{"id":43091,"date":"2023-01-13T08:10:16","date_gmt":"2023-01-13T15:10:16","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=43091"},"modified":"2023-03-29T09:31:54","modified_gmt":"2023-03-29T15:31:54","slug":"dog-tooth-peak-mitchell-peak-wind-river-range-wyoming-part-1-big-sandy-opening-to-dog-tooth-paradise-7-3-22","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=43091","title":{"rendered":"Dog Tooth Peak & Mitchell Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Big Sandy Opening to Dog Tooth Paradise (7-3-22)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 16-18 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming!<\/em><\/p>\n

7-1-22, almost noon<\/em> –\u00a0 July already!\u00a0 While SPHP moseyed about cleaning and organizing, Lupe had spent most of this beautiful morning relaxing on her pink blanket, displaying no sign of ambition.<\/p>\n

C’mon, Looper!\u00a0 We’ll be moving on soon.\u00a0 Last chance for a sniff before we head out.<\/em><\/p>\n

Rather reluctantly leaping out of the RAV4, Lupe joined SPHP on a short stroll along Road No. 10399 out to Greys River Road and back again.\u00a0 She then wandered down to Greys River for a drink.<\/p>\n

This is a wonderful spot!\u00a0 I love it here, SPHP!\u00a0 You haven’t even caught up the trip journal yet.\u00a0 Why do we have to leave?<\/em><\/p>\n

Because you’ve climbed all the mountains we intended to around here on this Dingo Vacation, Loopster, and I’m not in a trip journal mood.\u00a0 So we might as well start getting into position for the next big thing.\u00a0 Besides, I’m kind of looking forward to a nice, long, scenic drive.\u00a0 You’ll enjoy it, too!<\/em><\/p>\n

Will there be any cows and horses to bark at?<\/em><\/p>\n

Can almost guarantee it, Loop!<\/em><\/p>\n

And what is the next big thing, SPHP?\u00a0 Where are we going?<\/em><\/p>\n

The Wind River Range, Looper!\u00a0 Ever since reading Wind River Trails<\/strong><\/span><\/a> by Finis Mitchell, I’ve always wanted to climb Mitchell Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,482 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n

7-2-22, 1:28 AM, pullout along Hwy 352 near the turn to New Fork Lake –<\/em> The only thing wrong with the drive to Pinedale was that it wasn’t long enough.\u00a0 Lupe had arrived in plenty of time to enjoy not one, but two sniffs along Pine Creek.\u00a0 Not inclined to stray too far from civilization this evening, near sunset SPHP had driven W out of town, admittedly the wrong way as far as getting to the Big Sandy Opening, but this pullout was a quiet enough spot late at night.<\/p>\n

Lupe had been happy in the RAV4 most of the day, but the Carolina Dog wanted out now.\u00a0 SPHP grabbed the flashlight.<\/p>\n

OK, let’s go!<\/em><\/p>\n

Moonless, the night was very dark, the Milky Way overhead but a faint glow.\u00a0 Enjoying the cool air, Lupe sniffed along the tall grass bordering the pullout.\u00a0 A surprisingly busy highway during the day, silence reigned now.\u00a0 15 minutes of star-gazing pondering the universe sufficed.<\/p>\n

7-2-22, predawn hours –<\/em> Ugh!\u00a0 Awake again.\u00a0 Not due to the American Dingo this time, though.\u00a0 In fact, Lupe never even seemed to notice, but there’d been increasingly bold scurrying in the RAV4 every night since this Dingo Vacation started.\u00a0 About time to put an end to it, but how?<\/p>\n

Grabbing the flashlight, SPHP shone it around.\u00a0 A set of beady black eyes stared back a moment, then vanished.\u00a0 Aha!\u00a0 Knew it!\u00a0 An idea formed.\u00a0 Might work!\u00a0 SPHP opened the door of the RAV4, and hopped out.<\/p>\n

Where are you going, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Stay put, Loop.\u00a0 I’m gonna catch that mouse!<\/em><\/p>\n

Getting a big, clear plastic bag out of the back, SPHP put some of Lupe’s Taste of the Wild in it.\u00a0 Then placing it on the floor behind Lupe’s seat with the bag kept open, SPHP turned off the flashlight.<\/p>\n

