{"id":54280,"date":"2024-05-25T08:10:07","date_gmt":"2024-05-25T14:10:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=54280"},"modified":"2024-06-08T09:23:13","modified_gmt":"2024-06-08T15:23:13","slug":"taiya-peak-skagway-ranges-british-columbia-canada-7-30-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=54280","title":{"rendered":"Taiya Peak, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada (7-30-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 8 & 9 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

7-30-29, 7:30 AM, 59\u00baF, S Klondike Hwy No. 2, 4.5 miles S of Canadian Customs –<\/em><\/p>\n

Not too bad, but it’s kind of smoky.\u00a0 Are we still going to do this, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Disappointing, I know, Loopster.\u00a0 Really wish we had a super clear day for Taiya Peak<\/span><\/a> (6,844 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, but it’s been on your list of possibilities for years.\u00a0 How many more chances are we ever going to get at it this far from home?<\/em><\/p>\n

So, it’s a go, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Might be now or never, Loop, so yes.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Her lofty objective already in sight, Lupe crossed the highway near the Summit Creek sign, then headed N across a rumpled region of bedrock, low bushes, scattered stunted evergreens, and tundra.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak<\/strong> (Center) from S Klondike Hwy No. 2<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Progress was excellent on this relatively easy terrain.\u00a0 Within just a few minutes, the American Dingo reached a small tarn.<\/p>\n

See those 2 mountains we’re heading for, Looper?<\/em><\/p>\n

Of course.\u00a0 What about them?\u00a0 We don’t have to go clear over there do we?<\/em><\/p>\n

Heavens no!\u00a0 We only need to get up onto that lower ridge in front of them, Loopster, before turning toward Taiya Peak.\u00a0 However, that mountain on the L is Peak 1769m<\/span><\/strong>, and the one on the R is Fraser Peak<\/span><\/a> (5,978 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, I remember Fraser Peak<\/strong><\/a><\/span>, SPHP!\u00a0 The views were spectacular!\u00a0 That’s where we first got a good look at Taiya Peak, isn’t it?<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s right, Loop.\u00a0 I knew you’d remember.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 1769m<\/span><\/strong> (L) and Fraser Peak<\/strong> (R) from the first tarn. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After passing the tarn, Lupe found her way over to Summit Creek’s rocky exposed floodplain.\u00a0 The trek N along the E side of the beautiful stream was easy and fun, but didn’t last long.\u00a0 The stream soon meandered over to the E side of the channel, forcing the Carolina Dog up onto a parallel wall of rock 20 feet higher.<\/p>\n

Lupe was once again up on the tundra traveling over rumpled terrain when Summit Creek suddenly made a sharp turn NW away from the wall of rock, causing a search for a way to scramble back down next to the creek.\u00a0 Another short trek on the floodplain ensued before the stream forced Lupe back up onto an 8 foot high bank.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the rock wall overlooking Summit Creek<\/strong>. Peak 1769m<\/span><\/strong> (L), Fraser Peak<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Below the wall where Summit Creek<\/strong> turned NW. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Following Summit Creek<\/strong>. Taiya Peak<\/strong> (L), Peak 1769m<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak<\/strong> (Center) and Summit Creek<\/strong> from a particularly pretty spot. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Up on the bank, a level plain completely overgrown with willows waist to chest high on SPHP extended a good 250 meters N.\u00a0 Lupe couldn’t see a thing as she followed SPHP bushwhacking slowly through the willow thicket by whatever route seemed easiest.\u00a0 The situation didn’t improve much upon reaching a dense forest of evergreens on higher ground.<\/p>\n

Heading NW toward the big ridge leading to Taiya Peak, Lupe managed to get high enough to break out of the trees onto a tundra slope, which made progress much easier.\u00a0 However, the tundra quickly led up to the top of a hill with a cliff edge and a big tarn below it blocking any further progress W.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Blocked by a cliff and a tarn. Fraser Peak<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak<\/strong> (L) from the same spot. Ridge Lupe needed to get to<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Down and around, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

