{"id":30751,"date":"2021-02-08T08:10:35","date_gmt":"2021-02-08T15:10:35","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=30751"},"modified":"2021-02-18T11:39:14","modified_gmt":"2021-02-18T18:39:14","slug":"koch-peak-madison-range-montana-with-mountaineer-jobe-wymore-8-13-20","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=30751","title":{"rendered":"Koch Peak, Madison Range, Montana with Mountaineer Jobe Wymore (8-13-20)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 6-9 of Lupe’s 3rd Summer of 2020 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming & Montana!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-10-20, 8:40 AM, Donelson Lake, Beartooth Mountains<\/em> – For the last time, Lupe stood on Camel Hump Rock by the N shore of exquisite Donelson Lake.\u00a0 SPHP was feeling lethargic after her gloriously successful jaunt up Sky Pilot Mountain<\/span><\/a> (12,047 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> yesterday, but had at least managed to get the tiny house and all the gear packed.\u00a0 This was it.\u00a0 Ready to go!<\/p>\n

A moment’s delay to appreciate this incredible place, and the Carolina Dog was on her way.\u00a0 No rush.\u00a0 Loop had all day to get back to the Island Lake trailhead.\u00a0 After working around to the SE shore, Lupe paused once more for a final look at Donelson Lake.\u00a0 Then it was over the low pass to the SSE, as the return began in earnest.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On Camel Hump Rock<\/strong> at Donelson Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Final farewell to Donelson Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The return was so beautiful, with so many great places to explore!\u00a0 Marmots whistled in the distance, as Lupe ran here and sniffed there, roaming as freely and happily as any Dingo in history.\u00a0 Two Bits Lake, Jasper Lake, Albino Lake, and Lonesome Mountain<\/span><\/a> (11,399 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!\u00a0 She passed all these familiar friends and more.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Near Two Bits Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Jasper Lake<\/strong> (L) and Lonesome Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Closing in on Albino Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-11-20, 2:15 PM, Livingston, Montana<\/em> – After getting back to Island Lake yesterday at 6:00 PM, Lupe had had the rest of the evening off.\u00a0 Today was a rest and travel day, and tomorrow would be, too.\u00a0 The American Dingo had already been over Beartooth Pass on Hwy 212 this morning, and visited the Yellowstone River at Columbus.\u00a0 Now she stood in a gravel parking lot N of I-90.<\/p>\n

Beyond parched fields of tall tan grass, that dome-shaped peak to the S had to be Livingston Peak<\/span><\/a> (9,314 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Thar she blows, SPHP! Livingston Peak<\/strong> (Center)!<\/em> Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Loop was soon heading S out of Livingston on Hwy 89.\u00a0 SPHP watched for the Carter bridge over the Yellowstone River, which wasn’t long in appearing.\u00a0 A L turn on East River Road (Hwy 540) led directly to the bridge.\u00a0 After crossing the river, SPHP drove several more miles, looking for another L turn leading to the Suce Creek trailhead.\u00a0 The search was successful, and Lupe found herself staring up at Livingston Peak from the trailhead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Livingston Peak<\/strong> (L) on the way to the Suce Creek trailhead. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Found it!<\/em> Livingston Peak<\/strong> from the Suce Creek trailhead<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

That was it, though.\u00a0 Livingston Peak was on Loopster’s list of potential climbs, but wasn’t happening today.\u00a0 Not after marching around in the Beartooths for 4 straight days!\u00a0 Instead, SPHP drove back to the Carter bridge where Lupe got to spend time exploring an access area along the Yellowstone River.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Yellowstone River<\/strong> S of Livingston. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For several hours SPHP worked on catching up the trip journal while Lupe rested under a picnic table, occasionally running off to sniff with other dogs.\u00a0 Small rain showers passed through.\u00a0 SPHP was eventually surprised to look up and see the sky full of smoke.\u00a0 Huh.\u00a0 Evening, time to move on, anyway.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Carter bridge<\/strong> from the river access area. Smoky now. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

By sunset, Lupe was in Bozeman.\u00a0 Skies to the N were still pristine, while smoke obscured everything W and S.\u00a0 Bad.<\/p>\n

8-12-20, 8:47 AM, Bozeman, Montana<\/em> –\u00a0 Fortunately, the news was good.\u00a0 Blue skies everywhere this morning.\u00a0 That wasn’t all, either!<\/p>\n

