{"id":42102,"date":"2022-11-29T08:10:00","date_gmt":"2022-11-29T15:10:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=42102"},"modified":"2023-03-29T09:23:58","modified_gmt":"2023-03-29T15:23:58","slug":"wolf-mountain-snake-river-range-wyoming-6-24-22","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=42102","title":{"rendered":"Wolf Mountain, Snake River Range, Wyoming (6-24-22)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 7 – 9 of Lupe’s Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming!<\/em><\/p>\n

6-22-22, ~ 9:30 AM, at the end of side Road No. 10399 off Greys River Road 2 or 3 miles N of the intersection with McDougal Gap Road –<\/em><\/p>\n

Wha’dya think, Loop?\u00a0 Is this perfect, or what?<\/em><\/p>\n

Looks terrific to me, too, SPHP, but do as you please.\u00a0 I’m not moving a muscle today!<\/em><\/p>\n

That wasn’t entirely true, but almost.\u00a0 After SPHP parked the RAV4 at the turnaround loop at the end of Road No. 10399, the American Dingo did hop out for an initial inspection.\u00a0 A lovely dispersed camping site with a stone fire ring shaded by big conifers was right along the Greys River.<\/p>\n

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Relaxing by the Greys River<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

By the RAV4, nearby ridges could be seen from a small clearing to the E.\u00a0 On this cloudless day, sunshine poured in, rapidly warming the Greys River valley.\u00a0 A gorgeous day!\u00a0 Starting to feel like it really was summer.\u00a0 The warmth was wonderful.<\/p>\n

The Carolina Dog wasn’t as enthused about the heat as SPHP was.\u00a0 Tired after her exploits on Mount McDougal<\/span><\/a> (10,780 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> yesterday, Loopster clearly planned to spend virtually the entire day snoozing on her pink blanket.\u00a0 Before long, though, she was panting hard, unable to sleep.<\/p>\n

I’m roasting!\u00a0 Can you do something about this heat, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Moving the RAV4 slightly to get it back into the shade, and encouraging Loop to wade in the Greys River provided only temporary relief.\u00a0 The sun kept moving, putting the RAV4 right back into direct sunlight.\u00a0 Using blankets and dirty clothes, SPHP finally converted the RAV4 into a tent.<\/p>\n

Much better!\u00a0 Conditions in the RAV4 were apparently quite tolerable.\u00a0 Loop sawed wood the rest of the morning, and all afternoon.\u00a0 A lazy summer day.\u00a0 She’d earned it!<\/p>\n

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Miss Ambitious.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once the sun went down behind the mountains, Lupe was ready for an evening stroll.\u00a0 It was only 1\/8 mile back to Greys River Road.\u00a0 Walking N, suddenly three cats, a big one and two small ones, crossed the road near Moffat Creek before slinking back into the forest.\u00a0 Bobcats?\u00a0 Lynx?\u00a0 They were too far ahead to tell.<\/p>\n

Beyond Moffat Creek, Lupe also saw many deer as she roamed through a larger dispersed camping area near the Greys River.\u00a0 Cats and deer were about it for excitement at the end of this peaceful day.<\/p>\n

6-23-22, Snake River at the Pritchard Boat Ramp along Hwy 26\/89<\/em> – Soup for breakfast!\u00a0 SPHP had just finished eating when 2 USFS vehicles drove up and stopped.\u00a0 3 employees stepped out, 2 young men and a woman.\u00a0 SPHP approached them.<\/p>\n

Any of you happen to know how to get to the Dog Creek trailhead?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure do, you’re almost there!\u00a0 Take a L onto the highway like you’re going to Alpine.\u00a0 At the first bend where the road curves L, take the gravel road on the R just past a deer crossing sign.\u00a0 Might be 0.5 mile from here.<\/em><\/p>\n

6-23-22, 63\u00baF, 10:39 AM, Dog Creek trailhead<\/em> –\u00a0 Those USFS employees knew what they were talking about.\u00a0 After turning onto the gravel road past the deer crossing sign, it was only 0.75 mile to the trailhead.\u00a0 Shortly after turning W, the road went by the S end of Pritchard Pond, actually more of a swamp, before dead-ending in a sunny clearing.<\/p>\n