No other choice, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

The hill Lupe was on wasn’t that big, so it didn’t take long to retreat NE down into a little valley, then climb up onto a reasonably flat stretch of tundra.\u00a0 However, quite a bit of forest was still ahead on the lower slopes of the ridge Lupe was trying to get to, and the terrain was fairly rugged with sudden drops and near vertical climbs.<\/p>\n

Staying on tundra whenever possible, Lupe had to venture quite a long way N before turning WNW seemed feasible.\u00a0 Even then, progress was often extremely slow trying to force a way up some of the steep, densely forested slopes.\u00a0 However, Lupe finally managed to get up above most of the trees to a flat spot with a view looking back toward Summit Lake near S Klondike Hwy No. 2.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On a nice stretch of tundra. Fraser Peak<\/strong> (L). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Above the worst of the forest looking back at Summit Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Amazing territory was now ahead.\u00a0 As the remaining trees thinned out, Lupe easily avoided them.\u00a0 Climbing WNW, Lupe explored a maze of bedrock benches, ramps, small streams, and hidden tarns.\u00a0 For a long way, it was possible to look back and still see the RAV4 as a bright blue dot parked in front of Summit Lake down by S. Klondike Hwy No. 2.<\/p>\n

The higher the American Dingo went, the rockier the world became.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Exploring rugged territory near treeline. Peak 1769m<\/span><\/strong> (L of Center), Fraser Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
One of the larger tarns<\/strong> (R). Fraser Peak<\/strong> (L). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Entering the world of rock. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-30-23, 9:16 AM<\/em> – Although the angle of incline was diminishing, Lupe never seemed to get to the top of the ridge she was climbing.\u00a0 However, upon reaching a giant boulder sitting on the bedrock that dominated the landscape, the top of Taiya Peak was back in view for the first time in a while now.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By the giant boulder<\/strong>. Taiya Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing gradually higher beyond this boulder, more of Taiya Peak kept coming into sight.\u00a0 Lupe crossed many long gashes in the bedrock oriented perpendicular to her route, descending into each one before having to regain all her lost elevation and more climbing out again.\u00a0 Sometimes small streams were in these gashes, or even a bit of snow.<\/p>\n

To the SW, the sharp pinnacle of Feather Peak<\/span><\/a> (5,889 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> came into view with Mount Cleveland<\/span><\/a> (6,362 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Mount Carmack<\/span><\/a> (6,808 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and many other peaks grouped beyond it.\u00a0 Much closer, Peak<\/span> 6053<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, which Lupe had climbed nearly 5 years ago, appeared toward the WSW.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
More of Taiya Peak<\/strong> (R) comes into view. Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Carmack<\/strong> (Center) in the distance. Feather Peak<\/strong> (R), Mount Cleveland<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Crossing one of the many gashes. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The scenery was incredible and exploring this amazing territory was enormous fun.\u00a0 Fortunately, the Luck of the Dingo was excellent.\u00a0 Lupe usually reached the gashes she came to near breaks in the cliff walls along each side, which made it relatively easy to scramble down into them and back out again.<\/p>\n

Closing in on Taiya Peak, the gashes increased in size.\u00a0 Near the end, the Carolina Dog came to 3 gashes that were particularly big, with lines of cliffs along their borders ranging from 20 to 50 feet high.\u00a0 One of these gashes was much wider than any of the others and full of vegetation.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Closing in on Taiya Peak<\/strong> (R). Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Above one of the gashes<\/strong>. Peak 1769m<\/span><\/strong> (L), Fraser Peak<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Feather Peak<\/strong> (L) and Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (R) from the edge of another gash. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Down in one of the deepest gashes<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Climbing back out. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak<\/strong> (Center) dead ahead. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Exploring the widest gash<\/strong>. Fraser Peak<\/strong> (L of Center) in the distance. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Near the base of Taiya Peak, the roar of water could be heard ahead.\u00a0 Lupe soon reached the edge of a final gash containing a much larger stream than any other the others she’d come to tumbling steeply down this narrow ravine.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Along the edge of the final gash<\/strong>. Feather Peak<\/strong> (R), Mount Cleveland<\/strong> (R edge). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Crossing the stream and its powerful flow in this deep ravine appeared treacherous.\u00a0 Happily, the upper end of the gash was only a little farther upstream.\u00a0 Turning N, Lupe went far enough to get above the spot where the stream plunged into the gash in a line of waterfalls along the W edge.<\/p>\n