That was Jobe Wymore on the phone, wasn’t it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, Sweet Dingo!<\/em><\/p>\n

So what did he say?<\/em><\/p>\n

It’s on!\u00a0 Koch Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,293 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> tomorrow!\u00a0 All we have to do is get to the trailhead today.\u00a0 Jobe climbed Torrey Mountain<\/span><\/a> (11,147 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> yesterday.\u00a0 He’s currently in Idaho, but on the way over.\u00a0 He’ll meet us at the Upper Taylor Fork trailhead sometime this afternoon or evening.<\/em><\/p>\n

So we get to see him again, and climb a mountain?\u00a0 Oh, that’s fabulous!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup!\u00a0 Yup!\u00a0 Jobe also knew all about the smoke we saw.\u00a0 Said it was coming from a\u00a0 forest fire that just exploded near Dillon.\u00a0 Still burning totally out of control, so we’re going to have to hope the wind keeps blowing the smoke some other direction.<\/em><\/p>\n

After re-supplying in Bozeman, SPHP drove S on Hwy 191.\u00a0 The highway was extremely busy, but traffic was moving along OK.\u00a0 A stop was made for water at the Moose Creek recreation area along the Gallatin River.\u00a0 14 miles S of the Big Sky intersection with Hwy 64, SPHP spotted the R turn on Taylor Fork Road (USFS Road No. 134).\u00a0 That was easy!<\/p>\n

Still 11 miles to the trailhead, but Taylor Fork Road was nice and wide and smooth.\u00a0 Soon some beautiful mountains could be seen off to the W.\u00a0 One of them might well be Koch Peak.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Smooth sailing on Taylor Fork Road<\/strong> (No. 134). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

4 miles led to a junction with Wapiti Creek Road No. 2522.\u00a0 That was the wrong way.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Stick with Taylor Fork Road<\/strong> to Cache Creek here!<\/em> Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A mile beyond this junction, Taylor Fork Road passed the Nine Quarter Circle guest ranch.\u00a0 7.5 miles from Hwy 191 came a bridge over Taylor Creek.\u00a0 A short distance dead ahead the road divided.\u00a0 Cache Creek was straight, and Lightning Creek, a tributary of Taylor Creek, was a L turn.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
8 miles from Hwy 191. Turn L here for Lightning Creek!<\/em> Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Still 3 miles to go when SPHP made the L for Lightning Creek.\u00a0 Smooth as silk up to this point, but suddenly the road deteriorated.\u00a0 Littered with small, pointy stones with the occasional significant pothole thrown in, it was a rough ride.\u00a0 Creeping 5 to 10 mph up the Taylor Creek valley, the G6 passed a series of designated dispersed camping sites.<\/p>\n

Minor miracle!\u00a0 3 miles gone, and the G6 hadn’t popped a tire.\u00a0 The road forked here.\u00a0 Going straight up a little hill led only to another dispersed camping site, but a curve L went to another bridge over Taylor Creek.\u00a0 A parking lot was visible on the far bank.<\/p>\n

8-12-20, 1:21 PM, Upper Taylor Fork trailhead –<\/em><\/p>\n

Hah!\u00a0 Made it, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

Luck of the Dingo, SPHP!\u00a0 By the way, do you ever intend to purchase us a vehicle suitable for adventures in the mountains?<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t hold your breath on that one, Sweet Puppy!\u00a0 Enough diss’in the G6!\u00a0 C’mon, let’s check this joint out.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Upper Taylor Fork trailhead<\/strong> from close to the bridge. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Upstream view of scenic Taylor Creek<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Yup! This is it, alright!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The route to Koch Peak starts out with Trail No. 17, but heads up Tumbledown Creek before getting all the way to Taylor Falls.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

No doubt about it.\u00a0 This was the right place.\u00a0 Nothing to do now, but relax and wait for Jobe.\u00a0 Those new boots were getting better, but SPHP’s paws were still sore from Lupe’s multi-day jaunt in the Beartooths.\u00a0 Soaking them in lovely Taylor Creek sounded like a great idea.<\/p>\n

Paws comfortably numb, SPHP was just putting those infernal boots back on when the Rubicon rumbled across the bridge.\u00a0 Jobe was here!\u00a0 Fun times!\u00a0 Jobe was full of stories.\u00a0 By evening, a series of rain showers swept through.\u00a0 Easy to see it coming in sheets.\u00a0 Hopping in and out of the vehicles with each onslaught.\u00a0 Jobe passed out sarsaparillas, but Lupe didn’t get one.<\/p>\n

