{"id":45159,"date":"2023-04-03T08:10:09","date_gmt":"2023-04-03T14:10:09","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=45159"},"modified":"2023-04-08T09:47:53","modified_gmt":"2023-04-08T15:47:53","slug":"birch-mountain-on-teresa-island-skagway-ranges-british-columbia-canada-part-2-base-camp-to-the-summit-8-13-22","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=45159","title":{"rendered":"Birch Mountain on Teresa Island, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada – Part 2: Base Camp to the Summit! (8-13-22)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 15 & 16 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-13-22, after midnight, 5,300 foot base camp on Teresa Island –<\/em> The light of a waning, still nearly full moon was shining on the back side of the tiny house.\u00a0 Looking out front, the sky was light to the N as well, the sun stealthily slinking around to the E not too far below the horizon.\u00a0 A few distant red lights were blinking a bit N of where Atlin had to be, but the little town itself wasn’t in sight.<\/p>\n

Only the brightest stars were visible in the moonlit sky.\u00a0 Polaris and the Big Dipper stood out.\u00a0 Comfortably mild, the air was dead calm.\u00a0 The tiny house didn’t flap at all.\u00a0 Inside, Lupe was zonked.<\/p>\n

Not SPHP!\u00a0 Stirred by this incredible scene, the awesome feeling of being so high and alone on Teresa Island, and the American Dingo’s fabulous prospects for actually getting to the summit of Birch Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,765 feet)<\/span><\/strong> today, SPHP couldn’t get back to sleep.<\/p>\n

That was a problem.\u00a0 With cloudiness in the forecast, SPHP resolved to get up as soon as the sun did.\u00a0 Better minimize any chance Lupe would arrive at the summit too late, only to find the certain to be spectacular views lost in fog.\u00a0 Yet laying there thinking for hours, this worry seemed overblown.\u00a0 So far, not a cloud was to be seen in the beautiful night sky.<\/p>\n

8-13-22, 7:53 AM, 5,300 foot base camp on Teresa Island –<\/em> Suddenly, the sun was well above the horizon!\u00a0 A bit of a breeze stirred the air, and clouds were now visible in the distance, mostly to the S and E.<\/p>\n

Loop, wake up!<\/em><\/p>\n

Huh?\u00a0 What’s wrong, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

I overslept!\u00a0 We’ve got to get going!\u00a0 Here, have some Taste of the Wild while I get the pack ready.<\/em><\/p>\n

A gorgeous morning!\u00a0 Conditions weren’t threatening at all, but SPHP hurried, anyway, unhappy at having slept in.\u00a0 Just dumb!<\/p>\n

Emerging from the tiny house, about ready to take off, there was that stunning view of Atlin Lake to the N, with Mount Minto<\/span><\/a> (6,913 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Mount Hitchcock<\/span><\/a> (5,886 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> standing as sentinels near the far end, and Atlin Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,722 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> much closer to the NW.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (L). Mount Minto<\/strong> (Center) and Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (R of Center) in the distance. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Oh, SPHP!\u00a0 It isn’t a dream, we’re really here, way up on Teresa Island!\u00a0 This is going to be one of our most wonderful days ever!<\/em><\/p>\n

Believe you’re right, Loopster!\u00a0 Let’s make sure of it.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Turning S, Lupe scrambled up the 6 foot high escarpment sheltering the tiny house to the gently sloping plain covered with low bushes above.\u00a0 Birch Mountain’s true summit 2.2 miles SSW wasn’t in sight yet.\u00a0 To get there, the Carolina Dog was going to have to circle around the S end of the deep valley to the W.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Setting off for Birch Mountain’s true summit! Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Wildflowers near base camp. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Keep going S, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 We’ve got to go over HP6129<\/span><\/strong>, that big hill we saw yesterday, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

HP6129<\/span><\/strong> was a mile away, maybe more, and wasn’t in sight yet, either.\u00a0 This jaunt was uphill all the way, of course, but at an easy to moderate pace.\u00a0 Roaming the vast, gentle slope, Lupe was soon past the greenest regions of low bushes and wildflowers, and into rockier terrain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading up the rocky slope. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Progress was excellent on this open ground.\u00a0 Both HP6129<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0and the top of Birch Mountain soon came into view.\u00a0 SPHP was surprised to see 2 tall, dark pylons up on HP6129<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
HP6129<\/span><\/strong> (L), Birch Mountain summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Keep going S, Loop, but angle off toward the W a bit, too.<\/em><\/p>\n

