{"id":49486,"date":"2024-01-14T08:10:21","date_gmt":"2024-01-14T15:10:21","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=49486"},"modified":"2024-05-12T23:35:34","modified_gmt":"2024-05-13T05:35:34","slug":"albany-peak-laramie-range-wyoming-6-8-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=49486","title":{"rendered":"Albany Peak, Laramie Range, Wyoming (6-8-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 1 & 2 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!<\/em><\/p>\n

6-7-23, 4:16 PM, Horseshoe Creek Road, SW of Glendo<\/em> – Pulling over to the side of the road, SPHP parked the RAV4 near the edge of a small ridge and leapt out.<\/p>\n

C’mon, Loopster!\u00a0 Let’s have a look!<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe started to follow, but stopped almost as soon as she hit the ground.<\/p>\n

Umm, there’s cactus, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Only a little, Loop.\u00a0 Just stay right behind me.\u00a0 We aren’t going far at all.<\/em><\/p>\n

From the edge of the ridge, Horseshoe Creek Road snaked away across a wide, rolling green valley toward rocky ridges and mountains only a few miles away.\u00a0 The closest ones weren’t all that high, but off in the distance beneath an unsettled sky loomed a much more prominent peak.<\/p>\n

Laramie Peak<\/strong><\/span><\/a>!\u00a0 Seems like forever since we’ve been there!\u00a0 Are we going to climb it again, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Laramie Peak<\/span><\/a> (10,272 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> (Center) on the horizon. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

That would be fun, Loop, but no.\u00a0 However, we are going to try a peak not too far from it tomorrow that’s been on your list of possibilities for many years.\u00a0 We’ll stop again for another look when we get close it.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP had been acting weird lately.\u00a0 Lupe hadn’t realized until this very morning what was going on.\u00a0 Tremendously excited, the Carolina Dog had then followed SPHP in and out of the house countless times as the RAV4 got loaded with gear and supplies, before finally giving up and simply laying down in the shade on the lawn’s thick grass to watch and wait for the inevitable invitation.<\/p>\n

That invitation came at 11:09 AM, 79\u00baF.\u00a0 Beneath clear blue skies, Lupe leapt into the RAV4, and took up her usual position on her pink blanket.\u00a0 Moments later, as SPHP backed out of the driveway, the American Dingo grinned broadly.\u00a0 She could hardly believe it!\u00a0 The long-awaited Summer of 2023 was finally here!\u00a0 Dingo Vacation days of glory ahead!<\/p>\n

It began with a scenic drive through the Black Hills, Lupe barking with enormous enthusiasm at cows and horses.\u00a0 By early afternoon, she was in the great state of Wyoming, where skies suddenly looked stormy.\u00a0 S of Mule Creek Junction, SPHP drove through a cloudburst.\u00a0 Fortunately, no hail.\u00a0 Near Lance Creek, skies were blue again, but more rain showers had appeared as the RAV4 sped S.<\/p>\n

Another small cloudburst along Horseshoe Creek Road had drifted off to the E.\u00a0 Returning to the RAV4, and resuming the drive SW up the green valley, SPHP reached a junction that looked familiar.\u00a0 Sure enough, after turning S on USFS Road No. 633, SPHP was soon recognizing places Lupe had been to long ago.<\/p>\n

No. 633 ultimately climbed higher, and became quite a bit rougher, than SPHP remembered.\u00a0 Once the road topped out, SPHP subsequently failed to notice the turn into the Boy Scout camp at Harris Park where Lupe had once set out for Black Mountain<\/span><\/a> (7,960 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Eh, no matter.\u00a0 Shortly after passing the region where the turn had to have been, SPHP parked the RAV4 again.<\/p>\n

Thar she blows, Looper!\u00a0 Our first destination, Albany Peak<\/span><\/a> (7,720 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak<\/strong> (Center) from USFS Road No. 633. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sweet, but looks mighty rocky on top, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I know.\u00a0 Pretty typical for the Laramie Mountains, though.\u00a0 The topo map actually shows two summits of roughly equal elevation.\u00a0 That’s our ace in the hole!\u00a0 If we can get to the top of either one, we’re calling it close enough for Dingo work and claiming a peakbagging success.<\/em><\/p>\n