8-13-20, first light, Upper Taylor Fork trailhead –\u00a0 <\/em>A tap on the window.\u00a0 The American Dingo exploded in fury!\u00a0 Oh, yeah.\u00a0 Sorry ’bout that!\u00a0 Just Jobe rousting SPHP.\u00a0 Time for action!\u00a0 10 minutes of final preparations, and Lupe was on her way.<\/p>\n

First light meant mostly dark, a situation Loop and Jobe both approved of.\u00a0 Once the cobwebs cleared a bit, SPHP did, too.\u00a0 An exciting start to the day!\u00a0 Lupe trotted alertly along Trail No. 17, which passed through a level tall grass meadow before entering the forest.<\/p>\n

Progress was rapid as Trail No. 17 headed up the valley.\u00a0 A big dry wash full of rocks appeared, but was easily crossed.\u00a0 A mile from the trailhead, not terribly far beyond this wash, the trail turned and disappeared into Taylor Creek.\u00a0 No bridge.\u00a0 Oh, joy!<\/p>\n

The stream was divided into 2 channels by a small island equipped with a cairn in case there was any doubt.\u00a0 The first channel was only inches deep and easily negotiated, but the second one was 15 feet wide and 1.5 to 2 feet deep.\u00a0 No rock hopping, or quick shallow splish-splash here.<\/p>\n

Jobe bit the frigid bullet first.\u00a0 No sense getting boots and socks soaking wet so close to the start.\u00a0 Removing them, Jobe waded across the stony channel.\u00a0 No choice.\u00a0 SPHP followed, doing the same.\u00a0 Deep enough so Lupe actually floated for a moment, but she made it no problem, shaking herself off on the far bank.<\/p>\n

Onward!\u00a0 Humans, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Contemplating crossing the first channel of the Taylor Creek ford<\/strong>. Jobe’s already over by the second one.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP fretted.\u00a0 How often was this trail going to ford Taylor Creek?\u00a0 Hadn’t the topo map<\/strong><\/span><\/a> shown several crossings?\u00a0 A quick check revealed that wasn’t true.\u00a0 More streams to cross, but just tributaries.\u00a0 This ford was the only one of Taylor Creek itself.
\n<\/em><\/p>\n

Cold standing around here all wet!\u00a0 How about Onward!\u00a0 Humans, ho!<\/em> now?<\/p>\n

The journey resumed.\u00a0 For a little while, the path remained in the forest, but Lupe eventually reached a big meadow with a clear view of Taylor Creek and the valley ahead.\u00a0 Sunlight was working its way down the mountainsides, but hadn’t reached the valley floor yet.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taylor Creek valley<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