Above this spot the gap was non-existent and the stream was shallow, all spread out in a beautiful green oasis of tundra and wildflowers.\u00a0 Off in the distance to the NW, a long waterfall cascaded off a ridge into a wide bowl still hidden above.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak<\/strong> from the shallow stream above the last gash. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The upstream view toward the hidden bowl. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wouldn’t it be fun to explore upstream all the way to that big waterfall, SPHP?\u00a0 We could even climb that ridge and see what’s beyond it, too!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, of course!\u00a0 That would be fantastic, Loop, but I’m afraid we can’t do that, if we ever intend to make it to the top of Taiya Peak.<\/em><\/p>\n

After a short, wistful break by the lovely stream spent contemplating that enticing bowl to the NW, Lupe waded across.\u00a0 The American Dingo then followed the stream back down to the waterfalls where it plunged into the gap.\u00a0 There she turned WSW, abandoning this beautiful region to start up the rocky slopes forming the base of Taiya Peak.<\/p>\n

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Starting up Taiya Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the terrain steadily steepened, SPHP frequently paused to gasp for air.\u00a0 At first, Lupe still came to spots with a fair amount of greenery where she could relax on the soft vegetation while SPHP took short breathers.\u00a0 However, these patches of tundra became increasingly rare.<\/p>\n

The mountain soon became quite an aggressive climb.\u00a0 The American Dingo scrambled up steep walls of talus.\u00a0 Fortunately, they often led to much flatter benches where usually another stretch of somewhat easier terrain existed above before an assault on the next wall would have to begin.\u00a0 As she gained elevation, Lupe’s winding WSW course gradually turned NW.<\/p>\n

Having read online that it was important to stay S of an E ridge, which seemed poorly defined in the field, SPHP encouraged the Carolina Dog to take advantage of every opportunity to angle SW, but the terrain rarely cooperated.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taking a break right before the climb steepened significantly. Feather Peak<\/strong> (L), Mount Cleveland<\/strong> (Center), Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Heading up a steep talus slope. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On easier terrain again. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Another wall of talus ahead. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Pausing on another patch of tundra. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The benches and ledges Lupe reached were becoming narrower and less frequent.\u00a0 SPHP’s progress on the steep talus was painfully slow.\u00a0 The talus walls extended higher and higher, becoming so steep that whether or not this ascent could possibly be successful was continually in doubt.<\/p>\n

Ever fewer and more difficult routes kept appearing above.\u00a0 Although Lupe displayed great scrambling ability, she began coming to places where SPHP had to give her a boost.\u00a0 Tiring, longer rest breaks were in order every time the American Dingo managed to reach one of the wider, safer ledges.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Relaxing on one of the larger benches. Mount Carmack<\/strong> & Feather Peak<\/strong> (L), Mount Cleveland<\/strong> (L of Center), Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After gaining many hundreds of feet, Lupe came to a talus slope that wasn’t as steep.\u00a0 Climbing NW, she reached a long snowbank she was able to follow WSW.\u00a0 Above it, another steep talus slope finally led to a big level bench of gritty tan soil.\u00a0 Taking another break here, the views were tremendous.<\/p>\n

