like it, before or since.

Continuing on, the mountains were closer now. SPHP suggested getting out for a look.

What mountains are these, SPHP?

Search me, Looper. We’ll figure that out later. They’re all part of the San Juan Mountains, though.

Well, do you at least know which ones we’re going to climb?

Sure do! Only one – San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.).

Oh! A 14’er!

Yup. Only the 3rd one we’ll have ever climbed, Loopster. Supposed to be relatively easy. A long march, but with a trail all the way to the top.

Sounds awesome, SPHP! Which one is San Luis Peak?

Oh, I don’t know. Probably one of the ones in back, if we can see it at all from here.

Well, don’t worry! Which ever one it is, we’re going to get there, SPHP! Been ages since we’ve done a 14’er!

Hah! Maybe. A lot depends on whether we can even get to the trailhead, Looper. I understand there are 2 creek fords along the way. With all the snow in the San Juans this year, the streams might well be too dangerous for the RAV4 to cross.

**Organ Mountain** (L), **San Luis Peak** (R of Center), **Baldy Alto** (R), and **Stewart Peak** (far R) from **USFS Road No. 794**. Photo looks SW.

No. 794 wound around a lot. The first crucial test came at Chavez Creek. Cement slabs lining the creek bottom allayed most fears right away, but SPHP still got out to see how deep the water was.

Probably a good thing we weren’t here a week or two ago, but I think we’re golden now, Loopster!

Sure enough, the RAV4 didn’t have a bit of trouble.

At the **Chavez Creek ford**. Photo looks NW.

Happily, the situation was much the same at Nutras Creek, which was even shallower.

No. 794 wound up over a big ridge then down the other side for another mile or two before SPHP passed the Stewart Creek Trail on the R. Not much room to park there, but 0.5 mile farther there was plenty of space at the Eddiesville campground and trailhead.

6-20-23, 3:12 PM, Eddiesville – An outhouse, 2 vehicles, and a pickup truck with a horse trailer were at the end of USFS Road No. 794 when the Carolina Dog arrived, but for hours, no one else was around. After a late lunch, she explored beyond the end of the road far enough to get a look at the Cochetopa River valley. SPHP then spent the rest of the afternoon working on the trip journal while Lupe snoozed on her pink blanket.

Toward evening a few people arrived, set up tents, and cooked a meal – 3 CDT’ers with a dog named Mona, who had just climbed San Luis Peak, and a couple intent upon tagging their 33rd 14’er tomorrow.

Gosh, SPHP! The Continental Divide Trail goes over San Luis Peak? Maybe we’ll see Footsie or Svie tomorrow?

From what I can gather, San Luis Peak is an optional route along the CDT, Loop. Don’t think Footsie or Svie can possibly be this far from Long Trek Mountain yet, but it sure would be fun to run into them again!

The horses and cowboys didn’t return until after dark. Half an hour spent loading, and the red taillights of the horse trailer vanished into the night, leaving only stars twinkling silently in the heavens above.

6-21-23, 7:06 AM, 45ºF – The CDT’ers and hikers were just beginning to stir when Lupe left Eddiesville trotting W back up USFS Road No. 794. Reaching the start of Stewart Creek Trail No. 470, SPHP was surprised to see several vehicles already parked along the side of the road. After a quick glance at the posted information, it was Onward! Puppy, ho!

About ready to leave **Eddiesville**. Photo looks ENE.

**Start of Stewart Creek Trail No. 470**. Photo looks SW.

**Posted map of the La Garita Wilderness**.

Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 started out heading W through a meadow overlooking a broad thicket of willows down by Stewart Creek, which could not be seen among them. Most of the pine forest on the steep slopes above the willows on the opposite side of the valley were dead, likely due to a pine bark beetle infestation years ago.

The trail was flat as it angled WSW up the Stewart Creek valley. Progress was rapid for close to a mile.

Setting off up the **Stewart Creek valley** on **Trail No. 470**. Photo looks WSW.

In the meadow, near the edge of the willows. Photo looks SW.

Soon after reaching the forest, the trail started a gradual climb. Short spurts higher were followed by long flat sections. The valley narrowed, and glimpses of a series of beaver ponds along Stewart Creek began to appear. Sadly, many of these gray green ponds looked abandoned – all silted in and very shallow. Not a single beaver to be seen among them.

Without a cloud in the sky, Lupe appreciated the shade of the trees. Meanwhile, progress remained excellent.

**Beaver ponds** along Stewart Creek. Photo looks SSE.

Enjoying the shade of the forest. Photo looks WSW.

Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 remained N of Stewart Creek. Once in a while, the trail ran right next to the stream, sometimes putting Lupe among the willows, which were sprouting new leaves.

A typical stretch of forest. Photo looks W.