At the far end of the meadow, Trail No. 17 crossed Tumbledown Creek, a much smaller stream than Taylor Creek.\u00a0 Another 0.2 mile brought Lupe to a junction with Tumbledown Trail No. 4, the next part of the route to Koch Peak.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Tumbledown Creek<\/strong> (Center), the minor tributary seen beyond Lupe. Taylor Creek<\/strong> (L). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the junction with Tumbledown Trail No. 4.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Trail No. 4 started up a series of tight steep switchbacks progressing up the lower shoulder of the mountain Trail No. 17 had led to.\u00a0 As the rate of climb slowed, the trail eventually straightened out.\u00a0 Still steadily gaining elevation, Lupe traveled NW through a forest permitting no views.\u00a0 40 minutes on No. 4, and a sign appeared for the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Entering the Lee Metcalf Wilderness<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Trail No. 4 crossed Tumbledown Creek several times.\u00a0 Half an hour after entering the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, a rocky slope led down to another creek crossing.\u00a0 Beyond this crossing Trail No. 4 climbed more steeply again.\u00a0 Within 10 minutes, Lupe came to a small opening with a bit of a view.\u00a0 Making progress, but still a long way to go.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Crossing Tumbledown Creek<\/strong> shortly before the first viewpoint.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Somewhat encouraging! At least we’re starting to get somewhere.<\/em> Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It wasn’t much farther to another encouraging sign.\u00a0 In a meadow, Lupe came to a junction with Tumble Basin trail No. 237.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the junction with Tumble Basin trail No. 237, next leg of the journey to Koch Peak. Peak 10829<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The trek SW into Tumble Basin was easy.\u00a0 Trail No. 237 was nearly level, and became increasingly scenic as forests gave way to meadows and views of the surrounding mountains.\u00a0 Koch Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,293 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was less than 2 miles away, and could sometimes be seen ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Koch Peak<\/strong> (Center) from Tumble Basin trail No. 237. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Jobe leading the way. Koch Peak<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Entering Tumble Basin<\/strong>. Peak 10764<\/span><\/strong> (L) and Peak 10668<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Trail No. 237 ultimately headed W toward the ridge N of Koch Peak, but Koch Peak’s S ridge was the way to go.\u00a0 Leaving No. 237 before it ended, Lupe and SPHP wandered SW up a minor forested rise and came to a shallow pond.\u00a0 A steep wall of rock could be seen to the SSW connected to Peak 10668<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 No going up that!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Jobe on Trail No. 237 as it heads for the hilly ridge N of Koch Peak<\/strong>. The N ridge is not the way to go! Soon time to leave the trail and veer off to the L (SW), but not quite yet. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Peak 10668<\/span><\/strong> from the pond. The steep sunny slope on the R was a no go. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP had left the trail too soon.\u00a0 Should have gone a little farther W and crossed Tumbledown Creek one more time before turning S. \u00a0 Leaving the pond and the last of the forest, Lupe headed W down into a wide bushy marsh, the headwaters of Tumbledown Creek.\u00a0 Jobe had already made the course correction, and was waiting on the far side at the base of a steep slope decorated with wildflowers.<\/p>\n

This was actually part of the same slope Loop had seen from the pond, but farther NW where it wasn’t just a wall of rock.\u00a0 Jobe powered up with SPHP lagging behind.\u00a0 A 250 foot climb gained a rounded grassy ridgeline a little S of HP9571<\/span><\/strong> on the topo map<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.\u00a0 Drier up here with less vegetation.<\/p>\n

Following this ridge SE was initially still a steady climb, but it gradually got easier.\u00a0 Lupe came to 3 or 4 grassy hills separated by minor drops, each hill a bit higher than the one before.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Jobe and Lupe head up the steep slope W of the headwaters of Tumbledown Creek. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Almost to the rounded ridgeline. Jobe powers ahead while Lupe lingers to urge SPHP onward. Koch Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the next little hill along the grassy ridge. Peak 10668<\/span><\/strong> (L). The darker ridge (R) connects to Koch Peak’s S ridge. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the American Dingo got close to Peak 10668<\/span><\/strong>, the time came to turn SW.\u00a0 Leaving the grassy ridge, Jobe led the way across the upper reaches of a minor drainage where springs seeped out of a hill.\u00a0 On the far side, Jobe and SPHP paused by some rocks to shed weight for the upcoming ascent.\u00a0 Both stashed water bottles that weren’t going to be needed.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
About to leave the grassy ridge to follow Jobe across the next drainage. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Taking a breather where the water bottles got stashed while Jobe checks his phone. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Not far ahead was another steep slope.\u00a0 This one featured a few patches of melting snow, and a series of rock outcroppings separated by benches partially obstructed with stunted pines.\u00a0 A 200+ foot climb brought Lupe to a flat grassy plain sprinkled with rocks.\u00a0 Crossing this small plain led to a view of a hidden tarn.\u00a0 Beyond it was Koch Peak’s S ridge.<\/p>\n

Cake!\u00a0 Didn’t look bad at all.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the rock-strewn plain with the tarn coming into view. Koch Peak’s S ridge<\/strong> looming over it. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Contemplating Koch Peak’s S ridge<\/strong> while proceeding around the S end of the tarn. Koch Peak is off the R edge. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Pretty straightforward from here!\u00a0 After going around the S end of the tarn, everyone headed NW up the easiest part of the slope leading to Koch Peak’s S ridge.\u00a0 The loyal Carolina Dog hung back with SPHP while Jobe blazed the way.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Jobe (L) nearing the ridgeline. Koch Peak<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once up on the S ridge, all that remained was to follow it NNW all the way to the summit.\u00a0 And breathe!\u00a0 No way SPHP was ever going to come close to keeping up with Jobe.\u00a0 Didn’t matter now, anyway.\u00a0 Another 600 or 700 feet higher would do the trick, and Jobe would be waiting up top.<\/p>\n