You mean over to the edge of the big valley, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup!\u00a0 Let’s get a look at Birch Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,765 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> from there.<\/em><\/p>\n

Reaching the edge of the canyon, Birch Mountain was fully on display.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (Center). HP6621<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow!\u00a0 Isn’t Birch Mountain beautiful, SPHP?\u00a0 An easy climb, too!<\/em><\/p>\n

Absolutely stunning, Loop!\u00a0 Never thought we’d see this!\u00a0 Shouldn’t have any trouble getting over there, either.\u00a0 We did the hard part yesterday.<\/em><\/p>\n

Clouds were now spreading across the sky, but they were thin and high.\u00a0 Everything was fine.\u00a0 The only worrisome sign was a little puff of fog hanging over HP6621<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0less than a km SE of Birch Mountain’s summit.<\/p>\n

We better keep going, Loop!<\/em><\/p>\n

The last part of the trek up to HP6129<\/span><\/strong> was steeper and rockier.\u00a0 Not at all difficult, though.\u00a0 Lupe spotted a ptarmigan among the rocks.\u00a0 Reaching HP6129<\/span><\/strong>, the American Dingo found herself on a flat, open plain of sparse vegetation and modest-sized rocks.<\/p>\n

The dark green pylons were just off to the E now, but with a line of little puffs of gray forming between HP6621<\/span><\/strong> and Birch Mountain’s summit, SPHP thought it unwise to spend any time checking them out.\u00a0 Ignoring the pylons, Lupe continued S across the plateau.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The ptarmigan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Near the pylons on HP6129<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Crossing the HP6129<\/span> plateau<\/strong>. HP6621<\/span><\/strong> (Center), Birch Mountain summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From the S edge of the HP6129<\/span><\/strong> plateau, Lupe began a gradual descent SSW toward the saddle leading to HP6621<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 A long line of of rocky hills sporting snowfields was now in sight extending SE from HP6621<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for HP6621<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The line of rocky hills SE of HP6621<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow, look at how much territory there is to explore, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

We’ve seen it from afar many times, Loopster.\u00a0 Birch Mountain is huge, and Teresa Island is even larger.\u00a0 No telling how many days we could spend exploring the whole thing, if we had a way to resupply.<\/em><\/p>\n

That would be a blast, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure would, Looper!\u00a0 Let’s concentrate on our objective, though.\u00a0 These clouds are starting to worry me.<\/em><\/p>\n

The string of clouds between HP6621<\/span><\/strong> and Birch Mountain’s summit was becoming more persistent.\u00a0 Now and then, it all sailed off to the NE, and both peaks were in sunshine.\u00a0 Yet the clouds kept reforming, as though the mountain itself was remanufacturing them.<\/p>\n

Speed might be important!\u00a0 Happily, this was super easy terrain all the way down to the low point of the saddle leading to HP6621<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Traveling along the edge of the enormous canyon NE of Birch Mountain’s summit, Lupe paused occasionally to take in the incredible views.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Along the edge of the canyon at the saddle leading to HP6621<\/span><\/strong> (L). Birch Mountain summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Clouds sweeping over HP6621<\/span><\/strong>. Birch Mountain summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The canyon view. Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (L). Torres Channel of Atlin Lake<\/strong> (Center) with Mount Minto<\/strong> beyond. Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (R) in the distance. W edge of HP6129<\/span><\/strong> (far R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The top of HP6621<\/span><\/strong> was at least temporarily in sight, as Lupe started for it.\u00a0 The ground was rockier now, and became increasingly so.\u00a0 Except for the black lichens of the far N, vegetation vanished completely during the scramble up to HP6621<\/span><\/strong>‘s N ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for HP6621<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Scrambling up to HP6621<\/span>‘s N ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once up on the ridgeline, unexpected patches of dirt and tundra formed a lane leading higher.\u00a0 As Lupe approached the top of HP6621<\/span><\/strong>, the sky cleared to a brilliant blue.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On HP6621<\/span>‘s N ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-13-22, 9:55 AM<\/em> – Unprotected up here from a chilly 20 mph SW wind, moments later, Lupe reached HP6621<\/span><\/strong> in a dense fog.\u00a0 Couldn’t see a darn thing except the ground at her paws!\u00a0 Expecting it to clear again almost instantly, a 5 minute wait produced no change.\u00a0 SPHP was dismayed!<\/p>\n

