{"id":44893,"date":"2023-03-29T08:10:34","date_gmt":"2023-03-29T14:10:34","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=44893"},"modified":"2023-04-08T09:46:07","modified_gmt":"2023-04-08T15:46:07","slug":"birch-mountain-skagway-ranges-british-columbia-canada-part-1-across-atlin-lake-to-teresa-island-8-12-22","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=44893","title":{"rendered":"Birch Mountain, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada – Part 1: Across Atlin Lake to Teresa Island! (8-12-22)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Part 2 of Day 12, and Days 13 & 14 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-10-22, morning<\/em> – The 20 mile backwoods drive to pavement near the bridge over the Kispiox River took a while.\u00a0 SPHP stopped for fuel and supplies at old Hazelton, then again at a Subway in New Hazelton to buy a couple of Great Canadian footlongs before driving W on Yellowhead Highway No. 16.<\/p>\n

Sunny and warm.\u00a0 Not a cloud in the sky! \u00a0After Lupe’s titanic day getting to Kispiox Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,877 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, and a memorable, but unplanned night out on Moonlit Mountain<\/span><\/a> (5,951 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, the relaxing drive quickly made SPHP super drowsy.\u00a0 It didn’t take long at all to get to Seeley Lake<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Ugh!\u00a0 Can’t drive any farther, Looper.\u00a0 Going to stop here at the rest area.<\/em><\/p>\n

What?\u00a0 It’s not even close to noon yet, SPHP, and the AC feels good.<\/em><\/p>\n

I’ll put the windows down for you, Loop, but I’ve simply got to take a nap before I pass out.<\/em><\/p>\n

The Seeley Lake rest area was empty when SPHP parked the RAV4, but soon plenty of people and vehicles were coming and going.\u00a0 So what?\u00a0 Famished, SPHP devoured one of the footlongs, sharing some of it with Lupe, then chugged a bunch of orange juice.\u00a0 Had to move the RAV4 a few times during the next 2 or 3 hours to keep it in the shade, but other than that, SPHP was dead to the world.<\/p>\n

8-10-22, 1:15 PM, Seeley Lake<\/em> –<\/p>\n

About time, SPHP!\u00a0 How are you feeling?\u00a0 Can we keep going?\u00a0 It’s hot, and I’m roasting!<\/em><\/p>\n

Feeling much better, Loop!\u00a0 You slept, too.\u00a0 Don’t tell me you didn’t!<\/em><\/p>\n

Driving W again on Yellowhead Hwy No. 16 after leaving Seeley Lake, SPHP eventually turned N on Cassiar Highway No. 37.\u00a0 The rest of the day was spent cruising N on the Cassiar.<\/p>\n

Laying on her pink blanket, either looking out the window or snoozing as she pleased, Lupe rode in air-conditioned comfort as mile after scenic mile rolled by.\u00a0 The temperature hit a searing 87\u00baF and stayed there for hours, so brief stops were few and far between.<\/p>\n

8-10-22, 7:21 PM<\/em> – Drove a long way today!\u00a0 Very enjoyable, too, but this was far enough.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog stood on the N bank of the Stikine River, a favorite stop along the Cassiar, but this would be the first time she’d ever gotten to stay here overnight.<\/p>\n

The river was running low in August.\u00a0 A mostly forested mountain was on the other side.\u00a0 The top was was open, though.\u00a0 Looked pretty easy.\u00a0 Might be fun to climb it someday, but it wasn’t on Lupe’s list this year.\u00a0 Never hurts to dream, though!<\/p>\n

C’mon, Loop!\u00a0 Want to go look for squirrels?<\/em><\/p>\n

The American Dingo dashed off into the trees.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Evening along the Stikine River<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-11-22, 8:02 AM, Stikine River –<\/em> Morning began with a walk along the river, followed by a longer stroll on the old road leading to the property where they rent horses.\u00a0 Lupe found a squirrel to bark at, which made her happy, then it was back to Cassiar Highway No. 37.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Start of a new day down by the Stikine River<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

At Dease Lake, SPHP treated the RAV4 to 91 octane gasoline at a mere $2.119 CAN per liter.\u00a0 Might as well, regular wasn’t much less, and it wasn’t like you could shop around here.<\/p>\n

8-11-22, 10:58 AM, Cottonwood River<\/em> – The RAV4 purred like a kitten, but by the time Lupe reached the Cottonwood River, a chance to get out and stretch for a few minutes was sounding like a good idea.\u00a0 Turned out there were 2 rest areas here.\u00a0 The one with a sign was on the S side, but didn’t provide access to the river, which was down a steep bank.<\/p>\n

The unsigned N rest area, though, was awesome!\u00a0 Lupe could go right down to the confluence of the Cottonwood River and a beautiful large tributary joining in from the N.\u00a0 Immediately below the confluence was an enormous deep pool, which would have made a great swimming hole during yesterday’s heat wave, but it was considerably cooler out today.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By the Cottonwood River<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow, we ought to camp here, SPHP!\u00a0 This is gorgeous!<\/em><\/p>\n