Taking a R on County Road No. 71 at the next junction, it continued S past Albany Peak down to Cottonwood Park, a very broad, scenic valley just a few miles SE of Laramie Peak.\u00a0 A couple of roaming pronghorns vanished over a ridge before SPHP could get a photo.\u00a0 When a L turn onto Fletcher Park Road appeared, SPHP took it.<\/p>\n

6-7-23, 5:30 PM, USFS Road No. 643 at Elk Park<\/em> – Lightning flashed now and then, and the distant rumble of thunder was often heard from dark clouds to the S.\u00a0 This region wasn’t at all the dense forest SPHP expected, due to a fire long ago.\u00a0 White tree skeletons decorated a hilly landscape dotted with rounded rock formations.\u00a0 Scattered live trees remained in tall, spindly stands.<\/p>\n

Raining to the S, but doesn’t look too threatening here, Loop.\u00a0 Air’s nice and cool now.\u00a0 Want to scout around a bit, just for fun?<\/em><\/p>\n

I’d love to, SPHP, but how about dinner first?<\/em><\/p>\n

An entirely reasonable request.\u00a0 SPHP had been munching on honey roasted peanuts and wasn’t that hungry, but Lupe was famished.<\/p>\n

Once the Carolina Dog had her fill, the evening’s leisurely explorations began.\u00a0 Following USFS Road No. 643 N for roughly 0.4 mile, Lupe sniffed gorgeous wildflowers along the way before reaching a minor pass.\u00a0 From a small, deadfall-laden rise on the W side of the pass, she had a terrific view of Laramie Peak.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Among the wildflowers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
In pristine condition!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Laramie Peak<\/strong> (Center) from the rise W of the pass. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Double-pronged Albany Peak was already in sight, 3 or 4 miles NNE.\u00a0 Beyond the pass, SPHP was surprised to see the road continuing a long way toward it.<\/p>\n

Hmm, that’s odd.<\/em><\/p>\n

What’s odd, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

The map shows No. 643 turning NW not too far from here, then heading down to Cottonwood Creek.\u00a0 Doesn’t show this road winding toward Albany Peak at all, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Nothing wrong with that, is there, SPHP?\u00a0 Looks like an way to get there.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 I’d been thinking we’d take USFS Road No. 650, which lies 0.5 mile farther E, but I like the looks of this.\u00a0 Maybe we’ll just go this way?<\/em><\/p>\n

Wandering back S off-road, Lupe came to an enormous boulder cracked in two.\u00a0 SPHP joined her in climbing up onto it.\u00a0 While relaxing up there, suddenly the wild dogs began singing.\u00a0 Her ears straight up, listening, Lupe’s eyes grew big.\u00a0 For 2 minutes the coyotes sang.\u00a0 They were many, not too far away from the sound of it, although none were in sight.<\/p>\n

Getting dark.\u00a0 The coyotes’ wild chorus ended as suddenly as it began.\u00a0 To the W, black silhouettes of the spindly trees stood against a pale sky.<\/p>\n

Guess we should amble on back to the RAV4, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

6-8-23, sunrise, USFS Road No. 643 at Elk Park<\/em> – The tiger attacked, biting SPHP’s hand.\u00a0 Blood spurted out.\u00a0 Another moment, and it would all be over, but somehow SPHP got free.\u00a0 Incredibly, the tiger transformed into a big dog, and began attacking other people.\u00a0 Lupe appeared, heroically standing over SPHP, her fur shining in the morning sun now peeping over the horizon.<\/p>\n

About time you woke up!\u00a0 Mind letting me out, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Huh?\u00a0 Morning already?\u00a0 Yeah, I’ll let you out.\u00a0 In fact, I’ll join you, Loop.\u00a0 Need to clear my mind.\u00a0 I’ve been dreaming like a nut case.<\/em><\/p>\n

6-8-23, 6:36 AM, USFS Road No. 643 at Elk Park<\/em> – Lupe stood impatiently next to the RAV4.\u00a0 The sky had clouded up a bit, but the pack was ready.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
About to set out for Albany Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

