{"id":57213,"date":"2024-12-11T08:10:37","date_gmt":"2024-12-11T15:10:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=57213"},"modified":"2025-01-23T15:52:36","modified_gmt":"2025-01-23T22:52:36","slug":"mount-sittichinli-richardson-mountains-yukon-territory-canada-part-1-the-dempster-highway-to-peak-1402m-8-9-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=57213","title":{"rendered":"Mount Sittichinli, Richardson Mountains, Yukon Territory, Canada – Part 1: The Dempster Highway to Peak 1402M (8-9-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Part 1 of Day 18 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

4:27 AM, Dempster Highway at Wright Pass, Yukon\/Northwest Territories border – <\/em>No apparent change in the weather.\u00a0 Borne on a 20 mph wind, smoke still streamed through Wright Pass from out of the SE.\u00a0 A faint rosy glow to the NE showed that dawn was coming, or perhaps that the sun was already up, still hidden in the smoke.<\/p>\n

Lupe yawned.<\/p>\n

Awake already, SPHP?\u00a0 What’s going on?<\/em><\/p>\n

Mount Sittichinli<\/span><\/a> (5,165 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re really going to attempt it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, it’s now or never.\u00a0 This is our big chance, Loop.\u00a0 We’re choosing now!<\/em><\/p>\n

Mount Sittichinli is a long way from the highway, isn’t it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 15+ km, more than 9 miles, almost due N of Wright Pass as the crow flies.\u00a0 Somewhat longer as a practical matter.\u00a0 No roads, no trails, pure unadulterated Richardson Mountains wilderness.\u00a0 I’d be nervous about that, but the last report we got at Eagle Plains was for at least another week of warm, dry weather.<\/em><\/p>\n

You can thank the Arctic apocalypse, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Hah!\u00a0 Most definitely, Looper.\u00a0 Anyway, I’ve been awake half the night thinking about how we’re going to pull this off.<\/em><\/p>\n

An actual, well thought out plan before we’re in trouble?\u00a0 Nice change of modus operandi, SPHP!\u00a0 Care to share any details, or do you just want to shock me with how smoothly it all goes?<\/em><\/p>\n

Well thought out?\u00a0 We’ll see.\u00a0 I hope so.\u00a0 Here’s the general gist of it, Sweet Puppy.\u00a0 With weather, normally the biggest danger this far N, unlikely to be an issue, it’s pretty straightforward.\u00a0 My main concern is not running the iPhone out of battery, since GPS will be crucial to navigation in the event of dense fog, or more likely these days, wildfire smoke.<\/em><\/p>\n

And exactly how do you plan to manage that, SPHP?\u00a0 The battery is always dying on that thing.<\/em><\/p>\n

We’ll use it very sparingly, Loop.\u00a0 I’ll just create a point to point GPS track, only turning the iPhone on at significant changes of direction.\u00a0 Can take a few photos at those points since the iPhone will already be on.\u00a0 The rest of the time, I’ll use our old Canon Powershot camera.\u00a0 As long as the iPhone battery stays at least 50% charged, we can keep going.\u00a0 Once below it, we’ll have to turn back.<\/em><\/p>\n

How long will it take us to get to Mount Sittichinli, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Depends on what the terrain’s like, Loopster.\u00a0 If it isn’t all that rugged, I’m hoping we can stay high, following the ridges linking the mountains and hills on the way there.\u00a0 If that doesn’t work, we’ll have to see what options exist to go around them.\u00a0 I’m thinking 2 days should be enough to get there and back, but we’ll pack for 3.<\/em><\/p>\n

So you’re bringing the tiny house, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Absolutely!\u00a0 Have to, Looper.\u00a0 No way we can get to Mount Sittichinli and return in a day.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, let me know when you’re ready, SPHP.\u00a0 In the meantime, I’m going back to sleep.<\/em><\/p>\n

Good idea, Sweet Puppy.\u00a0 Rest up.\u00a0 It’s going to be an epic day!<\/em><\/p>\n

6:49 AM, 56\u00baF, Wright Pass, Yukon\/Northwest Territories border<\/em> – The sun was well up now, looking fairly bright.\u00a0 Maybe the smoke wasn’t quite as bad today?\u00a0 Wouldn’t that be nice?\u00a0 With everything pretty much ready to go, SPHP turned the key, and the RAV4 sprang to life.<\/p>\n