Didn’t take long.\u00a0 The scurrying recommenced, right into the trap!<\/p>\n

Closing the bag suddenly, SPHP turned on the light.\u00a0 Got him!\u00a0 Trapped like a rat, a really small one.\u00a0 Moments later, SPHP released the mouse unharmed into the grass along the pullout before returning to the RAV4.<\/p>\n

Hah!\u00a0 So easy!\u00a0 I should have thought of that sooner, Loop.\u00a0 Mouse must have been getting pretty hungry in here.<\/em><\/p>\n

The words were scarcely out of SPHP’s mouth, when scurrying resumed.\u00a0 What?\u00a0 Two mice?\u00a0 Inconceivable!\u00a0 But front and back, here and there, bold scurrying commenced anytime the light was off.<\/p>\n

The Taste of the Wild trap worked a second time.\u00a0 This time, just in case, SPHP released mouse 150 feet from the RAV4.\u00a0 Blissful silence reigned even after the light was turned out.\u00a0 Finally, that was that!<\/p>\n

For 20 minutes, then the scurrying returned.\u00a0 3 mice?\u00a0 No, not possible!\u00a0 That same dang mouse must know how to get back into the RAV4.<\/p>\n

You’re no help at all, Loopster!\u00a0 Can’t you do something about this mouse?<\/em><\/p>\n

Like what, SPHP?\u00a0 I’m a Carolina Dog, not the breed you need in a case like this.<\/em><\/p>\n

Really?\u00a0 What does breed have to do with it?\u00a0 And what breed would you recommend?<\/em><\/p>\n

A cat would be a good choice, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

A cat!\u00a0 Maybe so, but a cat isn’t technically a canine, Loop.\u00a0 Hate to break it to you, but cats are a different species entirely.\u00a0 Cats are felines.<\/em><\/p>\n

No need to slander cats, SPHP, just because they aren’t very bright.\u00a0 Cats are canines, too, you know!\u00a0 Not their fault they’re too mentally deficient to be decent members of the pack.\u00a0 They’re loners by nature.\u00a0 And despite their obvious handicaps, you’ve got to admit they are excellent mousers.<\/em><\/p>\n

Cats are canines, too?\u00a0 No, they aren’t silly Dingo!\u00a0 But whatever, we’re fresh out of cats in any case, and apparently you aren’t going to lift a paw to help me.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, here’s a thought, SPHP.\u00a0 Since you seem to be almost as good at catching mice as a cat, how about next time you play catch and release, run back to the RAV4 and drive away.\u00a0 Mouse will never catch us.<\/em><\/p>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 Not a bad plan, Loopster!\u00a0 Might be the only thing that will work.<\/em><\/p>\n

Except it didn’t.\u00a0 Mouse was wising up.\u00a0 This time it took a while before the mouse dared enter the plastic bag.\u00a0 SPHP snapped it shut.<\/p>\n

Did you get him, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nope, doesn’t look like it.\u00a0 Shoot!\u00a0 Thought I had him.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP reset the Taste of the Wild trap only to see the mouse scurry out of the bag before turning off the light.<\/p>\n

Well, dang it!\u00a0 I did have him all along, and now I don’t!<\/em><\/p>\n

Major fail, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Bold, in-your-face scurrying continued whenever the flashlight was off the rest of the night, but mouse wasn’t falling for the Taste of the Wild in the plastic bag trick again.<\/p>\n

7-2-22, 8:00 AM <\/em>– What a night!\u00a0 The morning sun was already well above the Wind River Range when SPHP woke up.\u00a0 No scurrying now that it was light out, but the stowaway was almost certainly still on board as SPHP fired up the RAV4.<\/p>\n

In Pinedale, Lupe enjoyed another long sniff along Pine Creek.\u00a0 By noon, SPHP had the trip journal fairly close to being caught up.\u00a0 An afternoon drive to Boulder, then along the Lander Cut-off was great fun and very scenic, with terrific views of the Wind River Range the whole way.<\/p>\n

7-2-22, 2:30 PM, Big Sandy Opening<\/em> – Actually a few parking spots left at the trailhead when Lupe arrived.\u00a0 SPHP was amazed, considering it was 4th of July weekend.\u00a0 Tucking the RAV4 neatly into a spot, work on the trip journal resumed despite all the activity outside.\u00a0 Meanwhile, the Carolina Dog was perfectly content snoozing on her pink blanket.<\/p>\n