Oh, my gosh, Lupe!\u00a0 We’re 2 minutes too late?\u00a0 Criminy!\u00a0 We should have been here hours ago.\u00a0 How could I have slept in like that, knowing it was supposed to cloud up today?<\/em><\/p>\n

So, why did you sleep in, SPHP?\u00a0 The plan was to get up at first light!<\/em><\/p>\n

I was so excited about Birch Mountain, I was awake half the night, Loop.\u00a0 Then like an idiot, I pass out at the end!\u00a0 Next thing I know, it’s 8:00 AM, and you’re still dead to the world!<\/em><\/p>\n

I was just getting my beauty rest, SPHP!\u00a0 Besides, it was a long way up to base camp yesterday.\u00a0 I was tired.\u00a0 Weren’t you supposed to wake me up?\u00a0 Anyway, you’re overly excited.\u00a0 It was sunny less than 10 minutes ago, let’s wait a little longer.\u00a0 It’ll clear off again.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, no we don’t!\u00a0 We’re not waiting here!\u00a0 Conditions have deteriorated all morning.\u00a0 Might easily keep getting worse.\u00a0 I sure hope not!\u00a0 If we do get a break, we want to be on top of Birch Mountain when it happens.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Visibility had already improved to a few hundred feet as Lupe started down HP6621<\/span><\/strong>‘s W ridge.\u00a0 Vegetation faded and rocks grew in size.\u00a0 Loop was soon scrambling among talus.\u00a0 The ridge narrowed.\u00a0 Progress was much slower here, but there wasn’t any great rush in these conditions.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On HP6621<\/span><\/strong>, about to head down the W ridge (Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As Lupe approached the big curve where the ridge swept around to the N toward Birch Mountain’s hidden summit, a huge snowfield came into view nestled on the sheltered NE side of the ridge.\u00a0 A little turquoise blue tarn was visible at its base.<\/p>\n

The snow came right up close to the top of the ridge, curving right along with it, but didn’t extend onto or over the ridge at any point.\u00a0 The steep, slippery edge was incredibly dangerous, but even though the ridge got pretty skinny, it remained wide enough to avoid having to venture out onto the snow at all.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Following HP6621<\/span>‘s W ridge<\/strong> as the snowfield comes into view. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Fog streamed by as Lupe continued her scramble among the talus.\u00a0 She hadn’t lost much elevation, when suddenly glimpses of Atlin Lake and the S end of Teresa Island began appearing.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A hint of what’s out there. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For 15 minutes, the views came and went, but showed improvement each time.\u00a0 The whole S end of Teresa Island appeared, surrounded by Atlin Lake.\u00a0 Many much smaller islands could be seen, and eventually the Llewellyn Glacier was in sight, too, beyond the S end of the lake.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
S end of Atlin Lake<\/strong> and the Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Lake<\/strong> and the Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks SSW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on the Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A moment of exquisite beauty and clarity arrived, then vanished like a dream, as fog reformed and swept in again.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
S end of Teresa Island<\/strong>, Atlin Lake<\/strong>, and the Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The ridge narrowed.\u00a0 Lupe faced some minor ups and downs.\u00a0 The low point came at a notch where the rocks were quite large, but still easily maneuvered among with a bit of caution.\u00a0 Regaining a little elevation, tundra reappeared as the ridge turned N and broadened out again.<\/p>\n