Can’t today, Loop.\u00a0 We’ve got hundreds of miles to go yet, but I do agree.\u00a0 As far as a place to camp along the Cassiar Highway, this has got to be about the best spot we’ve ever seen.\u00a0 We’ll have to spend a night here sometime.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-11-22, 1:06 PM, British Columbia\/Yukon Territory border<\/em> – Had to stop here!\u00a0 Lupe stood by the big Yukon Larger Than Life sign.\u00a0 The sign had been brand new and unblemished back when the Carolina Dog reached it the very first time back in 2016.\u00a0 Now it was plastered with stickers, as it had been every year since.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Arriving at the Yukon Territory border<\/strong>! Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Yukon!\u00a0 I can’t believe we’re back, SPHP!\u00a0 Remember how happy we were the first time we got here?<\/em><\/p>\n

I’ll never forget it, Loop.\u00a0 I practically cried, I was so happy seeing you by this sign.<\/em><\/p>\n

After a short romp in the woods just to get the circulation going, it was back to the RAV4.\u00a0 The junction with the Alaska Highway was only 2 miles N.\u00a0 Time to turn W!<\/p>\n

8-11-22, 4:42 PM, Teslin Lake<\/em> – Gasoline prices were better in Teslin, only $1.899 CAN per liter, so SPHP filled the RAV4 this time.\u00a0 It was just a little farther to the rest area along Teslin Lake where Lupe and SPHP always stopped for a look at the Dawson Peaks.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Dawson Peaks<\/strong> (Center) from Teslin Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The huge lake was higher than Lupe had ever seen it before, but that wasn’t what SPHP was thinking about.\u00a0 During the afternoon drive W on the Alaska Highway, the sky had gradually clouded up.\u00a0 No blue sky at all now in any direction.\u00a0 Not good!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Teslin Lake<\/strong> beneath an overcast sky. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

At Teslin, SPHP had managed to get a weather forecast for Atlin.\u00a0 Decent day tomorrow, then 3 cloudy days in a row, followed by 4 days of rain.\u00a0 Hot and sunny like yesterday would have been ideal.\u00a0 The big question was, how cloudy would it get?\u00a0 A low ceiling would ruin everything.<\/p>\n

By the time Lupe reached Jake’s Corner, a leaden sky had SPHP full of doubt.\u00a0 Far to the S, a long sought objective, which was supposed to be one of the American Dingo’s grandest adventures of this entire Dingo Vacation, was now visible on the horizon.\u00a0 The sky was lighter there.<\/p>\n

7-26-22, home, Black Hills of South Dakota<\/em> –<\/p>\n

Find out anything yet, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

No, but I might have a lead, Loop!\u00a0 Remember when we met Peter Sidler, owner of Glacier View Cabins in Atlin back in 2019, when we were trying to find a way to get across Atlin Lake?\u00a0 Tried calling him to see if he’s got any motorboats to rent that we could reserve, but didn’t get an answer.\u00a0 However, just searching the internet, I found an interesting article dated 11-10-21 in Adventures NW magazine.\u00a0 It’s <\/em>called An Island in the Sky<\/strong><\/a><\/span>, written by Lawrence Millman.<\/em><\/p>\n

Is it about Teresa Island, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, it is, Loop!\u00a0 In fact, this article is about the only thing I can find that mentions anything at all about climbing Birch Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,765 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Millman talks about hiring an Austrian mountaineer-artist guide who has a motorboat.\u00a0 The guide took him to the NW side of Teresa Island.\u00a0 They went a long way up an avalanche chute to avoid “virtually impenetrable forests”, but Lawrence decided to turn back before reaching the summit.<\/em><\/p>\n

We could hire the same guide, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, that’s what I’m thinking, Loopster, if he isn’t too expensive.\u00a0 Bet it’s not cheap, though!\u00a0 And what’s this “we could hire” business?\u00a0 You aren’t chipping in!<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, yes I am!\u00a0 At least, in a way.\u00a0 Does the article say how to contact this guide, SPHP?\u00a0 You should call him!\u00a0 Here’s a suggestion that might save you big money.\u00a0 Don’t ask for guide service, just ask how much it costs for him to get us to Teresa Island and back.\u00a0 We’ll find our own way up Birch Mountain.<\/em><\/p>\n

Silly Dingo!\u00a0 That’s been the plan all along!\u00a0 \u00a0We just need a way to get to and from Teresa Island.\u00a0 Unfortunately, the article doesn’t give any contact information.\u00a0 However, it does say the guide’s name is Gernot Dick.\u00a0 Peter Sidler has been in Atlin for decades.\u00a0 If he doesn’t have any motorboats to rent, he’ll know how to find Gernot!<\/em><\/p>\n

In the evening, Edith Sidler, Peter’s wife, answered the phone when SPHP called Glacier View Cabins again.\u00a0 Peter was unavailable, but Edith knew the scoop.\u00a0 As in 2019, they had kayaks to rent, but no motorboats available.\u00a0 The news on Gernot Dick was disappointing, too.\u00a0 They knew Gernot, but he’d moved away, and wasn’t in Atlin anymore.<\/p>\n

Edith had a suggestion on who to call, though.\u00a0 Bobby Smallwood!\u00a0 She gave SPHP a phone number for him.\u00a0 If that didn’t work, SPHP should try hanging out at the Mountain Shack restaurant near the gas bar in Atlin.\u00a0 Someone there ought to have an idea on how to get to Teresa Island.<\/p>\n