By 4:05 PM, the journal was caught up again.<\/p>\n

What are you doing, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Getting ready, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

You aren’t seriously considering setting out now, are you?\u00a0 Late afternoon already, and it was kind of a short night last night with all the antics you and mouse went through.\u00a0 Why not stay here tonight, rest up, and hit the trail in the morning when we’re fresh?<\/em><\/p>\n

Days are long this time of year, Looper.\u00a0 If we head out now, maybe we can shave enough distance off this evening to put us within striking distance of Mitchell Peak tomorrow?<\/em><\/p>\n

7-2-22, 5:30 PM<\/em> – Finally ready, but as SPHP registered near the start of Big Sandy Trail No. 099, someone was not amused.\u00a0 Lupe clearly didn’t want to go.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Loop reluctant to leave the trailhead.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Took a good deal of pleading and persuasion, but Loop finally followed SPHP over a small rise into the forest.\u00a0 Almost immediately, a sign for the Meeks Lake Trail appeared.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By the Meeks Lake Trail sign.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A little beyond the sign, the broad, heavily-trafficked trail broke out of the forest, entering a flat meadow.\u00a0 Lupe remained unenthused.\u00a0 Even the sight of\u00a0 Laturio Mountain (11,342 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> ahead failed to lift her spirits.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Laturio Mountain<\/strong> (L & Center) from Big Sandy Trail No. 099. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

C’mon, Loop, cheer up!\u00a0 We aren’t going to do anything difficult today, just make some tracks.\u00a0 Going to be alright, you’ll see.<\/em><\/p>\n

It became almost a contest of wills.\u00a0 SPHP led the way, while Lupe played an extreme version of her stalking game.\u00a0 The American Dingo wouldn’t budge an inch until SPHP was not only out of sight, but gone for a while.\u00a0 Forced to wait, SPHP had to resort to the whistle a few times.<\/p>\n

Took way longer than it should have to cover the easy 0.75 mile to where Continental Divide Trail No. 096 split off from Trail No. 099 to Big Sandy Lake, but Lupe finally got there.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the junction. Straight ahead to Big Sandy Lake, or L to Meeks Lake. Big Sandy River<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Junction signage.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Carolina Dog’s reluctance to continue on diminished after taking much less frequented Trail No. 96, but Loop still hung back playing her stalking game for a while.\u00a0 At least she was staying closer than before.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Playing the stalking game along Trail No. 096.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The trail wound gradually higher through a forested region.\u00a0 Mosquitoes had been bad back at the Big Sandy Opening trailhead, and were worse here.\u00a0 An enveloping cloud of the blood-thirsty little vampires whined in almost instantly during any pause.\u00a0 Lupe caught up when SPHP finally stopped to slather on some Eucalyptus cream, followed by a liberal spraying of Repel.<\/p>\n

Hold still, Looper.\u00a0 I’ll put a little on you, too!<\/em><\/p>\n

My, isn’t this fun, SPHP?\u00a0 So glad we’re getting to serve as local blood banks, and I’m not stuck in the RAV4 snoozing peacefully with a full tummy after a decent meal.\u00a0 Why, mouse might start scurrying around, and make me bat an eye!\u00a0 Wouldn’t that be awful?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I know, the mosquitoes are horrid, Loop.\u00a0 I hate ’em too.\u00a0 If ever there was a species I’d be glad to cheer on to extinction, they fit the bill.<\/em><\/p>\n

Reeking of Eucalyptus, the journey resumed.\u00a0 Poor Lupe!\u00a0 Mosquitoes still kept attacking her eyes, lips, and paws where SPHP hadn’t dared to apply any Repel or Eucalyptus.\u00a0 SPHP killed hundreds on her to no avail.\u00a0 Constant motion was the only real defense.<\/p>\n