So did the American Dingo.<\/p>\n

What happened to Mount Sittichinli, SPHP?\u00a0 Where are we going?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sittichinli’s still on, Loopster.\u00a0 Been looking at the maps, though, and North Wright Pass Mountain<\/span><\/a> (4,500 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> on the N side of the pass here is one of the highest spots on the way to Mount Sittichinli.\u00a0 Rather than climb it, we’re just going to drive 2 or 3 miles into the Northwest Territories to see if we can find another safe spot to park the RAV4.\u00a0 If we can, we’ll avoid this first mountain, and shave a little distance off our trek, too.<\/em><\/p>\n

7:21 AM, 59\u00baF, Dempster Highway<\/em> – Luck of the Dingo!\u00a0 3 miles into the Northwest Territories from Wright Pass, a nice, roomy pullout appeared on the R (E) side of the highway.\u00a0 What appeared to be some sort of small weather-related installation was here, but no other vehicles.\u00a0 Plenty of room to park the RAV4 well off the highway.<\/p>\n

Smoky, without even much of a breeze here.\u00a0 Last minute preparations complete, everything SPHP could think of was ready to go.<\/p>\n

Show time, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

Ready for action, Lupe sprang out of the RAV4.\u00a0 Directly opposite the pullout, a dirt road went up a barren incline to the top of a low ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
About to set out for Mount Sittichinli from the Dempster Highway<\/strong>. North Wright Pass Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Can’t imagine that dirt track goes very far, Looper, but let’s find out!<\/em><\/p>\n

Speaking of tracks, did you remember to start a GPS track, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

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

Crossing the Dempster Highway, Lupe followed the dirt track up onto the small ridge.\u00a0 The track almost immediately turned W, climbing gradually toward North Wright Pass Mountain.\u00a0 Sure enough, it soon faded away.\u00a0 In the distance, a big rounded hill was now visible N of North Wright Pass Mountain.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the end of any discernable dirt track. North Wright Pass Mountain<\/strong> (L), Peak 1220M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Go that way, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes.\u00a0 Let’s head for the pass between them, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

Still gradually gaining elevation, Lupe headed toward the distant hill.\u00a0 Not a single tree grew out here.\u00a0 The gently rolling terrain presented no obstacles other than occasional soggy spots easily identified by their bright green color.\u00a0 For the most part, the ground was reasonably firm, covered with tundra that wasn’t too thick or spongy.<\/p>\n

Lupe drank from tiny streams emerging from springs.\u00a0 In some regions, she trotted past stands of low bushes.\u00a0 Overall progress was excellent.\u00a0 Before long the region between North Wright Pass Mountain and that next big hill to the N was coming into view.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Pausing at a tiny stream.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On firm terrain. Peak 1220M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Successfully avoiding North Wright Pass Mountain<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A glimpse back at the low ridge<\/strong> (Center) Lupe followed at the start. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
By a particularly wet spot.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Pass 1110M<\/strong> (Center) between North Wright Pass Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Peak 1220M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The pass was considerably higher than SPHP expected, and getting to it wasn’t as easy as anticipated, either.\u00a0 The upper edge of the ridge coming down from North Wright Pass Mountain was almost prohibitively steep.\u00a0 Crossing a big ravine to get a bit farther N was going to be necessary to reach the pass.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, this rocky ravine was steep-sided, too, especially lower down.\u00a0 Lupe had to climb close to its upper end before an opportunity to cross the ravine presented itself.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the ravine after a steep climb. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Crossing the ravine at a favorable point. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once across, a further short, steep climb got the Carolina Dog to a nice bench leading directly to the pass.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the bench<\/strong> leading to Pass 1110M<\/strong> (Center). Peak 1220M<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Pass 1110M<\/strong> (Center). Peak 1220M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Covered with scree and scant tundra vegetation, Pass 1110M<\/span><\/strong> was flat and very broad.\u00a0 During the easy march N toward Peak 1220M<\/span><\/strong>, the view to the W was too smoky to pay any attention to.\u00a0 Toward the E, a very steep edge overlooked an enormous drainage hundreds of feet lower.<\/p>\n