Looking E, Summit Lake was in sight down in the Tormented Valley.\u00a0 Lupe could see Summit Creek flowing into it, and the mighty range of unfamiliar mountains E of the valley.\u00a0 Looking SW, Lupe was already clearly higher than both Feather Peak<\/span><\/a> (5,889 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Peak<\/span> 6053<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the long snowbank<\/strong> (L) Lupe was able to follow WSW. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On another steep talus climb. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
N half of Summit Lake<\/strong> from the gritty tan bench. Summit Creek<\/strong> (R). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Resting on the last big ledge. Mount Carmack<\/strong> (far L), Mount Cleveland<\/strong> (L), Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow, what a climb!\u00a0 Can’t go on like this much longer, can it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

No, it can’t.\u00a0 According to the topo map, it ought to be getting noticeably easier any time now, Loopster.\u00a0 Not sure how accurate our GPS track is, but it says we’re already at 6,275 feet.\u00a0 If true, that puts us within less than 600 feet of the summit elevation-wise.<\/em><\/p>\n

Continuing on, Lupe skirted WSW along the base of the 20 foot wall next to the ledge before reaching a place where she could climb above it.\u00a0 60 feet higher, a magnificent sight appeared.\u00a0 To the NW, a long talus slope stretched toward what appeared to be Taiya Peak’s summit.<\/p>\n

It was a moment of great joy.<\/p>\n

Hah!\u00a0 Got’er made, Looper!\u00a0 We’re going to make it!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak<\/strong> (Center) from 6,333 feet. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Still a trudge, but the angle of ascent was much easier now.\u00a0 While SPHP hoped nothing too funky laid beyond what could be seen of the summit region, Lupe steadily closed the gap, alternately trotting over patches of the gritty tan soil or rock-hopping her way higher.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Closing in on the summit<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-30-23, 3:46 PM, 68\u00baF, Taiya Peak<\/span><\/a> (6,844 feet)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – 50 feet from the SE end of a 200 foot long summit ridge, Lupe stood next to a cairn by the true summit with a grin on her face.\u00a0 Beyond her, the sky was disappointingly gray with smoke bad enough to seriously mar the views, but it could have been worse.<\/p>\n

Almost due S, Mount Carmack<\/span><\/a> (6,808 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Feather Peak<\/span><\/a> (5,889 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, and Mount Cleveland<\/span><\/a> (6,362 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were all still readily discernable despite the smoke.\u00a0 It was incredible to think that Lupe was now higher than all of them.\u00a0 Felt even stranger looking down on Peak<\/span> 6053<\/span><\/a><\/strong> less than 2 miles SW, a magnificent peak in its own right practically on the border with Alaska, where the Carolina Dog had stood proudly nearly 5 years ago, gazing up at mighty Taiya Peak.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By the Taiya Peak summit cairn<\/strong>. Mount Carmack<\/strong> (L), Mount Cleveland<\/strong> (L of Center), Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As cherished as those views were, and as splendid as the sights were in all directions, in truth, it was the views to the W that had inspired this entire journey.\u00a0 Beyond the unseen depths of the giant Taiya River valley, where prospectors had once struggled against forbidding elements up the famous Chilkoot Trail from Dyea to the Yukon gold fields, a sea of glacier-clad peaks extended beyond vision.<\/p>\n

Alaska!\u00a0 Forbidding, vast, remote, and frigidly white as in one’s wildest dreams.\u00a0 No one had ever stood on most of those unnamed peaks.\u00a0 It was like looking 20,000 years back into an ancient, long forgotten ice age.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Alaska<\/strong> from Taiya Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP seized the American Dingo’s outstretched paw, and shook it most enthusiastically.<\/p>\n

Congratulations, Lupe!\u00a0 12.5 years old, and you made it all this way!\u00a0 I can’t believe it.\u00a0 I never thought we’d see this scene again, sweet puppy.<\/em><\/p>\n

What?\u00a0 Of course, I made it!\u00a0 A remark like that is going to cost you every chocolate coconut bar in that pack, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

