{"id":48109,"date":"2023-07-07T08:10:10","date_gmt":"2023-07-07T14:10:10","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=48109"},"modified":"2023-07-13T14:32:37","modified_gmt":"2023-07-13T20:32:37","slug":"the-eldorado-trail-beyond-to-west-sentinel-mountain-sentinel-mountain-british-columbia-canada-9-7-22","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=48109","title":{"rendered":"The Eldorado Trail & Beyond to West Sentinel Mountain & Sentinel Mountain, British Columbia, Canada (9-7-22)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Day 40 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

7:27 AM, Warm Bay Road S of Atlin, Eldorado trailhead<\/em> – A yellow pickup truck arrived, quickly followed by a bulldozer, which immediately began mucking around in McKee Creek, inexplicably prompting an attack by the were-puppy.<\/p>\n

Ow!\u00a0 Dang it, Loopster!\u00a0 Do you have to bite me?<\/em><\/p>\n

It’s just a love bite, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I know, but you’ve got fangs!<\/em><\/p>\n

You’ll live, SPHP!\u00a0 Not misting any more.\u00a0 Are we going?<\/em><\/p>\n

The sky was still nearly entirely overcast, but a patch of blue was off to the NE.<\/p>\n

Yup!\u00a0 We’ll give it a shot, but first let’s have something to eat, Looper.\u00a0 If this weather holds, it’s going to be a mighty long day.<\/em><\/p>\n

8:37 AM, 47\u00baF, Warm Bay Road, Eldorado trailhead<\/em> –<\/p>\n

Okie dokie, Loop!\u00a0 Think we’re about ready.\u00a0 I’m going to take a quick look at the posted trail information, then we’ll head out.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Posted Eldorado trail map<\/strong> and information.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What does it say, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not an awful lot, Loop.\u00a0 Watch for yellow trail markers.\u00a0 Other than that, the most important part is that the Eldorado Trail is supposed to get us above treeline.<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s all we really need, isn’t it, SPHP?\u00a0 We can take it from there.<\/em><\/p>\n

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

\"\"<\/a>
About to set out from the Eldorado trailhead<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Leaving the trailhead, a yellow sign pointed E along a dirt road.\u00a0 Within a few minutes, Lupe reached a fork where another yellow sign pointed L.\u00a0 The suggested route quickly led to another yellow marker.\u00a0 This one pointed R at a path leading into the forest.<\/p>\n

20 feet beyond the path, a white sign with black and red lettering said “Active Mining Area – Other than an inspector, only persons authorized by the manager shall enter or be permitted to enter the mine”<\/em>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the turn into the forest. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
1 of 2 yellow trail marker designs. The other had a mountain logo and said “Atlin Alpine Society<\/strong>“.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Taking the single track path, Lupe entered a dense forest full of bushes and moss.\u00a0 A beautiful trail, but SPHP was immediately concerned.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the Eldorado trail<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow, this is an amazing forest, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure is, Loop!\u00a0 This trail worries me, though.\u00a0 Miles to treeline, and the path doesn’t look very well-traveled even here at the start, despite what the posted information said.\u00a0 Hope it doesn’t completely fade away on us.<\/em><\/p>\n

Seemed like a distinct possibility, but nothing to be done about it, except to continue on.\u00a0 Winding through the forest only a little way, the trail soon brought Lupe to the edge of the McKee Creek valley, and views of the “active mine site”.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the active mine site.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Umm, yeah, lovely.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Looks none to active to me, SPHP.\u00a0 Or like much of a mine, either.<\/em><\/p>\n

More like someone’s over-sized personal junkyard, Loop.\u00a0 Owners better hope an inspector never shows up.<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe one already did?\u00a0 Might explain why nothing is going on, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Another distinct possibility.<\/p>\n