Music to my ears, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading N on USFS Road No. 643 again, by the time Lupe made it to the minor pass, she was in brilliant sunshine.\u00a0 An absolutely gorgeous day!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Looking back along USFS Road No. 643<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Laramie Peak<\/strong> (L of Center) in the morning light. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak<\/strong> (Center) from just N of the 1st minor pass. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing N over the pass, No. 643 began a steady descent.\u00a0 Lupe soon came to a cattle guard where there were signs about a hunting walk-in area, plus a great view of Black Mountain<\/span><\/a> (7,960 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> 5.5 miles N.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak<\/strong> (L & Center) from the start of the hunting walk-in area. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Black Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center) from the 1st cattle guard. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A bit beyond this first cattle guard, the road curved NE, leaving the route No. 643 was supposed to take.\u00a0 It steepened somewhat on the way down to a valley full of young aspens where Lupe drank from a small stream.\u00a0 Beyond this valley, the road climbed again to a junction with another road coming in from the SE.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading down into the valley full of young aspens. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing N, then NE, from this intersection, Lupe had opportunities to get more drinks from big mud puddles left over from yesterday’s rains.\u00a0 Most were a muddy brown, but a few were clear.\u00a0 Made no difference to the American Dingo.\u00a0 Lupe tromped through every puddle, getting a few licks from each one.\u00a0 Gradually gaining elevation, she was about a mile past the first creek when the road topped out at a second cattle guard.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak<\/strong> (L) from the 2nd cattle guard. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sunny and bright, the day was warming up fast.\u00a0 Thus far, Lupe had been out in the open exposed to direct sun, but a pine forest was now in sight ahead.\u00a0 Shade was starting to sound good as she trotted toward it.<\/p>\n

Upon reaching the forest, the pines provided welcome relief from the sun.\u00a0 When a rock formation appeared slightly off-road in a clearing on the L, Lupe scrambled up onto it for another look at Albany Peak, which was noticeably closer now.\u00a0 Then it was back to the road, which wound gently down to a second junction with another unmarked road.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak<\/strong> (R) from up on the rocks. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Enjoying the shade of the pines. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Going L at this intersection, Lupe quickly came to a shallow valley S of a very rocky ridge.\u00a0 From the W, a tiny stream flowed through a big puddle on the road.\u00a0 A clump of lovely purple wild irises grew just upstream.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the 2nd stream<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Wild irises.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It wasn’t much farther to a third unmarked junction.\u00a0 Staying L again, Lupe headed up to a third minor pass.\u00a0 Towering rock formations were now visible off to the R (NE).<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading up to the 3rd minor pass<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the 3rd pass<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Alrighty!\u00a0 Starting to get somewhere now, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

Good news, SPHP!\u00a0 So, where are we?<\/em><\/p>\n

Believe we’re on USFS Road No. 650 crossing Albany Peak’s SW ridge.<\/em><\/p>\n

Follow the ridge from here, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nope.\u00a0 Way too rocky.\u00a0 Much easier to stick with this road going N for nearly another mile before turning E somewhere to start our climb.<\/em><\/p>\n

Which summit are we going for first, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

The N one, I guess, although Peakbagger.com shows the S summit as the true one.<\/em><\/p>\n

Either one counts as a success, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes!\u00a0 Good enough for Dingo work, Looper!\u00a0 Unless we see much more of a difference than I expect.<\/em><\/p>\n

Continuing N past the 3rd minor pass, the road gradually lost elevation.\u00a0 Once beyond the first big rock formations on the R, it leveled out for a stretch, then resumed a slow climb.\u00a0 Lupe was out in the open again W of Albany Peak.\u00a0 Several enormous steep-sided rock ridges were visible way up near the top.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Albany Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Yikes!\u00a0 Still looks a little dicey up there, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I know it.\u00a0 Was kind of afraid of that.<\/em><\/p>\n

Nothing to do about it, but keep going.\u00a0 When an even more primitive spur road appeared that went E right up the slope, Lupe took it.\u00a0 Closer now, the views above weren’t any more encouraging than they had been from a distance.\u00a0 The spur road soon curved N, and leveled out.\u00a0 When it turned NW and started downhill, that was it.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the rough spur road. N summit<\/strong> (L), S summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Leave the road here, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup!\u00a0 This first hillside doesn’t look bad at all.\u00a0 With a little luck, we can simply walk right on up to the top of the N summit.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
About to leave the spur road where it turns NW (L). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Abandoning the road, Lupe pushed through a band of young aspens in a ravine, crossing a tiny stream in the process.\u00a0 A slope partially strewn with rocks and deadfall was ahead.\u00a0 Aiming L of a towering knob of rock partway up, the American Dingo started her ascent.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting up! Albany Peak N summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Pretty easy at first, but the slope steepened considerably as Lupe drew near the towering knob.\u00a0 Before Lupe even got to it, SPHP was doing a big bad wolf impression, huffing and puffing.<\/p>\n

