{"id":16794,"date":"2018-11-08T08:10:16","date_gmt":"2018-11-08T15:10:16","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=16794"},"modified":"2023-04-17T17:57:50","modified_gmt":"2023-04-17T23:57:50","slug":"kesugi-ridge-ermine-hill-peak-3700-denali-state-park-alaska-9-4-18","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=16794","title":{"rendered":"K’esugi Ridge: Ermine Hill & Peak 3700, Denali State Park, Alaska (9-4-18)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 31 & 32 of Lupe’s 2018 Dingo Vacation to the Yukon, Northwest Territories & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

Morning 9-3-18<\/em> – Clear skies!\u00a0 If they would last, this was Lupe’s big chance!\u00a0 As SPHP drove N on George Parks Highway No. 3, the Carolina Dog’s luck was holding.\u00a0 Near midday she arrived at the Denali South Viewpoint (MP 135.2) in Denali State Park<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Oh, this was Lupe’s lucky day! She had finally arrived at the Denali South Viewpoint in Denali State Park on a clear day – a feat that had eluded her in both 2016 & 2017.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was Labor Day, and the parking lot was nearly full.\u00a0 People and dogs all over the place!\u00a0 They had all come to see what Lupe and SPHP had come to see, too – that glorious, monstrous, white mountain, highest in all of North America – Denali<\/span><\/a> (20,310 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!<\/p>\n

Loopster had seen Denali in the clear from a great distance in 2016.\u00a0 Yet, although she had been to Denali State Park in both 2016 and 2017, the American Dingo had never caught more than glimpses of tiny portions of the mountain from anywhere nearly this close before.\u00a0 Lower peaks had sometimes been in view, but Denali and all the other white giants of the Alaska Range had always been shrouded by clouds.<\/p>\n

The first look at Denali from the viewing area near the parking lot was beautiful, but not the best one available.\u00a0 A 5 minute stroll along a wide path lined by trees and tall bushes brought Loopster to an even better viewpoint.\u00a0 Beyond the Chulitna River valley, there stood Denali, still nearly 40 miles away, gleaming white against the blue, blue sky.\u00a0 Denali was a thrilling sight!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
There it is, SPHP! Denali<\/strong>, the highest mountain in North America! We finally get to see it!<\/em> Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe at the Denali South Viewpoint<\/strong> in Denali State Park<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Denali<\/strong> beyond the Chulitna Rive<\/strong>r. Photo looks NW help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Denali<\/strong> with lots of help from the telephoto lens. Even at the Denali South Viewpoint, the massive mountain was still nearly 40 miles away!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

While Denali was the star of the show, many other glorious peaks were on display, too.\u00a0 SPHP wasn’t certain of their names.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on Kahlitna Peaks<\/strong>? If so, West Kahlitna Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,835 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> is on the L. East Kahlitna Peak<\/span><\/a> (13,440 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> on the R. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hunter<\/span><\/a> (14,573 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> may be the white dome peeping out from behind these jagged peaks. Photo looks NW, again with plenty of help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking N farther up the Chulitna River<\/strong> valley.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

With teeming holiday crowds present, it was probably best not to linger too long.\u00a0 Still, it was hard to tear oneself away from Denali!\u00a0 Loop and SPHP hung around for 20 minutes before reluctantly moving on.\u00a0 SPHP drove a little farther N on George Parks Highway No. 3, stopping next at the Ermine Hill trailhead (MP 156.5).<\/p>\n

Still early afternoon.\u00a0 What to do?\u00a0 On the one hand, seeing Denali from Ermine Hill<\/span><\/a> (2,700 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> would be fantastic!\u00a0 Would take a few hours to get up there, but Lupe had time.\u00a0 On the other hand, Ermine Hill wasn’t the American Dingo’s only anticipated destination up on K’esugi Ridge.<\/p>\n

Lupe had climbed Ermine Hill<\/strong><\/span><\/a> once before.\u00a0 In 2017, she had seen a considerably higher hill from the summit more than 3 miles off to the ENE.\u00a0 This was Peak<\/span> 3700<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, an unnamed high point.\u00a0 Peak 3700 had looked easy to climb, just a rounded hill at the far end of a long, gradual ridge.\u00a0 So Looper and SPHP had made an attempt on Peak 3700 that day.\u00a0 Lupe had made great progress, but was ultimately forced to retreat by an ominous cloud threatening rain.<\/p>\n