Shortly after passing the lovely junkyard views, a cabin was visible back in the trees off to the R.\u00a0 Beyond this establishment, the trail intersected an old road or ATV route coming up from it.\u00a0 This wider route became the trail, which put an end to SPHP’s worries about it fading away.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the ATV route.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mushrooms in the forest.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe came to occasional level sections, but most of the time the Eldorado trail climbed at a moderate pace.\u00a0 None of it was terribly steep.\u00a0 Yellow markers common near the start soon began appearing less frequently.\u00a0 Despite how dense the forest was, only 2 trees had fallen across the trail.\u00a0 Both were suspended so high that even SPHP barely had to duck to walk right under them.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Suspended deadfall ahead! One of only two on the entire trail.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The printed map SPHP had brought along showed the Eldorado trail heading generally NE to Eldorado Creek, a tributary of McKee Creek, where it would turn SE.\u00a0 However, despite making decent progress, Eldorado Creek refused to appear.\u00a0 The forest hid all views, making it hard to say how much farther Lupe had to go.<\/p>\n

After gaining roughly 1,000 feet, the trail leveled out as Loopster finally reached a first opening in the forest.\u00a0 No distant views, but SPHP could see over tall yellow bushes toward more forest.\u00a0 The ATV route curved R here, and promptly led to a big mud puddle.<\/p>\n

Thinking nothing of it, Lupe trotted straight into the puddle, promptly sinking into a black ooze up to her elbows.\u00a0 \u00a0The Carolina Dog quickly backed out.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Entering the first “clearing”. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The ATV route becomes a mucky mud hole.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Determined not to get boots and socks full of black ooze, SPHP looked for a solution.\u00a0 Both sides of the ATV route were thickly hemmed in with tall bushes and young trees.\u00a0 However, a crude use trail existed around the R side of the puddle where others had forced a way through.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, once past the mud puddle, the use trail led right back to the Eldorado trail.\u00a0 Lupe soon encountered more muckiness, which went on for a considerable distance.\u00a0 A shallow stream existed along much of this sloppiness until the trail finally began climbing again at a good clip.\u00a0 By then, SPHP’s left boot was full of mud, despite best efforts to avoid it.<\/p>\n

Yuck!\u00a0 I’ll have you know, Loopster, that the Atlin Alpine Society<\/strong><\/a><\/span> has fallen considerably in my estimation.\u00a0 They put up all the trail markers, and must know about this wretched stretch!<\/em><\/p>\n

What do you expect them to do about it, SPHP?\u00a0 The trail just follows this old ATV route.<\/em><\/p>\n

They could put in a single track that goes around this wet spot.\u00a0 Wouldn’t be that hard to do.<\/em><\/p>\n

As the steady grind higher continued, the ATV trail became increasingly overgrown.\u00a0 Fortunately, it was wide enough so that the trees and bushes pressing in from both sides never really came close to blocking it.<\/p>\n

3 miles from the trailhead, the Eldorado trail leveled out.\u00a0 The American Dingo was getting close to treeline now, enjoying her first views of the mountains.\u00a0 Tall bushes sporting beautiful fall colors filled the openings among scattered evergreens beneath a mostly blue sky.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
First view of the mountains on a gorgeous day. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the Eldorado Creek valley<\/strong>. Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) in the distance. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The next 0.75 mile was super easy.\u00a0 More and more of the impressive Eldorado Creek valley could be seen ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Eldorado Creek valley<\/strong>. HP6200+<\/span><\/strong> (L). Part of West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

11:14 AM<\/em> – The official Eldorado trail ended at a small clearing among the bushes 200 feet from Eldorado Creek.\u00a0 A stone campfire ring and a decaying log were the only amenities.\u00a0 Break time, but first the Carolina Dog followed what remained of the ATV route down to the creek.<\/p>\n

Eldorado Creek was too wide to leap over, but only a foot deep.\u00a0 150 feet downstream, a narrow log was suspended over a small waterfall.\u00a0 On the opposite bank, a remnant of the ATV trail disappeared into the colorful tall bushes.\u00a0 Lupe helped herself to a long drink from the lovely stream.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
End of the Eldorado trail<\/strong> roughly 3.75 miles from the trailhead. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Eldorado Creek<\/strong>. HP6200+<\/span><\/strong> (L), HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Returning to the end of the Eldorado trail, the Carolina Dog curled up next to the stone fire ring.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Relaxing at the official end of the Eldorado trail<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beef jerky, Loop?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, please, SPHP!\u00a0 So this is the official end of the Eldorado trail?<\/em><\/p>\n