Hold on, Looper!\u00a0 Let’s take a little break!<\/em><\/p>\n

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

Yes.\u00a0 Been a long time since your last Dingo Vacation.\u00a0 I’m out of shape!<\/em><\/p>\n

No worries!\u00a0 You’ve got all summer now to get back into shape, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeesh.\u00a0 Hope it doesn’t take that long!<\/em><\/p>\n

After a break spent mostly gasping for air while admiring the already lovely views, SPHP was ready to carry on.\u00a0 The towering knob turned out to be just the lower end of a long wall of rock.\u00a0 Happy in its shade, Lupe climbed along the NW side of the wall, which steadily shrank in height as she got higher.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The towering knob and wall beyond it. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wasn’t that far, but SPHP was ready for another breather once Lupe got past the upper end of the wall, which simply melted into the rest of the terrain.\u00a0 Another higher, and much more formidable wall of rock was now in sight.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The next spine of the mountain. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So the upper end of this next wall is the N summit of Albany Peak, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Uh-huh.\u00a0 Sure doesn’t look like we’ll be able to get to the top from this side, though.<\/em><\/p>\n

Might as well see how high we can go, SPHP.\u00a0 Maybe there’s a way?<\/em><\/p>\n

Fat chance from the looks of it, but we’ll see what we can do.\u00a0 Should have brought your Dingo wings.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
N summit of Albany Peak<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Climbing toward the N summit, Lupe was soon scrambling amid a jungle of young aspens springing up from a field of huge talus slabs below the highest part of the rock wall.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog got quite high, but was eventually stymied at the base of a near vertical chute.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the N summit<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the base of the chute. Photo looks up!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Face it, our goose is cooked here, Loop.\u00a0 If we were decent rock climbers we could do it.<\/em><\/p>\n

How much higher to the top, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Can’t tell for sure, Loopster.\u00a0 About 50 feet, I think.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well shucks, SPHP!\u00a0 So close, and yet so far!\u00a0 Too bad you’re an indecent rock climber, or I’d send you as my personal representative.<\/em><\/p>\n

Hah!\u00a0 Not happening.\u00a0 Not going to break my fool neck attempting this.\u00a0 Let’s see if we can work our way around to the other side.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A glance over at what appeared to be the highest rock<\/strong> (R of Center) of the N summit<\/strong> from the NW side. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Descending NE along the base of the wall of rock, Lupe reached a point where SPHP was able to boost her up onto the ridgeline, then scramble up after her.\u00a0 The narrow spine of the wall continued a long way NE as it sank toward the Wyoming prairies.\u00a0 Albany Peak’s S summit was now in view, too.\u00a0 Another massive, vertical wall of rock, the S summit towered beyond a lower central wall.<\/p>\n

Wow!\u00a0 The S summit is impressive, isn’t it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

I’ll say, Looper.\u00a0 So much so, that it’s depressive.\u00a0 We’ll never get to the top!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the NE spine of the N summit<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
S summit<\/strong> (Center) from the NE spine of the N summit. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Due to a 6 foot drop, SPHP had to scramble down off the SE side of the ridgeline first, then help lower Lupe.\u00a0 Traipsing S through a region of boulders, bushes, and young aspens, the Carolina Dog managed to get around to a clear view of the N summit from the SE.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak’s N summit<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sheesh!\u00a0 N summit’s not happening from this side, either, Loopster.\u00a0 Let’s take another break.<\/em><\/p>\n

Some cool, gnarly rock formations, aren’t they, SPHP?\u00a0 A rock climber’s dream!\u00a0 But yes, let’s take a break.\u00a0 Bring any water?\u00a0 It’s hot in the sun!\u00a0 I’m missing those mud puddles.<\/em><\/p>\n

After a short water break, Lupe ventured up to the base of the N summit wall, but probably didn’t get any closer to the top than she had from the other side.\u00a0 Seeing no reasonable route up, SPHP abandoned all hope of a successful N summit ascent.<\/p>\n

Hmm, well, I suppose we might as well take a closer look at the S summit, Loop, even though it appears completely impossible for us.<\/em><\/p>\n