Bobby Smallwood’s wife, Jodie, answered the number Edith provided.\u00a0 Bobby was unavailable, too, but Jodie answered SPHP’s questions.\u00a0 No, they didn’t have any motorboat rentals, but they did have a boat, and could provide water taxi services.\u00a0 $350 CAN per hour.\u00a0 Figure an hour total for both drop-off and pickup from the closest part of Teresa Island.<\/p>\n

7-28-22, home, Black Hills of South Dakota<\/em> –<\/p>\n

Just talked to Bobby Smallwood, Loopster!\u00a0 He confirmed that their water taxi service is $350 CAN per hour.\u00a0 Told him to expect us sometime within the next 2 or 3 weeks.\u00a0 An hour minimum for both drop-off and pickup, and potentially quite a bit more depending on where we want to start.<\/em><\/p>\n

So, we’ve got a way over to Teresa Island!\u00a0 That’s fantastic, SPHP!\u00a0 Did Mr. Smallwood know anything about the best way up Birch Mountain?<\/em><\/p>\n

He’s never been up there, Loop.\u00a0 Hardly anyone goes to Teresa Island with the intention of climbing Birch.\u00a0 Peter Sidler’s been up it at least twice, though.\u00a0 Remember how he told us that the best approach was along a rock slide on the SE part of the island?\u00a0 Bobby told me about a rock slide on the E side of Teresa Island at 12 mile point that might be a good place to start.\u00a0 Maybe that’s the same spot Peter recommended?\u00a0 Bobby also knew about the avalanche chutes on the Torres Channel side of the island.<\/em><\/p>\n

Torres Channel?\u00a0 What side of Teresa Island is that, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

NW side, Looper.\u00a0 No doubt one of those avalanche chutes is the same one that Gernot Dick took Lawrence Millman up.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-11-22, 6:00 PM, Alaska Highway at Jake’s Corner –<\/em> After pondering the gloomy gray sky for 15 minutes, SPHP reluctantly came to a decision.<\/p>\n

I don’t know, Loopster.\u00a0 Guess we’ve got to forget about Birch Mountain for the time being.\u00a0 Hate to, but I’m no good at timed events.\u00a0 Since we have no idea on what to expect if we do manage to get to Teresa Island, I’m not even going to attempt it unless we have at least 3 consecutive days of good weather in the forecast.\u00a0 I better call Bobby Smallwood, and tell him we’re not coming.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, SPHP!\u00a0 Are you sure?\u00a0 We’ve been wanting to climb Birch Mountain ever since we first went to Atlin in 2018.\u00a0 Remember how beautiful and mysterious Birch looked when we saw it from Monarch Mountain<\/strong><\/span><\/a> then?\u00a0 Birch Mountain is the 2nd most prominent lake island in the world, and it’s so close!\u00a0 We’ve got to climb it!\u00a0 We won’t get a million chances, you know!\u00a0 It’s been 3 years since the last time we were here.<\/em><\/p>\n

I’m sorry, Looper.\u00a0 I don’t want to pay a bunch of money to get to Teresa Island, only to find out that Birch Mountain is socked in with fog by the time we manage to get to the summit.\u00a0 We need a better forecast.\u00a0 Tell ya what, I’ll let Bobby Smallwood know we might swing by in September, weather permitting, on our way home.\u00a0 Who knows?\u00a0 We might get lucky.<\/em><\/p>\n

No cell service at Jake’s corner?\u00a0 Every attempt to call Bobby Smallwood on the new iPhone had dropped without even ringing once. Maybe SPHP was doing something wrong?\u00a0 The decent thing to do would be to drive down to Atlin, and let Bobby know Lupe wasn’t going to Teresa Island at this time, instead of flaking out and being a no show.\u00a0 Atlin was an hour S, though.<\/p>\n

8-11-22, 7:00 PM, a ridge off Hwy No. 7 – <\/em>The American Dingo stood at a favorite spot with a great view of Mount Minto<\/span><\/a> (6,913 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0and the N end of Atlin Lake.\u00a0 Still a long way S, both Birch Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,765 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Atlin Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,722 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were in sight, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (far L) and Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (L) beyond Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Mount Minto<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sky really is lighter down this way, Loop.\u00a0 Maybe I’m being too hasty?\u00a0 You’re right about having limited chances to ever climb Birch Mountain.<\/em><\/p>\n

Since we’re going to Atlin in the morning, anyway, SPHP, let’s decide what to do then.<\/em><\/p>\n

Shortly before sundown, sunlight was clearly visible on Birch Mountain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks S with lots of help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-12-22, 7:55 AM, Atlin<\/em> – For the first time in 3 years, Lupe stood down by the Tarahne<\/span><\/strong><\/a> along the E shore of Atlin Lake.\u00a0 Both Birch Mountain and Atlin Mountain were in sight right across the lake, and guess what?\u00a0 The sky was clear as a bell, a beautiful blue, with scarcely a cloud in sight!\u00a0 Even SPHP was excited!\u00a0 Maybe Birch Mountain was going to work out?<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By the Atlin welcome sign on the way into town.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
By the Tarahne<\/strong>. Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (Center) from Atlin<\/strong>, BC. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Bobby said there isn’t any cell phone service here in Atlin, Loop.\u00a0 I’m going to see if I can use a phone in the hotel to give him a call.\u00a0 You’ll have to wait in the RAV4 for a few minutes.<\/em><\/p>\n