This was, in fact, the 4th time the Carolina Dog had seen this stunning view into Alaska, each time from a different vantage point.\u00a0 Lupe had first gazed up at Mount Hoffman<\/span><\/a> (6,079 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> from a ridge at the far W end of the International Falls Trail<\/strong><\/span><\/a> in 2017.\u00a0 The very next day she saw Peak<\/span> 8239<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, the Skagway High Point, from Fraser Peak<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, and then again from Peak <\/strong><\/span>6053<\/strong><\/span><\/a> a year later.<\/p>\n

However, Lupe had never enjoyed this scene from a perch as lofty as the one she now had on Taiya Peak before.\u00a0 Only the wretched smoke and weariness dampened the soaring mood of the occasion.\u00a0 Conditions were otherwise perfect – an incredible 68\u00baF with a lazy 5 mph SW breeze.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (far L) and Mount Hoffman<\/strong> (R) both in the foreground. Peak 8239<\/span><\/strong> (far R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak’s NW ridge<\/strong> (R) in the foreground. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hoffman<\/strong> (R of Center) in the foreground. Peak 8239<\/span><\/strong> (R). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

No vegetation at all existed up here, so Lupe had no comfortable spot to rest.\u00a0 However, immediately N of the cairn, the rock it sat on had a flat spot big enough to accommodate her.\u00a0 After an initial look at the views, SPHP used a jacket, a pullover, and another layer of clothing to make a bed for her there.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Resting next to the summit cairn<\/strong> (R). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The Tormented Valley<\/strong> (Center) 4,000 feet below from Taiya Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe got her half-melted chocolate coconut bar reward, splitting it with SPHP.\u00a0 She then got to lick off the soft chocolate sticking to the wrapper, which she did with great enthusiasm, followed by plenty of water for all, and Taste of the Wild for Lupe.\u00a0 Satisfied, the Carolina Dog put her head down on SPHP’s jacket and snoozed.<\/p>\n

For a while, SPHP gazed alone upon the splendors in all directions, but after a short nap, Lupe was awake, too, although not at all inclined to move from her comfy spot.\u00a0 SPHP sat next to her, stroking Lupe’s soft fur, and praising her for coming all this way.<\/p>\n

7-30-23, 4:40 PM, Taiya Peak –\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Your traditional summit hour is almost over, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

We can’t leave yet, SPHP!\u00a0 Let’s have a more thorough look around first!<\/em><\/p>\n

Fully intend to, Loop.\u00a0 We’re certainly in no rush to leave this awesome peak.\u00a0 Other than the dang smoke, it couldn’t be a more perfect day.<\/em><\/p>\n

Finally getting up after this assurance, Lupe was ready for a leisurely summit tour.\u00a0 She began by making the 50 foot stroll over to the SW end of the summit ridge.\u00a0 At this end, the ridge was only about 15 feet wide, and the large rocks were encased in black lichens.<\/p>\n

Naturally, the best views of the Feather Peak group and Peak 6053 were from here.\u00a0 Lupe also peered down on a glacier covering a significant portion of the region between Peak 6053 and Taiya Peak.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Carmack<\/strong> (L of Center), Mount Cleveland<\/strong> (R of Center), Peak 6053<\/span><\/strong> (far R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Glacier between Peak 6053<\/span> and Taiya Peak<\/strong> (foreground). Mount Hoffman<\/strong> (Center), Peak 8239<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Next, returning to the cairn, Lupe had a look at Summit Lake.\u00a0 If she’d had a pair of Dingo binoculars, she might have seen the RAV4 parked down along S Klondike Hwy No. 2.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Summit Lake<\/strong> (Center & R) from Taiya Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The summit ridge extended another 150 feet NE from the cairn.\u00a0 The ridge broadened out to 50 feet wide in this direction, and consisted of much lighter-colored scree bearing few of the black lichens.<\/p>\n

