{"id":45871,"date":"2023-04-28T08:10:29","date_gmt":"2023-04-28T14:10:29","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=45871"},"modified":"2023-05-03T10:13:48","modified_gmt":"2023-05-03T16:13:48","slug":"poss-mountain-brooks-range-alaska-part-2-denied-8-21-22-peak-3286-8-22-22","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=45871","title":{"rendered":"Poss Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska – Part 2: Denied! (8-21-22) & Peak 3286 (8-22-22)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 23 & 24 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-21-22, 6:03 AM, E of Nugget Creek near Victor Gulch<\/em> – The American Dingo was still sleeping like a rock when SPHP poked a nose outside the tiny house.<\/p>\n

Daylight in the swamps, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

What?\u00a0 Already, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup, yup!\u00a0 Better get with it!\u00a0 Long climb ahead of us, if things don’t get any worse.\u00a0 Nearly 4,200 feet!<\/em><\/p>\n

What’s it like out there this morning, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Completely overcast.\u00a0 Kind of looks and feels like rain soon, but except for a little fog right at the summit, Poss Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,180 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> is cloud-free.<\/em><\/p>\n

Doesn’t sound that promising, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, it’s right on the edge of being acceptable at the moment, but who knows?\u00a0 Anything might happen, Loop.\u00a0 It’s the weather, you know.\u00a0 If it clears off even a little bit, this will be our big chance, so we best get into position to take advantage.<\/em><\/p>\n

Suppose you’re right, SPHP.\u00a0 Can we eat first?\u00a0 I’m starving!<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure.\u00a0 How about some Taste of the Wild?\u00a0 You can munch away while I break camp.<\/em><\/p>\n

We aren’t coming back here, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nope.\u00a0 Not going over Peak<\/span> 3780<\/span><\/a><\/strong> again.\u00a0 It was beautiful, but I’m thinking there must be easier ways out.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Poss Mountain<\/strong> (Center) from low camp near Nugget Creek in Victor Gulch<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once SPHP had the tiny house packed up and was ready, Looper set off heading SE, gradually gaining elevation while crossing an open slope of thick, spongy tundra and low bushes.<\/p>\n

During last evening’s descent from Peak 3780 to low camp, the big open ridge N of Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> had looked not only like the best way to get closer to Poss Mountain, but a great place to establish high camp, too.\u00a0 To get to that ridge, though, Lupe was going to have to descend slightly into Victor Gulch to ford the E fork of Nugget Creek.<\/p>\n

On the way down to the creek, the brilliantly colored bushes were much taller, and more of an obstacle.\u00a0 Forcing a way through, the Carolina Dog got down to an alder thicket right along the stream.\u00a0 Nugget Creek still had substantial flow up here, cascading swiftly down dark rocks.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
E fork of Nugget Creek in Victor Gulch<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Can’t rock hop it, and it looks too swift, powerful, and deep for you to safely ford it here, Loopster.\u00a0 Let’s look for a more tranquil spot.<\/em><\/p>\n

Continuing upstream despite the alders, a shallower, less turbulent spot soon appeared.\u00a0 SPHP went first, wading across without any problem.<\/p>\n

You can do this, Looper!\u00a0 C’mon over.<\/em><\/p>\n

Without hesitation, Lupe cast herself into the icy stream.\u00a0 Moments later, she was shaking herself off next to SPHP.<\/p>\n

Gee, thanks, Loop!<\/em><\/p>\n

If I can plunge in practically up to my neck, you can endure a few drops, SPHP.\u00a0 Onward!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Safely across Nugget Creek<\/strong>. Photo looks downstream.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For some reason, there were hardly any alders on this side.\u00a0 Pushing up a steep bank through small trees and more colorful bushes, Lupe was quickly through them.\u00a0 A long, open tundra slope continued hundreds of feet higher.\u00a0 Heading SW, the rate of climb gradually diminished as the Carolina Dog gained close to 500 feet of elevation.<\/p>\n