The trail eventually climbed well above Stewart Creek and turned SW. Deadfall began to appear. Some of it was quite large, seriously slowing SPHP down. Most of the time, though, it wasn’t too bad, and progress continued at a somewhat diminished pace.

After going through several miles of forest, Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 made a single big switchback on a steep slope. Beyond this switchback, Lupe came to the last of the deadfall before breaking out into the open.

A flight of steps at a rare clearing in the forest. Photo looks WSW.

Reaching tree line at 12,000 feet, Lupe entered a region of willows 4-6 feet high. Meadows provided the first unobstructed views of the big ridges and peaks ahead. Looking across the valley, the dome shaped summit of Organ Mountain (13,801 ft.) soared above a bowl of snow that was the main source of Stewart Creek.

At tree line. **San Luis Peak** (R of Center) peeping above the ridge. Photo looks SW.

**Organ Mountain** (Center). Photo looks SE.

6-21-23, 10:21 AM, Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 at 12,340 feet – Nearing the upper end of the valley, a sunny meadow before a large region of stunted willows looked like a good spot to take a break. Together, Lupe and SPHP watched 2 people climbing the big ridge on the opposite side of the valley. Their progress was slow, coming in spurts.

At the break spot near the upper end of the valley. Photo looks SSW.

Is that where we’re going, SPHP?

Yes, indeedy, Loopster. Before long, the trail’s going to cross tributaries of Stewart Creek, then snake up to the top of that enormous ridge. Once we get up there, San Luis Peak will only be another mile.

Oh, so not so far then, but still a big climb?

You’ve got it, Looper. We’ve already come a long way, but we’ve still got nearly 1,700 feet of elevation gain to go.

How far have we gone so far, SPHP?

Distance-wise, the Peakbagger app says 5.6 miles, but it exaggerates some, and that’s from Eddiesville. Still, the sign at the start of the trail said it was only 5.5 miles to San Luis Peak. Don’t think that can possibly be right, except maybe as the crow flies. Got to be longer than that. Elevation-wise, we’ve already gained 1,900 feet, so we’re only a little over halfway.

Continuing on, the trail descended into the willows, which were only a few feet tall here, and soon led to the main tributary of Stewart Creek, a shallow, clear-running stream emerging from beneath rapidly melting snowfields. After an easy ford or rock hop, Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 then started up the giant ridge to the S, at times crossing the snowfields, much to the Carolina Dog’s delight.

Crossing the **main tributary of Stewart Creek**. Photo looks SW.

Enjoying a romp on the snow! Photo looks WSW.

800 feet from the stream to the top of the ridge, a big climb! Switchbacks made it easier. Even so, the American Dingo had plenty of time to enjoy the increasingly impressive views of the Stewart Creek valley while SPHP plodded along, or paused to gasp for air. The trail was in excellent shape, so there really wasn’t anything hard about it, except the ongoing battle against gravity.

Steadily gaining on the ridge. Photo looks SW.

Gazing back down the **Stewart Creek valley**. Photo looks ENE.

Pikas or marmots whistled unseen, drawing Lupe’s attention. Every now and then, the American Dingo dashed away to investigate, only to return a few minutes later wearing a big smile.

Some of the steepest spots featured stone or wood stairs. Took SPHP a while, but bit by bit, Lupe was getting there. A few early birds appeared, already on their way back down the mountain. By then, the top of the ridge wasn’t much farther, and San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.) was already in sight beyond it.

Approaching the top of the ridge. **San Luis Peak** (Center). Photo looks SW.

Upon gaining the top of the broad ridge, it sloped up toward the W. Lupe climbed only a little higher before SPHP suggested another rest break.

Seated on scree and tundra, SPHP sat petting Lupe while doing deep breathing exercises. The air felt thin, heck it was thin, up at this already magnificent viewpoint. Lupe watched as a few more people went by, all heading back down and offering words of encouragement.

**Organ Mountain** (R of Center) from the break spot on the ridge. Photo looks E.

**Baldy Alto** (Center) from the rest break ridge. Photo looks N.

Ten minutes ticked away.

You ready yet, SPHP?

Yeah, let’s do this! Onward! Puppy, ho!

Starting the final ascent. **San Luis Peak** (L). Photo looks WSW.

Looked easy, felt harder than it should have been. The trail turned to scree as Lupe headed for San Luis Peak’s N ridge. Every step higher was a victory, and the mood became a mix of weariness and joy. Conditions were perfect, the trail in great shape and easy to follow as it curved S. Ultimate triumph was never in doubt.

Up in the scree. **San Luis Peak** (L). Photo looks SSW.

The joyous climb! Lupe on her way to only her 3rd 14’er ever, and first one in nearly 8 years. Photo looks SSW.