A black car was already here, the only other vehicle at the trailhead.\u00a0 Not a soul around.\u00a0 As soon as the pack was ready, SPHP led the way, hitting Trail No. 069 going W up the Dog Creek valley.<\/p>\n

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About to leave the Dog Creek trailhead<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Staying N of Dog Creek, the trail began as an easy trek, gaining elevation quite gradually.\u00a0 However, Lupe wasn’t showing any enthusiasm for this adventure.\u00a0 Maybe she was still tired, and wanted another day’s rest in the RAV4?\u00a0 Maybe she was hot?\u00a0 Normally a leader, the American Dingo insisted upon hanging back.\u00a0 Playing her stalking game, Lupe followed SPHP at a distance, only moving once SPHP was completely out of sight.<\/p>\n

Even so, progress was rapid.\u00a0 Glimpses of Wolf Mountain<\/span><\/a> (9,483 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were seen early on.\u00a0 Butterflies flitted among big yellow wildflowers and other lush vegetation.\u00a0 The soothing sound of Dog Creek, a gray-green stream rushing down the valley, was always present.<\/p>\n

\"\"
Dog Creek Trail No. 069.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Dog Creek<\/strong> with Wolf Mountain<\/strong> (Center) in the distance. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The SPHP stalker among the yellow wildflowers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A mile from the trailhead, the trail forked at an unmarked intersection.\u00a0 Easily the most heavily used branch, Dog Creek Trail No. 069 continued WNW up the Dog Creek valley.\u00a0 Turning S, the less traveled route quickly led straight into Dog Creek.<\/p>\n

Calling Lupe to make sure she wouldn’t go the wrong way, SPHP forded the stream.\u00a0 Loopster soon appeared, and forded Dog Creek, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"
Fording Dog Creek<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

According to the topo map<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, this trail was supposed to head SW more than 0.5 mile up Beaver Dam Canyon before turning SSW for another 0.5 mile while climbing to Pass 6900<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 From the pass, the trail would then descend 0.2 mile to a junction with Trails No. 064 & No. 067 in the Cabin Creek drainage.<\/p>\n

Started out sort of like that.\u00a0 From Dog Creek, the trail went S a little way up a forested slope, then leveled out as it curved W, entering a small clearing.\u00a0 Crossing this clearing quickly led to a tributary of Dog Creek.<\/p>\n

While the map showed this tributary, it didn’t show the trail crossing it.\u00a0 Going back, a fainter trail was noticed splitting off to the L, matching up with what the map indicated.<\/p>\n

\"\"
Loop (R) in the shade at the small clearing. The trail at R leads to a tributary of Dog Creek. A much fainter trail, the one Lupe took, splits off to the L near the bottom of this photo. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As expected, the faint trail went SW.\u00a0 Climbing a mostly forested slope, Lupe gained several hundred feet of elevation before the trail leveled out at the edge of a huge meadow in Beaver Dam Canyon.<\/p>\n

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Beaver Dam Canyon<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing SW midst lush vegetation, the trail rapidly faded away.\u00a0 A check of the map showed this trail on the SE side of the valley, but Lupe was toward the NW.\u00a0 Much of the meadow was actually swamp.\u00a0 Despite appearances, getting over to the other side wasn’t going to be easy.<\/p>\n

Following dry ground along the base of the hills bordering the canyon, SPHP soon came to a thicket of willows.\u00a0 Beaver Dam Canyon turned W here.\u00a0 Lupe still need to get to the other side.<\/p>\n

Turning SSW, SPHP forced a way through the willows, fording a small stream in the process.\u00a0 Lupe followed.\u00a0 Beyond this creek, the ground was soft, but not swampy.\u00a0 Skirting a mud flat, SPHP managed to reach the S side of Beaver Dam Canyon, and promptly discovered a trail.<\/p>\n

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Fording the small mucky stream among the willows.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Loopster near the mud flat. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Everything seemed to be back on track!\u00a0 However, following the trail W, it soon vanished again.\u00a0 The map showed the trail turning SW up a side drainage only a little farther on.\u00a0 As soon as this drainage appeared, SPHP led Lupe SSW up a slope thick with vegetation.<\/p>\n