Odd.\u00a0 Already 8:00 AM, and no one was at the front desk.\u00a0 The lights weren’t even on.\u00a0 SPHP hung around for 10 minutes.\u00a0 A guest came by wanting to check out, but still no staff to be seen.<\/p>\n

So, what did Mr. Smallwood say, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nothing.\u00a0 Haven’t spoken to him yet, Loop.\u00a0 Couldn’t use the phone in there.<\/em><\/p>\n

How are we going to find him then, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

I don’t know.\u00a0 Guess we’ll do like Edith Sidler said, and ask around for him at the Mountain Shack.<\/em><\/p>\n

The Mountain Shack was only a few blocks away.\u00a0 Lupe waited in the RAV4 again, while SPHP went in.\u00a0 6 or 7 men were sitting at a long table having breakfast, the only customers in the restaurant.<\/p>\n

Pardon me, but would any of you gentlemen happen to know where I might be able to find Bobby Smallwood?<\/em><\/p>\n

Everyone roared with laughter, like this was some huge joke.<\/p>\n

We were just talking about Bobby!\u00a0 He’s got a big shop with a red roof, and a house out Surprise Lake Road across from the airport.\u00a0 It’s not far, 3 km.\u00a0 You’ll find him.<\/em><\/p>\n

Bobby Smallwood was at home, working on machinery in his front yard.\u00a0 Yup, still $350 CAN per hour for water taxi service.\u00a0 Closest part of Teresa Island near the N end would be about $350.\u00a0 $700 to get to 12 Mile Point, or $850 to the SE rock slide Peter Sidler had recommended 3 years ago.\u00a0 SPHP didn’t even ask about the Torres Channel avalanche chutes.<\/p>\n

If you’re not sure what you want to do, you can take a drive S down to Warm Bay, and have a look at the E side of Teresa Island from there.<\/em><\/p>\n

I might do that.\u00a0 Thanks, Mr. Smallwood!<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP parked the RAV4 at the Atlin airport.\u00a0 The American Dingo went into her usual barking frenzy as a helicopter landed.\u00a0 The pilot leapt out, and began unloading big gray plastic boxes full of fresh-caught salmon.\u00a0 Two men ran over to stack the boxes on a pallet carried by a forklift.\u00a0 The helicopter took off again as soon as the last box was unloaded.<\/p>\n

Well, shoot!\u00a0 Hoped to get a chance to talk to the pilot, Loop!<\/em><\/p>\n

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

Wanted to check what it would cost to fly to Birch Mountain.<\/em><\/p>\n

Me in a helicopter, SPHP?\u00a0 Are you serious?<\/em><\/p>\n

That would be quite the adventure, wouldn’t it, Looper?\u00a0 Anyway, doesn’t hurt to ask.\u00a0 Looks like they’re mighty busy, though.\u00a0 Might as well take a drive down to Warm Bay.<\/em><\/p>\n

Driving S on Warm Bay Road, SPHP kept peering into the forest on both sides.\u00a0 Everyone, even Lawrence Millwood’s article, seemed to be under the impression that the forests on Teresa Island were impassable, which must be why the recommended routes were always avalanche chutes, rock slides, and such.<\/p>\n

The forests over here were thick, but didn’t look impassable.\u00a0 Might be an entirely different situation on seldom visited Teresa Island, though.<\/p>\n

8-12-22, 10:07 AM, Warm Bay<\/em> – After getting a drink, Lupe stood along the shore of Atlin Lake, a few slowly drowning bushes beyond her.\u00a0 The whole NE side of Teresa Island was in sight, but the even longer SE end wasn’t.\u00a0 Should have been able to identify 12 Mile Point from here, but it didn’t really stand out.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> on Teresa Island<\/strong> from Warm Bay<\/strong>, Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So, what do you think, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, I don’t know, Looper.\u00a0 Ought to have binoculars!\u00a0 Teresa Island does look somewhat rockier down this way, but I don’t see any big rock slide we could go up like I was expecting.\u00a0 The E side of the island is steeper than the N side, too.\u00a0 To tell the truth, I’m really not seeing anything that makes me want to pay twice as much to start out from 12 Mile Point.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, it sure is a beautiful day, SPHP!\u00a0 Have you decided yet if we’re even going to Teresa Island?\u00a0 Did Bobby Smallwood have an updated weather forecast?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, he did.\u00a0 Practically identical to yesterday’s.\u00a0 Clear today, followed by 3 cloudy days before it starts raining.\u00a0 No guarantees on conditions at the summit, of course, but Bobby didn’t think we’d have a problem.<\/em><\/p>\n

Are we really going then, SPHP, or not?<\/em><\/p>\n

Such a perfect day today, that I’m leaning toward it, Looper.\u00a0 If tomorrow was going to be this clear, we’d be going for sure.\u00a0 Let’s head back to Atlin.\u00a0 We’ll make another attempt to check on helicopter prices, then we’ll have all the data.<\/em><\/p>\n

Alright, but you’re just procrastinating, SPHP!\u00a0 Time’s a-wasting!<\/em><\/p>\n

Back in Atlin, SPHP stopped by Discovery Helicopters.\u00a0 Matt, the owner, lived in a house practically right next to the helipad.<\/p>\n