Now Lupe was back!\u00a0 She had returned to Denali State Park not only to see Denali, but also to climb Peak 3700.<\/p>\n

It was too late to get to both Ermine Hill and Peak 3700 today.\u00a0 Besides, Loop had spent the last 3 days in a row climbing mountains.\u00a0 Hadn’t she earned a day of rest?\u00a0 While tempting, the thought of climbing Ermine Hill right now to see Denali from on high also seemed exhausting.\u00a0 Loop intended to climb both Ermine Hill and Peak 3700 tomorrow, anyway.\u00a0 Provided the weather would hold for just another 24 hours, an ascent today was simply unnecessary.<\/p>\n

Not a cloud in sight.\u00a0 Tomorrow seemed a reasonably safe bet.\u00a0 In the meantime, Looper could rest up.\u00a0 This evening she could go back to the Denali South Viewpoint to see the sunset.\u00a0 Such a nice, easy plan!<\/p>\n

SPHP worked on catching up the trip journal.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog snoozed contentedly.\u00a0 After an hour or more, SPHP glanced up to see a single lane of traffic ground to a complete halt on the highway.\u00a0 Odd.\u00a0 The G6 was boxed in here at the Ermine Hill trailhead!\u00a0 Lupe couldn’t leave if she wanted to until the traffic cleared.<\/p>\n

It didn’t clear.\u00a0 Nothing budged.\u00a0 Something was wrong.\u00a0 An accident?\u00a0 Perhaps a serious one?\u00a0 No one at all was getting through.\u00a0 Yet everyone seemed patient.\u00a0 No honking, yelling, or arm waving.\u00a0 None of that sort of thing.<\/p>\n

Eventually, sirens confirmed it.\u00a0 Emergency vehicles appeared.\u00a0 Low flying helicopters woke Loop up, sending her into barking frenzies.\u00a0 Hours went by.\u00a0 SPHP finally stopped writing, and got out to stretch.\u00a0 Something dreadful must have happened.\u00a0 A man came over to chat.\u00a0 He was from North Pole near Fairbanks, on his way home with his family.<\/p>\n

Word was that there had been a terrible tragedy, a fatal crash<\/a><\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 The crash had occurred out of sight, but only 100 yards NE of the Ermine Hill trailhead.\u00a0 A car, pickup truck, and 2 motorcycles were involved.\u00a0 Of 5 people, 3 were dead, 2 more in critical condition.\u00a0 One was a little girl.\u00a0 Horrendous!<\/p>\n

Not until 8:30 PM did the traffic start moving again.\u00a0 Slowly, one lane at a time, alternating directions.\u00a0 After 10:00 PM the first gaps appeared in the lines.\u00a0 By 11:00 PM it was over, the deadly highway dark and quiet.\u00a0 The end of a sorrowful, sobering evening.<\/p>\n

9-4-18, 8:40 AM, 48\u00b0F – <\/em>Ugh!\u00a0 Seriously?\u00a0 Tired or not, should have just done it, and gone with Lupe up to Ermine Hill yesterday afternoon.\u00a0 She could have seen Denali in the clear from that glorious vantage point then.\u00a0 Now blue skies were but a memory.\u00a0 Nearly the entire sky was overcast.\u00a0 Clouds hung so low, it was practically foggy out.\u00a0 So much for getting to see Denali again from on high.\u00a0 A lost opportunity.<\/p>\n

Sorry, Looper!\u00a0 Guess I was a dope.\u00a0 Should have known.\u00a0 Alaska is the world champion at clouding up, as far as anywhere I’ve ever been goes.<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re not going to Ermine Hill?\u00a0 Or Peak 3700?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, yes, we are!\u00a0 At least it’s not raining out.\u00a0 Doesn’t seem like it’s going to either, not yet anyway.\u00a0 Might as well give it a whirl.\u00a0 It’s more or less now or never for Peak 3700, you know.<\/em><\/p>\n