After 0.33 mile, Trail No. 096 crossed a stream.\u00a0 An easy rock-hop, this was the outlet stream from Meeks Lake.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Fording the Meeks Lake outlet stream<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond the stream, the trail climbed another 100 feet before leveling out and turning NNW.\u00a0 Soon patches of blue could be glimpsed in the thick forest W of the trail, but a good view of Meeks Lake never materialized.\u00a0 Lupe was already beyond the lake when the trail forked again upon reaching a clearing.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Meeks Lake Trail No. 096<\/strong> continues toward the L. Diamond Lake Trail No. 100<\/strong> goes R. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The fading signage.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe had been here before.\u00a0 Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 angling off to the R was the way to go.\u00a0 Combined with Trail No. 096, it was a slightly longer, but far more secluded route than Big Sandy Lake Trail No. 099, which it would eventually rejoin past Diamond Lake.<\/p>\n

After crossing the flat clearing, No. 100 started to climb as it headed NE back into the trees.\u00a0 Before long, the surrounding forest was a complete shambles.\u00a0 Deadfall everywhere, some of it gigantic!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Re-entering the forest on Diamond Lake Trail No. 100<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
What a mess!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Fortunately, the USFS service had made a valiant, and largely successful, effort to keep the trail deadfall-free.\u00a0 Still some deadfall to contend with, but not anywhere near the nightmare it might have been.\u00a0 After gaining 200 feet over 0.25 mile, Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 topped out going over a minor pass.\u00a0 A steady descent began, and the forest was soon looking much healthier again.<\/p>\n

7-2-22, 7:03 PM<\/em> – By the time Lupe made it to V Lake, the evening was drippy and gray.\u00a0 Scheistler Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,640 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Temple Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,972 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, and Peak 11930<\/span><\/strong> were only dimly in view.\u00a0 For a while, mist or light rain fell.\u00a0 Multiple blue tents were up on an open hillside NW of the lake, along with the only people seen since leaving Big Sandy Trail No. 099.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Scheistler Peak<\/strong> (far L), Temple Peak<\/strong> (Center), and Peak 11930<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center) from V Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond V Lake, the trail was quite flat as Lupe continued NE through huge meadows, parts of which were swampy, and stretches of forest where the ground was firmer.\u00a0 Progress was rapid on this easy terrain.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog forded several small gravelly streams, none of which presented any difficulty.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
N end of V Lake<\/strong> (R). Scheistler Peak<\/strong> (far L), Temple Peak<\/strong> (Center), and Peak 11930<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Wading in one of the gravelly streams.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Reaching a big slab of exposed bedrock, 3 mountains were visible ahead for the first time.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mitchell Peak<\/strong> (L), Dog Tooth Peak<\/strong> (Center) & Big Sandy Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hey, hey, Loopster!\u00a0 Told ya this was a good idea.\u00a0 Looks like we’re starting to get somewhere.\u00a0 There’s Mitchell Peak<\/a><\/span> (12,482 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!<\/em><\/p>\n

Which one is Mitchell, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

The one on the L, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Do those other 2 peaks have names, too?<\/em><\/p>\n

They most certainly do!\u00a0 That’s Dog Tooth Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,488 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> in the middle, and Big Sandy Mountain<\/span><\/a> (12,416 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> on the R.<\/em><\/p>\n

Dog Tooth Peak!\u00a0 What an awesome name, although Dingo Fang Peak would have been even better.\u00a0 Let’s climb Dog Tooth Peak, too, SPHP!\u00a0 It’s the highest one.\u00a0 In fact, we could climb all 3.<\/em><\/p>\n

Glad to see your enthusiasm returning, Looper!\u00a0 I’ve actually been hoping we can climb Dog Tooth in addition to Mitchell.\u00a0 I knew you’d like that name!\u00a0 Big Sandy is fine with me, too, of course, if we have time.\u00a0 Might be a bit much in one day, though, and I didn’t bring enough supplies to stay up here very long.<\/em><\/p>\n

A mile past V Lake, Diamond Lake came into view.\u00a0 The trail passed through another semi-swampy big meadow NW of the lake.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Temple Peak<\/strong> (L) and Peak 11930<\/span><\/strong> (Center) from Diamond Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond the meadow, Lupe stuck with Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 a little farther as it went back into the forest.\u00a0 Light was soon starting to fade.\u00a0 SPHP marched off into the pines NW of the trail.<\/p>\n

This ought to be about far enough for today, Looper.\u00a0 We don’t want to go so far that we reach Trail No. 099 again.\u00a0 Much more secluded here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Fine, fine, but hurry, SPHP!\u00a0 Set up the tiny house.\u00a0 I’m getting eaten alive!<\/em><\/p>\n