The trail eventually gained San Luis Peak’s N ridge. Thrilled to see a snowbank here, Lupe immediately plunked herself right down on it. Many snowy peaks were now in sight way off to the W. One of them, a mighty spire higher than the others caught SPHP’s attention. Using the telephoto lens on it, the view was disconcerting.

Cooling off on **San Luis Peak’s N ridge**. Photo looks W.

Ay, caramba, Loopster! Could that be Uncompahgre Peak (14,309 ft.)?

What if it is, SPHP?

I’ll tell you what, Looper. Uncompahgre is on your list of possibilities. In fact, it’s your next adventure 2 days from now, if all goes as planned, but yikes! I thought there was supposed to be a trail to the top, but it sure doesn’t look like anything we can climb.

Well then, maybe you’re looking at the wrong mountain, SPHP?

Maybe so, Loop. They’re all a long way off. Anyway, has your stomach frozen yet? Let’s get to San Luis Peak.

150 feet below the summit, a young couple that had just started down a few minutes ago appeared. Complimenting Lupe, they paused for a brief chat with SPHP. When the young man said he’d climbed all 58 Colorado 14’ers, SPHP had one question for him.

Yes, that’s Uncompahgre Peak! Wetterhorn Peak (14,015 ft.) is to the L, with Matterhorn Peak (13,590 ft.) between them.

**Wetterhorn Peak** (L), **Matterhorn Peak** (Center), **Uncompaghre Peak** (R). Photo looks WNW with lots of help from the telephoto lens.

Sheesh! Really? Well, whatever. At least Lupe was going to get to San Luis Peak! Continuing S, she followed the winding trail up the final scree slopes leading to the summit.

6-21-23, 1:42 PM, 65ºF, San Luis Peak (14,014 ft.) – On this superb day, everyone else had already come and gone. Lupe arrived at the summit, finding her first 14’er since Mount Massive nearly 8 years ago deserted. Nothing wrong with that!

San Luis Peak’s summit region was roughly 60 feet long E/W and 20 feet wide. Not huge, but plenty of room to move around. A semi-circular rock wall 2.5 feet tall near the E end served as a wind break, although there was scarcely any breeze at all today. Toward the W end, a survey benchmark was attached to a single foot-high loose rock.

Lupe was glad to see a rapidly melting snowbank still clinging to the S rim, happily helping herself to bites of it whenever she felt dry.

Newly arrived on **San Luis Peak**! **Organ Mountain** (L). Photo looks E.

Wow, what a glorious, memorable day, Loopster! Mind getting up on that survey benchmark rock for a picture?

How’s this, SPHP?

Fabulous, Loop! You look terrific! Smile big now for your 3rd 14’er ever!

Happy Lupe atop **San Luis Peak**. Photo looks SW.

Satisfied that the photo had turned out well, SPHP shook Lupe’s paw, congratulating her on grand San Luis Peak success.

There was a lot to see! From the SSE clear around to the WNW, a giant region of snow-capped peaks of the mighty San Juan Range was in view. SPHP was surprised to see that Bennett Peak, Long Trek Mountain, and Conejos Peak still seemed to be recognizable, despite being very far SE. Phoenix Peak (13,895 ft.) was much closer.

**Phoenix Peak** (L of Center). Photo looks SE.

To the S, Peak 13,285 at the head of the Spring Creek drainage wasn’t as high Phoenix Peak, but had more snow. The next line of snowy peaks beyond it was on the far horizon. Looking SW, the scene was similar.

**Peak 13285** (L of Center). Photo looks SSW.

Uncompahgre Peak’s fearsome presence far to the WNW was near the limit of how far N the snow went. Another line of snow-bearing peaks was farther N, but so distant that it was at the edge of vision.

Three peaks directly N were much closer, and more interesting because they could be seen in great detail, these were Column Ridge (13,795 ft.), Stewart Peak (13,983 ft.), and Baldy Alto (13,698 ft.).

**San Luis Peak summit region**. **Uncompahgre Peak** (L of Center) on the horizon. Photo looks WNW.

**Column Ridge** (L), **Stewart Peak** (Center), **Baldy Alto** (R). Photo looks N.

Completing the scenic tour was a view from on high of the Stewart Creek valley to the NE, and Organ Mountain (13,801 ft.) almost directly E.

**Stewart Creek valley** (L), **Organ Mountain** (R). Photo looks ENE.

Hmm. Surprising! Sorry, but there doesn’t seem to be a registry in which to record your glorious ascent, Loopster.

Don’t worry about it, SPHP. I’m famished! Anything left to eat?

For you? Beef jerky, Taste of the Wild, and water, if you want it.

The Carolina Dog did want it, all of it. SPHP helped her out with the jerky, then polished off a fruit cup, and the last of the trail mix as well.