Believe so, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Certainly a beautiful spot, SPHP!\u00a0 Where to from here?<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s what we need to decide, Looper.\u00a0 Have our choice of West Sentinel Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, or Sentinel Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Would actually like to visit both, but that’s a long way.\u00a0 Furthermore, they’re separated by a nearly 3 km long ridge that we might not be able to negotiate.\u00a0 If we can’t, no way we’ll get to both.<\/em><\/p>\n

Which of these mountains are they, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

I think that’s Sentinel Mountain at the far end of the valley, Loop.\u00a0 Not sure we can see West Sentinel Mountain from here, although it’s actually closer.<\/em><\/p>\n

And they’re both exactly the same elevation, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

According to the topo map they are, Loop.\u00a0 The map looks like Sentinel Mountain might be the easiest to climb, and what we can see of it from here certainly looks doable.\u00a0 West Sentinel Mountain might be another matter entirely.\u00a0 We’d approach it from its mammoth NW ridge, but the upper end is skinny, and may be treacherous.<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe we should go for our best bet, SPHP.\u00a0 Is there any reason not to hit Sentinel Mountain first, other than that West Sentinel Mountain is closer?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, actually there is, Loopster.\u00a0 West Sentinel Mountain is also closer to Atlin Lake.\u00a0 Ought to have a tremendous view of it, plus Birch Mountain<\/strong><\/span><\/a> and the Llewellyn Glacier.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, that would be fabulous, SPHP!\u00a0 Why didn’t you say so from the start?\u00a0 It’s a no brainer!\u00a0 Let’s go for West Sentinel Mountain first.<\/em><\/p>\n

Can’t guarantee we’ll make it to the summit, Loop.\u00a0 You OK with that?<\/em><\/p>\n

Can we at least get to where we’ll see Atlin Lake from on high, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yep.\u00a0 I’m sure we can get that far, sweet puppy.<\/em><\/p>\n

Onward then, SPHP!\u00a0 Let’s do it!<\/em><\/p>\n

Appeared others had made the same choice.\u00a0 From the official end of the Eldorado trail, an unmarked single track use trail wound W through a sea of colorful bushes toward a big hill.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Setting off on the use trail. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Near the top of this first hill, the use trail faded away, as Lupe reached a shallow, rocky gash.\u00a0 Finishing the climb, she came to a flat region.\u00a0 A big stretch of Atlin Lake was already in sight to the NW.\u00a0 There was also a great view of the Eldorado Creek valley back to the E.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading up the gash where the use trail faded away.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
First view of Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) across Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Upper Eldorado Creek valley<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The most important view, of course, was of the terrain ahead.\u00a0 Toward the SW, a broad, but minor, dip led to a series of higher, rockier hills.\u00a0 Bushes growing on this first hill were already a lot smaller than the ones down in the valley.\u00a0 Lupe was able to avoid most of them as she trotted toward the dip, which proved to be grassy.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Hills beyond the dip. HP5600+<\/span>(E)<\/strong> (L) and HP5600+<\/span>(W)<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
In the dip. HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> (L), HP5600+<\/span>(E)<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Crossing the dip was quick and easy.\u00a0 A tougher climb was now ahead.\u00a0 Dodging low bushes as much as possible, the American Dingo started up, aiming for the highest grassy region visible on the E side of this next hill.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the grassy region at upper R. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The slope got pretty steep.\u00a0 SPHP huffed and puffed.\u00a0 Atlin Lake was no longer in sight, but views across the Eldorado Creek valley were getting better and better.\u00a0 Lupe could see several ponds far below.\u00a0 Maybe there were beavers down there?<\/p>\n

The enormous ridge across the valley all looked like super easy terrain, and bore a number of interesting little peaks.\u00a0 Peak 6200<\/span><\/strong>, highest of all, was a massive hill that was clearly a mere walk up.\u00a0 Would be a blast to explore that region some day!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 6200<\/span><\/strong> (Center) across the Eldorado Creek valley<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Getting kind of steep. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Examining the exquisite tundra during one of SPHP’s frequent breathers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe made it to the grassy area.\u00a0 Going any higher meant a rocky climb toward a couple of 5600+ foot high points, but there was no reason to do that.\u00a0 Shortly after getting up there, the Carolina Dog would just have to lose much of that hard won elevation gain.<\/p>\n