Glancing back at North Wright Pass Mountain, now almost directly S, it was so high, steep, and rocky that SPHP was extremely glad Lupe hadn’t tried to go over it from Wright Pass.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
North Wright Pass Mountain<\/strong> (Center) from Pass 1110M<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Whew!\u00a0 Dodged a bullet there, Looper!<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re doing great, aren’t we, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Excellent progress so far, Loopster.\u00a0 All we have to do now is figure out whether to go over or around this next big hill.<\/em><\/p>\n

Aah, yes!\u00a0 That next big hill.\u00a0 Although much smaller than North Wright Pass Mountain, it wasn’t anything to sneeze at, either.\u00a0 Rising more than 300 feet above Pass 1110M<\/span><\/strong>, its lower slopes contained a mix of rocks and tundra.\u00a0 However, the upper regions were nothing but a jumble of talus.\u00a0 While going right over Peak 1220M<\/span><\/strong> appeared quite possible, all that talus would really slow SPHP down.<\/p>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 Having seen North Wright Pass Mountain’s N face, I’m not so sure climbing this next hill is such a good idea, either, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe we should just go up the easy part for a closer look, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sounds sensible enough, Sweet Puppy.\u00a0 We’ll consider our options there.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting up Peak 1220M’s S slope<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From where the last of the tundra leveled out, the top of Peak 1220M<\/span><\/strong> didn’t look all that much higher, but the rest of the climb was definitely all talus.\u00a0 Traversing the W slope to get around the mountain didn’t look like such a hot idea, either.\u00a0 It was all talus, too.\u00a0 The tundra extended a little farther and higher toward the E.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Near the end of the tundra below Peak 1220M’s summit<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Might as well have a look over that way, Looper.\u00a0 Not too thrilled with our other options.<\/em><\/p>\n

Climbing a bit more as she went a little farther NE, Lupe quickly reached some flat rocks.\u00a0 The view was shocking!\u00a0 Another talus slope extended hundreds of feet lower to a bench of tundra seen only dimly in the haze.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
E side of Peak 1220M<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Criminitly!\u00a0 How can it be that far down and so steep?\u00a0 It’s not supposed to be like this, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

According to what, SPHP?\u00a0 It is what it is.<\/em><\/p>\n

According to all the maps I was looking at last night, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Might want to take another look in the daylight, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Evidently!\u00a0 While Lupe waited, SPHP consulted the paper map.<\/p>\n

I still don’t get it, Looper.\u00a0 Nothing’s matching up with reality!<\/em><\/p>\n

Are you sure you’re reading the map correctly, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Why, of course, I am, Looper!\u00a0 Unless …<\/em><\/p>\n

Suddenly it began to click.<\/p>\n

Unless what, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Give me a moment, Loop.\u00a0 I’m turning on the iPhone.<\/p>\n

Oh, good grief!\u00a0 Of all the stupid, ridiculous errors!\u00a0 How could I?<\/em><\/p>\n

Figure it out, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes.\u00a0 The maps are, of course, fine.\u00a0 The problem is, we aren’t where I thought we were, Loopster.\u00a0 We’ve just come across Pass 1110M<\/span><\/strong>, and we’re now on the SE flank of Peak 1220M<\/span><\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n

And where did you think we were, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Pass 990M<\/span><\/strong>, Loop!\u00a0 I’d decided that was the best area to head for initially in order to skip as much extra elevation gain as possible.\u00a0 I’ve just had it in my mind all this time that Pass 990M<\/span><\/strong> was exactly where we were going.\u00a0 That’s why we’re so much higher than I was expecting.\u00a0 We came to the wrong pass!\u00a0 We were supposed to skip this one.<\/em><\/p>\n

It was an unbelievably idiotic error.<\/p>\n

And where is Pass 990M<\/span><\/strong>, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

On the other, N side of Peak 1220M<\/span><\/strong>, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, so exactly where we thought we were trying to get to from here then only a moment ago, right, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, but we should never have come up here, Looper.\u00a0 We should still be way down on the tundra E of here making great time.\u00a0 Instead I’ve gotten us trapped at a dead end full of talus no matter which way we go.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, we may as well get started then, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