Must have been the elevation, in addition to the long march in, which SPHP estimated at a little over 7 miles. For whatever reason, alone atop San Luis Peak, surrounded by magnificence in all directions, a profound weariness set in after eating. A nap sounded awesome! SPHP laid on the dirt, legs bent so Lupe could hide partly beneath them from the sun. With head resting against the pack, SPHP tried to doze.

For more than an hour, the American Dingo scarcely moved. Once in a while, a faint SW breeze stirred. If there’d been a thermostat to set it, the temperature couldn’t have been any more perfect. Lying there with eyes shut, SPHP may have fallen asleep. Lupe most certainly did.

Mid-afternoon on a Colorado 14’er on the longest day of the year, yet no one came. All the action had apparently already taken place earlier. Lupe’s entire traditional summit hour ticked away. So what? No rush. She stayed for another one, and then some.

Relaxing on **San Luis Peak**. Photo looks WSW.

The long rest definitely made a difference. Reviving, Lupe and SPHP roamed back and forth, taking pictures while admiring the splendor in all directions.

Loop on the snow over by the survey benchmark rock. **Uncompahgre Peak** (R) on the horizon. Photo looks W.

6-21-23, 4:07 PM, San Luis Peak – Sad, but true! For the last time Lupe stood with her paws on the survey benchmark rock, countless snowy mountains beyond her, Uncompahgre Peak looming in the distance. SPHP shook the Carolina Dog’s paw once more. 4 minutes later she was poised along the summit’s N edge ready to start back to Eddiesville.

About to head down. **Column Ridge** (L), **Stewart Peak** (Center), **Baldy Alto** (R). Photo looks N.

The return on Stewart Creek Trail No. 470 was both scenic and fun, and went much faster than Lupe’s ascent. Not a soul was on the trail, but 2 were off it.

Turned out the beaver ponds weren’t entirely abandoned, after all.

The presence of 2 beavers meant hope for the future.

6-21-23, 7:20 PM – As Lupe hopped up onto her pink blanket in the RAV4, Eddiesville seemed lonely and quiet compared to yesterday when the CDT’ers were here. San Luis Peak had been a marvelous, memorable, but long day. Hobbling around, heating up a can of chili for dinner, SPHP’s paws were sore and raw.

Uncompahgre Peak – 5,000 feet of elevation gain 2 days from now? Heh!

Loopster, sweet puppy, we’re going to need a new plan!

On **San Luis Peak**, San Juan Mountains, Colorado 6-21-23

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Bennett Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado (6-19-23)

Days 12 & 13 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!

6-18-23, Monte Vista, San Luis valley, Colorado – After driving to both the E and W ends of town on Hwy 160 to see what was here, SPHP parked the RAV4 in the shade of a line of huge cottonwoods out in front of the high school.

This ought to be a good spot to hang out for a while, Loopster. I like the looks of this town. Want to get out and take a stroll?

A walk? Lupe was all for it! After wandering up and down several streets looking at the houses, SPHP ventured over toward a park or golf course bordered by an irrigation canal. On a sunny morning in June with the sun already high in the sky, the American Dingo was hot and thirsty. Unsuspectingly stepping into the canal, Lupe instantly vanished from sight beneath the murky, deceptively swift-flowing, green water.

OMG! Lupe!

SPHP was horrified! The canal was only 5 or 6 feet wide, but no telling how deep it was. Might easily be 5 or 6 feet, or more. No matter, going to have to leap in to find her!

No, wait! Suddenly the Carolina Dog reappeared, breaking the surface, coughing and swimming hard as she was swept downstream. Lupe wasn’t even wearing her adventure collar, so SPHP couldn’t grab it to help her.

Luckily, despite the steepness of the bank, Lupe managed to haul herself out unaided. The Carolina Dog shook herself off, spraying water in all directions.

Well, wasn’t that refreshing? You could have warned me, SPHP! You know us Carolina Dogs don’t mind wading, but hate to swim.

Oh, Loop! I’m sorry! Never dreamed you would just walk right in like that without being able to see the bottom.

Might have been tragic, but no harm done. The walk went on a while longer now to let the sun dry the Dingo off before returning to the RAV4. A pleasant morning snooze on her soft pink blanket in the shade of the cottonwoods ensued. Shortly after noon, though, the American Dingo was on her way back up into the mountains.

6-19-23, 7:22 AM, 51ºF, South Fork trailhead, end of County Road No. 28 –

You still want to stick with the road past the log barrier, right, SPHP?

Yep. Onward! Puppy, ho!

About to leave the **South Fork trailhead** taking the old road beyond the log barrier. Photo looks NW.

Last evening’s reconnaisance of the two routes leaving the trailhead for the upper South Fork of Rock Creek valley had proven that the old road continuing past the log barrier was the easiest way to go. Taking the ATV trail spur down to South Rock Trail No. 702 lost 100 feet of elevation right away, most of which was unnecessary.