Lupe absorbed fabulous views while SPHP absorbed oxygen at frequent intervals.\u00a0 Imp Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,202 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, which could now be seen due S across the upper Taylor Creek drainage was the big eye-catcher.\u00a0 More distant Echo Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,220 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> well beyond Imp and a bit to the W (R) was also impressive.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the S ridge. Whenever you’re ready, SPHP! Koch Peak<\/strong> dead ahead!<\/em> Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Imp Peak<\/strong> (Center) with Echo Peak<\/strong> slightly to the R beyond it. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The route up as seen from the S ridge. Peak 10764<\/span><\/strong> (L), Peak 10668<\/span><\/strong> (L of Center), and Peak 10760<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The last part of the ascent was nearly all rock, but various use trails ran among it all, and the rocks were only of moderate size.\u00a0 The climb was longer than it first appeared, but at last the use trail Lupe was on curled around to the W side of the summit, and grass reappeared as the terrain began to level out.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Going to get rocky for a while now, but we’re not that far from the top!<\/em> Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe surveys the view while SPHP sucks air.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Bit of a scramble. Nothing major.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

When Lupe reached the top of Koch Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,293 ft.) <\/span><\/strong>Jobe was chatting with a couple of guys who had passed SPHP on the way up.\u00a0 They were waiting for a 3rd member of their party who had yet to arrive.\u00a0 Skies were now mostly cloudy, and a SW breeze Loop had been exposed to ever since reaching the S ridge made it rather cool up here.\u00a0 Even Jobe was bundled up to some degree.<\/p>\n

The grassy summit region wasn’t enormous, but there was plenty of room to move around.\u00a0 The highest rocks, all relatively small, were along the SE edge.\u00a0 A survey benchmark was in this vicinity as well.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The “Taylor” survey benchmark<\/strong> on Koch Peak.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
An American Dingo at the true summit of Koch Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

360\u00ba panoramic views, of course!\u00a0 The best were to the N and S.\u00a0 Sphinx Mountain<\/span><\/a> (10,876 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Pioneer Mountain<\/span><\/a> (9,857 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were most prominent to the N, with more distant Cedar Mountain<\/span><\/a> (10,768 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> also in sight.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Sphinx Mountain<\/strong> (L) with more distant Pioneer Mountain<\/strong> (Center), and Cedar Mountain<\/strong> (far L). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Only 3 miles due S, Imp Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,202 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> looked grand, and Lupe was now high enough to see another mountain of special interest.\u00a0 Between Imp Peak and Echo Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,220 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> the rugged spires of Hilgard Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> soared skyward.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Imp Peak<\/strong> (Center) with Hilgard<\/strong> and Echo<\/strong> just to the R beyond it. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Jobe intended to climb Hilgard Peak sometime in the near future.\u00a0 Before Lupe had even set out on this Dingo Vacation, Hilgard had been on a short list of summits Jobe had invited SPHP to consider for possible joint ascents.\u00a0 A quick review of maps and photos online had caused SPHP to take a pass on Hilgard in favor of Koch.<\/p>\n

Although Hilgard was quite a long way off from here, that decision was looking like a real good one!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on Imp<\/strong> (L), Hilgard<\/strong> (R of Center), and Echo<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Peering down on Koch Peak’s S ridge, Lupe saw it sweeping SE, then clear around to the E and NE to link up with Peaks 10668<\/span><\/strong> and 10754<\/strong><\/span>.\u00a0 To the NE was a beautiful view of Tumble Basin.\u00a0 Only a mile W was the light-colored summit of Sawtooth Ridge<\/span><\/a> (11,049 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 To the SW, a small lake could be seen way down in the upper reaches of the Taylor Creek basin.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Koch Peak’s S ridge<\/strong> (L). Imp Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Tumble Basin<\/strong> (L). Peak 10764<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Peak 10547<\/span><\/strong> (Center) and Peak 10852<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

By the time Loopster had taken a good look around, the guys Jobe had been talking to were on their way down again, their 3rd member having already shown up and spent only a few minutes up here with them.<\/p>\n

Jobe was pleased with how well Koch Peak had gone!\u00a0 Roughly 6 miles and over 4,000 feet of elevation gain, most of it on good trails without any real difficulties whatsoever – just that chilly ford of Taylor Creek early on.\u00a0 Jobe half-jokingly pronounced Koch Peak the best mountain Lupe had ever climbed!\u00a0 It was certainly her biggest joint success with Jobe.\u00a0 Way better result than the beautiful, but ultimately disappointing Castle Mountain<\/span><\/a> (12,612 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> fiasco back in the Beartooths.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Jobe and Lupe at the true summit<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