Lupe was now up on the broad, gently sloping toe of Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong>‘s N ridge.\u00a0 The tundra was gorgeous up here, a mix of crimson, green, and gold.\u00a0 Unfortunately, instead of improving, the weather was looking less favorable.\u00a0 The top of Poss Mountain was now in the clouds.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lower end of Peak 5500<\/span>‘s N ridge<\/strong>. Poss Mountain<\/strong> (L), Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Turning S, the American Dingo continued her climb at a much easier pace.\u00a0 An intermittent light mist began to fall.\u00a0 Really didn’t amount to much, but the way the sky was looking, SPHP paused to put on the new red rain jacket.\u00a0 Lupe simply had to put up with the mist.\u00a0 It didn’t curb her enthusiasm in the least, as she ran and sniffed her way toward big rock formations visible ahead along the crest of the ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching rock formations<\/strong> (L) farther up the ridge. Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Upon reaching the rock formations, Lupe had a blast exploring them!\u00a0 Toward the W, they formed a dramatic line of sheer cliffs that dropped down to a broad, gently curving slope.\u00a0 The E side offered a spectacular view of a smooth tundra slope swooping ever more steeply down into Victor Gulch.\u00a0 A large waterfall tumbled into the deeply eroded chasm.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Below the first cliffs<\/strong>. Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The Victor Gulch chasm<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The line of cliffs was not continuous, making it easy to switch from one side to the other.\u00a0 As Lupe continued her climb S, she visited both.\u00a0 The line of cliffs toward the W grew taller and even more impressive.\u00a0 Over on the E side, the gently curved upper valley from which Nugget Creek plunged into Victor Gulch was soon visible ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Along the base of the W facing cliffs<\/strong>. Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> (Center) ahead. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Nugget Creek<\/strong> (L) begins its plunge from the upper valley into Victor Gulch<\/strong>. Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From right up on top of the rock formations, Peak<\/span> 3780<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, where Lupe had been only yesterday, was in view back to the N.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Above the cliffs. Peak 3780<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Gosh, SPHP!\u00a0 We’re doing great!\u00a0 We’re already higher than Peak 3780.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, too bad this weather has turned so soupy, Looper.\u00a0 The upper valley over by Nugget Creek looks like a great place to establish high camp.\u00a0 Let’s head over that way.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the upper<\/strong> Nugget Creek valley<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The upper valley looked gorgeous, but the tundra proved to be boggy.\u00a0 Well before Lupe reached Nugget Creek, SPHP had a change of heart.<\/p>\n

Sorry for the confusion, Loop, but let’s nix the valley.\u00a0 No point in setting up in a swamp.\u00a0 Let’s stick with the original plan, and find a spot back up on the ridge instead.<\/em><\/p>\n

Returning to the ridgeline, the American Dingo continued S past all the cliffs to where the ridge was more rounded on both sides.\u00a0 Going all the way to a saddle next to Peak 5500’s N face, this looked like an ideal spot.<\/p>\n

Lots of bare dirt in this region, but SPHP began erecting the tiny house on a suitably soft patch of tundra.\u00a0 Suddenly, there was movement high on Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 A mountain goat!\u00a0 Excited, Lupe dashed off toward it.\u00a0 The lone goat had no intention of making her acquaintance, promptly disappearing over a W ridge.<\/p>\n

SPHP hadn’t even finished setting up the tiny house, when fog swept in from out of nowhere, and hid everything.\u00a0 After a few minutes, it drifted away, but Poss Mountain was now almost entirely shrouded in clouds.\u00a0 Only the lower black and gold slopes were visible.\u00a0 Not good!<\/p>\n

However, Lupe was not discouraged in the least.\u00a0 Enthralled with this spectacular location, she had already turned her attention to exploring the immediate vicinity, sniffing excitedly around the base of scattered boulders.\u00a0 Finished with the tiny house, SPHP enjoyed watching her enormous enthusiasm.<\/p>\n

The air had been completely calm all this time, but a sudden gust of wind sent all the bags for the tiny house, including the ones for the poles and stakes, flying NW.\u00a0 High in the air, they swirled away so lightly and easily, it was as if they’d been designed for flight.\u00a0 In a flash, they were way down the W slope!<\/p>\n

After them, Loop!\u00a0 Don’t let them get away!<\/em><\/p>\n

Barking excitedly at this new sensation, Lupe raced off in hot pursuit.\u00a0 SPHP eventually managed to recover 2 of the 3 bags.\u00a0 However, the bag for the poles flew beyond vision, disappearing hundreds of feet lower.\u00a0 Gone for good!\u00a0 Never going to find it!\u00a0 Fortunately, not a huge tragedy.\u00a0 SPHP was more upset at having it litter this unspoiled land than its loss.<\/p>\n