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Starting the climb out of Beaver Dam Canyon. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The slope got steeper and steeper.\u00a0 No sign of any trail.\u00a0 Dense bushes gave way to a forest full of deadfall.\u00a0 After gaining several hundred feet, it looked like the terrain was about to level out.\u00a0 It did, but the situation was not what SPHP expected.<\/p>\n

Ahead was more steep terrain, especially toward the E.\u00a0 To the W, a deep valley.\u00a0 Everywhere visibility was extremely limited due to thick forest clogged with deadfall.<\/p>\n

Joining SPHP up at the flat spot, Lupe plunked herself down, taking a break while SPHP checked the map.\u00a0 Exactly where the Carolina Dog was wasn’t entirely clear, but it appeared she was probably on the wrong side of this drainage, too.\u00a0 Loop was E, whereas the trail, if there really was one, ought to be W.<\/p>\n

\"\"
Resting at a flat spot S of Beaver Dam Canyon.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wandering SSE, the terrain remained relatively level for a little way, but luck was running out.\u00a0 Unenthusiastic about how this whole adventure was panning out, Loopster took another rest break.\u00a0 No more flat terrain ahead, it was all steep, the deadfall worse than ever.\u00a0 Checking the map again, SPHP remained uncertain what course to take.<\/p>\n

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Waiting for SPHP to decide what to do. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Had to do something!\u00a0 Pass 6900<\/span><\/strong>, or at least some portion of the big ridge it was part of, couldn’t be any more than 0.33 mile S and a few hundred feet higher.\u00a0 Either had to head S to that ridge, or maybe go W to find the elusive trail that was supposed to lead to it.<\/p>\n

Tried both.\u00a0 The afternoon became a hideous ordeal.\u00a0 Deadfall stacked 2, 3, even 4 high.\u00a0 Slopes so steep that SPHP was left clinging to trees, rocks, bushes, whatever was available.\u00a0 Eventually, a meadow could be seen on a hillside W of the drainage.\u00a0 Several counter-productive attempts were made to go W, but way too much hard won elevation had to be lost and regained to get over there.\u00a0 SPHP finally gave up on that notion.<\/p>\n

The Carolina Dog’s stalking game only made matters worse.\u00a0 Lupe didn’t want to move.\u00a0 She only followed reluctantly, at a distance.\u00a0 Trying to stay out of sight, she succeeded.\u00a0 SPHP often didn’t know where she was, a constant worry.\u00a0 Loop might easily get lost, or injured, in this mess.<\/p>\n

For years, SPHP had carried a whistle in the pack, but never used it.\u00a0 Today that changed.\u00a0 Helpfully, Lupe seemed to realize that the whistle meant business.\u00a0 She often appeared shortly after several blasts, but sometimes she didn’t.\u00a0 Then SPHP had to go back looking for her, often finding her sitting silently, alone in the forest, the way forward blocked by stacks of deadfall she couldn’t get past on her own.<\/p>\n

Miserable hours dragged by.\u00a0 Progress was virtually non-existent.\u00a0 SPHP finally managed to climb high enough to reach a clearing.\u00a0 The forest was thinning out!\u00a0 Had to retreat one more time looking for Lupe to help her over the deadfall, but the situation improved after that.\u00a0 Ahead the slopes weren’t as steep.\u00a0 Soon the terrain was nearly flat.\u00a0 The top of the ridge couldn’t be much farther!<\/p>\n

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Saved! At an actual clearing on nearly flat terrain.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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On even more open ground. Top of the same ridge Pass 6900 is part of is only a little higher directly ahead. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-23-22, 4:41 PM –<\/em>\u00a0 The afternoon had been brutal, but Lupe was finally up on the Pass 6900<\/span><\/strong> ridge S of Beaver Dam Canyon.\u00a0 SPHP was virtually certain she was somewhere E of the pass.\u00a0 Exhausted by the ordeal, a break was taken under some big pines next to a huge field of the yellow wildflowers.\u00a0 Looking SW across the Cabin Creek drainage, part of Wolf Mountain’s long SSE ridge was in sight.<\/p>\n