Turning SE, Lupe simply maintained her elevation as she crossed the grassy region.\u00a0 This quickly led to a traverse of the N slope of HP5600+<\/span>(E)<\/strong>.\u00a0 The intent was to get around to the big gap between HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> and HP5600+<\/span><\/strong>(E)<\/strong>.\u00a0 The first part wasn’t hard at all, but as Lupe got to where she could start angling S, the slope steepened and became all rock.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the upper grassy region<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Traversing HP5600+<\/span>(E)’s N slope<\/strong>. Peak 6200<\/span><\/strong> (L), HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the gap<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We’re too high, SPHP!\u00a0 We should have stayed lower, and headed straight for HP5800+<\/span><\/strong>!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I see than now, Looper.\u00a0 Live and learn!<\/em><\/p>\n

Gradually losing elevation, as SPHP picked a way across the rocky slope, Lupe finally made it to the gap between HP5600+<\/span>(E)<\/strong> and HP5800+<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 The high point of this saddle was now SW, but the American Dingo didn’t go all the way to it.\u00a0 When a grassy slope on HP5800+ <\/span><\/strong>appeared only a little higher, Lupe turned SE, and headed up.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
In the saddle between HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> (L) and HP5600+<\/span>(E)<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading up HP5800+<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This was quite a steep climb at first, but once Lupe made it to the grassy part of the slope, it really wasn’t difficult at all.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog had fun roaming at will, the rate of climb gradually diminishing as SPHP trudged after her.\u00a0 Atlin Lake was back in view again.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Lake<\/strong> and Birch Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

When Lupe got high enough to see over the top of HP5600+<\/span>(E)<\/strong>, the rate of climb diminished quite a bit.\u00a0 A big rock served as an excellent Dingo platform and viewpoint.\u00a0 Nearly the entire S end of Atlin Lake was in sight now, including the Llewellyn Glacier.\u00a0 SPHP could pick out The Cathedral<\/span><\/a> (6,965 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> beyond Teresa Island, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (Center) beyond HP5600+<\/span>(E)<\/strong> (foreground). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
S end of Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong> (far L). The Cathedral<\/strong> (R) beyond the S end of Teresa Island<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

With no reason to go all the way to the top of HP5800+<\/span><\/strong>, Lupe passed W of it.\u00a0 Beyond a minor dip leading to a level, obstacle-free plain of grass, West Sentinel Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was finally in view.\u00a0 Several big knobs were visible along the dark, rocky spine of the upper NW ridge leading to it.<\/p>\n

How difficult it might be to get past those knobs wasn’t clear yet.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Roaming the upper grassy slopes of HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
HP6200+<\/span><\/strong> (L), West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (Center & R). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong>. True summit<\/strong> (R), Photo looks SE with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe had just passed another, smaller knob.\u00a0 A bit down HP5800+<\/span><\/strong>‘s W slope, it would clearly be a superb viewpoint.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The HP5800+<\/span> premier viewpoint<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

About time for another break, isn’t it, SPHP?\u00a0 Let’s go over there!<\/em><\/p>\n

A splendid idea, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (Center) and Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

2:02 PM<\/em> – The scenic, rocky knob was an easy scramble.\u00a0 A spectacular panorama of Atlin Lake greeted Lupe, stretching all the way from the Llewellyn Glacier at the S end, clear to Mount Minto<\/span><\/a> (6,913 ft.) <\/span><\/strong>and Mount Hitchcock<\/span><\/a> (5,886 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0many miles away near the N end.<\/p>\n

A lot to ponder and enjoy while sharing beef jerky!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
S end of Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong> (far L). Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on the Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Another glacier<\/strong> (Center) beyond Copper Island<\/strong> (R of Center). The Cathedral<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WSW with lots of help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) on Teresa Island<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on Birch Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Teresa Island<\/strong> (L), Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L), Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (Center) beyond HP5600+<\/span>(E)<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A very pleasant half an hour shot by.<\/p>\n