8-21-22, 10:53 AM, high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – While returning to the tiny house with the recovered bags, mist turned to rain.\u00a0 Lupe was perfectly positioned for an attempt on Poss Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,180 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, but it clearly wasn’t going to happen under these conditions.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At high camp<\/strong> on a dreary day. Peak 3286<\/strong> (R foreground). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Might as well go inside, Loop.\u00a0 We can dry off, have something to eat, and rest up while waiting for the weather to improve.<\/em><\/p>\n

That last part seemed like a long shot.<\/p>\n

SPHP dozed off and on, as it rained for hours.\u00a0 At times, Lupe attempted to snooze, too, but she was too corked up to remain in the tiny house for long.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog had already discovered that pikas or marmots were living unseen beneath a few big boulders scattered nearby.\u00a0 This temptation was simply too much.\u00a0 Loop kept going out in the rain to race back and forth from one boulder to the next, sniffing like a mad Dingo at the many access holes around them leading into hidden burrows below.<\/p>\n

Out in the rain and mist, Lupe had a superb time roaming at will.\u00a0 It wasn’t until it started raining harder that she finally returned sopping wet to the tiny house, and settled down on her red sleeping bag.<\/p>\n

8-21-22, 3:00 PM, high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – Waking, SPHP found the American Dingo peacefully asleep.\u00a0 However, something had changed.\u00a0 It wasn’t raining!\u00a0 Full of hope, SPHP peered outside.\u00a0 Those hopes were immediately dashed.\u00a0 Dense gray fog.<\/p>\n

Hey, Loop!\u00a0 Wake up.\u00a0 It stopped raining.<\/em><\/p>\n

It did?\u00a0 Are we going to climb Poss Mountain, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

No, afraid not.\u00a0 Foggy out.\u00a0 Evidently, Poss Mountain isn’t happening today, but we could explore the ridge a bit.<\/em><\/p>\n

The American Dingo was eager to get back out there again.\u00a0 Wandering N along the ridge, most of the fog soon drifted away, revealing another big boulder at a high point.\u00a0 After continuing the foray N to the brink of the cliffs just for the fun of it, Lupe returned to the high point boulder.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the boulder at the local high point of Peak 5500<\/span>‘s N ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

You sure look happy here, Looper.\u00a0 Didn’t realize you thrive so under such gloomy conditions.<\/em><\/p>\n

Even without climbing Poss Mountain, this place is awesome, SPHP!\u00a0 Pikas, marmots, a mountain goat, all this fantastic open tundra, big rock formations, and dark mountains.\u00a0 All mysteriously hidden and revealed in the ever-shifting fog.\u00a0 A Dingo could hardly ask for more!<\/em><\/p>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 I see.\u00a0 Well, how about a trip farther up the Nugget Creek valley, Loop?\u00a0 We could find out what’s up that way, and reconnoiter whatever might be visible of possible routes up Poss Mountain.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sounds like fun, SPHP!\u00a0 Let’s do it!<\/em><\/p>\n

Abandoning the high point boulder, Lupe headed S back to the tiny house before angling SE into the upper Nugget Creek valley.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Leaving the high point boulder<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Returning to the tiny house<\/strong> (L). HP5500<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading into the upper Nugget Creek valley<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Staying high enough on the W side of the valley to avoid the wet tundra down by the creek, Lupe explored all the way to the S end of the valley where it curled SW.\u00a0 Another 1,000 feet higher, Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong>‘s true summit was visible from here, barely in the clouds.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 5500<\/span> summit<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Doesn’t look that hard to get up there, SPHP!\u00a0 We could climb Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong>!<\/em><\/p>\n

Believe you’re right, Looper, but let’s save our strength.\u00a0 Still hoping we might get a shot at Poss Mountain.<\/em><\/p>\n

Getting mighty late in the day to do that, SPHP, even if conditions improve, which they aren’t.<\/em><\/p>\n

I know, Loop.\u00a0 Poss Mountain has denied us today, but the weather might be better tomorrow.\u00a0 Would hate to fail at Poss because we unnecessarily wore ourselves out on Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0in this gloom.<\/em><\/p>\n

Suit yourself, SPHP.\u00a0 It was just a thought.<\/em><\/p>\n

Looking E across the valley, a couple of spots looked like feasible starting points for an attempt on Poss Mountain in the morning.\u00a0 They both led to some pretty steep terrain, but what was visible below the clouds looked doable.\u00a0 SPHP favored the spot closest to the S end of the valley.<\/p>\n

