{"id":51886,"date":"2024-03-13T08:10:38","date_gmt":"2024-03-13T14:10:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=51886"},"modified":"2024-05-12T23:42:17","modified_gmt":"2024-05-13T05:42:17","slug":"uncompahgre-peak-san-juan-mountains-colorado-6-23-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=51886","title":{"rendered":"Uncompahgre Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado (6-23-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 16 & 17 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico!<\/em><\/p>\n

6-22-23, 4:32 PM, Carp Lake near the Grand Mesa Visitor Center<\/em>\u00a0–<\/p>\n

This is a gorgeous area, SPHP!\u00a0 For a backup plan, Grand Mesa’s looking fabulous!\u00a0 We’ve seen so many beautiful lakes already, and we’ve only just arrived.\u00a0 What’s the name of this one?<\/em><\/p>\n

Carp Lake.\u00a0 Cobbett Lake on some maps, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Carp Lake<\/strong> on Grand Mesa<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Well, Carp or Cobbett, it’s a beauty, SPHP!\u00a0 What did they say in the visitor center?<\/em><\/p>\n

Unfortunately, they basically said we’ve come a long way for nothing, Loopster.\u00a0 Leon Peak<\/span><\/a> (11,236 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> isn’t going to work.<\/em><\/p>\n

What!\u00a0 Why not, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

USFS Road No. 121 is closed E of Baron Lake due to deep snow, Loop, as in gated shut.\u00a0 We can’t get anywhere near the trailhead.<\/em><\/p>\n

So, what are we going to do, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t know yet, sweet puppy.\u00a0 The Crag Crest<\/span><\/a> (11,189 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> trail might be an option, but even if we do that, we’d still want to come back to hit Leon someday.\u00a0 Intended to visit both of them while we’re here this time.<\/em><\/p>\n

Can we get to a trailhead for Crag Crest?\u00a0 I wouldn’t mind doing that, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup, there’s a trailhead less than 0.5 mile from here N of Island Lake.\u00a0 On the other paw, I suppose we might consider going back to Plan A.<\/em><\/p>\n

Speaking of paws, what about your sore paws, though, SPHP?\u00a0 We’re here because Plan A would be too much for them so soon after San Luis Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,014 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> yesterday, remember?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I know it, Loop, but they’re already feeling better than expected.<\/em><\/p>\n

Seriously?\u00a0 Good enough for nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain tomorrow, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Even SPHP wasn’t truly convinced, but Plan A won out.\u00a0 After another hours long, very scenic drive, Lupe was in Lake City by dusk.\u00a0 Finding a gravel road near the S end of town that went to Engineer Pass, SPHP took a chance on it.\u00a0 Passing through a narrow gap between towering cliffs where Henson Creek gushed in a raging torrent right next to the road, the road then wound through an old mining district.<\/p>\n

Roughly 5 miles W of Lake City, there it was!\u00a0 The sign SPHP had been looking for.<\/p>\n

Let’s get out and have a look, Loopster.\u00a0 We’re at Nellie Creek!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Evening at Blue Mesa Reservoir<\/strong> on the way to Lake City. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Signage W of Lake City at the turn for the Nellie Creek trailhead<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Walking up a short incline, vehicles were parked in various spots among the trees.\u00a0 In the growing gloom, lanterns were being lit.\u00a0 People could be heard talking quietly among themselves as they got ready to turn in for the night.\u00a0 Whatever they were saying was drowned out by roar of Nellie Creek, unseen in the dark forest toward the W.<\/p>\n

Only one empty parking spot left, SPHP.\u00a0 We better grab it!<\/em><\/p>\n

6-23-23, 6:31 AM, 45\u00baF<\/em> – People were stirring.\u00a0 Lupe was, too.\u00a0 The great day had arrived!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
About ready to set out. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Ready in just a few minutes, Loopster.\u00a0 Putting on these new socks.\u00a0 Extra cushiony.\u00a0 Might need it.\u00a0 Then we’ll be on our way.<\/em><\/p>\n

Socks and boots on, SPHP drank a strawberry Equate, then hoisted the pack.\u00a0 That was it for breakfast.\u00a0 Lupe was too excited to eat anything.\u00a0 Nellie Creek was still roaring somewhere off to the W.<\/p>\n

