{"id":50034,"date":"2024-01-21T08:10:35","date_gmt":"2024-01-21T15:10:35","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=50034"},"modified":"2024-05-12T23:36:32","modified_gmt":"2024-05-13T05:36:32","slug":"greenhorn-mountain-sangre-de-cristo-range-colorado-6-11-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=50034","title":{"rendered":"Greenhorn Mountain, Sangre de Cristo Range, Colorado (6-11-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 3-5 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!<\/em><\/p>\n

6-9-23, 7:00 AM<\/em> – The weather had been unsettled during yesterday evening’s drive.\u00a0 Fortunately, the ominously dark clouds hanging over the Colorado front range upon Lupe’s arrival at Hotel Mika in Arvada hadn’t produced any hail, only rain.\u00a0 After a night of luxurious comfort in the Cowboy Room, skies were blue this morning, and a certain Carolina Dog was ready for action!<\/p>\n

Uncle Joe was, too.\u00a0 When he suggested a hike along Indian Creek Trail No. 800 in the Pike National forest SW of Sedalia, Lupe was all for it.<\/p>\n

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With Uncle Joe on Indian Creek Trail No. 800<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It seemed very strange that Cousin Dusty<\/strong><\/span><\/a> was no longer around to join in the fun, especially during romps later in the day along the perimeter of the 100 acre field behind Hotel Mika, and the path by Ralston Creek.<\/p>\n

Evening entertainment at Hotel Mika included a showing of the movie Red Dog<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, which was very good, but rather sad, too.<\/p>\n

6-10-23 –<\/em> After a second splendid night’s rest in the Cowboy Room, it was time to move on.\u00a0 Not, however, before Loopster got to wade in Ralston Creek and circumnavigate the 100 acre field once more.\u00a0 Even Mika, the Siberian forest cat, then turned out to bid her a fond farewell and happy trails on this Dingo Vacation.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Wading in Ralston Creek<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
With Uncle Joe<\/strong> & Aunt Andrea<\/strong> during a jaunt around the 100 acre field.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Hotel Mika’s entire staff<\/strong> turned out to bid Lupe happy trails.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

To the American Dingo’s surprise, her current sudden acquaintance with luxurious living wasn’t over quite yet.\u00a0 Lupe and SPHP were invited over for hamburgers at Mark & Hilary’s place.\u00a0 High in the hills overlooking the Denver region, their home was about the closest thing to a real castle Lupe had ever been inside of, complete with a tame herd of giant deers resting in the valley below.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The Dingo entrance at Mark & Hilary’s shack.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The world of marvelous company and delicious food finally did come to an end, though.\u00a0 Mountains were calling!\u00a0 By early afternoon, the RAV4 was zooming S on I-25.<\/p>\n

6-10-23, 6:30 PM, Sangre de Cristo range, intersection of Ophir Creek Road (USFS Road No. 360), Gardner Road (USFS Road No. 634) and USFS Road No. 369 –<\/em><\/p>\n

Wow, look at that, SPHP!\u00a0 Can we stop here for a sniff?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure thing, Loopster!\u00a0 I like the looks of this territory, too.\u00a0 Maybe we’ll stick around?\u00a0 It’s cooled off plenty.\u00a0 You won’t be sweltering here tonight!<\/em><\/p>\n

Back in Pueblo, it had been 86\u00baF when SPHP stopped to gas up the RAV4.\u00a0 Hah!\u00a0 So much for that!\u00a0 As Lupe trotted SW along Gardner Road from the 10,700 foot pass where the junction was located, the fresh mountain breeze was a decidedly cool 53\u00baF.<\/p>\n

A gorgeous view was off to the SSW.\u00a0 Beneath an unsettled sky, meadows sloped down to a region of rolling hills covered by a mix of aspens and pines.\u00a0 Small mountains beyond the hills stretched away toward a high distant range still partially clad in snow.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The gorgeous view from Gardner Road. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What mountains are those, SPHP?\u00a0 The ones with snow on them.<\/em><\/p>\n