Well, Loop, we aren’t going to try it now, so I suppose we might as well head back.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading down the upper Nugget Creek valley<\/strong>. Poss Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Rain on the way back to the tiny house continued intermittently during the early evening.\u00a0 After dinner, Lupe slipped out while SPHP wasn’t looking.\u00a0 No doubt off in search of pikas and marmots again.<\/p>\n

Funny thing about these pikas.\u00a0 Apparently they were expert gardeners.\u00a0 SPHP had noticed that beautiful thick tundra flourished for 2 or 3 feet around the circumference of the huge boulders they liked to congregate beneath, even though those boulders were otherwise sitting in barren areas of nothing but dirt.<\/p>\n

8-21-22, 8:04 PM,<\/em> high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – It wasn’t all about pikas and marmots.\u00a0 While SPHP dozed, the Carolina Dog spent quite a bit of time lying outside the tiny house just looking at the views, always searching for some sign of movement.<\/p>\n

The cloud cover had lifted some.\u00a0 Poss Mountain remained shrouded, but Lupe could see many lower peaks off to the W, along with part of Minnie Creek Lake, and portions of the Middle Fork of the Koyukuk River close to where she’d started out from yesterday morning.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Minnie Creek Lake<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Want to go see the big waterfall in Victor Gulch, Loop?<\/em><\/p>\n

She did, but it turned out that the waterfall seen earlier in the day wasn’t visible from this far S due to how deep it was in Victor Gulch.\u00a0 Lupe had a fantastic time anyway, racing across the tundra like a Dingo possessed.\u00a0 Rain sprinkled yet again during the return to the tiny house.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Sniffing around near Victor Gulch<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Late evening brought more ambling forays N along the ridge.\u00a0 Gloomy and dark, Poss Mountain remained eternally shrouded in fog.\u00a0 Specks of blue sky to the N provided a glimmer of hope for tomorrow, as a bright white spot in the clouds slid toward the horizon.<\/p>\n

Dusk arrived.\u00a0 The American Dingo spent a final dim hour lying on the wet tundra watching wisps of fog drift among distant mountains before retiring for the night.<\/p>\n

What a glorious, restful day it had been!\u00a0 With high camp only a little over a mile W of Poss Mountain’s summit, Lupe was perfectly positioned for tomorrow, too.\u00a0 Hadn’t rained for a while now, either.\u00a0 Maybe those blue specks really did portend good news in the morning?<\/p>\n

In any case, it would be Lupe’s last chance.\u00a0 First light would tell the tale.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A relaxing evening at high camp<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-22-22, the wee hours,<\/em> high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – The sad news came well before first light.\u00a0 Rain on the tiny house again!\u00a0 It rained for hours, and was still raining when Lupe went out at daybreak.\u00a0 Foggy, little or no visibility, and a chill, steady rain.<\/p>\n

Criminy, Loopster!\u00a0 Looks like ark building time!<\/em><\/p>\n

Retreating back into the tiny house, it was actually time for breakfast and another snooze.<\/p>\n

8-22-22, 8:33 AM, high camp at 4,000+ feet near the N face of Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – Not raining now, and the fog had blown away from the ridge.<\/p>\n

Now’s our chance, Looper!<\/em><\/p>\n

Really?\u00a0 To climb Poss Mountain, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

No!\u00a0 To get out of here while we can stay dry for at least a little while.\u00a0 Still totally overcast out there, and we’ve seen what to expect.\u00a0 Sooner or later the rain and fog will be back.\u00a0 Hate to bail on Poss Mountain when we’re so close, but no telling how long we’d have to wait for decent conditions.<\/em><\/p>\n

Disappointing, but that’s the way the cookie crumbles.\u00a0 Everything out!\u00a0 SPHP packed up the tiny house, and Lupe was on her way.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Final moments at high camp<\/strong>. Minnie Creek Lake<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Leaving the high camp ridge, SPHP led Loop WSW along Peak 5,500’s steep N slope.\u00a0 Staying fairly high, she crossed a number of rock slides and ravines during a gradual descent.\u00a0 Slow going, but the Carolina Dog came to some nice stretches of tundra, too.\u00a0 An hour into it, the clouds developed a blue tinge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Some gorgeous tundra on Peak 5500’s NW slope<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Maybe we should go back, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Pay no attention to this little bit of blue, Looper!\u00a0 Just a trap.\u00a0 You’ll see!<\/em><\/p>\n