Let’s get going then!\u00a0 Maybe we’ll have some luck!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Looper ready to head up the Ermine Hill trail.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe set out full of energy and enthusiasm!\u00a0 Having taken the Ermine Hill trail up onto fabulous K’esugi Ridge only a little over a year ago, it still seemed quite familiar.\u00a0 The trail started out gaining elevation gradually.\u00a0 Lupe passed through an area of tall grasses and colorful plants in a forest meadow.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
You coming, SPHP? Hurry it up! This is going to be great! You’ll see!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The terrain flattened out.\u00a0 Before long Loop lost 200 feet of elevation on her way down to Byers Creek.\u00a0 The tippy bridge was still here, same as last year.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Crossing a small side stream on the way down to Byers Creek.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The tippy bridge over Byers Creek<\/strong> was still here, unchanged from a year ago.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond the tippy bridge came a forested area crowded with ferns.\u00a0 The trail was full of tree roots and mucky spots.\u00a0 It headed downstream past a wider, shallower section of Byers Creek before finally beginning to climb out of the valley.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Down in the Byers Creek<\/strong> valley. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Nothing like a lush undergrowth of ferns to give a forest that prehistoric feel, is there?<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Before Lupe had gained much elevation, a bridge over gushing Giardia Creek marked the start of a series of long switchbacks.\u00a0 The switchbacks made the climb up the steep lower slopes of K’esugi Ridge a snap for SPHP.\u00a0 Lupe enjoyed racing back and forth on them.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Giardia Creek!<\/strong> Might want to leave those water bottles in the backpack for now, SPHP!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe had a blast on the switchbacks leading up the steep lower slopes of K’esugi Ridge.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Higher up, K’esugi Ridge wasn’t as steep.\u00a0 The switchbacks came to an end.\u00a0 The trail turned SE climbing more directly up the slope.<\/p>\n

The forest thinned as Lupe gained elevation.\u00a0 Ferns disappeared.\u00a0 Birch or aspen mixed in with the conifers.\u00a0 Before long only scattered conifers remained as tall bushes took over.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Above the switchbacks the terrain wasn’t as steep. Ferns disappeared and the forest was less dense. Lupe came to stands of birch or aspen.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking up the Giardia Creek valley from the Ermine Hill trail. Scattered conifers and tall bushes dominated this area. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Eventually, Lupe came to a long slope covered with low bushes.\u00a0 The fall colors were incredible!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Loop near the upper end of the long colorful slope shortly before leaving the Ermine Hill trail<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Looper left the Ermine Hill trail at the upper end of the colorful slope, shortly before it was about to disappear into tall bushes again.<\/p>\n

In 2017, Lupe had stayed on the trail 0.5 mile farther before abandoning it to begin her search for the true summit of Ermine Hill.\u00a0 However, she had learned back then that it wasn’t necessary to stay on the trail for so long.\u00a0 The true summit was up on the very first big hill on the R (S).\u00a0 In fact, it appeared easier to get to the summit from here than it had been from farther along the trail.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Loop about to set off for the true summit of Ermine Hill. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The upper slopes of Ermine Hill consist of a crumbly whitish rock.\u00a0 Where vegetation was lacking and the exposed rock was at all steep, it was difficult for SPHP to maintain traction.\u00a0 Fortunately, there weren’t too many troublesome areas.\u00a0 Lupe had a great time exploring on the way up.\u00a0 She had no traction problems at all.<\/p>\n

The lower slopes of Ermine Hill were the steepest.\u00a0 Once above them, a series of ramps and benches led higher.\u00a0 The flatter terrain up here was mostly covered with gorgeous tundra.\u00a0 Brilliant reds, oranges, golds and yellows were everywhere.\u00a0 Blueberries were abundant some places, too.\u00a0 SPHP would accept no criticism for the resulting slow pace of advance.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Loop up on the flatter terrain of one of the benches. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As Lupe neared the top of Ermine Hill, she spotted an oddly shaped rock ahead atop a minor ridge.\u00a0 SPHP dubbed it “Shark Fin Rock”.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Oddly shaped “Shark Fin Rock<\/strong>” on the ridge beyond Lupe points toward the summit of Ermine Hill<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Of course, the Carolina Dog went to check it out.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe at Shark Fin Rock<\/strong>. Shark Fin Rock seemed most unusually shaped for a natural rock formation. Loop later discovered several smaller similar formations near Ermine Hill’s summit. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From Shark Fin Rock an easy 5 minute trek up loose white rock brought Loop to the top of the mountain.\u00a0 The whole summit area was awesome with all kinds of weird rock formations.\u00a0 A lovely level pedestal perfect for displaying a triumphant Carolina Dog comprised the true summit.<\/p>\n