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On the Pass 6900<\/span> ridge<\/strong>, but E of the pass. Part of Wolf Mountain’s SSE ridge<\/strong> (L & Center) in the distance across the upper Cabin Creek valley<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Ready to move on again, SPHP panicked, unable to find the topo map even after a thorough search of all pockets.\u00a0 Intent upon heading back hoping to find it, the map turned up, dropped only 10 feet away among the flowers.<\/p>\n

Thank heaven!\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading WNW along the Pass 6900 ridge, Lupe kept playing her stalking game.\u00a0 Much less of a worry up here.\u00a0 The ridge was broad, a mix of open forest and meadows full of the big yellow flowers.\u00a0 Visibility was great, and movement easy.<\/p>\n

At first some elevation was lost, but it was all soon regained and more.\u00a0 After topping out again, a long field of yellow flowers sloped down to a definite pass, beyond which was steeper terrain.\u00a0 When Loop reached the pass, wha’dya know?\u00a0 A trail!<\/p>\n

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Heading down to the pass. Wolf Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-23-22, 5:30 PM, Trail No. 067, Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong> –<\/em> Lupe sat beneath a big pine tree near the S edge of the pass.\u00a0 There was quite a nice level spot with little vegetation here.\u00a0 Perfect for pitching the tiny house!<\/p>\n

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At the pass. The trail heads straight for Lupe beneath the first big pine. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So, this is the fabled Pass 6900<\/span><\/strong> we’ve gone through so much trouble to get to, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Think so, Looper, although I’m surprised we had to go this far W to find it.<\/em><\/p>\n

Can we camp here, then?\u00a0 It’s a great spot, SPHP, and I really don’t want to go any farther.<\/em><\/p>\n

Wish we could, Loop.\u00a0 I’m tired, too, but we’re nowhere near where I’d hoped we’d be by now.\u00a0 We still have several hours of daylight, and really ought to keep going.<\/em><\/p>\n

Not the answer the American Dingo wanted, but following the trail SE off the ridge, her spirits were at least partly revived by the fact that it was going downhill.<\/p>\n

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Starting down into the Cabin Creek drainage<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP kept expecting the trail to curve SW at any moment, but it didn’t.\u00a0 Instead, it continued trending SE.\u00a0 The intersection with Trails No. 064 & No. 067 should have appeared after 0.2 mile, but nowhere to be seen.\u00a0 Continuing lower, a tiny stream appeared on the R (SW) side of the trail.\u00a0 After going 0.4 mile, losing 250 to 300 feet of elevation, the trail turned S and crossed this creek.<\/p>\n

No signs, no trail junction.\u00a0 SE all this way.\u00a0 Didn’t make sense.\u00a0 Certainly not what the map showed, unless …<\/p>\n

This is it, Loop.\u00a0 We’re turning around.<\/em><\/p>\n

You don’t mean we have to go right back up this same trail, do you, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Exactomundo, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

You’re certifiable, SPHP!\u00a0 Why?<\/em><\/p>\n

Suspect we just came from Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong>, Loop, not Pass 6900<\/span><\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n

And how did we manage that?\u00a0 We missed Pass 6900<\/span><\/strong> completely, SPHP?\u00a0 I thought that was where we spent the entire day trying to get to.\u00a0 You never even mentioned any Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong>!<\/em><\/p>\n

We were, but I think we crossed Pass 6900<\/span><\/strong> without realizing it after our rest break up on the ridge.\u00a0 Remember that first dip?\u00a0 Maybe the trail we were looking for that used to cross it no longer exists?<\/em><\/p>\n

Small wonder we didn’t find it then, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Back up at the pass, SPHP wearily put up the tiny house.\u00a0 Loopster was thrilled!\u00a0 She entered before SPHP even got the rain cover on, or spread her sleeping bag out for her.<\/p>\n

SPHP finished preparations for the coming night, then joined Lupe in the tiny house.\u00a0 After a bit to eat, SPHP checked the peakbagger app on the iPhone.\u00a0 No map shown, but Wolf Mountain<\/span><\/a> (9,483 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was 1.8 miles W.\u00a0 The paper map then told the tale.\u00a0 So, it was true!\u00a0 The tiny house was at Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 The trail outside was already Trail No. 067.<\/p>\n