Alright.\u00a0 Uncompaghre Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,309 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> or bust!\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading N on USFS Road No. 877, the Carolina Dog began the 4 mile long trudge to the Nellie Creek trailhead more than 2,000 feet higher.\u00a0 Those lucky enough to have 4WD could simply drive to it, and start from there.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting up USFS Road No. 877<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The road was relatively flat at first, but a relentless climb soon began.\u00a0 Not that steep, but steady, with only occasional flat spots.\u00a0 No downhill sections at all.<\/p>\n

No one else was walking, and, surprisingly, only one vehicle passed Lupe as she trotted higher.\u00a0 After a little while it came back down, the driver pausing to say that he’d merely dropped people off at the Nellie Creek trailhead.\u00a0 Progress was good, and spirits running high.\u00a0 The American Dingo passed a number of dispersed parking spots among the trees, only half of which were occupied.\u00a0 After 0.75 mile, they became scarce.<\/p>\n

For the most part, although narrow, No. 877 was actually a fairly decent road.\u00a0 SPHP was still glad, though, that the RAV4 was stashed back in the forest close to the main road to Lake City and Engineer Pass.\u00a0 No. 877 did have some pretty rough, rocky spots, and sometimes ran along the edge of sheer drops.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, a growing concern was gnawing at SPHP.\u00a0 Nellie Creek was often in view now.\u00a0 Although not a huge stream, it always appeared to be an impassable, boulder-infested torrent.<\/p>\n

Who cares, SPHP?\u00a0 It’s beautiful.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, but we’ll be coming to a major test soon enough, Looper.\u00a0 Two of them, actually.\u00a0 We may never even get to the trailhead, much less climb Uncompaghre Peak.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh?\u00a0 And what might those tests consist of, SPHP?\u00a0 Do tell!<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re going to have to ford Nellie Creek twice, Loop.\u00a0 Rob Woodall’s GPS track<\/strong><\/span><\/a> shows a rickety bridge and a slippery log.<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t like that sound of that, or Nellie Creek, SPHP.\u00a0 You mean we drove all over creation yesterday only to come here, when you knew the whole time that this might well be a total fail?<\/em><\/p>\n

Uh-huh, but then you saw Uncompaghre from San Luis Peak, too, Loop, and the mountain looked beyond our capabilities from there.\u00a0 So you’ve known this might be a fail all along, too.<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s different, SPHP!\u00a0 Despite what we saw from afar, you said there was a trail to the top!<\/em><\/p>\n

And there is, sweet puppy!\u00a0 At least, that’s what everyone says, so there must be.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, there was no sense in backing out now without seeing what the first ford actually looked like, no matter how intimidating the constant, foaming roar emitted by Nellie Creek.<\/p>\n

After gaining 900 feet of elevation over 1.5 miles, Lupe reached the first ford at around 10,200 feet.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
First ford of Nellie Creek<\/strong> at 10,200 feet. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 Didn’t look bad at all.\u00a0 No big rocks, and Nellie Creek was spread out, most of it quite shallow where the road crossed it.\u00a0 The deepest part where the current was most powerful appeared to be only a couple of feet deep.\u00a0 Not much of an issue for SPHP, but neck deep on Lupe.<\/p>\n

Lovely!\u00a0 So where’s the rickety bridge or slippery log Mr. Woodall wants us to take, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

How am I supposed to know?\u00a0 Maybe they’ve washed out since Rob was here?\u00a0 Anyway, wait here, Loop, I’ll cross first to make sure it isn’t any worse than it looks.<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe watched as SPHP removed boots and socks, then waded bare-paw across the icy cold stream.<\/p>\n

C’mon, you can do it, Loopster!\u00a0 Cross right where I did, the deepest part isn’t very wide there.\u00a0 You’ll be over in a flash.<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe hesitated.\u00a0 Several times the Carolina Dog started in, only to retreat from the frigid water.\u00a0 Nellie Creek looked too wide, and the roar coming from immediately both upstream and downstream was too frightening.\u00a0 A couple of times, Lupe threatened to plunge into the upstream torrent where the creek was narrower, but deep, swift, and full of rocks.\u00a0 SPHP screamed at her not to do that.<\/p>\n