With what, Loop?<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading E on down to the tundra, SPHP.\u00a0 Didn’t you just say that’s where we’re supposed to be?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes.\u00a0 I suppose you’re right, Looper.\u00a0 May as well get at it, but angle N as much as possible during this descent.\u00a0 Pass 990M<\/span><\/strong> is still our objective.<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading NNE, what should have been a completely unnecessary long trudge lower began along Peak 1220M<\/span><\/strong>‘s E face.\u00a0 The slope was plenty steep, but not enough to be scary.\u00a0 As usual, SPHP was super slow.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Scrambling lower. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Glancing back on the way down. Pass 1110M<\/strong> (far L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the tundra bench<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Even after reaching the start of the tundra, still more elevation had to be lost to get down to the bench where the terrain leveled out enough to easily turn NNW toward Pass 990M<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 A lot of time had been chewed up, but Lupe was back on track again!\u00a0 Even SPHP was once more making great progress.<\/p>\n

This encouraging situation endured all of 10 minutes before disaster struck again.\u00a0 Lupe was roaming well ahead, crossing a rocky region, when SPHP saw her slip.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog immediately began hopping gingerly on 3 legs, while holding her R rear paw off the ground.\u00a0 SPHP raced toward her.<\/p>\n

Loopster!\u00a0 Don’t move, I’m coming!<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe was still hopping around on 3 legs when SPHP reached her.\u00a0 Examining the injured leg, SPHP was glad to see no blood, no obvious wound.\u00a0 Gently squeezing the offended paw and joints along that leg, Lupe didn’t wince or complain at all.\u00a0 Good!\u00a0 No broken bones, maybe a sprain or torn ligament?\u00a0 Either one could still put an end to the Mount Sittichinli dream, and mean a difficult journey back to the RAV4.<\/p>\n

Lay down for a bit, and take it easy, Loop.\u00a0 Maybe that will help?<\/em><\/p>\n

A 10 minute miracle!\u00a0 When Lupe got up again she wasn’t limping at all.<\/p>\n

Are you good to go, Sweet Puppy, or does it still hurt?<\/em><\/p>\n

I’m fine, SPHP.\u00a0 Stubbed a claw.\u00a0 I’m all better now.<\/em><\/p>\n

10:46 AM<\/em> – Reaching Pass<\/strong> 990M<\/strong><\/span> from above, this time there were no ravines to be crossed.\u00a0 An easy downhill stroll got Lupe to an enormous plain of dirt, small rocks, and sparse tundra even larger than the one at Pass 1110M<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 The E and W edges were both gently rounded, the terrain sloping gradually away.<\/p>\n

Looking back to the S, SPHP was once again glad that Lupe hadn’t tried going up and over Peak 1220M<\/span><\/strong>, or around the W side.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 1220M<\/strong> (L of Center) from Pass 990M<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Directly ahead, a low ridge at the N end of Pass 990M<\/span><\/strong> swept up from the ESE, connecting to the S ridge of a pyramid-shaped peak.\u00a0 A high pass was immediately E of the pyramid, and farther E, a series of additional high points were strung out along a massive ridge.<\/p>\n

Maybe this would be a good time for another peek at the maps, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t mind if I do, Loopster.\u00a0 Never seems to hurt.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 1160M<\/strong> (Center) and Pass 1125M<\/strong> (R of Center) from Pass 990M<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

OK.\u00a0 Think I’ve got it, Loop.\u00a0 That pyramid is Peak 1160M<\/span><\/strong>, and the high pass to the R of it is Pass 1125M<\/span><\/strong>, which is our next objective.\u00a0 Once we get there, we’ll want to follow that huge ridge to the R, or explore the valley beyond the pass NE, whatever looks easiest.<\/em><\/p>\n

Quite a march, but this plan worked surprisingly well.\u00a0 Venturing over the low ridge, Lupe followed the base of Peak 1160M<\/span><\/strong>‘s rough S ridge higher.\u00a0 The terrain leading to Pass 1125M<\/span><\/strong> was a steady climb, steepest toward the end up a series of small benches.\u00a0 Extensive talus fields were the only significant obstacle, and most were pretty flat, making them easier and safer to cross.\u00a0 By staying toward the E, the American Dingo avoided the worst of them, and that was about all there was to it.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 1160M<\/strong> (L) and Pass 1125M<\/strong> (Center) from the low ridge. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Along the base of Peak 1160M’s S ridge<\/strong> (L). Peak 1160M<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Making progress, but with talus fields ahead. Peak 1160M<\/strong> (L), Pass 1125M<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At a wet spot. There weren’t enough of them to be an issue. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Closing in on Pass 1125M<\/strong> (Center). Still quite a bit of talus around. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Almost there! On the upper benches. Pass 1125M<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