Knowing that was helpful, and at least somewhat encouraging, yet it had been a disastrous day.\u00a0 Extremely wearing, with little result.\u00a0 As the crow flies, Lupe wasn’t any more than 3 miles from the Dog Creek trailhead, even though the first mile had been a cake walk.\u00a0 The tiny house should already have been at HP8844<\/span><\/strong> on Wolf Mountain’s NE ridge, the Carolina Dog already celebrating a successful ascent.<\/p>\n

Wolf Mountain wasn’t even Lupe’s main objective on this trip.\u00a0 Another day like today, and she’d have to turn back before ever getting there.\u00a0 It was still light out when Lupe and SPHP both collapsed, too tired to care.<\/p>\n

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In the tiny house at Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-24-22, 8:28 AM, Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – A night’s sleep had helped.\u00a0 SPHP’s spirits were revived.\u00a0 Peeking outside the tiny house, 2 giant deers were grazing nearby.\u00a0 They fled on seeing movement.<\/p>\n

Look on the bright side, at least we know what to do now, Looper!\u00a0 All we have to do is follow Trail No. 067 up to HP8844<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Even as the trail goes, it’s no more than 3 miles to Wolf Mountain’s summit.<\/em><\/p>\n

Loop wasn’t buying it.\u00a0 The recalcitrant Carolina Dog clearly preferred life right here at Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong> to another enormous effort.\u00a0 She remained in the tiny house as long as possible.<\/p>\n

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Morning already?<\/em> Miss Reluctant at Pass 7020<\/span>.<\/strong> Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Recalcitrant or not, as soon as SPHP got strapped back into the pack, the American Dingo was on her way.\u00a0 However, Loop had no intentions of cooperating any more than she had to.\u00a0 Once again, she lagged behind, playing the stalking game.<\/p>\n

This time, instead of taking Trail No. 067 SE, SPHP headed NW.\u00a0 Once across the pass, the trail dropped steadily into the upper reaches of Beaver Dam Canyon.\u00a0 As expected, Lupe soon reached a small stream.\u00a0 Beyond it, though, the trail continued NW, still losing elevation.<\/p>\n

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Crossing the stream in upper Beaver Dam Canyon<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sheesh!\u00a0 Are you kidding me?\u00a0 I can’t believe this!<\/em><\/p>\n

What’s wrong, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

According to the map, the trail is supposed to turn SW here, following this stream out the upper end of Beaver Dam Canyon, but it doesn’t!<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe it will, if we go a little farther, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sticking with the trail, SPHP followed it beyond the stream.\u00a0 The trail soon turned N, leveling out before climbing 50 feet through another meadow of yellow flowers to the top of a small forested hill.<\/p>\n

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Exploring beyond the stream. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

When the trail started a relatively steep descent after crossing the hill, SPHP was done.<\/p>\n

Sensible suggestion, Looper, but it’s not panning out.\u00a0 I have no idea where this trail is going.\u00a0 Seems like either back to Dog Creek, or some other part of Beaver Dam Canyon.\u00a0 In any case, this isn’t the way to Wolf Mountain.<\/em><\/p>\n

Back to Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong> then, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Afraid so, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

6-24-22, 9:44 AM<\/em> – SPHP wasn’t nearly as cheery as earlier on as Lupe left Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong> for the second time this morning, now off-trail following open lanes WSW up a fairly steep slope.\u00a0 More than an hour wasted with hundreds of feet of unnecessary elevation loss and regain lugging this dang heavy pack!\u00a0 The day was off to a lousy start.<\/p>\n

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Leaving Pass 7020<\/span><\/strong> for the second time this morning. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The terrain briefly flattened out after an initial climb, then steepened again.\u00a0 After passing through a forested region, a very steep meadow was ahead.\u00a0 Near the top, this meadow wasn’t as steep, and ultimately led to a flat, forested ridge.<\/p>\n