Stay there, Loopster!\u00a0 I’ll come and help you.<\/em><\/p>\n

Fording the stream again, SPHP leashed Lupe up.\u00a0 Carrying her over would be impossible.\u00a0 SPHP needed to be able to use poles to maintain balance.\u00a0 The escort worked, though.\u00a0 Completely drenched, Lupe was soon across, shaking off and sending a spray of water at SPHP.<\/p>\n

Don’t say a thing, SPHP!\u00a0 Your little cold shower is nothing compared to what I’ve just been through!<\/em><\/p>\n

The road hike continued.\u00a0 A beautiful view of Peak<\/span> 13160<\/span><\/a><\/strong> was back to the S as sunlight began reaching the road.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 13160<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The second ford appeared at 10,700 feet, less than 0.75 mile beyond the first one.\u00a0 This ford was no big deal, yet neither SPHP nor Lupe wanted to get wet again.\u00a0 Here, there actually was a slippery log just upstream.\u00a0 Hanging onto tree branches, SPHP managed to cross without incident.\u00a0 Lupe easily raced across the log without any such assistance.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Second Nellie Creek ford at 10,700 feet. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The fortunately not-too-slippery log<\/strong> (L) beyond Lupe.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Nellie Creek dealt with for the final time, it was now possible enjoy the rest of the increasingly scenic road hike to the trailhead.\u00a0 Before long, Peak<\/span> 13106<\/span><\/a><\/strong>\u00a0came into view ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Nellie Creek<\/strong> and Peak 13106<\/strong> (R of Center) from USFS Road No. 877<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-23-23, 9:27 AM<\/em> – After passing an outhouse, Lupe finally reached the Nellie Creek trailhead at the upper end of USFS Road No. 877.\u00a0 Rather surprisingly, only a single gray ATV was at the parking lot, and not a soul was around.\u00a0 However, quite a bit of information was posted at the start of Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239.\u00a0 SPHP paused to take a look.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Arriving at the Nellie Creek trailhead<\/strong>. Peak 13016<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Only a single gray ATV was at the parking lot. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Start of Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239<\/strong>. Peak 13106<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Close up of the signage.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
By the trailhead displays<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Trail map<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Three dimensional route view<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Trail statistics.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Does it say anything interesting, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

About what I expected, Loop.\u00a0 At least it confirms that there’s a trail to the top.<\/em><\/p>\n

Pressing on, Uncompaghre Peak Trail No. 239 continued up the valley.\u00a0 At first, Nellie Creek was out of sight off to the SW as Lupe trotted along a forested stretch.\u00a0 Upon reaching the edge of the forest 0.25 mile from the trailhead, SPHP dumped the pack and sat down.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog laid down, too.<\/p>\n

How are your paws faring, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Surprisingly well, Loop.\u00a0 Thanks for asking!\u00a0 Now if only my lungs, heart, and legs felt more ambitious, we’d be in business.\u00a0 Hungry yet?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not really.\u00a0 I’m fine, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Suit yourself.\u00a0 Think I’ll have a little something.<\/em><\/p>\n

A fruit cup hit the spot, without causing much further delay.\u00a0 The trail went on, and so did the American Dingo.\u00a0 Nellie Creek was soon nearby again, still a fast-flowing, rough and tumble stream, but much smaller up here.\u00a0 As Lupe closed in on treeline near 11,700 feet, views were starting to open up.\u00a0 Porous boulders full of air pockets were along the trail as snowfields appeared on high ridges ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Getting close to treeline on Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Before long, an enormous crag was in sight off to the W.<\/p>\n

Uncompaghre Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,309 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Must be, or at least part of it, Loopster.\u00a0 It’s in the right direction.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
First view of Uncompaghre Peak<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the trail and Nellie Creek valley both turned toward the crag, some truly magnificent territory came into view.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Upper Nellie Creek valley<\/strong>. Uncompaghre Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow!\u00a0 This is going to be an awesome day, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Gotta love this!\u00a0 Don’t ya, sweet puppy?<\/em><\/p>\n