Conditions were far from pleasant in the cold fog and wind sweeping over the ridge, but the American Dingo pressed on.\u00a0 Somewhere not too far ahead now, Birch Mountain’s summit was hidden in the clouds.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the low point before the ridge curves N. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Regaining elevation beyond the low point notch. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
In fog and wind where the ridge broadens out after turning N. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The wind increased as Lupe started up the dark, rocky slope leading to the summit.\u00a0 Staying a little below the ridgeline along the protected E side, conditions were better.\u00a0 Where possible, Lupe followed a lane of dirt and tundra.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Climbing toward the true summit. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-13-22, 11:13 AM, 48\u00baF, Birch Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,765 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – Fog streaming by on a 25 mph wind out of the SW, Lupe stood on a low wall of rock.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the true summit of Birch Mountain<\/strong>! Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Congratulations, Loopster!\u00a0 This is it, the true summit of Birch Mountain!\u00a0 May I shake your paw?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, but be quick about it, SPHP, then let’s get out of this gale!<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP shook the graciously offered paw, a moment filled with both joy and remorse.\u00a0 Lupe was really here!\u00a0 She’d made it to Teresa Island, and all the way to Birch Mountain’s summit.\u00a0 However, socked-in with fog, the summit hadn’t been visible from a distance for over an hour.\u00a0 It had vanished even before the American Dingo reached HP6621<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Tragic, and such a stupid waste, not to have arrived a couple of hours earlier!<\/p>\n

Magnificent job, Loopster!\u00a0 Can I interest you in a hard-earned chocolate coconut bar?<\/em><\/p>\n

Thought you’d never ask, SPHP!\u00a0 Can I get on your lap, though?\u00a0 There’s nothing but rocks to lay down on up here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sitting below the wall of rock, which greatly reduced exposure to the wind, SPHP faced E.\u00a0 Curling up on SPHP’s lap, Lupe made short work of her share of the chocolate coconut bar, plus some Taste of the Wild.\u00a0 The whole world was a chilly, soft gray as an endless stream of fog flew by.\u00a0 Whether or not the sky would clear, revealing the splendid views Lupe had come all this way to see, was a complete unknown.<\/p>\n

What now, SPHP?\u00a0 Just sit here and wait?<\/em><\/p>\n

All we can do, Looper.\u00a0 Sit here and hope for the best!\u00a0 Fortunately, we’ve got all day, provided conditions don’t get too extreme.<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe Lupe would get lucky?<\/p>\n

For 20 minutes, nothing changed.\u00a0 SPHP’s legs were starting to go numb under the Carolina Dog’s weight.\u00a0 Gloomy thoughts of how foolish it had been not to have gotten here much earlier were as thick as the fog.<\/p>\n

Stroking Lupe’s soft ears, suddenly SPHP’s brooding was interrupted by a dream-like vision.\u00a0 Glancing back to the SW through wisps of fog, a line of mountains was visible beyond the Torres Channel!\u00a0 The S end of Atlin Lake was in sight, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
S end of Atlin Lake<\/strong> (L), Torres Channel<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The fog reformed within seconds and the dream vanished, but the brief break was greatly encouraging.\u00a0 More breaks began appearing every few minutes.\u00a0 The sun was gradually gaining strength, slightly warming the air, lifting the clouds, and reducing fog formation.<\/p>\n

For a while it was frustrating.\u00a0 Views often disappeared within seconds.\u00a0 Before Lupe could even get into position for a photo, the opportunity was lost.\u00a0 A major relapse occurred.\u00a0 Everything vanished completely, and did not reappear for a while.<\/p>\n

For a long time, Lupe and SPHP alternated between sitting together in the cool breeze, or leaping up to admire fleeting glimpses of grandeur.\u00a0 Eventually, Birch Mountain no longer produced a steady stream of fog.\u00a0 Tremendous views were revealed in all directions, including some of the most beautiful Lupe had ever seen.<\/p>\n