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Getting close to the top of the meadow. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A rest break was taken on this ridge while enjoying a panoramic view to the E.\u00a0 Much of the territory Lupe had already traveled through was in sight.\u00a0 The Snake River was visible to the NE, and Peak 7633<\/span><\/strong> to the SE.\u00a0 It didn’t look much higher than where Lupe was now.<\/p>\n

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Snake River<\/strong> (Center) from the ridge at the top of the meadow. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Realizing that Loop must be on Peak 7755<\/span><\/strong>‘s NNE ridge, an attempt was made to head W directly to the 7580<\/span><\/strong> saddle leading to Wolf Mountain.\u00a0 However, the terrain soon dropped sharply.\u00a0 Nearly 100 feet of elevation were lost before coming to a rocky clearing where HP8844<\/span><\/strong> was in sight.<\/p>\n

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Wolf Mountain’s NE ridge<\/strong> (HP8844<\/span>)<\/strong> (R) from the clearing. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A climb SW through a heavily forested region on steep slopes was now necessary to reach the 7580<\/strong><\/span> saddle.\u00a0 This route threatened to become yet another fiasco similar to yesterday’s disaster.\u00a0 Fortunately, the obstacles weren’t as severe, and less distance was involved.\u00a0 Lupe made it to the saddle.\u00a0 Both Wolf Mountain and HP8844<\/span><\/strong> were in view.<\/p>\n

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Wolf Mountain<\/strong> (Center) and HP8844<\/span><\/strong> (R) from NW of Peak 7755<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Heading NW on relatively flat ground straight for Wolf Mountain’s NE ridge, the terrain began steepening.\u00a0 Passing through another forested stretch, Lupe reached a meadow at the base of the NE ridge’s E slope.\u00a0 A very steep climb ensued.\u00a0 After a rest break at around 8,100 feet, Trail No. 067 was rediscovered only 10 feet higher.<\/p>\n

Finding the trail again was a huge boon.\u00a0 Heading NW, it climbed at an easier pace through meadows and enormous stands of young aspens.\u00a0 The trail turned W as it gradually swept around to the N side of the ridge.\u00a0 Lupe was thrilled to find some snow here.<\/p>\n

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On the upper E slope of Wolf Mountain’s NE ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Heading for the N side of the ridge. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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On the N slope, enjoying some snow. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Trail No. 067 didn’t go all the way up Wolf Mountain.\u00a0 In fact, it didn’t even get up to HP8844<\/span><\/strong>, passing 50 feet below it.\u00a0 Abandoning the trail, Lupe climbed up to HP8844<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 The top of this big ridge featured a small stand of trees to the W, but was otherwise open and somewhat rocky.<\/p>\n

6-24-22, 2:24 PM, HP8844<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – Only mid-afternoon, but Lupe and SPHP were both weary.\u00a0 Despite the rocks, SPHP found a decent spot to pitch Lupe’s tiny house.\u00a0 The views were already tremendous from right here.\u00a0 Far to the N, the Teton Range.\u00a0 SW, Wolf Mountain<\/span><\/a> (9,483 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> loomed nearby.<\/p>\n

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The Tetons<\/strong> (L & Center) from HP8844<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Wolf Mountain<\/strong> from HP8844<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-24-22, 4:55 PM, HP8844<\/span><\/strong> –<\/em> The tiny house had gone as far as it was going to today, but the Carolina Dog hadn’t.\u00a0 A late lunch and a nap had done both Lupe and SPHP a world of good.\u00a0 Might have been the extra rest, or maybe it was the snow and cooler air up here?\u00a0 Whatever the reason, the stalking game was over.\u00a0 Lupe led the way.\u00a0 Less than 700 feet to the top of Wolf Mountain<\/span><\/a> (9,483 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!<\/p>\n

\"\"
Heading for Wolf Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A forty foot dip, and it was all up the rest of the way.\u00a0 Following a long snowbank, Wolf Mountain’s NE slope was nearly obstacle free.\u00a0 No rocks, soft, damp soil, and scant vegetation other than scattered sagebrush.\u00a0 Moderately steep, and steepest near the top, but nothing unusual.<\/p>\n