No. 239 soon crossed a small tributary of Nellie Creek at a flat mucky spot full of soft, gravelly sand.\u00a0 \u00a0A little beyond this side creek, the trail switchbacked up a steep, 50 foot high bank to the N.\u00a0 Near the top, Lupe had to leave the trail to find a spot where she could scramble up onto a long snowbank clinging to the bank’s upper rim.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the soft spot where another small stream joins Nellie Creek. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On the snowbank. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Reaching the top of the bank, a junction with Trail No. 232, which snaked N up the steep W flank of Peak<\/span> 13106<\/span><\/a><\/strong> on its way to Big Blue Creek, was nearby.\u00a0 Looked interesting, but to the W, Uncompahgre Peak beckoned beneath a deep blue sky beyond scattered dark conifers and brilliant white snowfields.<\/p>\n

Dingo paradise is this way, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Uncompahgre Peak<\/strong> from the junction with Big Blue Creek Trail No. 232<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Junction signage<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So it is!\u00a0 Hang on for just a moment, though, Looper.\u00a0 This sign is loose.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP managed to hand-tighten only one of the 2 nuts fastening the sign to the post.\u00a0 The other one wouldn’t budge on the bolt.<\/p>\n

Eh, better than it, was.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

W of the junction with Big Bear Creek Trail No. 232, Lupe and SPHP both enjoyed a relatively long, flat stretch along Uncompaghre Creek Trail No. 239.\u00a0 Beyond the last stands of conifers, an awesome region of tundra and snowfields was ahead.\u00a0 Lupe had a blast racing across the open ground as pikas and marmots whistled warnings on all sides.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
In Dingo Paradise<\/strong>!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Inevitably, the flat stretch gave way to a steady trudge higher.\u00a0 Lupe crossed one snowfield after another separated by tundra.\u00a0 No. 239 was often muddy where it wasn’t buried beneath the snow.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading up one of the snowfields. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-23-23, 12:01 PM, 50\u00baF<\/em> – The topo map showed a spring N of the trail near 12,620 feet.\u00a0 At a flat region of relatively dry tundra somewhat above and SW of this spring, SPHP was ready for another break.\u00a0 Lupe was starving.\u00a0 After eagerly gobbling some Taste of the Wild, she laid down next to SPHP.\u00a0 A cool, 10-15 mph SW breeze swept the open plain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Uncompaghre Peak<\/strong> (R) from the break spot at 12,650 feet. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Two people separated by a little distance were now in sight coming down the next snowfield, the only people Lupe had seen on paw all day.\u00a0 Loners, they soon walked by one at a time.\u00a0 Neither said a word.<\/p>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 Well, let’s keep going, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

On the way up that next snowfield the trail turned S, and 3 more people appeared, also already on their way down.\u00a0 Young and laughing, they greeted Lupe warmly before moving on with a warning:<\/p>\n

It’s really windy up on the ridge!\u00a0 No so bad at the summit, though!<\/em><\/p>\n

Reaching the top of this snowfield, more were ahead.\u00a0 Peak<\/span> 13158<\/span><\/a><\/strong> was in sight as Lupe climbed toward the crest of Uncompahgre Peak’s SE ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 13158<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After ascending several more snowfields, Lupe reached another trail junction just as she gained the ridgeline.\u00a0 Matterhorn Creek Trail No. 233 veered off to the L here.<\/p>\n

Those young people were right!\u00a0 A relentless 40 mph gale roared over the crest of the ridge from out of the WSW.\u00a0 Curving practically straight into the teeth of it, Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239 left the junction turning due W.\u00a0 Ahead, a long series of steps climbed toward a rounded hill hundreds of feet higher.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the junction with Matterhorn Creek Trail No. 233<\/strong>. Peak 13158<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Junction signage<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The windy march higher. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

2 young men were coming down the steps.\u00a0 One recognized Lupe.<\/p>\n

Hey!\u00a0 We know you!\u00a0 You were coming up when we were on our way down over at San Luis Peak<\/strong><\/span><\/a> 2 days ago, too!<\/em><\/p>\n

Pausing to chat with SPHP, the men pointed NW toward the steep upper ridge forming the L shoulder of the crag, warning that the trail got kinda scrambly beyond it.\u00a0 Then off they went, too, continuing down the steps.<\/p>\n

“Kinda scrambly”, what’s that supposed to mean, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t know, Loopster, but coming from a couple of young guys in great shape, I don’t much like the sound of it.<\/em><\/p>\n