Birch Mountain?\u00a0 Yes, we can take you and your dog.\u00a0 The boat is going to be a lot cheaper, though.<\/em><\/p>\n

Matt quoted prices anywhere from $1,500 to $1,900 CAN.\u00a0 That included both drop-off and pickup with as much or little time in between as SPHP wanted.\u00a0 Cheaper to get dropped off high on the mountain, because that saved fuel.\u00a0 Price could be split with other passengers, if anyone else was going.\u00a0 Matt’s smaller copter, which would cost a little less, was out all day on a job, but would be available tomorrow.<\/p>\n

SPHP hesitated.\u00a0 A pretty penny to be sure, but Lupe could be on Birch today in excellent weather instead of taking a chance on tomorrow, and whether or not it was really possible to force a way thousands of feet up the mountain through trackless primeval forest.<\/p>\n

You know, you could climb Sentinel Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Go anytime you like for free, and not have to depend on anyone else.\u00a0 Sentinel’s also has a terrific view of Atlin Lake and the Llewellyn Glacier, too.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I know, Matt.\u00a0 Appreciate the suggestion.\u00a0 Brought maps of Sentinel, but it isn’t Birch, second most prominent lake island peak in the world.<\/em><\/p>\n

Matt smiled.\u00a0 He knew.<\/p>\n

Tell you what.\u00a0 I’ve got another flight this morning, and have to get going.\u00a0 Should be back by 1:00 PM.\u00a0 Think about it.\u00a0 If you decide you want me to take you, come around anytime after that, and we’ll get you over there.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP tried checking on the helicopter company at the airport one more time.\u00a0 Same thing as before.\u00a0 The copter soon came in again and landed, but took off immediately after being unloaded.<\/p>\n

They’re too busy here, SPHP.\u00a0 You’re never going to get to talk to them.\u00a0 Price will be about the same, anyway.\u00a0 Decision time!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-12-22, 11:00 AM, Surprise Lake Road E of Atlin<\/em> – Bobby Smallwood was at his shop now.\u00a0 SPHP showed him a topo map<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Bobby, see this little island on the E side of Teresa Island about even with the N end of Birch Mountain?\u00a0 Is there somewhere around that area where you could drop us off?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure can!\u00a0 That’s Sandy Beach.\u00a0 Dropping you off there will be easy, but that’s several kilometers S of the closest part of the island.\u00a0 We’ll have to charge you a little more than an hour’s worth of time.\u00a0 You OK with that?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, that’s fine.\u00a0 We don’t want to have to push through any more forest than we have to.<\/em><\/p>\n

Great!\u00a0 Are you ready to go?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not quite.\u00a0 Give us 30 or 40 minutes, and we will be.\u00a0 Where should we meet you, and where can I park the RAV4?<\/em><\/p>\n

I’ve got some rental cabins down by the marina just S of the hotel.\u00a0 You can park anywhere near the docks there.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-12-22, 11:54 AM, Atlin Lake –<\/em> Lupe was excited!\u00a0 After years of waiting for this moment, the Carolina Dog was aboard Bobby Smallwood’s boat, speeding across the waves straight for Teresa Island!\u00a0 Unbelievable!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
En route to Teresa Island with Captain Smallwood at the helm!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wouldn’t take long to get there.\u00a0 15 or 20 minutes?\u00a0 Something like that.\u00a0 Almost yelling over the roar of the engine, SPHP outlined the plan.\u00a0 Pick up was to be at the same spot 2 days from now, an hour before sunset.\u00a0 A discussion about contingencies in case something went wrong ensued.\u00a0 Mr. Smallwood had no qualms about any of what SPHP proposed.<\/p>\n

8-12-22, 12:07 PM, Teresa Island –<\/em> Couldn’t have picked a better spot to land!\u00a0 While most of Teresa Island was heavily forested right down to the water’s edge, Sandy Beach really was sandy.\u00a0 However, as Bobby throttled down, and the boat drifted in towards shore, SPHP could see a deep, slimy lagoon 15 feet beyond the beach.\u00a0 Complaining to Bobby, he was unperturbed, merely steering off toward a slightly different spot where the bow slid into the sand.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Arriving at Sandy Beach<\/strong> on Teresa Island<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe with Bobby Smallwood<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe and SPHP leapt down onto the sand.\u00a0 A moment later, Bobby fired up the engine, and was off.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Bobby heads back to Atlin. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Oh, my gosh, SPHP!\u00a0 We’re actually here!\u00a0 Alone on Teresa Island!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup!\u00a0 Incredible, isn’t it?\u00a0 We’ve really gone and done it this time, haven’t we, Loopster?\u00a0 This might be our greatest adventure ever!\u00a0 Let’s see if we can find a way around this lagoon.\u00a0 It’s still here, too!<\/em><\/p>\n

Sandy Beach was easily several hundred feet long.\u00a0 Turning SE, Lupe sniffed her way along the edge of Atlin Lake toward the point near the island.\u00a0 Thankfully, the icky lagoon didn’t extend that far.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Sandy Beach<\/strong>. Photo looks SE toward the island just off shore.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was a gorgeous day, sunny and warm!\u00a0 So happy to be here!\u00a0 SPHP felt great about the decision.\u00a0 Near the point by the island, Loopster found a stone campfire ring with a couple of rusty, old metal grates propped up against a tree next to it.\u00a0 Even more surprising was a sign indicating the presence of an outhouse.\u00a0 An arrow pointed into the forest.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Outhouse sign at Sandy Beach.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