\"\"
Approaching the summit ridge. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe reached Wolf Mountain’s summit ridge near its lower N end.\u00a0 A long, skinny snowbank extended S along the upper E face protected by an escarpment of crumbling rock.\u00a0 This snowbank was nearly unbroken as Loopster followed it higher.<\/p>\n

\"\"
On the snowbank just below the summit ridge. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"
Up on the escarpment. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Closing in on the summit<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-24-22, 5:59 PM, 60\u00baF, Wolf Mountain<\/span><\/a> (9,483 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> –\u00a0 The open summit ridge was an easy stroll.\u00a0 A 10-15 mph breeze was blowing out of the W when Lupe arrived at the true summit, marked by a 4 foot tall wooden stake protruding from amid low bushes.\u00a0 Several feet away, a collection of loose rocks, possibly the remains of a cairn, was the highest point.<\/p>\n

\"\"
On Wolf Mountain’s true summit<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Congratulations, Loopster, on your successful ascent of Wolf Mountain!\u00a0 Can’t believe it took us 2 days to get here, but here we are!<\/em><\/p>\n

Thank you, SPHP!\u00a0 It’s been, umm, interesting, hasn’t it?\u00a0 All worth it now, though!\u00a0 Look at these views!<\/em><\/p>\n

Wolf Mountain wasn’t the highest peak around, but the views really were splendid.\u00a0 HP9301<\/span><\/strong> was 0.7 mile S along Wolf Mountain’s long SSE ridge.\u00a0 Much farther S were a couple of peaks SPHP could identify with some confidence.\u00a0 Stewart Mountain<\/span><\/a> (10,103 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> in the Salt River Range was the most distant, with Bradley Mountain<\/span><\/a> (9,292 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> in the Wyoming Range somewhat closer.\u00a0 A year ago, Lupe had been on Bradley<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

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HP9302<\/span><\/strong> (L) in the foreground. Stewart Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) in the distance. Bradley Mountain<\/strong> (R) somewhat closer. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Stewart Mountain<\/strong> (R), Bradley Mountain<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks S with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Far to the NE, Gros Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,180 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was in sight, highest point of the Gros Ventre Range visible from here.\u00a0 Much closer, part of the Snake River was in view, too.\u00a0 Loopster could even see her tiny house, a little orange speck way down at HP8844<\/span><\/strong> on Wolf Mountain’s NE ridge.<\/p>\n

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Gros Peak<\/strong> (R of Center) on the horizon. Snake River<\/strong> (R). Lupe’s tiny house<\/strong> an orange speck (L of Center). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Gros Peak<\/strong> (L), Snake River<\/strong> (R). Photo looks ENE with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Snow-capped Red Peak<\/span><\/a> (9,771 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Peak<\/span> 9708<\/span><\/a><\/strong> were 3 or 4 miles SW.\u00a0 The summits of Deadhorse Peak<\/span><\/a> (9,767 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Peak<\/span> 9736<\/span><\/a><\/strong> were visible beyond and between them.<\/p>\n

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Red Peak<\/strong> (L), Peak 9736<\/strong> (Center), Deadhorse Peak<\/strong> (R of Center), Peak 9708<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Red Peak<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

And far to the N, beyond the Snake River valley, stood the Teton Range with mighty Grand Teton<\/span><\/a> (13,770 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> soaring skyward!<\/p>\n

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Teton Range<\/strong> (L & Center) on the horizon. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The Tetons<\/strong> beyond the Snake River Valley<\/strong>. Grand Teton<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

No registry, no survey benchmark to look for.\u00a0 Wolf Mountain’s summit region wasn’t huge, but there was plenty of room to move around.\u00a0 The E edge was cliffy.\u00a0 To the W, scraggly trees and bushes, some of them dead, were scattered along a slope which was steep, but not as vertical.<\/p>\n

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Looking NW. Dog Creek valley<\/strong> in the foreground.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After shaking the American Dingo’s paw, and a good look at the fabulous views, SPHP sat down on the dirt, facing W into the breeze toward the scene most relevant to Lupe’s immediate future.\u00a0 Loop promptly curled up on SPHP’s lap.\u00a0 A hard-earned chocolate coconut bar was shared, then SPHP munched an apple while pondering what it all meant.<\/p>\n