Dunno, Loop.\u00a0 We’ve never been in this region before.<\/em><\/p>\n

Glad we’re here now, SPHP.\u00a0 This is awesome!<\/em><\/p>\n

Dingo-approved, aye?\u00a0 I concur.<\/em><\/p>\n

Are we going to climb one of those snowy peaks tomorrow, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nope.\u00a0 We’re going to hit Greenhorn Mountain<\/span><\/a> (12,347 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, the Pueblo county, Colorado high point.\u00a0 Can’t see it from here, Looper.\u00a0 It’s still a bit of a drive, although nowhere near as far away as those mystery peaks.<\/em><\/p>\n

A Colorado county high point!\u00a0 Been a long time since we’ve done any of those, SPHP.\u00a0 Should be fun!<\/em><\/p>\n

Hope so!\u00a0 The plan is to visit a number of Colorado county high points on this Dingo Vacation.\u00a0 Greenhorn Mountain is supposed to be pretty easy.\u00a0 Gives us a chance to start getting acclimated to the altitude.\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

An easy one?\u00a0 Good thinking, SPHP!\u00a0 Especially after our Albany Peak<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/em> fail.<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t count your mountains before they’re climbed, Looper.\u00a0 Supposed to be a 100% chance of thunderstorms tomorrow.\u00a0 Easy or not, success isn’t guaranteed.<\/em><\/p>\n

6-11-23, 8:17 AM, USFS Road No. 369 –<\/em><\/p>\n

After a rather long, winding drive S, SPHP parked the RAV4 along USFS Road No. 369.\u00a0 Lupe hopped out.\u00a0 \u00a0Beyond the grassy field she started sniffing around in, a lone mountain stood against the blue sky.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
North Peak<\/strong> from along USFS Road No. 369. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Is that Greenhorn Mountain, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Should be the N end of it, Loop.\u00a0 Greenhorn Mountain is a huge ridge with a couple of subpeaks.\u00a0 Believe that’s North Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,200 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Just wanted to get a quick look at it from here.\u00a0 C’mon, hop back in!\u00a0 The trailhead is a few miles farther.<\/em><\/p>\n

6-11-23, 8:32 AM, 44\u00baF, Greenhorn\/Bartlett trailhead –\u00a0<\/em> It was cool and breezy when SPHP parked the RAV4 again.\u00a0 A couple of other vehicles were already at the roomy trailhead parking lot, but not a soul was around as SPHP got the pack ready.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the Greenhorn\/Bartlett trailhead<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So, are we going to climb North Peak on the way to Greenhorn Mountain, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Intended to Looper.\u00a0 There’s actually a big loop we can make with North Peak and Peak<\/span> 12237<\/span><\/a><\/strong> as side jaunts up on the ridge.\u00a0 Originally thought we’d set off from here taking Greenhorn trail No. 1316 up to that region.\u00a0 <\/em>However, that might not be the best plan today, since thunderstorms are expected.\u00a0 Maybe we better just skip the early climb up onto the ridge, and stick with the lower part of the loop first?\u00a0 It’s a quicker, shorter route to Greenhorn Mountain’s true summit, our main objective.<\/em><\/p>\n

Fine with me, but let’s hit Peak 12237 and North Peak on the way back then, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Of course!\u00a0 Weather permitting, that’s our new plan, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
About to set out for Greenhorn Mountain. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond a line of boulders, an old roadbed left the trailhead heading SE.<\/p>\n

Apparently that old road is now Bartlett trail No. 1310, which is what we want Looper.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