Going out close to the far end, Peak 1769m<\/span><\/strong>, Fraser Peak<\/span><\/a> (5,978 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, and Log Cabin Mountain<\/span><\/a> (5,633 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were all lined up to the NE.\u00a0 Part of Bryant Lake was in sight next to Fraser Peak, and in the distance, both the N end of Lindeman Lake and S end of Bennett Lake were in view.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
NE end of the summit ridge<\/strong> (Center). Fraser Peak<\/strong> (R) in foreground. Tormented Valley<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lindeman Lake<\/strong> & Bennet Lake<\/strong> (L) in the distance, Bryant Lake<\/strong> (Center). Peak 1769m<\/span><\/strong>, Fraser Peak<\/strong>, & Log Cabin Mountain<\/strong> lined up at (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From this end of the summit ridge, it was also possible to look down on the large glacier clinging to the N side of Taiya Peak.\u00a0 While most of the glistening white snow and ice appeared soft and gently rounded, several large crevasses were in sight, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak’s N side glacier<\/strong> (foreground). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lower end of the N glacier<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe occasionally returned briefly to her comfortable perch by the cairn as SPHP repeatedly wandered back and forth along the entire length of the summit ridge trying to take it all in, but usually she went right along with SPHP, staring out at the same incredible views.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Carmack<\/strong> (Center), Mount Cleveland<\/strong> (R). Photos looks SSW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Taiya Peak’s NW ridge<\/strong> (Center, foreground). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hoffman<\/strong> (L of Center, foreground), Peak 8239<\/span><\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-30-23, 5:29 PM, Taiya Peak<\/span><\/a> (6,844 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> –\u00a0 Alas, most of a second hour had already flown!\u00a0 1.75 hours after arriving, Lupe stood next to the cairn for the last time, her front paws resting on the highest naturally placed rock.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the true summit<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Before entirely abandoning the summit region, Lupe returned to the SW end of the summit ridge one last time.\u00a0 A bit below it, she found a perch where that glorious view W into glacier-clad Alaska beckoned beyond.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Alaska<\/strong> from Taiya Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Looks like the mountains go on forever, doesn’t it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, it does, sweet puppy!\u00a0 If only we could, too.<\/em><\/p>\n

The magnificent fleeting moment passed.\u00a0 It was a long way back.\u00a0 The incredible, cherished scene vanished as soon as Lupe left her perch to head back down the mountain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting the descent. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The iPhone battery was down to 22% by the time the Carolina Dog left the summit region, so SPHP had to use it sparingly during the return.\u00a0 Never a good scrambler, it took SPHP hours to carefully pick a way down the mountain’s steep talus.\u00a0 Lupe was forever waiting.\u00a0 She headed down staying farther S than during her ascent, but with no discernable benefit.<\/p>\n

For a long way, a gigantic boulder cracked in half was visible far below.\u00a0 Even SPHP finally got down pretty close to it before turning NE to head for the large beautiful stream.\u00a0 Water supplies had run out on the way down the mountain, and the sun had set by the time Lupe reached the stream again.\u00a0 She drank deeply from it, and from every trickle and tarn thereafter.<\/p>\n

Twilight lingered.\u00a0 In fading light on easier terrain again, SPHP hurried on.\u00a0 Weary, Lupe wanted to be done, and many short breaks were taken on a bit of soft tundra here or there.\u00a0 Although also exhausted, SPHP kept urging the American Dingo on, wanting to take as much advantage of what fading light there was as possible.<\/p>\n

It never got completely dark.\u00a0 A glow was always visible in the N.\u00a0 Even so, the flashlight eventually had to come out.\u00a0 Lupe’s ascent route had been fairly efficient, and every time SPHP checked the iPhone, she was never far from her GPS track, yet nothing looked familiar in the gloom.\u00a0 Every minor high point revealed only another steep, black drop ahead.<\/p>\n

The Carolina Dog kept reaching the biggest gashes at bad spots, forcing searches for practical routes down into them and back out again.\u00a0 Lupe seemed forced into one boulder field after another.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, the night was extraordinarily mild.\u00a0 Eventually fog could be seen drifting N from White Pass, a gray ghost spreading gradually across the dark land.<\/p>\n