The mosquitoes were horrendous!\u00a0 Setting up the tiny house in record time, it was a tremendous relief to scramble inside, and zip that door shut!\u00a0 After a bite to eat before it got dark, pleased how it had all gone, SPHP drifted off to sleep thinking Lupe was well-positioned for an ascent of Mitchell Peak, and maybe even Dog Tooth Peak tomorrow.<\/p>\n

7-3-22, black as pitch<\/em> – No telling what time it was.\u00a0 Flashes of light so faint SPHP wasn’t even sure they were real soon brightened.\u00a0 Lightning!\u00a0 Before long, the pitter-patter of raindrops.\u00a0 Nothing too serious, probably just a shower.\u00a0 After pulling part of Lupe’s sleeping bag over her, SPHP rolled over and went back to sleep.<\/p>\n

7-3-22, morning<\/em> – Light out, but still raining.\u00a0 Lupe had slept long and hard.\u00a0 Even so, apparently she still felt listless, perfectly content to laze about on her red sleeping bag.\u00a0 Also lethargic, SPHP laid listening to the rain, trying to doze.\u00a0 Face it, getting soaking wet while facing a horde of vampires, wasn’t much of an incentive.\u00a0 None dared leave the tiny house.<\/p>\n

7-3-22, 10:30 AM<\/em> – It had finally quit raining.\u00a0 Slathered in Eucalyptus cream and coated with the last of the Repel spray, SPHP unzipped the door of the tiny house.<\/p>\n

Going to try to do this fast!\u00a0 Just stay inside, Loop, until I’ve got the tiny house ready to roll up.<\/em><\/p>\n

No worries there!\u00a0 The American Dingo hadn’t the slightest intention of disobeying that order.\u00a0 Clouds of mosquitoes enveloped SPHP.\u00a0 Happily, chemical warfare was working.\u00a0 Only got bit once before having to kick Loop out of the tiny house.\u00a0 Hoisting the pack as soon as possible, a hasty retreat back to Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 ensued.<\/p>\n

Heading NE, it turned out Lupe had spent the night only a few minutes from the junction with Big Sandy Lake Trail No. 099.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Signage at the junction of Diamond Lake Trail No. 100 and Big Sandy Lake Trail No. 099.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For some grand, mysterious reason there were no mosquitoes to speak of along Big Sandy Lake Trail No. 099.\u00a0 The day was getting sunnier, and the trail was busy.\u00a0 Lots of people both coming and going.\u00a0 Plenty of dogs to sniff with, too!<\/p>\n

Lupe had started out playing her stalking game again, but soon gave that up and trotted right along.\u00a0 The trail ran NE, climbing at an easy pace.\u00a0 By noon, the Carolina Dog was wading in the cold, shallow waters at the SW end of Big Sandy Lake.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Big Sandy Lake<\/strong>. Dog Tooth Peak<\/strong> (L) & Big Sandy Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing along Big Sandy Lake’s W shore on Trail No. 099, forest soon gave way to a big meadow.\u00a0 The scenery was magnificent, and it was lunch time, too!<\/p>\n

Doesn’t get much better than this!\u00a0 Want to take a break, Loop?\u00a0 I brought beef jerky.<\/em><\/p>\n

An offer too good to refuse!\u00a0 Heading W up a short grassy slope, a sunny perch was settled upon on some big rocks.\u00a0 Mitchell Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,482 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Dog Tooth Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,488 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, and Big Sandy Mountain<\/span><\/a> (12,416 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were all on display.\u00a0 Directly across the lake, Scheistler Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,640 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was most impressive.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mitchell Peak<\/strong> (L), Dog Tooth Peak<\/strong> (R), Big Sandy Mountain<\/strong> (R edge). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Big Sandy Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Scheistler Peak<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

See that gigantic wall of rock?\u00a0 That’s Haystack Mountain<\/span><\/a> (11,978 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Loop.\u00a0 The pointier peak to the R that looks like you’re walking a plank is East Temple Peak<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/em>\u00a0(12,600 ft.)<\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Haystack Mountain<\/strong> (Center), East Temple Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