After trotting around the barrier, Lupe gained elevation at an easy pace on the abandoned road, as it slowly faded away. More than 0.25 mile led to the road’s apparent end at a clearing studded with tree stumps and scattered deadfall. A path continuing into the trees quickly led to a mere 15 or 20 foot dip down to the South Fork of Rock Creek.

Following the abandoned road. **Bennett Peak** (Center). Photo looks NW.

At the clearing where the road ended. Photo looks NW.

The trail went right through the creek, a beautiful little stream lacking a convenient rock hop. Wanting to avoid soaking wet socks and boots this early in the day, SPHP removed them, flung them over to the opposite bank, then waded across.

**South Fork of Rock Creek**. Photo looks NW.

Lupe didn’t follow, merely watching as SPHP got ready to go again.

Bennett Peak (13,203 ft.) is calling, Loop! Are you coming, or not?

The American Dingo hesitated, clearly pondering the situation. Decision made, Lupe suddenly got a running start and leapt completely over the South Fork of Rock Creek in a single bound.

Show off!

I’m not showing off, SPHP. Just not taking any chances.

Chances? What’s gotten into you, Looper? Oh, I get it! You’re worried about yesterday’s plunge into the canal. Why? You can see the bottom. This stream isn’t anywhere close to being as deep as the canal was. No worries here.

Be that as it may, the mighty Dingo leap had already been made. SPHP followed Lupe up the trail beyond the stream through a meadow on the way to the next stretch of forest. This meadow proved to be quite soggy. The path faded away, but continuing NW, Lupe soon reached South Rock Trail No. 702.

No. 702 was basically an ATV route. Taking it NW through meadows and forest, the trail climbed at an increasing rate as it gradually curved SW.

The entire mountainside seemed to be seeping water. The Carolina Dog crossed many small streams, which often ran right down long stretches of the trail. Sheep Mountain (12,492 ft.) came into view. By the time SPHP was ready to take a breather under a big pine, HP12279 was in sight only 0.5 mile S.

**South Rock Trail No. 702**. Photo looks NW.

By one of many little streams trickling down the trail. Photo looks NW.

**Sheep Mountain** (L of Center). Photo looks SW.

One of the largest streams flooding the trail.

**HP12279** (L) from SPHP’s break spot. Photo looks S.

Whew! Guess I’m still not acclimated to the elevation yet, Looper.

No worries, SPHP! Take your time. I’m ready whenever you are.

A 15 minute break beneath the pine tree helped, but didn’t make as much of a difference as SPHP had hoped. Although following the road should have been easy, SPHP trudged slowly after the American Dingo with little energy as Lupe led the way higher.

Tree line wasn’t much farther. Above it, the open terrain provided an unobstructed view of HP12279, its N slopes still mostly covered in snow. A bit higher, Lupe came to a junction with Trail No. 702.1, a spur going N to connect with Dry Creek Trail No. 700. Bennett Peak, a massive, grassy dome, was now only 1.5 miles away as the crow flies in that direction.

**HP12279** (L) from tree line. Photo looks S.

**Bennett Peak** (R of Center) from near the junction with Trail No. 702.1. Photo looks N.

Instead of turning N, SPHP encouraged Lupe to continue SSW on South Rock Trail No. 702.

I thought we were going to Bennett Peak, SPHP. Are we going to climb HP12279, first?

Looks like a nice, easy summit, Loopster, but Sheep Mountain is a little higher. I’m thinking we might as well go over it on our way to Bennett.

Another 0.33 mile got Lupe up to an enormous pass between HP12279 and Sheep Mountain. Silver Mountain (12,420 ft.) was now in sight 2 miles S. A long ridge with snow along its E flank blocked the views SPHP had expected to see to the SW.

**South Rock Trail No. 702** in the giant pass between **HP12279** and **Sheep Mountain**. **Silver Mountain** (L). Photo looks SSW.

HP12279 was now only 0.25 mile due E. Shoulda, woulda, coulda, if only SPHP had felt more energetic. Instead, Lupe abandoned Trail No. 702 heading W for a small stand of trees near the base of Sheep Mountain’s long, rounded S slope. Upon reaching the trees, another short break was taken in the shade, before tackling the gradual, grassy, rock-strewn trek to the summit.

About to leave **South Rock Trail No. 702** for **Sheep Mountain** (R). Photo looks NW.

Climbing **Sheep Mountain’s S slope**. Photo looks NW.

Closing in on **Sheep Mountain’s summit**. Photo looks N.

6-19-23, 9:52 AM, 49ºF, Sheep Mountain (12,492 ft.) – The wind was 10-15 mph out of the W, the sky cloudless, views marred only by a bit of haziness that was worst to the E, when Lupe reached the summit cairn.