No. 239 curved NW before getting all the way to the top of the hill.\u00a0 A helpful development, because it put Lupe below the crest of the ridge again, partially protected from the full force of the gale.\u00a0 Still pretty windy, but this wasn’t a bad place to take another short break.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the break spot partially protected from the wind. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Almost immediately, Lupe spotted 2 women coming down.\u00a0 Their outfits flapping wildly in the breeze, they offered another bit of advice as they went right on by without stopping:<\/p>\n

Be careful up there!<\/em><\/p>\n

Sheesh!\u00a0 Are we late for some kind of convention on Uncompahgre Peak that just broke up a little bit ago, Loop?\u00a0 Saw no one at all for hours, but now there’s a steady stream of people coming down.<\/em><\/p>\n

Never mind that, SPHP.\u00a0 What kind of a trail is this?\u00a0 “Kinda scrambly!”\u00a0 “Be careful!”\u00a0 And look at that crag we’re heading for!<\/em><\/p>\n

I know it!\u00a0 Thought this was supposed to be Class 2, no big deal, Loopster.\u00a0 Starting to get paranoid, though.\u00a0 C’mon!\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!\u00a0 Before we get any more good news.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP was wrong about getting any more news, though.\u00a0 Lupe wouldn’t see anyone else the rest of the day.<\/p>\n

Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239 climbed back up onto the ridge again.\u00a0 Passing NE of several high points, the wind sounded terrible as it shot through wide gaps between them where stunning views to the W were framed by gigantic cliffs.<\/p>\n

Both Wetterhorn Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,015 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Matterhorn Peak<\/span><\/a> (13,590 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were out there only 2 or 3 miles away, along with an enormous amount of snow for late June.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The snowy scene from the crest of Uncompahgre Peak’s SE ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Wetterhorn Peak<\/strong> (Center), Matterhorn Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Approaching the steep slope below the upper ridge comprising the L shoulder of the crag, confidence returned.\u00a0 A few big switchbacks went right up it.\u00a0 Cake!\u00a0 The only question was what the American Dingo would see from the top.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the upper L shoulder<\/strong> (L of Center) of the crag. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
View from the last windy window between high points. Wetterhorn Peak<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The switchbacks were easy, but near the top, SPHP’s paranoia returned.<\/p>\n

Careful, Loopster!\u00a0 Stay close.\u00a0 Might be cliffs!\u00a0 No telling what we’ll see.<\/em><\/p>\n

As soon as Lupe regained the ridgeline, the full force of the gale out of the W struck her again.\u00a0 Ahead, Trail No. 239 extended a short distance beyond the ridge before curling out of sight to the R.\u00a0 Cautiously making this turn, what came into view next was entirely different from what the rest of the trail had been like.<\/p>\n

An already spectacular, unobstructed panoramic view of a vast region of snowy peaks and highlands was off to the SW.\u00a0 However, that wasn’t of immediate importance.\u00a0 Ahead, the terrain consisted of a steep talus slope that dropped many hundreds of feet.\u00a0 Traversing the talus and a snowfield, the trail headed toward columns of bedrock jutting skyward near the top of the slope.<\/p>\n

Must be some way up between these columns, SPHP.\u00a0 C’mon!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the talus slope beyond the crag’s L shoulder. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After passing a rock formation, the route up became apparent.\u00a0 Trail No. 239 turned N straight up a very steep slope of loose soil and rock.<\/p>\n

We’ve reached the “kinda scrambly” part, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah.\u00a0 Looks doable, Loopster, but I hope it doesn’t go on like this much above what we can see from here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Carolina Dogs are natural scramblers.\u00a0 Lupe was clearly enjoying herself as SPHP toiled carefully after her, sending rocks clattering down the slope with nearly every step.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The scramble begins! Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading up the loose stuff. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Getting close to the top. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The route was steep enough to merit caution, but wasn’t too bad.\u00a0 After a 70 foot climb, it angled toward the E.\u00a0 As the terrain began leveling out again, Lupe rediscovered a distinct trail, which curved N, then back to the NNW among rock formations.<\/p>\n