12:38 PM, 10-15 mph SE breeze<\/em> – Also covered with dirt, scree, and scant tundra, Pass 1125M<\/span><\/strong> was like the others Lupe had come to, although even at 700 feet wide NE\/SW, it wasn’t nearly as large.\u00a0 A lone 2 foot tall grassy knoll near the middle provided the Carolina Dog with a comfortable spot to curl up partly sheltered from the breeze.<\/p>\n

Bookended by 2 steep talus ridges, the one to the SW being Peak 1160M<\/span><\/strong>, which looked nothing like a pyramid from here, the only easy route was to continue NW right on over Pass 1125M<\/span><\/strong> on terrain that sloped gently away until it got steep enough to vanish from view.\u00a0 In that direction, a huge ridge stood on the far side of a wide and presumably, deep valley.<\/p>\n

Equally ready for a rest break, SPHP dropped the pack, then sat down next to Lupe.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Resting by the grassy knoll<\/strong> at Pass 1125M<\/strong>. Peak 1160M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The massive ridge<\/strong> beyond Pass 1125M<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

How are we doing, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not too bad, Loop.\u00a0 Still a long way to go, though.\u00a0 We’re only about a third of the way to Mount Sittichinli.<\/em><\/p>\n

Looking slightly E of due N, a giant dome appeared to be the high point of the massive ridge beyond the valley.\u00a0 A long, tan gash revealed the likely course of a stream too small to be seen from this far away.\u00a0 SPHP watched as an enormous plume of smoke billowed up beyond the dome.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 1360M<\/strong> (L) in the distance. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

See that big dome, Loopster?\u00a0 That’s the region we need to head for next.\u00a0 I’d hoped to follow this ridge we’re already on rather than lose our newly won elevation descending into the valley, but I didn’t count on this steep wall of talus NE of us.\u00a0 Now I wish that instead of coming here that we’d tried to reach this ridge farther E.<\/em><\/p>\n

That ridge isn’t even 100 feet tall, SPHP, and the N side of it doesn’t look too bad.\u00a0 We can scramble up and over it from there.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, maybe, Loop.\u00a0 Cliffy along the upper edge, though.\u00a0 Don’t suppose it would take long to find out, but who knows what the other side looks like?\u00a0 We could easily cliff out over there.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The problematic talus ridge<\/strong> blocking the way. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Make up your mind, SPHP.\u00a0 I’m fine with it either way.\u00a0 We can take the path of least resistance and head down into the valley, or climb that talus ridge and hope for better terrain beyond it.<\/em><\/p>\n

I’m sorry, Looper.\u00a0 You’re always a good sport.\u00a0 Tell ya what.\u00a0 Let’s walk over to the N end of the talus ridge for a closer look, then we’ll decide which way to go.<\/em><\/p>\n

Up close, the N side of the talus ridge really didn’t look that bad.\u00a0 Lupe was right.\u00a0 Kind of steep at first, but perfectly doable, and wouldn’t take long.\u00a0 However, more of the valley was in view from here, and it wasn’t as deep or steep as SPHP had assumed.\u00a0 Off to the NNE, another high point was now visible, with a little bump in a huge pass between it and the Peak 1360M<\/span><\/strong> dome.<\/p>\n

Shoot, Loop!\u00a0 The valley is shallower than I thought, and there’s nothing down there that’s going to stop us.\u00a0 Let’s forget this steep talus nonsense and make some tracks!\u00a0 That other high point must be Peak 1402M<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 All we have to do is aim between it and the big Peak 1360M<\/span><\/strong> dome as soon as we can turn in that direction.<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe had barely started down into the valley when she came upon a white stone standing on end.\u00a0 2 or 3 feet high, it was very noticeable even from a distance.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting down into the valley. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Peak 1360M<\/strong> (Center) and Peak 1402M<\/strong> (R) from the white stone. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This white stone is quite a landmark, SPHP!\u00a0 Let’s remember it in case your iPhone battery dies on the way back.<\/em><\/p>\n