11:41 AM<\/em> – Jobe started down first.\u00a0 Lupe and SPHP soon followed.\u00a0 The first steep rocky part on the way down the S slope was slow going, but it was nearly all easy after that.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Jobe starting down. Peak 10712<\/span><\/strong> (Center) and the Sawtooth Ridge summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Final moments atop Koch Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Following Jobe down the S ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Descending from the S ridge on the way back to the tarn, 6 to 8 people were coming up with 3 dogs.\u00a0 They were all members of a single family.\u00a0 The first young woman said she had been up Koch Peak “a million times”.\u00a0 Before Lupe made it back to the springs where the water bottles were stashed, one of those dogs could be heard yelping and whining piteously.\u00a0 This went on for some time, but whether the poor dog was suffering due to actual pain or simply terrified was never clear.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back at the tarn. Peak 10829<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Jobe grabbing a photo of Koch Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Koch Peak<\/strong> from the tarn. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Continuing down to the springs where the water bottles are stashed. Peak 10764<\/span><\/strong> (L) and Peak 10668<\/span><\/strong> (Center). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

During the return, Jobe regaled SPHP with many a tale – some serious, some informative, and some simply hilarious.\u00a0 Lupe trotted along, often right on the trails listening in, but taking off now and then to roam as she saw fit, clearly enjoying the day.\u00a0 Time passed quickly.\u00a0 Suddenly Jobe was taking a last photo of the Taylor Creek valley.\u00a0 Hardly seemed possible the Koch Peak adventure was already almost over.<\/p>\n

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Back in the Taylor Creek valley<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

4:00 PM, Taylor Fork trailhead<\/em> – The intrepid Carolina Dog had braved that Taylor Creek ford once again, and made it back to the trailhead.\u00a0 No one was going anywhere else tonight, so Loop had another evening off.\u00a0 After a hearty meal, she wanted to spend it relaxing on her pink blankie in the G6.\u00a0 Boots off, SPHP soaked sore paws in Taylor Creek, then spent the rest of a pleasant evening chatting with Jobe.<\/p>\n

Jobe produced another sarsaparilla for SPHP.\u00a0 Tried to rain a few times again, but never amounted to much.\u00a0 The Grateful Dead were playing on the Rubicon’s stereo.\u00a0 Classic Jobe!\u00a0 All too soon, Jobe was pitching his tent next to the Rubicon and crawling inside as the darkness grew.<\/p>\n

Such fun times!\u00a0 Koch Peak had been a marvelous day!<\/p>\n

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With mountaineer Jobe Wymore<\/strong> on Koch Peak<\/strong>, Madison Range, Montana 8-13-20<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Note: Nine days later, Jobe did scale fearsome Hilgard Peak, but Lupe wasn’t there to see it.<\/em><\/p>\n

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

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

W<\/em>ant more Lupe adventures?\u00a0\u00a0Choose from Lupe’s Summer of 2020<\/span> Dingo Vacations to Wyoming, Utah & Montana Adventure Inde<\/strong>x<\/strong><\/span><\/a>,\u00a0Dingo Vacations Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a> or Master Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0Or subscribe free\u00a0to\u00a0new Lupe adventures<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Days 6-9 of Lupe’s 3rd Summer of 2020 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming & Montana! 8-10-20, 8:40 AM, Donelson Lake, Beartooth Mountains – For the last time, Lupe stood on Camel Hump Rock by the N shore of exquisite Donelson Lake.\u00a0 SPHP was feeling lethargic after her gloriously successful jaunt up Sky Pilot Mountain (12,047 ft.) … Continue reading Koch Peak, Madison Range, Montana with Mountaineer Jobe Wymore (8-13-20)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":30732,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","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":[1293],"tags":[105,106,26,837,1350,104,1351,417],"class_list":["post-30751","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-summer-of-2020","tag-american-dingo","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-jobe-wymore","tag-koch-peak","tag-lupe","tag-madison-range","tag-montana"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/IMG_7655.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\/30751","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=30751"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30751\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":32199,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30751\/revisions\/32199"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/30732"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=30751"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=30751"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=30751"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}