Yes, Lupe had returned to magnificent, gorgeous Ermine Hill<\/span><\/a> (2,700 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe returns to the true summit of Ermine Hill<\/strong>. She had been here once before just over a year ago in 2017. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A few tiny patches of blue sky had been visible when Lupe had left the trailhead.\u00a0 Now there were none.\u00a0 Rain still didn’t look imminent, but it was easy to believe it might be on the way.\u00a0 Low gray clouds covered the sky.\u00a0 Farther S, though, sunshine could be seen on distant ridges.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The whole sky was gray, but sunshine could be seen on distant ridges. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Still at the true summit. Photo looks SSE with lots of help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A look at the true summit from the other side. Note the little cave at the lower L. It was only inches high, but Lupe was fascinated by it. Apparently parts of Ermine Hill<\/strong> were hollow! Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe had set out on the Ermine Hill trail full of energy and enthusiasm.\u00a0 However, by the time she had reached Shark Fin Rock, she had already been showing signs fatigue.\u00a0 SPHP was surprised, but perhaps Loopster hadn’t slept well last night?\u00a0 Sometimes she stays awake staring into the darkness for hours on end.<\/p>\n

Whatever the reason, after a short initial re-exploration of Ermine Hill’s summit area, the Carolina Dog was done.\u00a0 She didn’t want food or water, simply to rest.\u00a0 No problem.\u00a0 It wasn’t even noon yet.\u00a0 Plenty of time left in the day.\u00a0 SPHP looked forward to relaxing and enjoying the fantastic views from Ermine Hill for a while, anyway.<\/p>\n

Another rock outcropping almost as high as the true summit was a short distance to the NW.\u00a0 SPHP found a comfy spot to sit down there.\u00a0 Lupe curled up on SPHP’s lap, heaved a great sigh, and closed her eyes.\u00a0 SPHP stroked her soft fur.<\/p>\n

Ermine Hill is a terrific viewpoint!\u00a0 Sadly, but as anticipated, Denali and all the high peaks of the Alaska Range were obscured by clouds.\u00a0 Only the lower peaks and the Chulitna River valley were in view.\u00a0 Golog Benchmark<\/span><\/a> (2,970 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> which Lupe had reached on a prior adventure on K’esugi Ridge in 2016 was in sight to the SW.\u00a0 And, of course, Peak 3700<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/span>, which SPHP hoped and expected Loop would get to this very afternoon, was visible only a little over 3 miles to the ENE.<\/p>\n

A serene and wonderful half hour drifted by.\u00a0 Finally, Lupe stirred.\u00a0 Good deal!\u00a0 A few more photos from the top of Ermine Hill and she would be on her way to Peak 3700!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The Chulitna River<\/strong> valley from Ermine Hill. Byers Lake<\/strong> is in the distance on the L. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking NNW across the Chulitna & Fountain<\/strong> rivers<\/strong>. Only lower slopes of mountains of the Alaska Range could be seen beyond them.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Loop at the resting spot where she spent a whole half hour dozing while curled up on SPHP’s lap. Ermine Hill’s true summit is seen on the R. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Peak 3700<\/strong>, Lupe’s next peakbagging destination on K’esugi Ridge, is the high point on the L. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Loop and SPHP set out for Peak 3700 heading SE.\u00a0 Having barely started, the American Dingo paused at the edge of the Ermine Hill summit area.<\/p>\n

Ermine Hill(s) is actually plural.\u00a0 Maps show several hills in this region designated as such.\u00a0 The topo map<\/strong><\/span><\/a> shows 4 separate 2,700 foot contours.\u00a0 The contour farthest NW where Lupe was now clearly contained the true summit of the entire Ermine Hills region.<\/p>\n

Ahead, Lupe could see some of the lower Ermine Hills.\u00a0 They were all made of the same crumbly white rock.\u00a0 At this time of year, the height of autumn on K’esugi Ridge, all of them were exquisitely beautiful.\u00a0 How fortunate to be here today!\u00a0 A rich tapestry of reds, whites, golds, grays, greens and yellows cloaked the Ermine Hills.\u00a0 They seemed so aptly named!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Loop with a view of some of the exquisitely colored lower Ermine Hills. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Peak 3700 was calling.\u00a0 SPHP started down.\u00a0 Lupe didn’t come.\u00a0 Instead, she gazed longingly back at Ermine Hill’s true summit.\u00a0 Was something wrong?\u00a0 Did she want to go back?<\/p>\n