Just think, SPHP!\u00a0 Less than a month ago we were on Birch Mountain<\/strong><\/span><\/a>!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, Birch was a terrific adventure, Loop!\u00a0 This reminds me so much of it.\u00a0 If views were all we came for, we really wouldn’t have to go any farther today.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, but we are going farther, SPHP!\u00a0 West Sentinel Mountain awaits!\u00a0 Not that far away now.\u00a0 The views will be even more scintillating there!<\/em><\/p>\n

I suppose we better get with it then, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> (L), HP6200+<\/span><\/strong> (Center), West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R), true summit<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Break time over, Lupe scrambled down off the fabulous viewpoint, then headed SE across the grassy plain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Leaving the fabulous viewpoint<\/strong> (R of Center), HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hoping for more easy terrain S of the dark knobs along the spine of the upper NW ridge Lupe was approaching, SPHP encouraged her to head for a minor pass at the spine’s lower end.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the pass<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Reaching the pass, the view was disappointing.\u00a0 A whole lot of rock was ahead, some of it quite large and steep.<\/p>\n

Keep going, SPHP?\u00a0 Or stay on the N side?<\/em><\/p>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 Don’t think it matters much, Loop.\u00a0 Go through, I guess.\u00a0 Doubt the N side is any better.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Rocky and steep. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Amid talus on the S side. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Climbing steadily as she crossed a tedious stretch of talus, Lupe finally reached a broad region with a bit of grass that wasn’t as steep.\u00a0 Progress was much better here.\u00a0 A couple of knobs along the narrowest part of the upper NW ridge were still ahead.\u00a0 Getting past these knobs was the key to the entire West Sentinel Mountain ascent.\u00a0 The summit was only a short distance beyond them.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On better terrain again. West Sentinel Mountain summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Moment of truth ahead. West Sentinel Mountain summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Approaching the first knob, Lupe went right up to it.\u00a0 A pass was now visible W of the summit region.\u00a0 Exactly what it led to wasn’t clear yet.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the first knob<\/strong> (R). West Sentinel Mountain summit<\/strong> and the pass<\/strong> near it (L). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The American Dingo scrambled right on over the top of the first knob.\u00a0 Beyond it, SPHP was surprised to see that instead of just one, two more still remained ahead.\u00a0 However, it now appeared likely that Lupe had it made!\u00a0 The pass after the last knob connected to a decent slope leading to the S side of the summit region.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (L) from the first knob<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The middle knob was too gnarly to go directly over it.\u00a0 Downclimbing the steep N slope, Lupe reached suitable terrain where she could complete the rocky traverse required below both remaining knobs to reach the pass beyond them.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Continuing up from the pass next to the summit. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sweeping up and around to the S side of the summit block from this final pass, a ridge several hundred feet long was in view.\u00a0 A cairn sat 60 feet higher not far from the middle.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
West Sentinel Mountain summit ridge<\/strong>. Cairn<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

3:55 PM, 53\u00baF, West Sentinel Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – An easy stroll up a rock-strewn grassy slope got Lupe to the cairn.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By the summit cairn<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (L) beyond Atlin Lake<\/strong> from West Sentinel Mountain’s summit<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hah!\u00a0 Congratulations, Loopster!\u00a0 Really wasn’t much to this was there?\u00a0 Just enough to make it interesting.<\/em><\/p>\n

West Sentinel Mountain has been a great adventure, SPHP!\u00a0 A pretty long one, though.\u00a0 Did you create a GPS track with our new iPhone?\u00a0 What does it say?<\/em><\/p>\n

I did, Loopster, but the GPS track messed up for some reason, and quit recording a little while after we left the end of the Eldorado trail.\u00a0 I started a second GPS track, but there’s a gap between them, since I didn’t notice the failure of the first one right away, so we don’t have complete data.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, that’s too bad, SPHP!\u00a0 Would have been nice to know how far we went to get here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Hard to say even if the GPS track hadn’t messed up, Loop.\u00a0 I’ve noticed that the distances shown are often overstated.\u00a0 Can tell you that we’ve gained over 3,750 feet of elevation, if that helps.<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s a big day for us, SPHP!\u00a0 Worthy of a chocolate coconut bar, I’d say.<\/em><\/p>\n