There’s a path!\u00a0 Let’s check it out, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

OK, Loop, but give me a moment.\u00a0 I want to have a look at the Peakbagger app on the iPhone to get our bearings before we leave.\u00a0 Might help us find this spot on the way back in a couple of days.<\/em><\/p>\n

The app said Birch Mountain’s summit was 4.5 miles SW.\u00a0 SPHP made a note of it.<\/p>\n

Can’t you just start a GPS track, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

I could, if I knew how, Loop, but I don’t yet.\u00a0 No worries.\u00a0 This will do.<\/em><\/p>\n

The path went more than 100 feet into the forest before dead-ending at a big green, open-air potty.\u00a0 It was in great condition.\u00a0 Looked like new.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The green throne.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I’m guessing privacy isn’t a big concern here on Teresa Island, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

You humans are funny about that, SPHP, but I think you’re right.\u00a0 Bet we own the whole island right now!\u00a0 It’s our own private empire!<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe.\u00a0 Who knows what’s out here, Loopster?\u00a0 Anyway, our long-sought moment of truth has arrived.\u00a0 Time to find out if this forest is really, truly impassable, and I’ve just blown $400 CAN for nothing, or not.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Beyond the green potty, the forest looked like no one had ever been here before.\u00a0 It was dense, but not impassable here at the start.\u00a0 The deadfall wasn’t all that bad, but branches were everywhere.\u00a0 Lupe could sneak through with relative ease, but SPHP’s progress was very slow.\u00a0 The air was still, the forest completely silent except for the constant snapping of branches as SPHP pushed on through.<\/p>\n

At first, the ground was nearly flat, but Loopster soon began gradually gaining elevation.\u00a0 The idea was to head W or WNW for a couple of km over to where the Carolina Dog could turn S up Birch Mountain’s N slope.\u00a0 From a distance, that route had always appeared to be easiest.\u00a0 If Lupe could get above treeline, SPHP believed success was just about guaranteed, since the upper regions of the mountain were barren and not as steep.<\/p>\n

SPHP thrashed through the forest taking the path of least resistance.\u00a0 The forest floor became a soft, spongy carpet of thick, green moss.\u00a0 A variety of mushrooms, some of them enormous, sprang forth from it.\u00a0 No views at all.\u00a0 Nothing could be seen except the immediate vicinity.<\/p>\n

The first sign that anyone, or anything, had ever been here came half an hour after leaving Sandy Beach.<\/p>\n

Look, SPHP!\u00a0 A trail!<\/em><\/p>\n

The seldom used trail was clear enough to follow NW as it slowly gained elevation.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Loopster on the trail. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
One of the big mushrooms.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Unfortunately, the trail soon curved N, the wrong direction.\u00a0 Lupe stuck with it a little farther, but when the trail began to lose elevation, she abandoned it to resume her explorations W.<\/p>\n

45 minutes after leaving the trail, the American Dingo reached a clearing full of thick vegetation.\u00a0 This turned out to be a boggy region, but since it wasn’t all that wet, and SPHP could avoid the relatively few holes full of water, traveling through the bog was easier than staying in the forest.<\/p>\n

For the first time, Lupe now had a view of a rounded barren high point at the N end of Birch Mountain.\u00a0 It was literally thousands of feet higher.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Upper N end of Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L of Center) from the bog. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Holy smokers, Loop!\u00a0 We’ve been gaining a little more elevation lately, but it looks like we’ve hardly made any progress at all!<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, what did you expect, SPHP, a walk in the park?\u00a0 Hasn’t been that long since we left Sandy Beach, and rumor has it that Birch Mountain is the 2nd most prominent lake island peak in the world.\u00a0 In fact, you’re the one who has been spreading it!\u00a0 Keep going!<\/em><\/p>\n

The bog was more extensive than it first appeared.\u00a0 Lupe eventually crossed two streams so small that SPHP could simply step over them.\u00a0 When the bog finally ended, it was back into the forest.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Traveling through the bog. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was warm and muggy.\u00a0 The rate of climb was increasing.\u00a0 Lupe started playing her stalking game, hanging back until SPHP was completely out of sight before following.\u00a0 A little nerve wracking in such a wild place, but SPHP was making a lot of noise, and she always appeared quickly when called.<\/p>\n

8-12-22, 2:09 PM, in the forest on Teresa Island<\/em> –<\/p>\n

Loop, come!\u00a0 Let’s take a break here!<\/em><\/p>\n

As SPHP stripped down to a T-shirt, slinking stealthily through the forest, Lupe reappeared and laid down.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taking it easy at the first rest break spot.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hungry, Looper?<\/em><\/p>\n

No, not yet.\u00a0 I’m hot, like you.\u00a0 Must be nice to have removable fur!<\/em><\/p>\n

It is!\u00a0 Don’t know how you manage with the same outfit no matter whether it’s hot, cold, or in-between.\u00a0 How about some water?<\/em><\/p>\n