Yes, yes she did!\u00a0 Lupe did want to go back.\u00a0 Half an hour hadn’t been enough.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog was still tired.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe didn’t want to leave Ermine Hill<\/strong>. She liked it up here, and was still tired. She wanted to go back to the true summit (Center) to rest some more. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Well, OK, why not?\u00a0 Lupe and SPHP returned to the true summit.\u00a0 For a while, Loop curled up on SPHP’s lap again.\u00a0 Eventually, she preferred the comfort of a hollow among the summit rocks.\u00a0 SPHP laid out a Columbia pullover and gray jacket for her.\u00a0 Oh, so cozy!\u00a0 Just what the Dingo had ordered!\u00a0 Weary Lupe closed her eyes and slept soundly.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Well, what do you expect? Climbing mountains can tire anyone out. Especially when you climb them for days on end.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe comfortably ensconced in her hollow among the rocks at the top of Ermine Hill<\/strong>. The rock on the L is the true summit. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Naps are a good thing!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP had plenty of time to enjoy the views from Ermine Hill a while longer.\u00a0 Dead to the world, Lupe snored.\u00a0 She barely stirred.\u00a0 Good things started happening.\u00a0 The cloud cover was breaking up!\u00a0 Patches of blue sky began to appear.\u00a0 The sunlight made everything so much brighter and the colors more vibrant than before.<\/p>\n

Early afternoon now.\u00a0 Such a fabulous day to climb Peak 3700!\u00a0 If only Looper would wake up!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Golog Benchmark<\/strong> (L) from Ermine Hill. Byers Lake<\/strong> is on the R. While Lupe slept, good things were happening. The cloud cover started breaking up and blue sky appeared! Photo looks SW with some help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looper sawing wood where there was none to saw. Hopefully she’d be done pretty soon. Peak 3700 was calling her name!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

More than an hour drifted by.\u00a0 Finally, Miss Sleepyhead stirred.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Miss Sleepyhead shows signs of recovery. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Welcome back to the land of the living, Sleeping Beauty!<\/em><\/p>\n

Did I drift off?<\/em><\/p>\n

Umm, yeah, sort of.\u00a0 Twice now, actually.\u00a0 So, how are you feeling?\u00a0 Still up for Peak 3700?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, much better, thanks.\u00a0 Yes, let’s do this!<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe was much better, too!\u00a0 This Dingo nap had been the miracle cure for what ailed her.\u00a0 Suddenly she was full of energy again.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog leapt up onto Ermine Hill’s true summit once more.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
All rested up, Lupe returns to the true summit of Ermine Hill<\/strong> for a final look around. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Oh, these big patches of blue sky are most encouraging!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The mood of the moment was certainly brighter and cheerier than had been the case a couple of hours ago when Lupe had first reached the top of Ermine Hill.\u00a0 For a few glorious moments, Lupe stood bathed in sunlight at the unique and beautiful true summit.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe bathed in sunlight during her last moments at the top of beautiful Ermine Hill<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was time to get serious about making some progress toward Peak 3700!\u00a0 While still mostly cloudy in that direction, the skies appeared to be clearing.\u00a0 Looper had better get on with it while conditions were so favorable!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Skies hadn’t cleared as much over by Peak 3700<\/strong> (Center) yet, but looked like they would soon. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The first order of business was to get back down to the Ermine Hill trail.\u00a0 Loop didn’t go down the same way she had come up.\u00a0 Instead she headed ESE off Ermine Hill, bypassing part of the trail.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting back down to the Ermine Hill trail, which runs along the near side of the lake. Once on the Ermine Hill trail again, Lupe could follow it to the K’esugi Ridge trail, which runs across the saddle seen at the far end of the lake. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The key to returning to the Ermine Hill trail efficiently was to avoid the dense stands of tall bushes which form a nearly impenetrable barrier in many places near the trail.\u00a0 Loop had great success.\u00a0 She found a route that wasn’t too steep and completely avoided the bushes.<\/p>\n