Mount Minto<\/span><\/a> (6,913 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, and Mount Hitchcock<\/span><\/a> (5,886 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were far to the N on opposite sides of Atlin Lake.\u00a0 Atlin Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,722 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was much closer.\u00a0 The town of Atlin was visible NNE.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (far L). Mount Minto<\/strong> (L) and Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (L of Center) in the distance. Town of Atlin<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Monarch Mountain<\/span><\/a> (4,728 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> looked small to the NE.\u00a0 HP6129<\/span><\/strong> with its two pylons, and much of the territory Lupe had journeyed through to get here, were in sight in the same direction. \u00a0Sentinel Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and West Sentinel Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were almost directly E.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Monarch Mountain<\/strong> (L of Center) beyond Atlin Lake<\/strong>, HP6129<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center) across the canyon. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> and West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R) beyond Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Saddle<\/strong> (Center) between HP6129<\/span><\/strong> and HP6619<\/span><\/strong> in the foreground. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Often in the shadow of the last lingering cloud formations, HP6619<\/span><\/strong> was SE.\u00a0 Lupe could see its W ridge, the curve N toward Birch Mountain’s summit, and the huge snowfield nestled just below the rim.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
HP6619<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Torres Channel was to the W, separating Teresa Island from a sea of peaks beyond.\u00a0 Mountains extended in all directions until they blended in, becoming indistinguishable from the clouds sailing over them.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (far R), Torres Channel<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Torres Channel<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Torres Channel<\/strong>. The Cathedral<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The most splendid scenes of all, though, were toward the S and SSW where the S end of Atlin Lake and Teresa Island were in sight.\u00a0 The lake was an intricate pattern of bays, coves, points, islands, channels, and a big expanse of open water.\u00a0 A line of the highest, snowiest mountains formed a wall beyond it, unbroken except by the distant Llewellyn Glacier glistening among them.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Lake<\/strong> (L), S end of Teresa Island<\/strong> (Center), Torres Channel<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on The Narrows<\/strong> at the S end of Teresa Island<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
S end of Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks S with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Near the S end of the Torres Channel, the mighty Cathedral<\/span><\/a> (6,965 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> stood guard over the region of the First and Second Narrows connecting Torres Bay to the rest of Atlin Lake.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The Cathedral<\/strong> (Center) looming over the Torres Channel<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Many times, Lupe and SPHP roamed back and forth along the summit ridge.\u00a0 Knowing that the American Dingo would never be here again, it was hard to tear away from the splendors Birch Mountain had to offer.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A little N of the true summit<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-13-22, 2:25 PM<\/em> – Luck of the Dingo!\u00a0 Birch Mountain was now a huge, complete success!\u00a0 More than 3 hours after arriving, Lupe stood once again in the cool SW wind on the very highest rocks for the last time.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
True summit of Birch Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Birch Mountain has been magnificent, SPHP!\u00a0 One of our best adventures ever!<\/em><\/p>\n

Can’t begin to tell you what a pleasure it’s been to make this journey with you, Loopster!\u00a0 I’m overjoyed it’s turned out the way it did.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, there was plenty more adventure to come!\u00a0 Lupe still had to find her way back to Sandy Beach for the water taxi ride back across Atlin Lake, but that wasn’t until tomorrow.\u00a0 Tonight, she’d still be Empress of Teresa Island back at base camp.\u00a0 While SPHP started down, the Carolina Dog waited for the signal to begin her descent, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Final moments atop Birch Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

With the sky so clear now, it was possible to see parts of the journey that hadn’t been visible during the ascent.\u00a0 It all seemed far less daunting and mysterious.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading back down the S ridge<\/strong>. HP6619<\/span><\/strong> (far L). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking back at Birch Mountain’s summit<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Along the snowfield W of HP6619<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> from HP6619<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once over HP6619<\/span><\/strong> again, and down off the rockiest part, the rest of the trek back to base camp was absolute cake.\u00a0 Grandeur all around, and so much fun!\u00a0 A joyful, but wistful time.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On HP6619<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L), Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) from the edge of the canyon. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> and West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) beyond Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-13-22, 5:18 PM, 5,300 foot base camp on Teresa Island – <\/em>Lupe and SPHP arrived tired and happy back at the tiny house waiting in the sheltered nook.\u00a0 The American Dingo still had her grand view to the N, but was anxious to get inside, enjoy a meal and a good snooze.\u00a0 SPHP joined her.<\/p>\n