The road rose at a gentle pace as Lupe began trotting toward a forest on the W flank of the giant Greenhorn Mountain ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
W flank of Greenhorn Mountain<\/strong> from near the start of Bartlett Trail No. 1310<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
In the forest. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The forest wasn’t all that thick.\u00a0 At times clearings provided big views to the SW.\u00a0 SPHP didn’t recognize them at the time, but what were probably Mount Herard<\/span><\/a> (13,350 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Blanca Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,345 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were in sight beyond a vast valley.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Blanca Peak<\/strong> (far L) and Mount Herard<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Carolina Dog had barely reached the W flank of the ridge when she came to a tiny stream bordered with ice.\u00a0 Not far beyond this point, more boulders and a mound of dirt put an end to any possible use of the road by even the most determined motorized vehicle drivers.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By the tiny stream. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the roadblock. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The forest eventually gave way to much more open territory.\u00a0 Looked like Lupe could climb right up onto the ridge most anywhere along in here, if she wanted to, but progress along the road was fast and easy.\u00a0 A few wet, mushy spots of no consequence were the only obstacles.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Beyond the forest. Greenhorn Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A wet spot along Bartlett trail No. 1310<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Although still well below the summit, Loopster was rapidly closing in on Greenhorn Mountain when the road made a big curve NE before turning S again.\u00a0 Badly eroded, this scenic turn harbored a group of mountain sheep.\u00a0 Shocked by Lupe’s sudden appearance, the mountain sheep fled up a steep talus slope.\u00a0 Marmots whistled unseen among the rocks.\u00a0 It was all very exciting!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Closing in on Greenhorn Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the steep talus along Greenhorn Mountain’s W flank<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the scenic protected curve<\/strong> where the mountain sheep had been. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A few of the wary mountain sheep with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond this turn, climbing the steep talus slope directly to the top of the ridge would have been no small feat.\u00a0 While the Carolina Dog may have been sorely tempted to pursue those sheep, SPHP had no intention of leaving the road yet, which now began rising at a faster clip.\u00a0 Following it S, the sky was now looking much cloudier ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting to cloud up. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After a stint going S, the road angled SW as it climbed into open forest, then began to level out and fade away after turning E.\u00a0 Reaching the high point of Bartlett trail No. 1310 near an old, weathered fence post, fog was now visible just down the slope at all points S.\u00a0 As Lupe watched, more and more of the slope vanished from sight.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the high point of Bartlett trail No. 1310<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sheesh!\u00a0 It’s only 10:00 AM, and we’re almost there Looper.\u00a0 Don’t tell me we’re already too late!\u00a0 Not supposed to get stormy until this afternoon.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, we better get to climbing then while there’s still blue sky to the N, SPHP.\u00a0 Maybe we can get to the summit before the whole mountain gets swallowed by these clouds?<\/em><\/p>\n

Did seem like the only sensible course of action.\u00a0 Greenhorn Mountain’s true summit was less than 600 feet higher and a mere 0.25 mile away as Lupe abandoned Bartlett trail No. 1310.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Greenhorn Mountain<\/strong> (L) as Lupe leaves the trail. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Nothing to this ascent really, except that, unaccustomed to the elevation, SPHP was really feeling it as the slope steepened.\u00a0 Leading the way, Lupe often had to wait while SPHP paused to gasp for air.\u00a0 The steepest part of the mountain was nothing but rock.\u00a0 Nervous mountain sheep along the ridgeline above gave SPHP another excuse to stop and breathe.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mountain sheep<\/strong> (L of Center) along the ridge. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A better look at the mountain sheep<\/strong> with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once the mountain sheep disappeared from view, Lupe resumed her climb.\u00a0 Reaching a region of low, scratchy bushes and tufts of grass, the slope diminished.\u00a0 Unfortunately, by the time a wall of rock serving as a windbreak appeared ahead, no blue sky remained.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Exploring Greenhorn Mountain’s upper S slope<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Greenhorn Mountain’s summit<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-11-23, 10:48 AM, 60\u00baF, Greenhorn Mountain<\/span><\/a> (12,347 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – That wasn’t entirely true.\u00a0 As Lupe stood atop the rock wall comprising the wind shelter at the true summit, the clouds shifted, revealing blue sky to the N.\u00a0 Although distant views in other directions remained shrouded, the American Dingo could see most of Greenhorn Mountain’s N ridge all the way over to Peak<\/span> 12237<\/span><\/a><\/strong> and North Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,200 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atop the windbreak at Greenhorn Mountain’s true summit<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Peak 12237<\/strong> and North Peak<\/strong> lined up at Center. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Well, congratulations, Loopster, on climbing Greenhorn Mountain, you’re first Colorado county high point in many a year!\u00a0 May I shake your paw?<\/em><\/p>\n

Why, thank you, SPHP!\u00a0 It’s been a pleasure.<\/em><\/p>\n

Suppose we might as well take a seat now that we’ve got a couple photos of what glimpses remain of the views before we’re totally engulfed in fog.\u00a0 There’s water and beef jerky for you in the pack, Loop.\u00a0 Interested?<\/em><\/p>\n