The first trees appeared roughly 2 km from S Klondike Hwy No. 2.\u00a0 Lupe had been desperately begging SPHP to stop.\u00a0 Dreading the dense forest and willows that lay ahead in the night, SPHP finally relented.<\/p>\n

Finding a soft patch of tundra, SPHP shared a chocolate mint Cliff bar with Lupe, last of the supplies other than a few peanuts.\u00a0 Layering up, SPHP then wrapped a jacket around the grateful American Dingo, and pulled her close.\u00a0 Lupe immediately put her head down and closed her eyes.\u00a0 It was 1:00 AM.<\/p>\n

7-31-23, 4:30 AM, 3,300 feet<\/em> – Really wasn’t all that cold out, but SPHP’s teeth chattered nevertheless.<\/p>\n

Loopster, can you move?\u00a0 My left arm’s numb under you.<\/em><\/p>\n

Seems a little lighter out, SPHP.\u00a0 I’m feeling better.\u00a0 Want to keep going?<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP turned on the flashlight.<\/p>\n

Criminy!\u00a0 We’re in the fog, Loop.\u00a0 Can’t see much of anything, but maybe we should go?\u00a0 Might start to rain.<\/em><\/p>\n

As it turned out, Lupe really wasn’t that close to the forest yet, and still had a fair amount of elevation to lose.\u00a0 Progress continued to be slow, but was better than last night.\u00a0 Eventually it was light enough to turn off the flashlight, and possible to see some distance through the fog.<\/p>\n

Greatly revived by her 3.5 hour snooze, Lupe no longer complained, but led the way.\u00a0 Staying farther N than during her ascent as she headed E, the Carolina Dog managed to avoid most of the steep descent through dense forest.\u00a0 She had to go down some equally steep boulder fields, but that was actually easier.<\/p>\n

Upon reaching the forest and turning S, Lupe enjoyed considerable luck on this route, usually finding open lanes of grass and tundra through the evergreens, while passing tarns she’d never seen before along the way.<\/p>\n

The American Dingo eventually came to the willows where Summit Creek could be heard rushing downstream ahead.\u00a0 Even here Lupe led the way, bounding through the jungle without being able to see a thing.\u00a0 Only the quivering of the willows she disturbed revealed her location.<\/p>\n

Soon the roar coming from Summit Creek indicated that it wasn’t much farther.\u00a0 SPHP yelled.<\/p>\n

Careful, Loopster!\u00a0 The bank is a vertical drop!<\/em><\/p>\n

It was, too.\u00a0 SPHP caught up with Lupe again among the willows along the edge.\u00a0 Summit Creek was right there, hugging this bank, an 8-10 foot vertical drop from the willow thicket that extended right to the brink.<\/p>\n

Perhaps as eager to get to the RAV4 as SPHP was, the Carolina Dog took off again, forging ahead, charging blindly this way and that through the endless willows.\u00a0 Soon she was racing straight for Summit Creek again.\u00a0 SPHP yelled twice.<\/p>\n

Loop!\u00a0 Stop!\u00a0 STOP!\u00a0 You’ll fall in!<\/em><\/p>\n

A moment later, a splash.<\/p>\n

OMG!\u00a0 Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

Summit Creek was deep where Lupe fell, the current swift and icy cold.\u00a0 From the edge of the willows, SPHP looked anxiously downstream.\u00a0 Suddenly, well ahead, there was Lupe, shaking herself off on exposed streambed where Summit Creek had veered away from the near bank.\u00a0 She appeared to be fine.<\/p>\n

Hurrying as much as possible, SPHP surged through the willows, losing sight of the American Dingo in the process.<\/p>\n

Loop!\u00a0 Loop!<\/em><\/p>\n

Minutes ticked away.\u00a0 Nothing.\u00a0 SPHP kept going, calling her name.\u00a0 No sign of her the next time SPHP caught a glimpse of the streambed.\u00a0 Where was she?<\/p>\n