8-13-22, 9:47 PM, 5,300 foot base camp on Teresa Island –<\/em><\/p>\n

Looper, you awake?<\/em><\/p>\n

I am now!\u00a0 What is it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Just woke up.\u00a0 You’ve got to see this!\u00a0 Birch Mountain is putting on quite a display!\u00a0 There’s a terrific sunset.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (Center) from base camp on Teresa Island<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe emerged from the tiny house in time to enjoy the fading glory of what had been a most memorable day.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (Center), Mount Minto<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (L of Center), Mount Minto<\/strong> (R), Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Minto<\/strong> (L), Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-14-22, 8:26 AM, 5,300 foot base camp on Teresa Island – <\/em>Lupe sat staring N, hoping in vain for the return of 3 caribou that had been grazing way down the slope.\u00a0 Prior to the American Dingo’s journey to Teresa Island, SPHP had greatly wondered how much and what types of wildlife she might encounter here?<\/p>\n

The answer, virtually none.\u00a0 Other than a few small birds, Lupe hadn’t seen any wildlife during the past 2 days.\u00a0 The 3 caribou were a complete surprise this morning, but had vanished as soon as they’d seen her.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Waiting in vain for the return of the caribou. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The tiny house disassembled and strapped to the pack, SPHP hoisted it all once more.<\/p>\n

It’s that time, Looper!\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Returning to the 5,200+ foot plateau at the N end of Birch Mountain, SPHP called a brief halt to peer down on the island near Sandy Beach where Lupe needed to get back to.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Island by Sandy Beach<\/strong> (lower R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Bearings set, the steepest part of the descent down Birch Mountain’s N slope began.\u00a0 Staying a little farther W than during her ascent, Lupe was able to follow the edge of rock slides much farther down the mountain before they finally ended, forcing her into the forest.<\/p>\n

Almost immediately upon entering the forest, Loop came across a couple of small, flat areas of bare dirt that were close together.\u00a0 Discovering a clear trail, she followed it NNE.\u00a0 This trail greatly aided SPHP in getting down the steepest part of the mountain without all the bushwhacking required among stunted evergreens encountered during Lupe’s ascent 2 days ago.<\/p>\n

After 0.3 mile, the trail faded away.\u00a0 About time to turn E, anyway!\u00a0 The long descent continued, although not as steeply, through heavily forested terrain.\u00a0 Nothing looked at all familiar until Lupe reached the bog again.<\/p>\n

8-14-22, 1:50 PM<\/em> – Somehow, Lupe had made it over to the NW end of Sandy Beach, a cause for concern, since the blackwater lagoon was now between her and SPHP.\u00a0 Afraid she might try to swim across the lagoon, SPHP thrashed SE through the forest trying to get past it.\u00a0 As if by some Dingo magic, Lupe suddenly reappeared nearby.<\/p>\n

The sky was mostly overcast, the day pleasantly warm, when Lupe and SPHP reached Sandy Beach together.\u00a0 To SPHP’s surprise, a white cabin cruiser was pulled up onto the sand, its occupants about ready to cast off.\u00a0 Local residents, they expressed surprise, almost disbelief, upon learning Lupe had climbed Birch Mountain.<\/p>\n

The visitors left, and Sandy Beach was the epitome of solitude again.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back at Sandy Beach<\/strong>. Monarch Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hungry, Looper?\u00a0 We might as well have something to eat.<\/em><\/p>\n

Bobby Smallwood isn’t coming back to get us until an hour before sunset, right, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s the plan, Loop.\u00a0 We’ve got a long wait, but that’s OK.\u00a0 Love it here!<\/em><\/p>\n

The afternoon was sublime!\u00a0 Nothing to do, but relax in glorious total isolation on Teresa Island, listening to the waves lapping into shore, all while enjoying the sweet success of having been to Birch Mountain.\u00a0 Lupe snoozed, or barked at a squirrel that came specifically to provide entertainment.\u00a0 SPHP slept on the sand, and waded in the cold, clear shallows along shore.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Relaxing at Sandy Beach<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Waking from a nap, a small flotilla of birds paddled by, often ducking under the waves only to resurface somewhere else.\u00a0 They eventually vanished over by the island off the point.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Birds paddle by.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A bright yellow mushroom.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As evening came on, the sky darkened.\u00a0 SPHP cleaned out the campfire ring, then took several strolls with Lupe while gathering driftwood to stack up for whoever might want to use it next.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (Center) from Sandy Beach<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hours drifted by.\u00a0 The wait continued.\u00a0 Neither Lupe nor SPHP cared.<\/p>\n