Grabbing a glass jar wrapped with black tape from within the wind break, SPHP sat down facing E on small rocks and tundra just outside the windbreak opening.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog eagerly gobbled up as much beef jerky as SPHP was willing to provide before curling up on SPHP’s lap.\u00a0 Lost in fog, even the views to the N were gone now.\u00a0 SPHP slowly polished off a chocolate pudding cup.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
In the wind shelter. Registry jar<\/strong> (L). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Fog sweeps in hiding even the views to the N. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Opening the jar, SPHP found a registry, as expected.<\/p>\n

Your in luck, Looper!\u00a0 I can add your name.\u00a0 Wouldn’t have been able to a couple of days ago.<\/em><\/p>\n

Why not, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

This registry is brand new.\u00a0 Nathan Brandli of Morrison, Colorado placed it here only yesterday in memory of one Roger Linfield.\u00a0 Yours will be the 5th entry, and 1st one today.<\/em><\/p>\n

Poor Roger!\u00a0 I’m ashamed to say that I can’t even remember who he was, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

You’re slipping, Loop.\u00a0 How about Quinton Gonza’s mother?\u00a0 Remember her?\u00a0 Quinton’s is the 4th and final entry yesterday.\u00a0 Says he came up here all the way from Naples, Florida to scattered his mother’s ashes.<\/em><\/p>\n

Drawing another complete blank, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Not too surprising, Loopster, since we never had the pleasure of meeting either of them.\u00a0 By the way, let me know if those big soft Dingo ears detect any thunder.\u00a0 Might be wise to scoot before Mother Nature takes it upon herself to scatter our ashes up here, too.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Front page of the new Greenhorn Mountain registry<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Should have gotten an earlier start!\u00a0 Sad to have come all this way only to arrive as the views vanished, but nothing to be done about it now.<\/p>\n

Sitting together, gazing down on a rising ocean of white clearly destined to completely engulf Greenhorn Mountain, there didn’t seem to be any point in staying for Lupe’s entire traditional summit hour, nor in going on to Peak 12237 or North Peak, especially since no shelter at all had been visible on the long ridge leading toward them.\u00a0 Completely exposed way up here on any part of Greenhorn Mountain was no place to be, if lightning did approach.<\/p>\n

Guess we might as well head back the way we came, Looper.\u00a0 Let me know when you’re ready.\u00a0 No rush.\u00a0 Kind of cool looking down on these clouds.<\/em><\/p>\n

At least we made it to the top of Greenhorn Mountain, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, gotta be grateful for that.\u00a0 Would have been a lot more fun to get to explore the rest of the loop, though.<\/em><\/p>\n

25 minutes after arriving at Greenhorn Mountain’s summit, the rising tide of white seemed to stall.\u00a0 Instead of being engulfed in fog, the day grew sunnier.\u00a0 Big views began reappearing to the N and W.<\/p>\n

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The ocean of white foam. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Look, SPHP!\u00a0 Views are opening up all over the place.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, wha’dya know?\u00a0 Luck of the Dingo!\u00a0 Let’s have a look around.\u00a0 If this keeps up, maybe we can explore the rest of the loop after all?<\/em><\/p>\n

While waiting to see if this good fortune was likely to continue, Lupe first headed a little way back down the S slope to get a look at the views in the direction she’d come up from.\u00a0 Quite a few high clouds were still over this way blocking the most distant views, but they didn’t seem threatening, at least not at the moment.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the S end of the summit region<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Peak<\/span> 10880<\/span><\/a><\/strong> (L) in the foreground. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Returning to the windbreak, Lupe stayed along the W rim of the summit region, which featured the sharpest drop-off.<\/p>\n

Looking mighty good to the N, SPHP!\u00a0 Shall we go for it?<\/em><\/p>\n

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

\"\"<\/a>
Along the W rim<\/strong> not far from the true summit. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A brief return to the summit wind shelter to retrieve the pack, and the American Dingo was on her way.<\/p>\n

Progress was exceptionally fast and easy.\u00a0 Lupe roamed as she pleased across broad regions of scree and tundra.\u00a0 Meanwhile the sky continued to clear.\u00a0 A slight dip soon led to a bigger one where the ridge narrowed and turned NW.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog enjoyed eating snow melting along the rim of the mountain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Exploring the upper half of the loop after leaving the true summit. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
An early glance back at Greenhorn Mountain’s true summit<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
About to head down to the narrowest part of the ridge. Peak 12237<\/strong> and North Peak<\/strong> lined up R of Center. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Descending to the saddle along the narrowest part of the ridge, suddenly there was movement was ahead.<\/p>\n