Once on the Ermine Hill trail again, Lupe followed it toward the saddle beyond the E end of the lake.\u00a0 Here, she reached the junction with the K’esugi Ridge trail.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe near the junction of the Ermine Hill & K’esugi Ridge trails. Ermine Hill<\/strong> is seen on the L. Lupe would follow the K’esugi Ridge trail in the direction she is facing. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Upon reaching the junction, Lupe turned NE (L) on the K’esugi Ridge trail.\u00a0 The trail crossed a marsh in the broad saddle E of the lake.\u00a0 Lupe had to ford a small stream before the trail started uphill again.<\/p>\n

After passing through stands of tall bushes, the trail became quite steep heading N up a ravine containing another small stream.\u00a0 Lupe regained much of the elevation she’d lost coming down off of Ermine Hill.<\/p>\n

Leaving the ravine, the K’esugi Ridge trail leveled out heading NW along the base of a steep hillside.\u00a0 This area was also marshy.\u00a0 Stepping stones helped, but there weren’t enough of them.\u00a0 A wet, mucky trudge made SPHP vow to look for an alternative route on the return trip.<\/p>\n

Beyond the marsh, a short side trail led W off to a viewpoint.\u00a0 Here Lupe enjoyed a sweeping panorama of the entire Ermine Hill region.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A short spur trail off the main K’esugi Ridge trail led to this sweeping panorama of the Ermine Hill<\/strong> (Center) region. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking back at the marsh, which was also a beautiful sight. The K’esugi Ridge trail came along the base of the hillside in shadow on the R. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Returning to the K’esugi Ridge trail, Lupe headed NE climbing steadily.\u00a0 Soon she was high enough to see the long ridge leading to Peak 3700.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The long ridge leading to Peak 3700 appears ahead. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The K’esugi Ridge trail wouldn’t take Lupe to Peak 3700.\u00a0 No trail went that way.\u00a0 However, it would bring her to the W end of the ridge leading to it.\u00a0 Nearing this ridge, the trail dipped into a little valley where Lupe crossed a small stream.\u00a0 The trail then started up again, eventually leveling out as it curved around the W end of the ridge.<\/p>\n

Before leaving the K’esugi Ridge trail to start for Peak<\/span> 3700<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, Lupe had another look back at Ermine Hill and the Chulitna River valley beyond it.\u00a0 She was clearly higher than Ermine Hill now.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Looking back before leaving the K’esugi Ridge trail. Ermine Hill<\/strong> is seen beyond Lupe. The Chulitna River<\/strong> valley is on the R. Golog Benchmark<\/span><\/a> (2,970 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> is the distant high point toward the L. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe was now about 1.5 miles from the junction with the Ermine Hill trail.\u00a0 Peak 3700 was 2 miles due E.\u00a0 Full of enthusiasm, Loop and SPHP left the K’esugi Ridge trail and began to climb.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Leaving the K’esugi Ridge trail to begin the 2 mile trek to Peak 3700. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The ridge leading to Peak 3700 was broad and strewn with countless rocks.\u00a0 Many rocks were covered with the thick, crunchy black lichens common in parts of Alaska.\u00a0 The pristine, trackless tundra was gorgeous.\u00a0 So many brilliant colors!\u00a0 So much exquisite detail!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The tundra was brilliantly colored!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
And exquisitely detailed!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was an easy climb.\u00a0 Just wandering really, from one modest high point to the next.\u00a0 No tree or bush existed to block any of the tremendous views in all directions.\u00a0 Natural beauties were everywhere from the tiny to the vast.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Following the huge ridge leading to Peak 3700 was easy! Lupe simply wandered at will from one high point to the next. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking back. Golog Benchmark<\/strong> (L), Ermine Hill<\/strong> (Center), Chulitna Rive<\/strong>r valley (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Happy Lupe!\u00a0 So full of joy!\u00a0 She ran great distances, sometimes far from SPHP.\u00a0 She explored and sniffed.\u00a0 She was never gone too long, but came running back frequently.\u00a0 Her pink tongue dangled, her chest heaved.\u00a0 The Dingo’s eyes were bright and spoke of the wonders she was seeing and sensing all around.<\/p>\n

SPHP fully shared Looper’s enthusiasm.\u00a0 Except for the clouds still hiding the mighty, but bashful Alaska Range, conditions were perfect.\u00a0 This trek was 10,000 delights, pure fun!\u00a0 The excitement grew as Lupe reached the area where she had been forced to turn back in 2017.<\/p>\n