**Bennett Peak** (Center) from **Sheep Mountain**. Photo looks N.

**Silver Mountain** (L of Center). Photo looks S.

Made it! Congratulations on your first ascent of the day, Loopster!

Nothing to it, SPHP. Looks like an easy romp all the way to Bennett Peak from here, too.

It does! A lovely high elevation trek that can wait. Summit hour, Loop! Let’s relax and enjoy the views.

After shaking Lupe’s paw while she was still on the cairn, SPHP sat down facing away from the wind. Lupe curled up on SPHP’s lap, gazing E out toward Windy Mountain (12,608 ft.), which overlooked the South Fork of Rock Creek valley she had just come up.

**Windy Mountain** (L of Center) overlooking the **South Fork of Rock Creek valley**. **HP12279** (far R). Photo looks E.

Drab from afar, the tundra was incredibly beautiful upon closer inspection.

Mountains in sight all around! Everything nearby looked pretty tame, though. The closest more dramatic peaks were SW, toward the region Lupe had been exploring recently. Conejos Peak (13,172 ft.) was easy to spot. SPHP was also able to pick out Long Trek Mountain (12,866 ft.) , Montezuma Peak (13,150 ft.) and Summit Peak (13,300 ft.).

**Conejos Peak** (L), **Alamosa River valley** (Center), **Summit Peak** (far R). Photo looks SW.

**Conejos Peak** (L of Center), **HP13044** (R of Center), and **Peak 12505** (far R). Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.

Zoomed in on Summit Peak (L), **Montezuma Peak** (Center), **Long Trek Mountain** (R). Photo looks SW.

Shortly after sharing water and beef jerky, company appeared. Lupe and SPHP met John Pelner, who had also come up Sheep Mountain’s S slope. A retired family physician from Colorado Springs, John was very friendly.

Originally born in Wisconsin, where he still has family he visits often, John said he’d been climbing mountains all of his adult life. He’d been to all of Colorado’s 14’ers, many 13’ers, and at 73, was now working on the most interesting 12’ers. John had already been to Silver Mountain this morning, and was on his way to both Pintada Mountain (12,840 ft.) and Windy Mountain. Unlike Lupe, he’d already visited Bennett Peak years ago, and didn’t intend to go there again today.

With **Dr. John Pelner** on **Sheep Mountain**. Photo looks SW.

Chatting amiably with SPHP until Lupe’s traditional summit hour was complete, Dr. Pelner then accompanied the Carolina Dog down Sheep Mountain’s N slope.

Heading down **Sheep Mountain’s N slope** with **Dr. Pelner**. **Bennet Peak** (L of Center). Photo looks N.

Upon reaching the saddle leading to Bennett Peak, it was time to part ways. Bound for Windy Mountain or Pintada Mountain next, John bid Lupe farewell before taking Dry Creek Trail No. 700 NE. Meanwhile, Lupe began her 1,100 foot journey to the top of Bennett Peak.

Following West Frisco Trail No. 850, an ancient jeep route, the climb NNE up Bennett Peak’s S and SE slopes amounted to a long, breezy slog on largely featureless grass and tundra slopes. With 400 feet of elevation gain yet to go, the trail turned NW upon reaching the sharp NE edge of the mountain where cliffs and snowbanks added scenic appeal.

Heading up **Bennett Peak’s S slope**. Photo looks NNE.

Glancing back at **Sheep Mountain** (Center). **Conejos Peak** (R). Photo looks SSW with help from the telephoto lens.

Along **Bennett Peak’s scenic NE edge**. Photo looks NW.

West Frisco Trail No. 850 remained near the E edge of the mountain as it swept up to Bennett Peak’s giant, gently rounded summit region. A faint spur led to the true summit over near the W end. As Lupe approached, the remnant of a tattered American flag attached to a pole protruding from a large cairn flapped wildly in a 15-20 mph W wind.

Approaching the **summit cairn** (R of Center). Photo looks W.

**Bennett Peak summit**. Photo looks WSW.

6-19-23, 12:40 PM, 54ºF, Bennett Peak (13,203 ft.) – As the Carolina Dog stood atop the summit cairn, an enormous amount of territory was in sight. A general haziness of the otherwise cloudless sky obscured details of the countless distant snow-capped mountains visible in almost every direction. Some of the ranges perceptible to the N and W must have been over 100 miles away.

Far to the ENE, Blanca Peak (14,345 ft.) was recognizable beyond the pancake flat San Luis valley. Long lines of lofty mountains extended both N and S from the Blanca Peak region. Toward the S and SE, the mountains were lower. Peering down on nearby Sheep Mountain, Silver Mountain, and HP12279, they now seemed only modest prominences of gently rolling highlands.