Someone’s coming, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

A young man approached, exchanging friendly greetings with SPHP as he went on by, evidently destined for the true summit.\u00a0 Lupe had already crossed the saddle, and started on up the next hill when a young woman appeared, also heading S.\u00a0 She waved, but said nothing.<\/p>\n

From this first saddle, Lupe regained roughly 140 feet of elevation on the way up to HP12240<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Another windbreak was up here, and a descent to a second saddle ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Greenhorn Mountain<\/strong> (Center) from HP12240<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
By the windbreak on HP12240<\/strong>. Peak 12237<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After a short rest at HP12240<\/span><\/strong>, Lupe met a couple coming up it from the NW on her way down to the second saddle.\u00a0 They had a dog about Lupe’s size with them, which wore a vest that the man used to carry their pet like a piece of luggage.\u00a0 Staying a good 20 feet away as they passed, the man announced that his dog was not friendly.\u00a0 No doubt this was true, since luggage seldom growls as menacingly as this piece did.<\/p>\n

Took hardly any time at all to get down to the second saddle, which was very broad.\u00a0 Veering off to the R here, Lupe followed a gently rising draw toward the massive rounded hump comprising Peak<\/span> 12237<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Down in the second saddle<\/strong>. Lupe explored the region beyond her on the way up to Peak 12237<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-11-23, 12:37 PM, 54\u00baF, Peak<\/span> 12237<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/em> –<\/p>\n

Oh, I don’t know!\u00a0 You’ve got me, Loopster!\u00a0 Actually, I think we passed the true summit somewhere back to the W where it was rockier.\u00a0 So hard to tell where it is.\u00a0 This is one of those mountains where no matter where we go, everywhere else always looks a little higher.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, can we call it close enough for Dingo work then, and take a break, SPHP?\u00a0 What’s wrong with right here?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nothing, really.\u00a0 Peak 12237’s summit region was a vast level plain, some parts rockier than others.\u00a0 No telling which of 10,000 different rocks was actually the true summit no matter how much roaming Lupe did.\u00a0 The air was definitely colder, clouds were moving in again, and views were disappearing as SPHP sat down.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Greenhorn Mountain<\/strong> (Center) and HP12240<\/strong> (R of Center) from Peak 12237. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A tall dark structure, which proved to be a giant cairn, was visible on a hill 0.25 mile E.\u00a0 That hill was clearly lower, so Lupe didn’t bother with going over there.\u00a0 With the weather deteriorating, visiting North Peak was more important.\u00a0 SPHP shared water and more beef jerky with the American Dingo, then consumed another chocolate pudding.\u00a0 Drifting clouds alternately hid or revealed views, occasionally threatening to plunge Peak 12237 into fog.<\/p>\n

Half an hour ticked away.<\/p>\n

Alright, let’s get going, Loop.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

The journey to North Peak was also easy.\u00a0 Gradually losing elevation, Lupe had a grand time sniffing her way through an enormous, mostly grassy region while making a big arc to the W, then N.\u00a0 No one else was around.\u00a0 The cool air felt good; the gloomy gray sky seeming more like a forlorn day in November than summer.<\/p>\n

Lupe soon reached a third saddle.\u00a0 Crossing this grassy, extremely broad, shallow region, she started up North Peak’s S slope.\u00a0 A moderately steep march 200 feet higher gradually leveled off near the top.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
North Peak<\/strong> (Center) from the upper N slopes of Peak 12237. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching North Peak<\/strong> (R) from the third saddle<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-11-23, 1:25 PM, 55\u00baF, North Peak<\/span><\/a> (12,200 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> –<\/em>\u00a0 North Peak’s summit was also a large, flat region similar to Peak 12237’s.\u00a0 It was very cloudy by the time Lupe reached what seemed to be about the highest spot a bit beyond the last of a couple of cairns near the W rim.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At North Peak’s summit<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Unfortunately, due to all the clouds, the only views were to the W and SW.\u00a0 Retreating over to the W edge of the mountain, Lupe found a fairly soft spot to lie down among the rocks.\u00a0 Looking W, a line of clouds hid everything to the N.\u00a0 S of these clouds, a road and small lake were in sight 900 feet below.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
N Blue Lake<\/strong> (L) and USFS Road No. 369 from North Peak. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