So, that’s what you’re driving at, aye, sweet-tooth puppy?\u00a0 You’ll be happy to know I brought 2 of them.\u00a0 I’ll even throw in the last of the beef jerky.<\/em><\/p>\n

The views from West Sentinel Mountain were tremendous!\u00a0 Naturally, Atlin Lake remained the big attraction, with the Llewellyn Glacier and others surrounded by snow-capped peaks at its S end, Birch Mountain on Teresa Island directly W, and Mount Minto visible far to the N.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
S end of Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong> (far L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (Center) on Teresa Island<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Of course, there were other fabulous scenes, too.\u00a0 Much of Lupe’s route up West Sentinel Mountain’s NW ridge was in sight.\u00a0 The rocky knob where she’d taken her scenic break near HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> was now more than 500 feet lower, and looked very small from here.\u00a0 Directly N, a pond was visible down in the giant Eldorado Creek valley.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Atlin Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) beyond Atlin Lake<\/strong>. West Sentinel Mountain’s NW ridge<\/strong> (R) with HP5600+<\/span><\/strong> beyond it. Lupe’s earlier scenic break point is the dark blip<\/strong> in the grassy area (far R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Eldorado Creek valley<\/strong> (Center & R). Mount Minto<\/strong> (L) and Mount Hitchcock<\/strong> (L of Center) on the horizon. HP5800+<\/span><\/strong> (far L) in the foreground. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Mountains in a vast region to the S and SE were all much lower than West Sentinel Mountain, but that wasn’t true on the indistinct horizon where snow was visible on a long range sporting distant glimpses of mighty summits.\u00a0 Several lakes were scattered among the lowlands.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
West Sentinel Mountain’s S slope<\/strong>. Atlin Lake<\/strong> and the Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lower peaks and lakes in the inaccessible region to the SE. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

There was another view, too, a tantalizing one.\u00a0 Beyond a dark knob at the E end of West Sentinel Mountain’s summit ridge, Sentinel Mountain was in sight.\u00a0 Much of the N side of the ridge leading to it was a line of sheer cliffs, but the S side looked doable.<\/p>\n

Would Lupe ever get there?\u00a0 Doubtful.\u00a0 Sentinel Mountain was clearly a long, rocky march from here, and the American Dingo and SPHP were both about played out just getting to West Sentinel Mountain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
West Sentinel Mountain’s E high point<\/strong> (L) and Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the E end of the summit ridge<\/strong>. West Sentinel Mountain’s E high point<\/strong> (L) and Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

During her traditional summit hour, Lupe relaxed, alternately resting near the cairn, or roaming the summit ridge while enjoying the splendid views.\u00a0 SPHP split the second and last chocolate coconut bar with her, since Sentinel Mountain wasn’t in the cards.\u00a0 A light breeze eventually sprang up out of the W.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taking it easy on West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
By the cairn. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Birch Mountain<\/strong> (L). Photo looks WNW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

4:49 PM, West Sentinel Mountain<\/em> –\u00a0 Gazing E, SPHP knew it was now or never.\u00a0 Somewhat surprisingly, after an hour’s rest, now did seem the better choice.<\/p>\n

Time’s up, Loop.\u00a0 You ready?<\/em><\/p>\n

Hate to leave such a fabulous peak, SPHP!\u00a0 The views are nearly as good here as they were from Birch Mountain.<\/em><\/p>\n