Looking W farther into the **San Juan Range**.

**Silver Mountain** (L) beyond HP12279, **Sheep Mountain** (R). Photo looks S.

The most dramatic views were still to the SW, in the region Lupe had so recently explored. Conejos Peak (13,172 ft.), Summit Peak (13,300ft.), Montezuma Peak (13,150 ft.), and Long Trek Mountain (12,866 ft.) were all once again in sight among many others.

A line of scattered boulders larger than most of other rocks on Bennett Peak extended SW of the cairn. Wandering over that way, Lupe sniffed among the rocks while SPHP admired the views.

Among the boulders SW of the cairn. Photo looks NE.

The grand, if somewhat distant view to the SW.

**Summit Peak** (L of Center), **Montezuma Peak** (Center), **Long Trek Mountain** (R of Center). Photo looks SW with a bit of help from the telephoto lens.

**Conejos Peak** (R of Center). Photo looks SW with more help from the telephoto lens.

After the usual paw-shaking congratulations, SPHP sat down near the cairn, using it as a windbreak. Annoyed by flies, the American Dingo had a hard time getting comfortable on the rocky ground. With the sun practically straight overhead, Lupe tried poking her nose under SPHP’s legs for partial relief.

As the wind blew, and flies buzzed, SPHP entered Lupe’s name in the registry contained in a jar found nestled in the cairn. Water and beef jerky were shared. SPHP then munched on trail mix, while Lupe had some of her Taste of the Wild. The views were expansive; so much so that nearly all points of interest seemed far, far away.

Felt good to rest, doing nothing at all way up here in the sky. Meanwhile, the precious minutes ticked away. As the American Dingo’s summit hour drew near an end, Lupe returned to the cairn for a final look around.

**Conejos Peak** (L), **Snow Benchmark** (Center), **Summit Peak** (far R). Photo looks SW.

Inevitably, the time for action came once again.

That’s it, Loopster! Bennett Peak is history. Onward! Puppy, ho!

Returning to West Frisco Trail No. 850 along the NE edge, Lupe started SE back down the mountain, returning the same way she’d come up only an hour ago.

2 down, and 1 to go, Looper!

We’re climbing another mountain, SPHP?

Yup. Windy Mountain (12,608 ft.), dead ahead. We can abandon the trail and make a nice loop going over HP12778 on the way, with Windy Mountain as a relatively short side jaunt before heading back to the South Fork trailhead.

**Windy Mountain** (Center) in the foreground. Photo looks SE.

During the initial descent, Lupe had a grand view of Pintada Mountain (12,840 ft.) a mere 2 miles NE where Dr. John Pelton had been headed.

Do you think we’ll see him again, SPHP? We’ll be crossing his route on the way to Windy Mountain.

Possible, but not likely, Looper. Doubt he spends an hour at most summits like you do. He’s probably been there and gone already.

**Pintada Mountain** (L), **HP12844** (R). **Blanca Peak** (R with snow) on the horizon beyond the **San Luis valley**. Photo looks ENE with help from the telephoto lens.

Abandoning West Frisco Trail No. 850 where it turned SSW toward Sheep Mountain, Lupe descended ESE to a vast grassy saddle before heading up a gentle rise to HP12778. Looking back from a cairn here, she had a terrific view of the cliffs along Bennett Peak’s E face.

**Bennett Peak** from **HP12778**. Photo look WNW.

Turning SSE from HP12778, the terrain gradually steepened. By the time Pass 12065 leading to Windy Mountain came into view, a surprisingly steep descent on flat, loose, pink talus was ahead. Realizing that most of the talus could be avoided by staying a bit farther N, SPHP encouraged a slight course adjustment.

**Windy Mountain** (L) from the start of the **talus slope SSE of HP12778**. Photo looks SE.

The wind was roaring 30 mph out of the SW as Lupe crossed Pass 12065 on her way to Windy Mountain’s NW ridge. Interesting rock formations near the start of the 550 foot climb invited exploration, but the wind was annoying enough to discourage such notions.

Thankfully, as SPHP made this final weary trek higher, plodding after the still unfazed Carolina Dog, the wind gradually slackened instead of getting any worse. Near the top, a slope of more of the flat, pink talus led to an 800 foot long summit ridge.

Crossing windy **Pass 12065**, **Windy Mountain** (L). Photo looks SSE.

**Windy Mountain** earns its reputation among the rock formations as the ascent begins. Photo looks SE.

*Come on, SPHP! We’re nearly there!* Photo looks SE.

Near the **NW end** of the **800 foot long summit ridge**. Photo looks SE.

The stroll along the broad summit ridge couldn’t have been easier. Most of the ridge was covered with small talus, although the SE end featured quite a bit of tundra. Signs of serious cracking along the rocky SW edge showed where huge chunks of Windy Mountain would one day hurtle down into the South Fork of Rock Creek valley. Roaming SE in search of the true summit, Lupe continued to gain a little elevation.