Not this time!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Happy Lupe on her joyful journey to Peak 3700.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe reaches the area where threatening weather had forced her to turn back in 2017. Not this time! It was all systems go! Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe pressed on.\u00a0 Everything was going great!\u00a0 The American Dingo stayed on the high ground toward the N edge of the ridge.\u00a0 Gradually the tundra became more sparse.\u00a0 The way grew rockier.\u00a0 Lupe crossed one boulder field of white rocks.\u00a0 Nothing too steep or long or difficult.<\/p>\n

Peak 3700 was farther than SPHP had believed in 2017, but Loop was getting there!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe wasn’t turning around this time! She kept heading E exploring new territory. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Getting closer. The Peak 3700<\/strong> summit ridge is in sight beyond Lupe. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Crossing the only boulder field Lupe came to on the entire route. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking back. Lupe had come up mostly along the R (N) side of this very broad ridge. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Almost there! Peak 3700<\/strong> lies directly ahead. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

One more high point to go.\u00a0 Was this really the summit?\u00a0 Yes, it was!<\/p>\n

Lupe made it up onto a rather long, rocky ridge 30 to 50 feet wide.\u00a0 This area wasn’t all rocks, there was tundra up here, too.\u00a0 The highest rocks were still a bit farther E.\u00a0 A quick, easy stroll and Lupe had done it!\u00a0 She was poised atop what appeared to be the highest rock on Peak<\/span> 3700<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Success! After a fabulous journey here, Lupe stands atop Peak 3700<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Same view with more help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Having hoped for this moment ever since Lupe had been forced to turn back in 2017, not knowing if she would ever return, SPHP was thrilled to congratulate Lupe on her grand success.\u00a0 Yet coming here had been so much fun both as a dream and as reality that SPHP felt a touch of sadness that the journey was over.<\/p>\n

Well, it certainly had been a grand time, but Lupe wasn’t feeling sad.\u00a0 She was pooped!\u00a0 The Carolina Dog had burnt herself out again with all her enthusiastic exploratory exertions.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, right next to the highest rock was a wonderfully convenient Dingo Shelter.\u00a0 It had a soft tundra floor, solid rock walls on 3 sides, and the highest rock on the mountain even overhung it to provide a partial roof.\u00a0 Looper took an immediate liking to it.\u00a0 She curled up there, while SPHP sat on the highest rock gazing out at all the wonders to be seen from Peak 3700 up on K’esugi Ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe, worn out again by all the fun of getting here, curls up in the convenient Dingo Shelter at the top of Peak 3700<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking NE along vast K’esugi Ridge<\/strong> from Peak 3700.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Like Ermine Hill, Peak 3700 is merely one of a number of significant high points along K’esugi Ridge<\/strong>. The trail system offers spectacular day hike and backpacking opportunities, but with the exception of Golog Benchmark, doesn’t visit the most prominent summits. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Some of the most fascinating sights from Peak 3700 were of wonders only hinted at today.\u00a0 Although the afternoon had become mostly sunny over K’esugi Ridge, clouds still hid Denali and the Alaska Range.\u00a0 Every now and then, though, the clouds parted enough to offer tantalizing glimpses of mighty white peaks.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Tantalizing glimpses of mighty peaks of the Alaska Range came and went, but today just wasn’t clear enough to ever see more than a hint of what was actually out there.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Even with the help of the telephoto lens, it was often hard to distinguish between the mountains and clouds.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