Follow me, SPHP!\u00a0 We’ll check it out!<\/em><\/p>\n

Leaping over rocks and deadfall, the American Dingo headed for the central ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the central ridge between the two summits<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Even getting over the central ridge didn’t look feasible.\u00a0 A gap toward the S end looked like the best way around it.\u00a0 After passing through the gap, the S summit still appeared every bit as daunting as it had before.<\/p>\n

Despite appearances, Lupe continued S.\u00a0 Eventually turning E, she climbed through another region of young aspens, deadfall, and boulders.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Glancing back at the N summit<\/strong> from the gap. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak’s S summit<\/strong> (R) from beyond the gap. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the Carolina Dog kept going, the terrain kept steepening.\u00a0 Climbing above most of the trees and deadfall, suddenly there was hope!\u00a0 A long, steep slope of bedrock led skyward.<\/p>\n

We can do this, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

My gosh!\u00a0 It is possible?\u00a0 Looks like we can go all the way to the top, Loop!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The unexpected, promising route<\/strong> (Center) to the S summit<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The bedrock got plenty steep.\u00a0 \u00a0Paw holds weren’t great in spots.\u00a0 The rock was just too smooth.\u00a0 Nevertheless, Lupe had no difficulties at all.\u00a0 Never even got that scary for SPHP.\u00a0 Within a few minutes, SPHP was joining the American Dingo up on a nice level area next to a knob of rock that was easy to scramble onto.<\/p>\n

6-8-23, 10:53 AM, 74\u00baF, Albany Peak<\/span><\/a> (7,720<\/span>\u00a0ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, S summit region –<\/em><\/p>\n

Unfortunately, there was more to Albany Peak than that knob.\u00a0 Opposite it, immediately N of the flat area Lupe had reached, a wall of rock rose another 40 or 50 feet that hadn’t been visible from below.\u00a0 Full of little overhangs, there was clearly no way Lupe could get up there.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak’s S summit<\/strong> from the knob. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Dingo feathers!\u00a0 We’re skunked, Looper!\u00a0 Tried both sides of both summits, and nothing’s worked.<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t worry about it, SPHP!\u00a0 Can’t win ’em all.\u00a0 We’ve done our best.\u00a0 We’ll get to the tops of plenty of mountains on this Dingo Vacation.\u00a0 At least we had hope for Albany Peak until nearly the very end.\u00a0 Besides, we can’t have been that far from the true summit, and the views are awesome right here!<\/em><\/p>\n

True.\u00a0 Although the wall of rock comprising the S summit blocked views to the N, the Carolina Dog enjoyed sweeping views in other directions.\u00a0 Laramie Peak<\/span><\/a> (10,272 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> 5.5 miles due W was the big standout, with Albany Peak’s long, gnarly SW ridge sloping away in runner-up position.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Laramie Peak<\/strong> (Center) from Albany Peak’s S summit region. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Laramie Peak<\/strong> (R of Center) beyond Cottonwood Park<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The S summit’s SW ridge<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Albany Peak’s S summit ridge<\/strong> (L) from up on the knob. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After an initial look around, Lupe went over to the knob searching for a spot to settle in.\u00a0 Roasting in the sun, she lapped up a bowl of water, then curled up in a cubby hole among the rocks where at least her head was shaded.\u00a0 By sitting with legs over this grotto, SPHP was able to provide the American Dingo almost complete shade.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Loopster hiding out in her grotto. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Don’t suppose there’s any chance of getting a chocolate coconut bar since we didn’t make it to the top of Albany Peak, is there, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

None at all, Looper.\u00a0 As a matter of fact, I forgot to bring them.\u00a0 They’re still at home!<\/em><\/p>\n

At home!\u00a0 That is tragic news, SPHP!\u00a0 How could on earth could you forget the chocolate coconut bars?<\/em><\/p>\n

Heh.\u00a0 No excuse.\u00a0 Just plain and simple forgot them, but I did remember something else you’ll like.\u00a0 How about some beef jerky?<\/em><\/p>\n

Beef jerky proved to be an exceptionally popular substitute for chocolate coconut bars.\u00a0 Lupe also gobbled down an entire bowl of Taste of the Wild before dozing off.\u00a0 Meanwhile SPHP drank a Sparkling Ice.<\/p>\n

Birds were singing.\u00a0 At one point there was a strange cry like that of a crane or heron.\u00a0 SPHP didn’t see any, but did get a glimpse of two giant deers to the SE.\u00a0 Sunny and warm when Lupe first arrived, cumulus clouds were building, sometimes casting pleasantly cool shade.\u00a0 Time slipped away.<\/p>\n