Took 2.5 hours to work around to the first rock formations on the giant, rounded ridge NW of Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Lupe had skirted along through a lot of rock, tundra, and even a swampy region with tall bushes and a stream to get here.<\/p>\n

Smooth sailing now, though!\u00a0 Turning NW, the Carolina Dog made rapid progress on firm, gently sloping terrain.\u00a0 Stunningly beautiful tundra led from one interesting, isolated rock formation to the next.<\/p>\n

Glancing back to the E, Poss Mountain’s summit was completely cloud free for the first time in two days.\u00a0 Annoyed, SPHP muttered something about being taunted by the mountain’s evil spirit, and continued NW.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On one of the first rock formations along Peak 5500<\/span>‘s NW ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Poss Mountain<\/strong> (L), Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The big rounded ridge was a wonderfully fun, easy, downhill romp!\u00a0 Spectacular scenery on all sides, and what rock formations there were presented no difficulties.\u00a0 A grand view of the Nugget Creek valley was off to the N, sandwiched between Peak<\/span> 3286<\/span><\/a><\/strong> and Peak<\/span> 3780<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Minnie Creek Lake was coming into sight again to the NW.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 3286<\/strong> (L), Nugget Creek valley<\/strong> (Center), Peak 3780<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Minnie Creek Lake<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Closing in on Minnie Creek Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A mile E of Minnie Creek Lake, Lupe reached a minor hill along the big ridge.\u00a0 A small rock formation stood along a low ridge of flat gray rock.\u00a0 On the surrounding gentle slopes, little bushes of brilliant crimson and orange put on a stunning display of Arctic beauty.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 3286<\/strong> (L) and Peak 3780<\/strong> (R) from a Dingo display formation. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Poss Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center) from the colorful hill. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What an incredible place!\u00a0 Can we stop here for a while, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure, let’s take a break, Loop.\u00a0 This is fantastic!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-22-22, 12:03 PM<\/em> – Lupe curled up on the tundra.\u00a0 SPHP threw a maroon jacket over her.\u00a0 While the Carolina Dog napped, SPHP munched on trail mix.\u00a0 Pondering the gorgeous views, SPHP speculated on what route Lupe ought to take back to the Dalton Highway from here?<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 3878<\/span><\/strong> (L) and Minnie Creek Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

2 viable options seemed to make sense.\u00a0 Proceed to Minnie Creek Lake, then NW down the Over Creek valley, or up and over Peak<\/span> 3286<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Any preference, Loop?<\/em><\/p>\n

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

Probably Minnie Creek Lake, Looper.\u00a0 Downhill all the way, whereas we’d have to climb more than 700 feet to get over Peak 3286.\u00a0 Of course, Peak 3286 could be sort of a consolation prize for not having made it to Poss Mountain.\u00a0 Not a comparable peak at all, but it’s something.<\/em><\/p>\n

I’m feeling more energetic after this nap, SPHP.\u00a0 Let’s climb Peak 3286.\u00a0 After all, we came to climb mountains!<\/em><\/p>\n

From the dazzling hill overlooking Minnie Creek Lake, Lupe roamed freely down a vast slope toward an enormously broad saddle leading to Peak 3286.\u00a0 The last part of this journey was thick with spongy tundra.\u00a0 The saddle itself proved tussocky, always difficult terrain.<\/p>\n

After crossing the boggy tussocks, Lupe made her escape.\u00a0 Starting her ascent of Peak 3286, she began climbing a steeper slope covered with bushes chest high on SPHP.\u00a0 These bushes would have been trouble, if not for a maze of open lanes among them.\u00a0 Thus saved from any serious bushwhacking, progress was decent as Lupe continued higher.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading down to the tussocky saddle. Peak 3286<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Among the colorful bushes. Peak 3286<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Regaining nearly 200 feet of elevation, the American Dingo reached a nearly level region of tundra and far fewer bushes.\u00a0 Aiming W of cliffs along Peak 3286’s upper SE face, Lupe quickly crossed this plain, and started up the next slope full of bushes, which was dotted with trees.<\/p>\n