I hate to leave, too, but that’s life in the mountains.\u00a0 Evening is upon us, Looper, and we’re taking the long way back, so we better get with it.<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re actually going to Sentinel Mountain, SPHP?\u00a0 The E one?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah.\u00a0 May as well.\u00a0 Think we can manage it.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy ho, time!<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading back down the S slope to where she’d first come up it, Lupe turned ENE, beginning the trek to Sentinel Mountain.\u00a0 Progress was fairly decent at first, but became rockier than SPHP expected.\u00a0 Half an hour after leaving West Sentinel Mountain’s summit, the Carolina Dog was staring down on the hidden lake W of HP6200+<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (L). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Getting rather rocky. Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The hidden lake<\/strong> (R) W of HP6200+<\/span><\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Peering down on the lake.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SE of HP6200+<\/span><\/strong>, even SPHP sped along on a short stretch of good ground.\u00a0 However, Lupe was soon losing considerable elevation while crossing a gigantic boulder field that was very slow going.\u00a0 As the ridge narrowed, SPHP feared she might have to lose a lot more, the sinking sun becoming a worry, too.\u00a0 Time was relentlessly ticking away.<\/p>\n

Never complaining, Lupe was a trooper, leaping endlessly from rock to rock.\u00a0 The last part of the descent was the worst.\u00a0 The S side of the ridge steepened, and a series of knobs along the ridgeline threatened to force either a complete retreat, or a giant detour far below them.<\/p>\n

Each time Lupe crested a knob, SPHP feared an impassable drop beyond it.\u00a0 Fortunately, the Luck of the Dingo held!\u00a0 In every case, a manageable downclimb always provided a way forward.\u00a0 Near the low point, SPHP’s latest GPS track read 5,900 feet.\u00a0 Only 400+ feet to go, as the Carolina Dog started up Sentinel Mountain.<\/p>\n

Gonna make it!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Sentinel Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading up. Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Other than being just plain tired, the scramble wasn’t bad at all.\u00a0 Near the end, the slope diminished, the last part of the ascent a mere stroll to a cairn visible at the top.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Nearly there! Cairn in sight. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6:58 PM, 46\u00baF, Sentinel Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,316 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – It had taken 2 hours to go 3 km.\u00a0 The 10 mph W wind now felt quite chilly, but Lupe had made it!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On Sentinel Mountain<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
S end of Atlin Lake<\/strong> (Center) and West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Double congratulations, Loop!\u00a0 Both West Sentinel Mountain and Sentinel Mountain in a single day.\u00a0 Can’t be many Dingoes that have ever done that!<\/em><\/p>\n

Thank you, SPHP, but we’ve already eaten the last chocolate coconut bar, haven’t we?<\/em><\/p>\n

Afraid so, Loopster.\u00a0 I was so tired when we first reached West Sentinel Mountain, that I didn’t think we’d ever actually do this.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, I’m tired now, SPHP, and this summit is all rock.\u00a0 Mind letting me curl up on your lap?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sentinel Mountain’s summit wasn’t all that big, but there was enough room to move around, with another area 10 or 15 feet lower to the NE with additional space.\u00a0 Sitting near the cairn facing W, SPHP let Lupe get comfortable.\u00a0 The sun was still up, but behind a bank of clouds.\u00a0 Parts of Atlin Lake remained in view.\u00a0 Sadly, Birch Mountain wasn’t, now hidden by West Sentinel Mountain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
S end of Atlin Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on snowy peaks near the Llewellyn Glacier<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sun reappeared, beautifully illuminating the upper Eldorado Creek valley and the vast rolling highlands near Peak 6200<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 To the SE, a much lower range of hills was capped by a series of ridges of light gray rock.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Eldorado Creek valley<\/strong> (L), Peak 6200<\/span><\/strong> (R), Atlin Lake<\/strong> (far L). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Peak 6200<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lower hills<\/strong> to the SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe didn’t feel like moving.\u00a0 Neither did SPHP.\u00a0 However, Loop couldn’t linger up here too long, if she wanted to preserve enough light to at least get off Sentinel Mountain.\u00a0 Half an hour was going to have to suffice.<\/p>\n

Over all too quickly, of course!\u00a0 The last few minutes were spent up and about, taking a final look around.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atlin Lake<\/strong> (far L & R), West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (Center), HP6200+<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At Sentinel Mountain’s true summit<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Already time to go. West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Leaving Sentinel Mountain, Lupe headed down its N ridge.\u00a0 Steep and rocky, it was a long descent, but not a particularly difficult one, before things leveled out enough for SPHP to pick up the pace.\u00a0 The race was now on to get as far as possible before darkness fell upon the land.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Lupe went down its N ridge<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Upper Eldorado Creek valley<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Final glance back at Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Hurrying back to the Eldorado trail. Still a long way to go. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Last glimpse of West Sentinel Mountain’s summit<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wanting to avoid any swampiness or beaver ponds near the bottom of the Eldorado Creek valley, SPHP encouraged Lupe to remain on higher, drier ground farther N.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog crossed several tributaries of Eldorado Creek, but they were all small.<\/p>\n