Approaching **Windy Mountain’s true summit**. Photo looks SE.

6-19-23, 4:01 PM, 58ºF, Windy Mountain (12,608 ft.) – The wind was down to 10-15 mph out of the SW by the time Lupe reached a jumble of talus only marginally higher than the rest of the summit ridge. 200 feet farther ESE, a big cairn with a sweeping view of all points E sat at the brink of a precipice along the S edge of the mountain.

After a quick photo at the true summit, Lupe headed over to the cairn and its dramatic perch.

At the **true summit of Windy Mountain**. Photo looks ESE.

**Blanca Peak** (L) on the horizon. Photo looks E.

3 mountains in one day! Ought to be worth another round of beef jerky, SPHP!

Oh, of course, Loopster! Give me just a moment.

After shaking Lupe’s paw in congratulations once again, SPHP grabbed a jar from the cairn, then sat down on the tundra a little back to the W.

Let’s see if John Pelner actually got here today, or not, Loop!

Opening the jar, SPHP checked the registry within.

So what does it say, SPHP?

Sure enough, John was here! His entry is the 4th one so far this year. I’ll add your name, too, Loopster. And guess what? John left us a present.

A present? What kind of a present, SPHP?

A Nature Valley granola bar, Loop.

Anyone could have left that, SPHP. Doesn’t have our names on it, does it? How do you know John left it?

Because it seems to be fresh, instead of petrified. Anyway, whether John left it for us, or not, let’s eat it!

It’s all yours, SPHP. I’m sticking with beef jerky, speaking of which, bring it on! And how about some water, too?

As usual, beef jerky and water for all! Lupe polished off the last of her Taste of the Wild, too. Munching on the Nature Valley granola bar while resting in the breeze up on Windy Mountain with the last big climb of the day out of the way, life seemed mighty fine.

To the NW, Bennett Peak and Pintada Mountain blocked more distant views. No doubt John Pelner had been to Pintada today, too.

**Bennett Peak** (L), **HP12788** (L of Center), **HP12844** (R). Photo looks NW.

**HP12844** (L), **Pintada Mountain** (R). Photo looks NNW.

Windy Mountain was high enough to still see the fabulous view SW of Conejos Peak, Summit Peak, and all the other snow-capped mountains.

**Silver Mountain** (far L), **Conejos Peak** (L). **Summit Peak**, **Montezuma Peak**, and **Long Trek Mountain** (all far R). Photo looks SW.

From the S edge over by the cairn, Lupe could see County Road No. 28, snaking its way up to the South Fork trailhead where the RAV4 waited, visible as a lone blue speck 1,400 feet below.

Peering down on **County Road No. 28**. **Peak 11930** (R of Center). Photo looks S.

The RAV4! Soon time to be heading back. The American Dingo lingered on Windy Mountain, but didn’t quite complete her traditional summit hour. 52 minutes after first reaching the true summit, she was back at it again, enjoying the view of HP12279, Sheep Mountain, and all the snowy peaks beyond for the last time.

**Summit Peak** (far L), **HP12279** (L), **Sheep Mountain** (R). Photo looks WSW.

Descending Windy Mountain’s NW ridge, the wind picked up again as Lupe got close to Pass 12065. Once down to it, the Carolina Dog turned SW, continuing her descent into the South Fork of Rock Creek valley.

The mountainside was steep. No trails, but Lupe was able to follow grassy lanes through the forest most of the way down. The wind died completely away, which was nice after being in it virtually all day long, and a giant deer provided a bit of excitement.

Near the end, Lupe encountered an unavoidable stretch of thick forest where deadfall slowed SPHP’s progress. Managing to lose another 150 feet of elevation, the Carolina Dog finally reached a beautiful, park-like meadow that quickly led to South Rock Trail No. 720.

Turning SE down the valley, the trail soon crossed the South Fork of Rock Creek. The creek was bigger here than where the American Dingo had bounded over it this morning, but Lupe had no qualms about fording it this time, easily wading across. She then waited while SPHP forded the stream 3 times, after forgetting the camera the first time over.

Fording the **South Fork of Rock Creek** at day’s end.

One more trudge higher! Fortunately, only 100 feet of elevation gain was all that was required before popping out of the forest at the end of County Road No. 28 where the RAV4 waited alone at the trailhead.

Not a soul was around, as Lupe relaxed in the RAV4. While SPHP heated up a can of chicken and dumplings for dinner, the cliffy S face of Windy Mountain was illuminated by early evening sunlight. A beautiful end to a wonderful breezy day spent happily roaming the spacious highlands on the way to and from Bennett Peak. (End 6:16 PM)