East Temple Peak<\/strong><\/span><\/a>!\u00a0 Why we were there only a couple of years ago, SPHP!\u00a0 Remember how beautiful Deep Lake was, and how we couldn’t find the tiny house in the middle of the night?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure do, Loopster!\u00a0 How could I ever forget all that?<\/em><\/p>\n

7-3-22, 1:21 PM, N end of Big Sandy Lake<\/em> – A very pleasant hour in the warm sunshine had shot on by.\u00a0 The beef jerky had, of course, been a huge hit.\u00a0 After crossing the alluvial plain where Lost Creek spread out into various trickles only a few inches deep, Lupe was now at the next trail junction.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Junction of Trails No. 099 and No. 098 at the N end of Big Sandy Lake.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Junction signage.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Which way, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Go L, Loop, unless you want to climb East Temple Peak again!<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t tempt me, SPHP!\u00a0 I’d do it in a heartbeat.<\/em><\/p>\n

For the first time, Big Sandy Trail No. 099 climbed aggressively, winding N through a forest.\u00a0 Loopster gained 400 feet of elevation before the trail flattened out.\u00a0 Ahead, a big gap was visible between two towering peaks.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
War Bonnet Peak<\/strong> (L), Mitchell Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

That’s War Bonnet Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,369 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> on the L, Looper.\u00a0 Part of Mitchell on the R.\u00a0 We’re only a couple of miles from Jackass Pass.<\/p>\n

We’re going to Jackass Pass<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, SPHP?\u00a0 You mean we’ll be visiting the Cirque of the Towers and Lonesome Lake again?\u00a0 Been forever since we’ve been there, and so spectacular!<\/em><\/p>\n

Sadly, no.\u00a0 We’ll have to leave the trail before we get to Jackass Pass, Loop, if we want climb Mitchell Peak.<\/em><\/p>\n

And Dog Tooth Peak, too, SPHP!\u00a0 Don’t forget Dog Tooth.\u00a0 I’ll bite you, if you do!<\/em><\/p>\n

That ought to remind me, Miss Dingo Fang!<\/em><\/p>\n

7-3-22, 2:05 PM<\/em> – As Lupe trotted N along the flat section, it was clear any attempt at an ascent today would mean she’d only get to one summit at best.\u00a0 Too late already, and to tell the truth, SPHP wasn’t feeling even that ambitious.\u00a0 Maybe better to pitch the tiny house somewhere, and rest?\u00a0 Might be possible to hit 2 summits tomorrow with an early start.<\/p>\n

Seemed like a better plan.\u00a0 Checking out the grassy slopes W of the trail, the best place to camp was already taken, but there was another spot a bit farther on that might do.<\/p>\n

Loop, leave the trail here!\u00a0 Let’s go up there and take a look around.<\/em><\/p>\n

How come, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

We got off to too late a start due to the rain.\u00a0 Let’s find a place to camp. We’ll wait on mountains until tomorrow.<\/em><\/p>\n

A short climb led to a great view from some big rocks, but the little patch of relatively level grassy ground next to the rocks proved too rocky.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Haystack Mountain<\/strong> (L), East Temple Peak<\/strong> (L of Center), Temple Peak<\/strong> (R of Center), and Scheistler Peak<\/strong> (R) from the viewpoint. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Terrific view, but this isn’t going to work, Looper.\u00a0 We’re going to have to keep looking.\u00a0 Oh, that’s sad!<\/em><\/p>\n

What’s sad, SPHP?\u00a0 Keeping looking?<\/em><\/p>\n

No, I see a dead animal on top of a big rock 50 feet away.\u00a0 Poor thing!<\/em><\/p>\n

What kind of a dead animal, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not sure, Loop.\u00a0 Let me take a look with the camera’s telephoto lens.\u00a0 Hmm, well, that’s surprising.<\/em><\/p>\n

What’s surprising, SPHP?\u00a0 Don’t keep me in suspenders!<\/em><\/p>\n

Suspense, not suspenders, Loop.\u00a0 Think it’s a marmot, or maybe a pika.\u00a0 What’s surprising is how lively it looks for a dead one.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The “dead” marmot.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Oh, I love marmots, SPHP!\u00a0 Pikas, too.\u00a0 Hope it’s not dead.\u00a0 Which is it, alive or dead?<\/em><\/p>\n