Although Lupe had made great progress, she was still a km away from the Eldorado trail when the flashlight had to come out.\u00a0 By then she’d reached a giant thicket of tall bushes, and had about exhausted all the decent open lanes among them.<\/p>\n

Bounding through bushes chest high on SPHP was no easy matter.\u00a0 Lupe couldn’t see a thing, and in the dark, SPHP wasn’t much better off, even with the flashlight.\u00a0 Every now and then a small opening or game trail permitted a spurt ahead, but most of the time, a miserable bushwhack had to be endured.<\/p>\n

Lupe was within 0.5 km of the Eldorado trail when she suddenly reached a wider open lane.<\/p>\n

The ATV trail, SPHP!\u00a0 We found it again!<\/em><\/p>\n

It was true, and a blessed relief.\u00a0 Lupe was soon back at Eldorado Creek.\u00a0 After fording the stream, while SPHP used the log over the waterfall to cross, only the downhill march along the Eldorado trail remained.<\/p>\n

Fabulous to be on a trail again, but with exhaustion setting in, the pitch black forest trek still felt long.\u00a0 The return was uneventful, except for one thing.\u00a0 The yellow trail markers were super easy to spot now, since they brightly reflected the light of the flashlight.\u00a0 When Lupe got back to the muddy stretch, it turned out that the Atlin Alpine Society actually had created a nice single track trail around it.<\/p>\n

So, has the Atlin Alpine Society<\/strong><\/span><\/a> redeemed itself, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Absolutely, Loop!\u00a0 Our earlier mud adventure was entirely my fault for not paying closer attention to their trail markers.<\/em><\/p>\n

9-8-22, 12:01 AM, Eldorado trailhead, Warm Bay Road<\/em> – Exhausted, Lupe leapt back up onto her pink blanket in the RAV4.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog still had enough strength to gobble an entire can of Ol’ Roy, and help SPHP polish off the rest of the roasted chicken, plus a packet of Ritz crackers before calling it a night.\u00a0 What a glorious day West Sentinel Mountain and Sentinel Mountain had been!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the way from West Sentinel Mountain<\/strong> to Sentinel Mountain<\/strong>, British Columbia, Canada 9-7-22<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

Atlin Alpine Society<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Lupe’s West Sentinel Mountain GPS track (ascent, partial)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Lupe’s Sentinel Mountain GPS track (descent)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Birch Mountain, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada – Part 1: Across Atlin Lake to Teresa Island! (8-12-22)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Monarch Mountain near Atlin, British Columbia, Canada (8-12-18)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

The Crocus Trail to Pine Creek Falls, Atlin, British Columbia, Canada (8-11-18)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Want more Lupe adve<\/em>ntures?\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":"

Day 40 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2022 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 7:27 AM, Warm Bay Road S of Atlin, Eldorado trailhead – A yellow pickup truck arrived, quickly followed by a bulldozer, which immediately began mucking around in McKee Creek, inexplicably prompting an attack by the were-puppy. Ow!\u00a0 Dang it, Loopster!\u00a0 Do … Continue reading The Eldorado Trail & Beyond to West Sentinel Mountain & Sentinel Mountain, British Columbia, Canada (9-7-22)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":48092,"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":[105,1072,79,30,106,26,1646,104,1645,1644],"class_list":["post-48109","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1585","tag-american-dingo","tag-atlin","tag-british-columbia","tag-canada","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-eldorado-trail","tag-lupe","tag-sentinel-mountain","tag-west-sentinel-mountain"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/IMG_0168-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\/48109","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=48109"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/48109\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":49384,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/48109\/revisions\/49384"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/48092"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=48109"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=48109"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=48109"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}