During a final glance back at Minnie Creek Lake, Peak<\/span> 5400<\/span><\/a><\/strong> was starting to disappear from view.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Crossing the tundra plain. Peak 3286<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A last glance back at Minnie Creek Lake<\/strong> (R). Peak 5400<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I knew Poss Mountain has just been taunting us today, Loopster!\u00a0 Look at that!\u00a0 The weather is going to pot on us.\u00a0 We better hustle!<\/em><\/p>\n

As the slope steadily steepened during the ascent to Peak 3286’s W ridge, hustling was easier said than done.\u00a0 More lanes among the bushes here helped again, but SPHP had to keep pausing to gasp for air.<\/p>\n

The sky was leaden, the air heavy with humidity, as Lupe reached the base of a line of small cliffs.\u00a0 Forcing her way through extraordinarily dense vegetation, the Carolina Dog managed to traverse 50 feet E to where a break in the cliffs permitted a 30 foot scramble above them.<\/p>\n

No obstacles up here!\u00a0 Instead, a broad, featureless, maroon and brown tundra plain rose gradually NE.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the Peak 3286 summit plain<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hurry, Loopster!\u00a0 Let’s tag the summit before the rain hits!\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-22-22, 2:07 PM, Peak<\/span> 3286<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/em> – It was only 400 feet to the summit, a 100 foot long nearly flat region on the brink of SSE facing cliffs.\u00a0 Opposite the cliffs, a gently rounded slope began gradually dropping away.<\/p>\n

Happily, Lupe had arrived just in time to spend a few precious minutes enjoying the views.\u00a0 Beneath the threatening sky, the entire incredible world she’d spent the last 3 days exploring was on display.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 3286 summit<\/strong>. Peak 5400<\/strong> (L), Peak 3878<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

To the SE, Poss Mountain’s elusive summit was back in the clouds again, but Lupe could see her beloved 4,000+ foot ridge where the tiny house had been, and she’d had such a fun time yesterday in a land of mist and rain where pikas, marmots, and a lone mountain goat lived.<\/p>\n

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Poss Mountain<\/strong> (L), Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> (R) from Peak 3286<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A glance at the steep alder-infested slope below HP3400<\/span><\/strong> across the deep Nugget Creek valley made perfectly clear why Lupe’s repeated attempts to traverse it 2 days ago had all been doomed to failure from the start.\u00a0 HP3400<\/span><\/strong> and Peak<\/span> 3780<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, both of which she’d ultimately visited, were in sight high above it.<\/p>\n

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Peak 3780<\/strong> (L) beyond the Nugget Creek valley<\/strong>, Poss Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Our first backpacking trip ever in Alaska has been amazing, hasn’t it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes!\u00a0 Absolutely, Loop, but I’m sorry, we can’t stay here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Five minutes after arriving at Peak 3286’s summit, scattered raindrops were already starting to fall.\u00a0 SPHP put on the new, red rain jacket, hood and all.<\/p>\n

Cripes!\u00a0 How do you even tighten this hood?\u00a0 Never used it before.<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t ask me, SPHP, and don’t complain!\u00a0 I’m going to get soaked, aren’t I?<\/em><\/p>\n

Afraid so, sweet puppy!\u00a0 Well, never mind the hood.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Raindrops were falling thick and fast as Lupe started down Peak 3286’s NNW slope.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
About to head down. Middle Fork of the Koyukuk River<\/strong>, Alaska oil pipeline<\/strong>, and Dalton Highway<\/strong> (L). Sukakpak Mountain<\/strong> (R) and Dillon Mountain<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The terrain rapidly steepened.\u00a0 For a long way, a lip was always ahead, an indication of even steeper ground to come.\u00a0 Looked like Lupe would cliff out, but having seen this side of the mountain before, SPHP knew she wouldn’t.<\/p>\n

As though sent by Poss Mountain, an E wind sprang up.\u00a0 In a driving, heavy rain, poor Lupe got soaked to the bone.\u00a0 The hood kept blowing off SPHP, but the red rain jacket otherwise did it’s job.\u00a0 Never complaining, Lupe led the way on thick tundra, which made the descent easier.<\/p>\n

Head for that upside down gingerbread man, Looper!\u00a0 That’s the old, long abandoned construction camp where we stayed 3 nights ago.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the brink of the steep descent. Peak 3470<\/span><\/strong> (L), construction camp<\/strong> (L of Center), Nugget Creek<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