Not a bad idea, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Long fields of talus extended far into the valley from the surrounding peaks and ridges.\u00a0 Gradually turning NE, the American Dingo had to go nearly all the way down to the tan gash in the bottom of the valley to avoid it.\u00a0 This forced a march across a bright green boggy region, which SPHP didn’t enjoy slogging through, but it wasn’t difficult, and that part was soon over.<\/p>\n

Lupe reached firmer, drier ground, and the process of regaining all her recently lost elevation and more began.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Continuing the descent from Pass 1125M<\/strong>. Peak 1360M<\/strong> (L), Peak 1402M<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Glancing back well after starting the climb back out of the valley. Problematic talus ridge NE of Pass 1125M<\/strong> (Center). Peak 1160M<\/strong> (R). Pass 1125M<\/strong> is hidden between them. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking W down the valley.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Continuing toward Pass 1350M<\/strong> (Center) between Peak 1360M<\/strong> (L) and Peak 1402M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Approaching the upper end of the valley, Lupe was well S of the tan gash.\u00a0 A ridge S of Peak 1402M<\/span><\/strong> was directly ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the ridge S of Peak 1402M<\/strong>. Peak 1042M summit<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So far, so good, Loopster.\u00a0 We’re getting close to where we would have been if we’d taken the ridge route instead of the valley.<\/em><\/p>\n

Wonderful, but can we take another break, SPHP?\u00a0 When are we going to have something to eat, anyway?\u00a0 You did bring food, didn’t you?<\/em><\/p>\n

Of course, I did!\u00a0 Just didn’t want to start using it up on a journey this long before we’d made much progress, Loop.\u00a0 Can you hold out a little longer?\u00a0 We ought to have a terrific view from up on that ridge.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, if you promise we’ll stop up there, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Deal, Loop!\u00a0 As we head up, let’s aim a little toward the N (L) where the ridge isn’t as steep.<\/em><\/p>\n

1:50 PM, 60\u00baF, 15-20 mph E wind<\/em> – Lupe hadn’t made it to the top of the ridge before laying down on a patch of soft tundra, but she was above the steepest part.\u00a0 Resting beneath a light jacket, the American Dingo had a commanding view of the territory she’d just traveled through.\u00a0 Despite being marred by the ever-present smoke, the scene was clear enough to be impressive.\u00a0 North Wright Pass Mountain<\/span><\/a> (4,500 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Peak 1220M<\/span>,<\/strong> and Peak <\/strong>1160M<\/strong><\/span> were all in sight beyond the valley below.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Taking a break after the long march up the valley. Peak 1402M summit<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
North Wright Pass Mountain<\/strong> (L), Peak 1220M<\/strong> (L of Center), Peak 1160M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The valley view. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe snapped up all the beef jerky SPHP was willing to share, then put her head down, snoozing in the sun.\u00a0 For nearly half an hour, SPHP sat next to her pondering the vast, unspoiled, empty tranquility.\u00a0 Other than low grasses accosted by the E wind, nothing moved.<\/p>\n

Well N of the Arctic Circle, the feeling was surreal, like being in a dream world.\u00a0 Only yesterday, Lupe had been on Peak 3850<\/span><\/a><\/strong> S of Wright Pass.\u00a0 Now the Carolina Dog was actually on her way N to Mount Sittichinli, miles from the Dempster Highway, her route roughly following the Yukon Territory and Northwest Territories border, which ran along all these same ridges and passes she’d been venturing along.<\/p>\n

Still a long way to go.\u00a0 Hard to say how it was all going to turn out.\u00a0 So far, despite SPHP’s navigation errors, especially that needless excursion to Pass 1110M<\/span><\/strong>, success still seemed quite possible.\u00a0 Mount Sittichinli!\u00a0 The American Dingo might actually get there.\u00a0 Incredible!<\/p>\n

You ready, Loopster?\u00a0 Hope so.\u00a0 Time’s up.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