100 yards E of the highest rock, Peak 3700’s summit ridge dropped away sharply.\u00a0 After a short respite in the Dingo Shelter, Loopster decided to accompany SPHP toward that end of the ridge for a look at the Susitna River valley.\u00a0 Lupe could see a huge expanse of Alaskan wilderness.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Looper near the E end of Peak 3700’s summit ridge with a commanding view of the Susitna River<\/strong> valley. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Susitna River<\/strong> valley from Peak 3700. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking W toward Peak 3700<\/strong>‘s summit from close to the E end of the summit ridge.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Returning to the summit, SPHP realized that from a slightly different perspective, at least a couple of other rocks seemed to be in contention for the title of true summit.\u00a0 Lupe hopped up on a long skinny contender barely wide enough to balance upon.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
OK, now. Hope you’re satisfied, SPHP! Not getting up on any more rocks. You can look around all you want, but I’m going back to the Dingo Shelter for another snooze.<\/em> Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe had seen enough.\u00a0 Running all over mountains is exhausting work!\u00a0 Peak 3700 had a Dingo Shelter and the American Dingo fully intended to return to it!\u00a0 SPHP helped her get comfy.\u00a0 Loop eagerly accepted water and Taste of the Wild.\u00a0 Then, while SPHP sat only a few feet above her on the official highest rock, it was lights out for the Carolina Dog.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Too bad I haven’t seen a bear up here. I’d crunch it up just like this!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Back in Dingo Dreamland.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The Eldridge Glacier covered with tremendous amounts of debris, as seen from Peak 3700. Photo looks NW with lots of help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A glorious hour at the top of Peak 3700 slipped away.\u00a0 Lupe awakened, batteries freshly recharged.\u00a0 She sat for a few minutes with SPHP on the highest rock.\u00a0 The inevitable moment had arrived.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe on Peak 3700’s highest rock. Chulitna River valley on the R. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was sad to leave Peak<\/span> 3700<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, but hours of fun remained.\u00a0 The return trip was a total blast!\u00a0 Downhill nearly the entire way, the American Dingo streaked across the seemingly endless, incredibly gorgeous tundra roaming far and wide, spectacular panoramas on all sides!<\/p>\n

Oh, and did Lupe discover a way to avoid taking the K’esugi Ridge trail through the mucky upper marsh on the way back?\u00a0 She did!\u00a0 SPHP was happy to follow her on a detour up onto and along the top of the steep little hill next to the marsh.<\/p>\n

It was dark when the Carolina Dog made it back to the G6 at the Ermine Hill trailhead, all tuckered out once more.\u00a0 What a fabulous day it had been, though!\u00a0 Lupe really had returned to K’esugi Ridge.\u00a0 She’d revisited beautiful Ermine Hill, and this time had actually made it to Peak 3700.<\/p>\n

Not that any of it had been all that difficult.\u00a0 Quite the contrary!\u00a0 All it had taken was a little cooperation from the weather, and Lupe’s love of adventure.\u00a0 Of course, a few Dingo naps along the way hadn’t hurt a thing, either!\u00a0 (End 10:12 PM, 51\u00b0F)<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the Ermine Hill trail returning from Peak 3700, Denali State Park, Alaska, 9-4-18.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Links:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Next Adventure<\/span><\/a>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Prior Adventure<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Denali State Park Brochure<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

K’esugi Ridge Trail System North<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

K’esugi Ridge Trail System South<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Lupe in the SCREE! – the Mountaineering Club of Alaska’s monthly newsletter & the story of Henry Pinkham<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

K’esugi Ridge: Ermine Hill, Denali State Park, Alaska (8-26-17)<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

K’esugi Ridge: Whimbrel Hill & the Golog Benchmark, Denali State Park, Alaska (8-19-16)<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

K’esugi Ridge: Indian Benchmark & K’esugi Mountain, Denali State Park, Alaska (8-18-16)<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Want more Lupe adventures?\u00a0\u00a0Choose\u00a0from\u00a0Lupe’s 2018 Dingo Vacation<\/span> to the Yukon, Northwest Territories & Alaska Adventure Index<\/strong><\/span><\/a>,\u00a0Dingo Vacations Adventure Index<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or Master Adventure Index<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0Or subscribe free\u00a0to\u00a0new Lupe adventures<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Days 31 & 32 of Lupe’s 2018 Dingo Vacation to the Yukon, Northwest Territories & Alaska! Morning 9-3-18 – Clear skies!\u00a0 If they would last, this was Lupe’s big chance!\u00a0 As SPHP drove N on George Parks Highway No. 3, the Carolina Dog’s luck was holding.\u00a0 Near midday she arrived at the Denali South Viewpoint … Continue reading K’esugi Ridge: Ermine Hill & Peak 3700, Denali State Park, Alaska (9-4-18)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16775,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"nf_dc_page":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[997],"tags":[704,105,106,994,731,26,933,995,104,996,11],"class_list":["post-16794","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-2018-yukon-northwest-territiories-alaska","tag-alaska","tag-american-dingo","tag-carolina-dog","tag-denali-south-viewpoint","tag-denali-state-park","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-ermine-hill","tag-kesugi-ridge","tag-lupe","tag-peak-3700","tag-peakbagging"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/IMG_1856.jpg?fit=1651%2C1238&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16794","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=16794"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16794\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":47283,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16794\/revisions\/47283"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/16775"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=16794"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=16794"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=16794"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}