At last, the whole runout slope was visible below.\u00a0 The rate of descent slowly decreased.\u00a0 Once low enough, the going got easier, although the construction camp Lupe was aiming for was no longer in sight.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The runout slope appears below. Peak 3470<\/span><\/strong> (L), Nugget Creek<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Safely down, the adventure continues! Peak 3470<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Still more than a mile to the old construction camp!\u00a0 Loopster braved tussocks and forests.\u00a0 She crossed a weird ravine full of mud and brown grass.\u00a0 Impenetrable dense thickets of alders were to the R (NE) along Nugget Creek, which was close enough to be heard, but never seen.\u00a0 The American Dingo discovered a trail through sopping wet bushes head high on SPHP.<\/p>\n

A 2 track road finally appeared off to the R.\u00a0 Going to it, 300 feet along the road got Lupe to the abandoned construction camp.\u00a0 Nothing to it now!\u00a0 The rain and wind had ended a little while ago.\u00a0 Continuing NW, Lupe headed for Peak 3470<\/span><\/strong> looming ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 3470<\/span><\/strong> (Center) from the long abandoned construction camp. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Before getting to the Dalton Highway, Lupe looked back one more time.\u00a0 There in the distance beyond the Nugget Creek valley gap between Peak 3780 and Peak 3286, the lower slopes of Poss Mountain were visible, the summit still hidden in clouds.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 3780<\/strong> (L), Poss Mountain<\/strong> (Center), Peak 3286<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-22-22, 4:40 PM, 43\u00baF<\/em> – Scarcely any traffic on the Dalton Highway as Lupe trotted the last 0.25 mile NE.\u00a0 Once back to the RAV4 parked at the side road just N of Nugget Creek, she hopped up onto her pink blanket, eagerly awaiting dinner since supplies had completely run out during the return.<\/p>\n

SPHP threw another blanket over the thoroughly drenched Carolina Dog to help warm her up, then produced a dinner of beef stew, Ritz crackers, cheese, and a whole bag of Fritos.<\/p>\n

Nothing but health food again, Loop!\u00a0 Enjoy!<\/em><\/p>\n

Although denied at Poss Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,180 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Lupe’s fabulous day in the mists and fog at high camp up on the 4,000+ foot ridge only a mile W of the summit would always be fondly remembered.\u00a0 The American Dingo had climbed both Peak<\/span> 3780<\/span><\/a><\/strong> and Peak<\/span> 3286<\/span><\/a><\/strong> on her first backpacking trip in Alaska, too!<\/p>\n

We had a blast!\u00a0 Don’t give up on Poss Mountain, SPHP!\u00a0 Let’s come back on a sunnier day, and try again.\u00a0 We can explore Minnie Creek Lake, and climb Peak 3878<\/span><\/strong>!<\/em><\/p>\n

Continuing N tomorrow, Loopster, but, yeah, why not give Poss another shot sometime?\u00a0 I’m game!\u00a0 In fact, we’ll be coming back this way before this Dingo Vacation is over.\u00a0 Maybe we can try it then?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, I hope so, SPHP!\u00a0 Bet that mountain goat on Peak 5500<\/span><\/strong> will sure be surprised to see me again, won’t he?<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Exploring near Poss Mountain<\/strong>, Brooks Range, Alaska 8-21-22<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

Poss Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska – Part 1: Nugget Creek & Peak 3780 (8-20-22)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Andrew Holman’s Poss Mountain Trip Report & GPS Track (9-4-21)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Lupe’s GPS Track – Descent from Peak 3286<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

BLM Dalton Highway Visitor Guide<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/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 23 & 24 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 8-21-22, 6:03 AM, E of Nugget Creek near Victor Gulch – The American Dingo was still sleeping like a rock when SPHP poked a nose outside the tiny house. Daylight in the swamps, Loopster! What?\u00a0 Already, SPHP? Yup, yup!\u00a0 … Continue reading Poss Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska – Part 2: Denied! (8-21-22) & Peak 3286 (8-22-22)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":45835,"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":[704,105,723,106,26,104,1628,1627],"class_list":["post-45871","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1585","tag-alaska","tag-american-dingo","tag-brooks-range","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-lupe","tag-peak-3286","tag-poss-mountain"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/IMG_6105-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\/45871","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=45871"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45871\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":48099,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45871\/revisions\/48099"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/45835"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=45871"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=45871"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=45871"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}