2:35 PM<\/em> – Climbing gradually, steadily NNE, Lupe now stood on an odd little ridge only a few feet high atop a flat rock.\u00a0 Peak<\/span> 1402M<\/span><\/a><\/strong> was directly ahead now, only a short distance away.\u00a0 Another mound of talus, SPHP was surprised to see quite a bit of tundra on its SW flank.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Peak 1402M<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Gosh, Loop.\u00a0 I’d been thinking we’d just bypass Peak 1402M<\/span><\/strong> to the W as we head N over Pass 1350M<\/span><\/strong>, but that tundra looks like it could get us nearly halfway to the top before we’d face the inevitable rock hop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Want to climb Peak 1402M<\/span><\/strong>, SPHP?\u00a0 It’s not that much higher from here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure!\u00a0 Why not, Loopster?\u00a0 Shouldn’t take us long with a tundra assist, and Peak 1402M<\/span><\/strong> is the highest point around according to the topo maps.\u00a0 Let’s tag the summit just for fun, then continue right on over to the other side.\u00a0 Should be a ridge going N there that we’ll need to follow.<\/em><\/p>\n

2:59 PM, Peak<\/span><\/strong><\/em> 1402M<\/span><\/a><\/strong> – <\/em>Took a little longer than expected to get up here, but that wasn’t the only flaw in SPHP’s plan.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On Peak 1402M<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Oh, good grief!\u00a0 The N face is a sheer cliff, Loop!\u00a0 We’ll have to go right back down the way we came up.<\/em><\/p>\n

Continuing N was an impossibility, yet SPHP was still glad the Carolina Dog had made the ascent.\u00a0 The views were spectacular!\u00a0 Towering above everything else in that direction, North Wright Pass Mountain was due S.\u00a0 Beyond it, Peak 3850 was in sight, too, barely visible in the smoke.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
North Wright Pass Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Peak 1220M<\/strong> (Center) from Peak 1402M<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond Pass 1350M<\/span><\/strong>, the dome of Peak 1360M<\/span><\/strong> was now only a KM W.\u00a0 Toward the NW stood a mysterious peak shown on the topo maps only as Peak 1311M<\/span><\/strong> at best.\u00a0 If true, it somehow presented quite the illusion from this angle, because it looked significantly higher.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 1360M<\/strong> (L), Peak 1311M<\/strong> (R) in the distance. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Looking NNE, the ridge Lupe needed to follow beyond Pass 1350M<\/span><\/strong> was in sight.\u00a0 Broad and rounded with some hilliness along it, this ridge was almost completely bare, covered only with dirt and scree.\u00a0 From the last minor hill at the far end, another ridge swept down to the NW.\u00a0 Lupe would have to follow it, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The next ridge<\/strong> (R) that Lupe would need to follow. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The most thrilling sight of all, though, was miles NNW where a huge ridge running E\/W sported two almost equally high peaks.<\/p>\n

Loopster, we can see it!\u00a0 Mount Sittichinli<\/span><\/a> (5,165 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!<\/em><\/p>\n

Are you sure, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes!\u00a0 I’m positive, Looper.\u00a0 Has to be!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Sittichinli<\/strong> from Peak 1402M<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Which one is Sittichinli, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

That I don’t know yet, Sweet Puppy.\u00a0 The one toward the R (E), I hope.\u00a0 The one on the L looks like a bugger to get to …<\/em><\/p>\n

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

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

Mount Sittichinli, Richardson Mountains, Yukon Territory, Canada – Part 2: Peak 1402M to Base Camp (8-9-23)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

The Dempster Highway Travelogue<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Want more Lupe adventures?\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":"

Part 1 of Day 18 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 4:27 AM, Dempster Highway at Wright Pass, Yukon\/Northwest Territories border – No apparent change in the weather.\u00a0 Borne on a 20 mph wind, smoke still streamed through Wright Pass from out of the SE.\u00a0 A faint rosy glow … Continue reading Mount Sittichinli, Richardson Mountains, Yukon Territory, Canada – Part 1: The Dempster Highway to Peak 1402M (8-9-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":57140,"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":[105,30,106,1083,26,104,1723,1088,1727,1724,1090,708],"class_list":["post-57213","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1659","tag-american-dingo","tag-canada","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dempster-highway","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-lupe","tag-mount-sittichinli","tag-northwest-territories","tag-peak-1402m","tag-peak-4600","tag-wright-pass","tag-yukon"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/IMG_2044-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\/57213","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=57213"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/57213\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":59579,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/57213\/revisions\/59579"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/57140"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=57213"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=57213"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=57213"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}