That’s USFS Road No. 369 down there, Loop, the road we came in on.\u00a0 The lake is the northernmost of two lakes known as the Blue Lakes.\u00a0 We passed them shortly before reaching the trailhead.<\/em><\/p>\n

Looks like there’s parking down by that lake, SPHP.\u00a0 Maybe we can stay there tonight?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not a bad idea, Loopster.\u00a0 We’ll check it out.<\/em><\/p>\n

From North Peak’s W rim, Lupe and SPHP watched the back and forth battle between the clear air, and the line of clouds valiantly trying to force its way S.\u00a0 Views remained restricted to this one narrow scene.<\/p>\n

20 minutes was enough.\u00a0 SPHP shook Lupe’s paw, congratulating her on her successful exploration of Greenhorn Mountain and its subpeaks, then the Carolina Dog headed back down North Peak’s S slope.<\/p>\n

Searching along the W edge of the third saddle once she got down to it, Lupe had no trouble finding Greenhorn trail No. 1316.\u00a0 Heading SSW, the trail gradually descended a long talus slope, eventually leading to a pair of big switchbacks that got her down to the forest.\u00a0 By then, it was only another 0.25 mile back to the trailhead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Completing the loop! Returning via Greenhorn trail No. 1316<\/strong>. S Blue Lake<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-11-23, 2:19 PM, 47\u00baF, Greenhorn\/Bartlett trailhead<\/em> – Lupe arrived back at the RAV4 to the sound of thunder coming from an approaching storm.\u00a0 SPHP drove down to the N Blue Lake, where the rest of a mostly sullen afternoon of clouds, intermittent fog and rain, occasionally interrupted by brief moments of sunshine, was spent napping.<\/p>\n

When sunlight returned early in the evening, Lupe got out to sniff along the lakeshore.\u00a0 SPHP heated up chicken and dumplings for dinner.\u00a0 As shadows lengthened, the sky clouded up again, and the air continued to cool.\u00a0 That didn’t prevent Lupe from a enjoying a nice jaunt exploring forests and fields along USFS Road No. 369.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Evening at N Blue Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
North Peak<\/strong> (L) from N Blue Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The American Dingo got as far as the S Blue Lake before turning back.\u00a0 By then, SPHP had collected 2 plastic bags full of Lupe treasures.<\/p>\n

6-11-23, dusk, N Blue Lake<\/em> – Lupe curled up on her pink blanket.\u00a0 Already getting pretty cold out.\u00a0 SPHP threw the Viking blanket over her so she could snuggle in.<\/p>\n

We had a great time up on Greenhorn Mountain<\/span><\/a> (12,347 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> today, didn’t we, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure did, Loopster!\u00a0 Your 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation is off to a good start.\u00a0 Snooze fast, sweet puppy!\u00a0 Lots more adventures ahead!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s GPS track<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On Greenhorn Mountain<\/strong>, Sangre de Cristo Range, Colorado 6-11-23<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

Next Adventure<\/a><\/span>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Previous Adventure<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Lupe’s Scrollable GPS Track<\/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><\/span><\/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 3-5 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico! 6-9-23, 7:00 AM – The weather had been unsettled during yesterday evening’s drive.\u00a0 Fortunately, the ominously dark clouds hanging over the Colorado front range upon Lupe’s arrival at Hotel Mika in Arvada hadn’t produced any hail, only rain.\u00a0 After a … Continue reading Greenhorn Mountain, Sangre de Cristo Range, Colorado (6-11-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":50016,"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":[105,106,296,26,1662,104,1663,1664],"class_list":["post-50034","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1659","tag-american-dingo","tag-carolina-dog","tag-colorado","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-greenhorn-mountain","tag-lupe","tag-pueblo-county-high-point","tag-sangre-de-christo-range"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/IMG_0903-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\/50034","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=50034"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50034\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":54098,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50034\/revisions\/54098"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/50016"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=50034"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=50034"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=50034"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}