I don’t have much choice, SPHP, and yes to the water thing.<\/em><\/p>\n

Should cool off some as we gain elevation, and it gets later in the day, Loop.\u00a0 Wish you’d stay in sight.\u00a0 Your stalking game is kind of dangerous in a place like this.\u00a0 Remember the lynx at Donjek Crossing Mountain<\/span><\/a><\/strong>?\u00a0 You might have been a goner within seconds, if you hadn’t come back when you did.<\/em><\/p>\n

We haven’t even seen a squirrel yet, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, well, we hadn’t seen a lynx until we did, either.\u00a0 Anyway, I’m greatly encouraged!\u00a0 This forest isn’t impassable.\u00a0 We’re making progress.\u00a0 Slow, but I feel certain we’re going to make it, don’t you?<\/em><\/p>\n

If I don’t have a heat stroke, I will.\u00a0 Really no harder than plenty of other places we’ve been.<\/em><\/p>\n

Continuing on, it was nearly impossible to tell how much farther W Lupe needed to go before turning S.\u00a0 The terrain was getting quite noticeably steeper, and it seemed like she still wasn’t far enough W yet.\u00a0 Progress was improving, though.\u00a0 The trees were farther apart now, creating open lanes where SPHP didn’t have to be constantly battling branches.<\/p>\n

Loopster kept hanging back playing her stalking game.\u00a0 SPHP frequently paused to make certain she never stayed out of sight long.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
In the more open forest. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-12-22, 3:29 PM, Teresa Island, 2nd rest break in the forest<\/em> –<\/p>\n

So, what does your Peakbagger app say now, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Says it’s a good thing we’ve got lots of time.\u00a0 We’ve been on Teresa Island for more than 3 hours, Loop, and Birch Mountain’s summit is still 3.6 miles SSW.<\/em><\/p>\n

We aren’t even a mile closer yet?\u00a0 We’ve must have gone farther than that, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, no doubt, Looper, but not directly toward the summit.<\/em><\/p>\n

Shortly after the second rest break, the mountain became much steeper.\u00a0 SPHP tried to lead Lupe farther W, but the terrain often seemed to be forcing her SSW instead.\u00a0 At least, that was directly toward the summit.\u00a0 Better not get too steep, though!<\/p>\n

After gaining quite a bit of elevation, Lupe came to a second trail.\u00a0 She didn’t follow it very far, since it was just a level path that really wasn’t any help getting up the mountain.\u00a0 Climbing SW, small rock formations began to appear.\u00a0 Dense stands of young trees formed almost impossible barriers, forcing sideways traverses W.\u00a0 Even Lupe was having trouble.\u00a0 SPHP had to boost the American Dingo up some ledges, and often had to cling to trees.<\/p>\n

However, none of it was actually impassable or scary steep, and small clearings were now appearing, along with distant views.\u00a0 Atlin Lake was in sight, and way off toward the N end, Mount Minto<\/span><\/a> (6,913 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Mount Hitchcock<\/span><\/a> (5,886 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were, too!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At a steep clearing with a few rocks. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Minto<\/strong> (L) and Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (L of Center) on the horizon. N end of Teresa Island<\/strong> and Atlin Lake<\/strong> in the foreground. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The stalking game was over!\u00a0 Suddenly energized by the challenge, the Carolina Dog kept right up with SPHP, climbing aggressively.<\/p>\n

8-12-22, 5:33 PM, Birch Mountain’s N slope<\/em> – Sheesh!\u00a0 Still 3.2 miles SSW to the summit.\u00a0 Lupe had only made 0.4 mile in the last 2 hours!\u00a0 The news was otherwise excellent, though.<\/p>\n

The Carolina Dog was near treeline now, with only scattered stands of conifers still above, otherwise just open slopes of grass and low tundra vegetation.\u00a0 Big rock slides and a long snowbank were a short distance W.\u00a0 The view of Atlin Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,722 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Atlin Lake back to the N was spectacular!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Near treeline on Birch Mountain’s N slope<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking N. Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (L), Mount Minto<\/strong> (Center), Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (R of Center).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Unopposed by anything other than gravity now, progress was much more rapid.\u00a0 Clearly enjoying roaming the open territory, Loopster led the way, while SPHP huffed and puffed.\u00a0 A final tree appeared, a small, brown, dead evergreen still a couple hundred feet higher.\u00a0 Getting to it, another small tree was higher yet and even farther ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Above treeline on Birch Mountain’s N slope<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading for yet another “last” small tree<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Rinse and repeat!\u00a0 Lupe was always climbing toward an apparent high point, only to find another long upward trudge ahead upon reaching it, but the rate of climb was diminishing.\u00a0 More tundra appeared.\u00a0 Couldn’t be too much farther to a top!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Still climbing, on more tundra and fewer rocks now. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> from the N end of Birch Mountain<\/strong>. Torres Channel<\/strong> of Atlin Lake<\/strong> (Center and R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Oh, yeah?\u00a0 It was still farther than it looked, but the climb was getting easier and easier as the grade steadily diminished.\u00a0 Lupe finally reached a plateau strewn with football-sized rocks among low tundra.\u00a0 A glorious sight was ahead.<\/p>\n