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Indian Peak<\/strong> (L), Obs Benchmark<\/strong> (L of Center), Observation Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Same view with help from the telephoto lens. Indian Peak<\/strong> (far L), Obs Benchmark<\/strong> (L), and Observation Peak<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It’s too far!\u00a0 We’ll never get there and back in a day, especially the way things have been going.\u00a0 No way around it, I’m going to have to lug your tiny house and all that dang gear again tomorrow, aren’t I?<\/em><\/p>\n

We’ll never get where, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

See that peak toward the R, Loop?\u00a0 That’s Observation Peak<\/span><\/a> (9,960 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, our main objective on this little backpacking jaunt.<\/em><\/p>\n

Nice, but what’s so special about it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Just one stat.\u00a0 Observation has 2,240 feet of prominence, 18th in Wyoming.<\/em><\/p>\n

Doesn’t look so daunting from here, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t think it’s supposed to be all that daunting, Loop.\u00a0 It’s just so far from any roads that I can’t do it in a day.\u00a0 Hence, your tiny house.<\/em><\/p>\n

Been 2 days already, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Heh.\u00a0 Yeah, I thought we’d make it to Wolf in just one.\u00a0 So much for that!\u00a0 Not entirely my fault, though.\u00a0 These old maps led me to believe there were actual trails all this way.\u00a0 Maybe there are, but not how we went.<\/em><\/p>\n

The W breeze died away.\u00a0 A gorgeous evening!\u00a0 Lupe and SPHP lingered, enjoying Wolf Mountain, which had been so unexpectedly difficult to get to.\u00a0 For a long time, Loop was content on SPHP’s lap while SPHP studied what lay ahead.<\/p>\n

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Observation Peak<\/strong> (Center) from Wolf Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW with lots of help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Indian Peak<\/strong> (L), Obs Benchmark<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-24-22, 7:10 PM, Wolf Mountain<\/em> – 70 minutes had flown.\u00a0 Better get with it!\u00a0 Another big Dingo Vacation adventure in the morning.\u00a0 For the last time, Lupe sat next to the wooden stake at the top of Wolf Mountain.<\/p>\n

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Back at the summit. HP8829<\/span><\/strong> beyond the stake. HP9301<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP started down first.\u00a0 For a few moments, an American Dingo stood proudly alone on Wolf Mountain.<\/p>\n

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Still at the summit. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP called, and Lupe came running.\u00a0 Then it was down, down the mountain, a beautiful, easy descent.<\/p>\n

6-24-22, 7:52 PM<\/em> – Evening sunlight was still streaming over HP8844<\/span><\/strong> when the Carolina Dog got back to her tiny house.<\/p>\n

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Back at HP8844<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wolf Mountain had been quite the adventure!\u00a0 With more action bright and (hopefully not too) early tomorrow, dinner and a long snooze were in order.\u00a0 Before the sun sank below the mountains, Lupe was in Dingo dreamland, with SPHP on the way.<\/p>\n

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Wolf Mountain<\/strong>, Snake River Range, Wyoming 6-24-22<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

Want more Lupe adventures?\u00a0\u00a0Choose from Lupe’s Summer of 2022<\/span> <\/strong>Dingo Vacations to Wyoming, Canada & Alaska Adventure Inde<\/strong>x<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, Dingo Vacations Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a> or Master Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0Or subscribe free\u00a0to\u00a0new Lupe adventures<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Days 7 – 9 of Lupe’s Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming! 6-22-22, ~ 9:30 AM, at the end of side Road No. 10399 off Greys River Road 2 or 3 miles N of the intersection with McDougal Gap Road – Wha’dya think, Loop?\u00a0 Is this perfect, or what? Looks terrific to me, too, … Continue reading Wolf Mountain, Snake River Range, Wyoming (6-24-22)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":42101,"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":[1585],"tags":[105,106,26,104,1595,1594,275],"class_list":["post-42102","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1585","tag-american-dingo","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-lupe","tag-snake-river-range","tag-wolf-mountain","tag-wyoming"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/IMG_0012-scaled.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\/42102","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=42102"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42102\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":46230,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42102\/revisions\/46230"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/42101"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=42102"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=42102"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=42102"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}