“Summit” hour is about up, Loopster!\u00a0 A few more pictures before we go?<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe was all for it.\u00a0 Before departing, she got up on the highest big rock she could easily reach next to the S summit wall, then returned to the top of the knob.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the big rock next to the S summit wall<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Final moments up on the knob<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Satisfied, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 Let’s scoot!\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The way back. Laramie Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking down the steep bedrock descent. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Although Lupe got down the steep scramble quickly and easily enough, SPHP had to exercise considerable caution.\u00a0 Once down, the American Dingo took a shortcut heading W back to the spur off USFS Road No. 650.\u00a0 Part of this region was meadow, but most of it involved pushing through a combination of young aspens, deadfall, and talus of varying degrees of steepness.\u00a0 All went well.\u00a0 Once down to the road, Lupe retraced her original route.<\/p>\n

By the time she made it back to where the wild irises were growing in the little stream, the sky had almost completely clouded over.\u00a0 Raindrops began falling as SPHP donned the red rain jacket.\u00a0 Lupe enjoyed trotting along the winding roads in a cool light rain.\u00a0 Noticing a wigwam W of USFS Road No. 643, she went to investigate.\u00a0 By then, the RAV4 wasn’t much farther.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Checking out the wooden wigwam. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Nearly back to the RAV4 (Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-8-23, 2:05 PM, USFS Road No. 643 at Elk Park –\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Albany Peak was fun, SPHP!\u00a0 Great to be back in the Laramie Mountains!\u00a0 Still fairly early, what’s next on the agenda?<\/em><\/p>\n

A bite to eat, then we’re hitting the road, Loop.\u00a0 We’re on our way to Colorado.\u00a0 Going to stay at Hotel Mika tonight!<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re leaving the Laramie Range already, SPHP?\u00a0 That’s sad!\u00a0 And what’s this about Hotel Mika?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup, afraid we have to leave the Laramie Range, Looper.\u00a0 At least we got a taste of it again.\u00a0 Your Uncle Joe and Aunt Andrea are expecting us tonight in Arvada.\u00a0 Hotel Mika is Hotel Dusty under new management now that both Cousin Dusty<\/span><\/strong><\/a> and Cousin Laddie<\/strong><\/span><\/a> are gone.<\/em><\/p>\n

A cat is running Hotel Dusty now, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 Any objections, Loop?\u00a0 You’ll still get to stay in the luxurious Cowboy Room tonight!<\/em><\/p>\n

The Cowboy Room?\u00a0 Well, what are we waiting for?\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 SPHP, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Driving SE on Fletcher Park Road on the way to I-25, SPHP kept an eye on Albany Peak in the rearview mirror until a cloudburst swept over it, hiding it from view.\u00a0 Despite never quite getting to the summit, Lupe was right.\u00a0 Her brief return to the Laramie Range had really been fun!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the knob near Albany Peak’s S summit<\/strong>, Laramie Mountains, Wyoming 6-8-23<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s Albany Peak GPS track (return)<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
In the lap of luxury! Relaxing in the Cowboy Room<\/strong> at Hotel Mika<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

Prior Dingo Vacation<\/strong><\/span><\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Next Adventure<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Lupe’s Scrollable Albany Peak GPS Track<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Laramie Peak, Wyoming (8-9-15)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Black Mountain, Laramie Range, WY (6-8-17)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Jack Squirrel Peak, Laramie Range, WY (6-19-17)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Want more Lupe adve<\/em>ntures?\u00a0\u00a0Choose from Lupe’s Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacations to Colorado, New Mexico, Canada & Alaska Adventure Index<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/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 1 & 2 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico! 6-7-23, 4:16 PM, Horseshoe Creek Road, SW of Glendo – Pulling over to the side of the road, SPHP parked the RAV4 near the edge of a small ridge and leapt out. C’mon, Loopster!\u00a0 Let’s have a look! … Continue reading Albany Peak, Laramie Range, Wyoming (6-8-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":49480,"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":[1659],"tags":[1660,105,106,26,655,104,275],"class_list":["post-49486","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1659","tag-albany-peak","tag-american-dingo","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-laramie-mountains","tag-lupe","tag-wyoming"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/IMG_0835-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\/49486","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=49486"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49486\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":54097,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49486\/revisions\/54097"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/49480"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=49486"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=49486"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=49486"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}