SPHP, look!\u00a0 There it is!\u00a0 Birch Mountain’s summit!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Can’t be much farther! Onward! Puppy ho!<\/em> Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On the 5,200+ foot plateau<\/strong>. Birch Mountain summit<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-12-22, 6:57 PM, 5,200+ foot plateau at the N end of Birch Mountain –\u00a0 <\/em>SPHP dumped the heavy pack.\u00a0 Ugh!\u00a0 Much better!<\/p>\n

We made it, Loop!\u00a0 How awesome is this?\u00a0 Too bad it’s so rocky, or we’d camp right here.\u00a0 Let’s take a break, and have a look at these fantabulous views!<\/em><\/p>\n

From the N end of Birch Mountain, Atlin Lake stretching away to the N with Atlin Mountain to the NW, and Mount Minto and Mount Hitchcock on opposite sides near the far end of the lake were the most impressive sights, but the grand panorama included many beautiful peaks in other directions, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Lake<\/strong> from the 5,200+ foot plateau<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Minto<\/strong> (L) and Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (L of Center) near the far end on opposite sides of Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks N with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on Mount Minto<\/strong> (L) and Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Monarch Mountain<\/span><\/a> (4,728 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, which Lupe had climbed in 2018, was in view to the NE, and the town of Atlin was visible a few miles farther N along the E shore.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin<\/strong> (far L) along the opposite shore of Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Monarch Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) just beyond Five Mile Bay<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Atlin<\/strong> (L of Center) along Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Airport<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NNE with lots of help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Birch Mountain was huge!\u00a0 This 5,200+ foot plateau Lupe had reached at the N end, was just the start.\u00a0 The summit was still 2.6 miles SSW beyond a deep valley.\u00a0 Directly S, a vast region of easy terrain gradually rose 900 feet toward a hill at the W end of a long ridge coming up from the E.\u00a0 An enormous snowbank ran along the N side of the ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Looking SSE from the 5,200+ foot plateau<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-12-22, 7:24 PM, 5,200+ foot plateau at the N end of Birch Mountain –<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, Loop, had enough of a break?\u00a0 Are you ready to move on?\u00a0 We might as well go as far as we can before pitching your tiny house.<\/em><\/p>\n

I suppose we better, SPHP.\u00a0 Looks like there are some grassy regions on the way to that next big hill.\u00a0 Maybe we can pitch it somewhere over there?<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading SSW, straight for the true summit, Lupe crossed the rest of the 5,200+ foot plateau.\u00a0 A gradual descent of 100 feet got her to a snowbank in a shallow ravine draining toward the E that cut across the mountain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading toward the summit<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Cooling off on the delightful snowbank. Photo looks. WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From the ravine, it was all uphill.\u00a0 The terrain was easy, but exhaustion was taking a toll.\u00a0 Lupe pressed on, going up a series of grassy benches until they were about to end, and give way to rockier terrain.<\/p>\n

8-12-22, 8:20 PM, Birch Mountain, 2.2 miles NNE of the summit<\/em> – What a day!\u00a0 1.5 hours before sunset, SPHP pitched Lupe’s tiny house in a grassy nook sheltered by a 6 foot high escarpment topped by low bushes.\u00a0 The air was calm and comfortably cool.\u00a0 Clouds of gnats and a few pesky mosquitoes danced in the evening sun.<\/p>\n

Look at that magnificent view, Loop!\u00a0 Still hard to believe we’re actually here on Teresa Island after dreaming of this for years, but proof is all around us!\u00a0 Not a cloud in the sky, either, and we’re in great position.\u00a0 If this weather will hold overnight, we’ll make it to the summit!<\/em><\/p>\n

How high do you think we are here, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Around 5,300 feet, Loop, maybe a little more.<\/em><\/p>\n

The views are splendid, SPHP, but I’m tired and hungry.\u00a0 Can we rest now?<\/em><\/p>\n

Absolutely, sweet puppy!\u00a0 Super big day tomorrow!\u00a0 We better be ready!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Base camp<\/strong>, Birch Mountain<\/strong> on Teresa Island<\/strong>, British Columbia, Canada 8-12-22<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Links & Contact Information:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Next Adventure<\/span><\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Prior Adventure<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Birch Mountain on Teresa Island, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada – Part 2: Base Camp to the Summit! (8-13-22)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Bobby Smallwood<\/span> (water taxi) – Phone: (250) 651-2488<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Discovery Helicopters<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Glacier View Cabins<\/a> (Peter & Edith Sidler owners)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Want more Lupe adventures?\u00a0\u00a0Choose from Lupe’s Summer of 2022 Dingo<\/span> Vacations to Wyoming, Canada & Alaska Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/em>, 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":"

Part 2 of Day 12, and Days 13 & 14 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 8-10-22, morning – The 20 mile backwoods drive to pavement near the bridge over the Kispiox River took a while.\u00a0 SPHP stopped for fuel and supplies at old Hazelton, then again at a … Continue reading Birch Mountain, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada – Part 1: Across Atlin Lake to Teresa Island! (8-12-22)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":44836,"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":[105,1073,1216,1620,79,30,106,26,104,1619],"class_list":["post-44893","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1585","tag-american-dingo","tag-atlin-lake","tag-birch-mountain","tag-bobby-smallwood","tag-british-columbia","tag-canada","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-lupe","tag-teresa-island"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/IMG_5844-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\/44893","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=44893"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44893\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":46814,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44893\/revisions\/46814"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/44836"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=44893"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=44893"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=44893"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}