You know, Loop.\u00a0 If the boat doesn’t show up until tomorrow, I would be completely fine with that!\u00a0 How awesome is this?<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Waiting for the boat. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-14-22, 8:11 PM, Sandy Beach on Teresa Island<\/em> – Suddenly, tranquility was broken by a faint distant roar.\u00a0 A dot racing across the waves grew in size.\u00a0 The boat was coming!\u00a0 Within minutes, the engine throttled down, and the vessel drifted into shore.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The water taxi arrives at Sandy Beach<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Grabbing the pack, SPHP boosted Lupe up onto the boat as soon as it slid into the sand, then climbed aboard after her.\u00a0 Bobby Smallwood wasn’t captain this time, having sent Kenny, his daughter’s boyfriend, instead.\u00a0 Just as good!\u00a0 Two minutes later, the Carolina Dog was bouncing across the waves, Teresa Island rapidly receding behind her.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Leaving Teresa Island<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the boat sped on, more of Birch Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,765 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> came into view.\u00a0 The summit was hidden in the clouds, the sky looking almost stormy.\u00a0 What fabulous luck to have been up there yesterday!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Adventure’s end, gazing back at Birch Mountain<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-14-22, 8:35 PM, Atlin<\/em> – Definitely some weather moving in!\u00a0 Lupe stood on the docks looking back at Birch Mountain.\u00a0 SPHP had already settled up with Bobby Smallwood’s wife, Jodie, at their cabin office.<\/p>\n

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

So, how much did it all come to, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

$392.00 CAN, taxes included, Loopster.\u00a0 Right about what I expected.\u00a0 Our single most expensive adventure ever!<\/em><\/p>\n

Worth every penny, SPHP!\u00a0 Birch Mountain was awesome start to finish!<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, yeah!\u00a0 Couldn’t agree more, Looper!\u00a0 One of our very best adventures ever, if you ask me.\u00a0 So glad Edith Sidler put us onto Bobby Smallwood!<\/em><\/p>\n

I’m just glad you didn’t chicken out because of the weather forecast, SPHP!\u00a0 After all these years, this really was our golden opportunity, and you made the right choice.<\/em><\/p>\n

Every once in a while, we do the right thing, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, the whole glorious Birch Mountain adventure was over.\u00a0 Sad that it was in the rearview mirror now, but that’s the nature of things.<\/p>\n

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

8-14-22, the favorite ridge off Hwy 7 overlooking the N end of Atlin Lake<\/em> – A cool breeze was blowing, when Lupe arrived at dusk.\u00a0 She stayed on her pink blanket in the RAV4, while SPHP heated up a can of chili for dinner.\u00a0 Feasting on chili and Ritz crackers, the American Dingo watched as darkness fell over Mount Minto, Atlin Lake, and on the far S horizon, oh-so-fabulous Birch Mountain, too!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On Birch Mountain<\/strong>, Teresa Island<\/strong> in Atlin Lake<\/strong>, British Columbia, Canada 8-13-22<\/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, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada – Part 1: Across Atlin Lake to Teresa Island! (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":"

Days 15 & 16 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 8-13-22, after midnight, 5,300 foot base camp on Teresa Island – The light of a waning, still nearly full moon was shining on the back side of the tiny house.\u00a0 Looking out front, the sky was light to the … Continue reading Birch Mountain on Teresa Island, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada – Part 2: Base Camp to the Summit! (8-13-22)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":45154,"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":[105,1073,1216,79,30,106,104,1619],"class_list":["post-45159","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1585","tag-american-dingo","tag-atlin-lake","tag-birch-mountain","tag-british-columbia","tag-canada","tag-carolina-dog","tag-lupe","tag-teresa-island"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/IMG_0039-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\/45159","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=45159"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45159\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":46815,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45159\/revisions\/46815"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/45154"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=45159"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=45159"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=45159"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}