Rounding this corner, it was clear that Uncompahgre’s summit couldn’t be much farther.\u00a0 After crossing a small snowfield, a final, modest talus ridge was in sight beyond a rock-strewn plain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Above the scramble, back on Uncompahgre Peak Trail No. 239<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the final short, rocky ascent. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Heading straight for a last line of cliffs along the SW face of the summit region, Trail No. 239 swept around to the NE, bypassing them once Lupe got close.\u00a0 A relatively short rocky climb got the American Dingo to a summit plateau hundreds of feet wide that sloped up toward the NW.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Below the last cliffs. Trail No. 239 angled NE (R), bypassing them. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On Uncompahgre’s summit plateau<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6-23-23, 3:32 PM, Uncompahgre Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,309 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – The weary trudge higher was over!\u00a0 Along a ragged N edge, Lupe stood calmly at the brink of cataclysmic cliffs on a boulder that appeared to be Uncompaghre’s true summit.\u00a0 Beyond her, a couple more high points in contention for the honor were in sight, and several miles beyond them rose a line of dramatic, snow-bearing peaks.<\/p>\n

Coxcomb Peak<\/span><\/a> (13,656 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Redcliff<\/span><\/a> (13,642 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Precipice Peak<\/span><\/a> (13,144 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Dunsinane Mountain<\/span><\/a> (12,742 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!\u00a0 None of them were as high as Uncompaghre.\u00a0 Even the soaring spire of Wetterhorn Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,015 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> over toward the WSW was clearly lower, Matterhorn Peak<\/span><\/a> (13,590 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> in the foreground diminutive by comparison.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At Uncompahgre Peak’s true summit<\/strong>. Coxcomb Peak<\/strong> (far L), Redcliff<\/strong> (L), Precipice Peak<\/strong> (R), Dunsinane Mountain<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Wetterhorn Peak<\/strong> (R) with Matterhorn Peak<\/strong> (R) in the foreground. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Holy smokers, Loopster!\u00a0 We actually made it!\u00a0 Uncompaghre!\u00a0 Can you believe it?<\/em><\/p>\n

Shoot, this wasn’t so bad, SPHP.\u00a0 One little scramble!\u00a0 Nothing to it, if we could have started at the Nellie Creek trailhead, and skipped 2,000 feet of extra elevation gain.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, well, partly due to that extra 2,000 feet, I’m absolutely beat!\u00a0 Let me shake your paw, and let’s find a spot to sit down where it isn’t so dang windy.<\/em><\/p>\n

Really wasn’t anywhere out of the wind up here, but finding a patch of tundra where Lupe could lay down in relative comfort near a group of boulders SW of the true summit, an attempt to use them as windbreaks provided at least some relief.\u00a0 Happily, at only 15-20 mph out of the W, the wind wasn’t nearly as bad as here as it had been on the SE ridge.<\/p>\n

Exhausted, neither Lupe nor SPHP stirred, merely sitting there snacking while enjoying the stupendous views.\u00a0 Far to the ESE, SPHP was able to pick out Stewart Peak<\/span><\/a> (13,983 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Organ Mountain<\/span><\/a> (13,801 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, and San Luis Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,014 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, where Lupe had been just 2 days ago.\u00a0 From the true summit, the American Dingo had already seen that the territory to the N was much lower, except for a snow-capped range on the distant horizon.<\/p>\n

The best views were to the S or W looking into the heart of the San Juan Range where an incredible amount of snow was still present.\u00a0 Above all, that snowy wilderness of jagged peaks to the WSW beyond spectacular Wetterhorn Peak<\/span><\/a> (14,015 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was an absolute jaw-dropper.<\/p>\n

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Wetterhorn Peak<\/strong> (R) with Matterhorn Peak<\/strong> (R) in the foreground. Photo looks WSW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sort of reminds me of being on Peak 6053<\/strong><\/span><\/a> looking into Alaska, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah.\u00a0 Hard to believe we’re in southern Colorado right after the summer solstice, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

6-23-23, 4:34 PM, 54\u00baF<\/em> – The beef jerky supply wiped out entirely by the ravenous American Dingo, energy was returning as Lupe’s traditional summit hour ended.\u00a0 No rush to leave yet, though, since other than the ever-present annoying wind, conditions remained near perfect.\u00a0 Besides, it was picture time!<\/p>\n

For the next half an hour, Lupe and SPHP wandered back and forth over the summit region, staying mostly among the various high points strung out along the N edge, while admiring the splendid views in all directions.<\/p>\n