Since I’ve seen it move now, and it’s eyes are open, I’m revising my earlier opinion, Loopster.\u00a0 Clearly alive.<\/em><\/p>\n

As much as Lupe would have liked to play a game of hunter and prey with the marmot, that really wasn’t possible.\u00a0 The marmot’s lofty perch was eminently secure.\u00a0 Returning to Trail No. 099, the trek N continued, but not very far before the trail dropped down to cross North Creek.<\/p>\n

North Creek was a fairly good-sized rushing stream, but SPHP managed to rock hop it while Lupe waded on through.\u00a0 Now on the E side of the stream, the trail immediately began winding higher.\u00a0 Lupe gained a good 100 feet of elevation before it leveled out again, heading N.<\/p>\n

Let’s leave the trail here, Looper.\u00a0 The topo map<\/strong><\/span><\/a> shows sort of a big flat ridge not too much higher up this slope to the E, and a shallow valley on the other side where there’s a tributary of North Creek.\u00a0 Might be our best shot at finding some level ground.<\/em><\/p>\n

Abandoning Trail No. 099 yet again, Lupe started up a thinly forested slope that didn’t look very promising.\u00a0 The topo map was right, though.\u00a0 Before long, the terrain began to level out.\u00a0 Soon the Carolina Dog was on top of a wide ridge of exposed bedrock.\u00a0 Scattered, scrawny trees grew wherever the bedrock harbored a bit of soil.<\/p>\n

Oh, my gosh, Loop!\u00a0 This ridge is gorgeous, and the views are spectacular!\u00a0 We’ve got to find a place to pitch the tiny house up here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Look over there, SPHP!\u00a0 Isn’t that the top of Pingora Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,884 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> over by the Cirque of the Towers beyond Jackass Pass?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh yeah, you’re right, Looper.\u00a0 How awesome is that?\u00a0 We’re staying here!<\/em><\/p>\n

7-3-22, 3:32 PM<\/em> – A small, shallow patch of flat pine-needle covered soil was found that sufficed.\u00a0 Before long, SPHP had Lupe’s tiny house up.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Base camp at10,200+ ft<\/span><\/strong>. Haystack Mountain<\/strong> (L), East Temple Peak<\/strong> (L of Center), and Temple Peak<\/strong> behind trees (R). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Despite an easy day, a certain weariness had set in for both human and Dingo.\u00a0 The sky was clouding up again, too, the weather a bit unsettled, although there hadn’t been any more precipitation.\u00a0 Occasional brief gusts of wind shook the tiny house.<\/p>\n

Hate to say it, but I feel like a nap, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Me too, SPHP!\u00a0 Why don’t we take a snooze, and see what develops?\u00a0 If it’s nice out, we can emerge and do some exploring this evening.\u00a0 If not, we’re already as snug as a bug in a rug.<\/em><\/p>\n

Great minds think alike, Looper!<\/em><\/p>\n

7-3-22, 6:07 PM<\/em> – A long nap had done wonders, even for the weather.\u00a0 Lupe emerged from the tiny house to mostly blue skies and sunshine.\u00a0 An evening of joy and beauty was in store as Lupe and SPHP explored this fascinating region together.<\/p>\n

NW, War Bonnet Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,369 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Sundance Pinnacle<\/span><\/a> (11,054 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> dominated the W side of the North Creek valley.\u00a0 The distinctive, massive rounded spire of Pingora Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,884 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was visible in the distance.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Warbonnet Peak<\/strong> (Center), Pingora Peak<\/strong> (R) in the distance. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Sundance Pinnacle<\/strong> (L), Warbonnet Peak<\/strong> (Center), Pingora Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
War Bonnet Peak<\/strong> (L), part of Mitchell Peak<\/strong> (R), Pingora Peak<\/strong> (L of Center) beyond Jackass Pass<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The ridge of bedrock that Lupe’s tiny house was pitched on at 10,200+ feet extended S several hundred more feet.\u00a0 Venturing out that way, the Carolina Dog enjoyed superb views of Haystack Mountain<\/span><\/a> (11,978 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, East Temple Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,600 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>,\u00a0Temple Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,972 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, and Schiestler Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,640 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The 10,200+<\/span> foot ridge<\/strong> (R) serving as base camp. Schiestler Peak<\/strong> (L). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The grand panorama. Haystack Mountain<\/strong> (L), East Temple Peak<\/strong> (L of Center), Temple Peak<\/strong> (R of Center), Schiestler Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Haystack Mountain<\/strong> (L), East Temple Peak<\/strong> (Center), and Temple Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSE with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Temple Peak<\/strong> (L) and Schiestler Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S with even more help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
East Temple Peak<\/strong> (L), Temple Peak<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks SSE with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Fully zoomed in on East Temple Peak<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Back to the N was a tremendously encouraging view of Lupe’s two prime objectives, Dog Tooth Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,488 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Mitchell Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,482 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mitch Peak<\/strong> (L) and Dog Tooth Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mitchell Peak<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NNE with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The shallow valley shown on the topo map just E of this ridge was in sight too.\u00a0 Lying at the base of Dog Tooth Peak’s gigantic SW slope, the valley looked exquisitely beautiful.<\/p>\n