Suddenly, here came Lupe, charging straight toward SPHP from behind.\u00a0 Soaking wet from head to tail, she’d been searching for SPHP, too.<\/p>\n

Oh, Lupe, don’t scare me like that!\u00a0 Are you OK?\u00a0 Did you get hurt?<\/em><\/p>\n

Cold and sopping wet, but thankfully, no damage done.<\/p>\n

7-31-23, 6:47 AM, 55\u00baF, S. Klondike Hwy No. 2<\/em> – Less than 15 minutes later, Lupe’s grand and glorious Taiya Peak adventure was over, more than 23 hours after it had begun.\u00a0 Lupe leapt up onto her pink blanket in the RAV4 and began vigorously licking herself dry, while SPHP wearily stashed the gear.\u00a0 It was still foggy and cool out, and no one was around.\u00a0 For 45 minutes, the highway was deserted.\u00a0 Not a single vehicle went by.<\/p>\n

A couple of semis finally whizzed past just before SPHP pulled the RAV4 onto the highway, heading N.\u00a0 By then Lupe had eaten and was ready to snooze.\u00a0 Driving barepaw with the heater on high to dry out soaking wet boots and socks on the floorboard, SPHP downed a strawberry Equate, feeling surprisingly alert.<\/p>\n

7-31-23, 9:37 AM –<\/em> That feeling of alertness didn’t last long.\u00a0 Shortly after passing Carcross, a tremendous all-pervasive drowsiness set in.\u00a0 Pulling into the Robinson Roadhouse<\/strong><\/span><\/a> rest area near Mount Lorne<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, SPHP joined Lupe in her slumber.<\/p>\n

A few hours later, Lupe was on her way again.<\/p>\n

Taiya Peak was awesome, SPHP!\u00a0 What’s next?\u00a0 You won’t hurt my feelings if it’s something a little less ambitious.<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re on our way to Whitehorse, Loop.\u00a0 We can pick up supplies, fuel up, then hang out there the rest of the day.\u00a0 Tomorrow, we’ll head N to the Dempster Highway, and start the journey to Tuktoyaktuk.<\/p>\n

Tuktoyaktuk, Land of the Pingos<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, on the Arctic Ocean, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 And you can bet on plenty of adventures along the way, Sweet Puppy!<\/em><\/p>\n

And so it was.\u00a0 After getting to Whitehorse, Lupe hung out in the RAV4 while SPHP ran around doing the supplies thing, then joined her in long naps after sharing a roasted chicken.\u00a0 The day’s activities ended with an evening stroll along the fabled Yukon River, and the promise of more terrific adventures ahead.<\/p>\n

However, what those adventures might consist of was far from certain.\u00a0 On the way into town, a lighted sign over the Alaska Highway had warned of wildfires and road closures along the Dempster Highway<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Evening along the Yukon River<\/strong> in Whitehorse<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On Taiya Peak<\/strong>, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada (7-30-23)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s Taiya Peak GPS Track (Ascent)<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

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

On and Off the International Falls Trail to Peak 6053, British Columbia, Canada (9-11-18)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Fraser Peak, British Columbia, Canada (8-9-17)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

International Falls, Canada to Alaska (8-8-17)<\/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><\/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 8 & 9 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 7-30-29, 7:30 AM, 59\u00baF, S Klondike Hwy No. 2, 4.5 miles S of Canadian Customs – Not too bad, but it’s kind of smoky.\u00a0 Are we still going to do this, SPHP? Disappointing, I know, Loopster.\u00a0 Really wish we … Continue reading Taiya Peak, Skagway Ranges, British Columbia, Canada (7-30-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":54255,"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":[105,79,30,106,104,1699,1162],"class_list":["post-54280","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1659","tag-american-dingo","tag-british-columbia","tag-canada","tag-carolina-dog","tag-lupe","tag-skagway-ranges","tag-taiya-peak"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/IMG_1703-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\/54280","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=54280"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54280\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":54783,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54280\/revisions\/54783"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/54255"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=54280"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=54280"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=54280"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}