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Precipice Peak<\/strong> (L), and Dunsinane Mountain<\/strong> (L of Center). E fork of the Cimmaron River valley<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Along the W edge<\/strong>. Broken Hill<\/span><\/a> (13,256 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> (Center) in the foreground. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
HP13052<\/span><\/strong> (L) in the foreground. Wetterhorn Peak<\/strong> and Matterhorn Peak<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
American Flats<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Back along the N edge<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

3 high points of nearly equal elevation were along the N edge.\u00a0 The one farthest E was the true summit.\u00a0 The middle high point featured a small cross, which was its claim to fame.\u00a0 However, it was the high point clear out at the NW end that provided the most dramatic perch.\u00a0 Lupe visited it several times.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The cross<\/strong> (R) at the middle high point<\/strong> (L) along the N edge. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On the NW high point<\/strong>. Fortress Peak<\/span><\/a> (13,241 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> (Center), Precipice Peak<\/strong> (R), Dunsinane Peak<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Wetterhorn Peak<\/strong> (L) beyond Matterhorn Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

5:01 PM, Uncompahgre Peak, NW high point<\/em> – Sadly, it was time.\u00a0 From this airy perch, SPHP started Lupe’s descent GPS track nearly 1.5 hours after she’d arrived at the true summit.\u00a0 Going right past the true summit for the final time, the Carolina Dog returned briefly to the highest rocks once again.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Final moments at Uncompahgre Peak’s true summit.<\/strong> Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP never found a registry or a survey benchmark, but on a collection of rocks only a bit E of the true summit, discovered a directional marker as Lupe departed.<\/p>\n

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Uncompahgre directional marker<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A last look around, and it was Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

It was a long way back.\u00a0 Tragedy struck during the scramble’s descent when a rock fell, smashing SPHP’s R pinky toe.\u00a0 Fortunately, not broken, but painful nonetheless.\u00a0 Down on the SE ridge, the wind was as terrible as ever, but conditions improved steadily below it.\u00a0 On this gorgeous evening, Lupe had a grand time exploring the open country on the way back to Nellie Creek.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading back to Nellie Creek. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The “slippery log” worked a second time at the upper ford.\u00a0 Arriving at the lower ford at dusk, the American Dingo refused to plunge into the fearsome, frigid stream again in the growing gloom.\u00a0 Sitting on a bank beyond SPHP’s reach, she refused to come down.<\/p>\n

In the end, there was no other way.\u00a0 Leashed up, once into the stream, Lupe practically drug SPHP across in her eagerness to reach the safety of the far bank.<\/p>\n

6-23-23, 10:20 PM<\/em> – SPHP’s long hobble on the sore toe ended as the Carolina Dog leapt into the RAV4 and up onto her pink blanket.\u00a0 What a day it had been!\u00a0 Uncompahgre Peak had been awesome, entirely worth it!\u00a0 For the 3rd time on this Dingo Vacation, Lupe had set a new personal record for the 3rd highest mountain she’d ever climbed, coming within 124 vertical feet of her all-time best at Mount Elbert<\/strong><\/span><\/a> nearly 8 years ago.<\/p>\n

Trying to sleep despite the throbbing toe, SPHP couldn’t help wondering if Lupe would ever again be on such a lofty perch as glorious, fabulous Uncompahgre Peak<\/span> <\/a>(14,309 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>?<\/p>\n

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On Uncompahgre Peak<\/strong>, San Juan Mountains, Colorado 6-23-23<\/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<\/a><\/span><\/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 16 & 17 of Lupe’s 1st Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Colorado & New Mexico! 6-22-23, 4:32 PM, Carp Lake near the Grand Mesa Visitor Center\u00a0– This is a gorgeous area, SPHP!\u00a0 For a backup plan, Grand Mesa’s looking fabulous!\u00a0 We’ve seen so many beautiful lakes already, and we’ve only just arrived.\u00a0 What’s … Continue reading Uncompahgre Peak, San Juan Mountains, Colorado (6-23-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":51862,"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":[105,106,296,26,104,1673,1685],"class_list":["post-51886","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-lupe","tag-san-juan-mountains","tag-uncompaghre-peak"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_1259-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\/51886","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=51886"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51886\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":54105,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51886\/revisions\/54105"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/51862"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=51886"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=51886"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=51886"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}