Look, SPHP, it’s Dog Tooth Paradise!\u00a0 Let’s go down there!<\/em><\/p>\n

Toward the N end of the valley, a pond was fed by a crystal clear stream.\u00a0 Below the pond, the stream flowed S over bedrock, or next to meadows full of tiny wildflowers.\u00a0 Upstream from the pond, Lupe discovered Dog Tooth Waterslide.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Setting off to explore Dog Tooth Paradise<\/strong>. Mitchell Peak<\/strong> (L), Dog Tooth Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Sundance Pinnacle<\/strong> (L) and War Bonnet Peak<\/strong> (R of Center) from Dog Tooth Paradise<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Down by the stream. Sundance Pinnacle<\/strong> (L), War Bonnet Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Dog Tooth Waterslide<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

While the sun sank slowly in the NW, Lupe roamed and sniffed her way around Dog Tooth Paradise to her heart’s content.\u00a0 She came to a place where an enormous slab of bedrock supported scattered pieces of Dog Tooth Peak that had broken off and come tumbling down the mountain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Temple Peak<\/strong> (L), Scheistler Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A sense of magic grew.\u00a0 Somehow, in an over-crowded world, this hidden valley only 10 minutes from the heavily trodden trail to Jackass Pass was an unknown gem, unvisited and unspoiled.<\/p>\n

You’re right, Loopster!\u00a0 This is Dog Tooth Paradise!\u00a0 How lucky we are to have found it!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Haystack Mountain<\/strong>, East Temple Peak<\/strong>, Temple Peak<\/strong> & Schiestler Peak<\/strong> from Dog Tooth Paradise<\/strong>, Wind River Range, Wyoming 7-3-22<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

Dog Tooth Peak & Mitchell Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 2: Dog Tooth Paradise to the Summits! (7-4-22)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

East Temple Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Big Sandy Opening to Clear Lake (7-18-20)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

East Temple Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 2: Deep Lake to the Summit (7-19-20)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Big Sandy to Jackass Pass & Cirque of the Towers, Wind River Range, WY (9-1-15)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Cirque of the Towers, Lonesome Lake, Skunk Knob & Jackass Pass, Wind River Range, WY (9-2-15)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/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 16-18 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Wyoming! 7-1-22, almost noon –\u00a0 July already!\u00a0 While SPHP moseyed about cleaning and organizing, Lupe had spent most of this beautiful morning relaxing on her pink blanket, displaying no sign of ambition. C’mon, Looper!\u00a0 We’ll be moving on soon.\u00a0 Last chance for a sniff … Continue reading Dog Tooth Peak & Mitchell Peak, Wind River Range, Wyoming – Part 1: Big Sandy Opening to Dog Tooth Paradise (7-3-22)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":43073,"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":[105,1606,106,1314,1605,1604,104,407,1313,385,275],"class_list":["post-43091","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1585","tag-american-dingo","tag-big-sandy-opening","tag-carolina-dog","tag-diamond-lake","tag-dog-tooth-paradise","tag-dog-tooth-peak","tag-lupe","tag-mitchell-peak","tag-v-lake","tag-wind-river-range","tag-wyoming"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5194-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\/43091","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=43091"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43091\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":46235,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43091\/revisions\/46235"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/43073"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=43091"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=43091"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=43091"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}