{"id":58634,"date":"2025-02-15T08:10:10","date_gmt":"2025-02-15T15:10:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=58634"},"modified":"2025-01-14T01:25:31","modified_gmt":"2025-01-14T08:25:31","slug":"peak-4916-brooks-range-alaska-8-30-24","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=58634","title":{"rendered":"Peak 4916, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-30-24)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Day 30 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2024 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

12:08 AM<\/em> – Despite the low clouds reflecting the lights of Deadhorse that were spitting light rain, and a chill W wind, Lupe wanted out.\u00a0 SPHP joined the Carolina Dog while she sniffed around in the darkness.<\/p>\n

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Lights of Deadhorse<\/strong> near Prudhoe Bay.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Probably the last time we’ll see the lights of Deadhorse, at least on this Dingo Vacation, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, are we leaving tomorrow, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 August is just about shot, Loop.\u00a0 Time to head S.\u00a0 With a little luck, maybe we can climb a few peaks in the Brooks Range, if the weather will cooperate.<\/em><\/p>\n

That was a big if, given how rainy the Brooks Range had been not so long ago on the way N.<\/p>\n

5:42 AM<\/em>\u00a0– Lupe had her last sniff along the Sagavanirktok River, a rosy glow on the ENE horizon in an otherwise gray sky beyond her.\u00a0 Within minutes, even more clouds moved in, turning the entire scene gray.<\/p>\n

That’s it!\u00a0 C’mon, Looper.\u00a0 We’ve got 2 errands to run in Deadhorse before we head S.<\/em><\/p>\n

Make that 3 errands.\u00a0 When SPHP fired up the RAV4, the tire pressure warning light came on and never went out.\u00a0 No obvious flat, but better check it out.<\/p>\n

6:40 AM, 38\u00baF, Deadhorse, Colville automated gas station –<\/em> After filling the RAV4 at the bargain price of $6.998 per gallon (over 8 bucks 2 years ago), SPHP checked the pressure on all 4 tires.\u00a0 First 3 were at 33 psi, a couple of pounds low, likely just due to the cold.\u00a0 However, the L front tire was at only 31 psi.\u00a0 A slow leak?<\/p>\n

Lights were on at a big shop building next to the gas station.\u00a0 A couple of mechanics were in there working on a semi.\u00a0 Could SPHP get all 4 tires aired up a bit here?\u00a0 Sure!\u00a0 No sooner said than done.<\/em><\/p>\n

And could they recommend a place to get that left front tire repaired, or at least checked for leaks?\u00a0 SPHP was shocked by the reply.\u00a0 Nope!\u00a0 No one they knew of worked on light vehicles here.\u00a0 Everyone works on big rigs.\u00a0 Since the leak seems to be a slow one, just drive to Coldfoot on the S side of the Brooks Range.\u00a0 They’ll be able to take care of it.<\/em><\/p>\n

Hardly seemed possible, Coldfoot was 240 miles away.\u00a0 Yet, as mechanics, they ought to know the situation around here.<\/p>\n

Better be a really slow leak, is all I can say, Loopster<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Don’t we have a spare, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah.\u00a0 Kind of hoping we won’t have to use it.\u00a0 It’ll be fun going over Atigun Pass running that little doughnut, Sweet Puppy.<\/em><\/p>\n

7:39 AM, 37\u00baF<\/em> – At Brooks Supply<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, SPHP bought the last souvenirs of Lupe’s stay in Deadhorse, a set of 4 coffee mugs.\u00a0 All the same, they were beautiful with depictions of trees, moose, and mountains on them.\u00a0 The inscription said “Alaska – Land of the Midnight Sun”.<\/p>\n

6 bucks each, can you believe it, Loop?\u00a0 Must have been on clearance.<\/em><\/p>\n

Errands done, and the low tire pressure light out for the time being, Lupe left Deadhorse beneath a gloomy sky.\u00a0 Bucking a headwind, it felt like a day in late November back home.\u00a0 Comfortably warm, the RAV4 rolled right along, though, and the American Dingo was bright and alert.<\/p>\n

Maybe we’ll see some musk oxen, SPHP!\u00a0 Like back in 2022.<\/em><\/p>\n

Hope so.\u00a0 That would be awesome, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

No musk oxen appeared, but big rounded ridges E of the Sagavanirktok River valley eventually did as the clouds started to break up.\u00a0 They were white.<\/p>\n

Snow, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Wow!\u00a0 Must have been snowing here while we were in Deadhorse the last couple of days, Loop.\u00a0 C’mon, let’s get a picture!<\/em><\/p>\n

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Snow on the highlands<\/strong> beyond the Sagavanirktok River. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing S, the sky was soon looking brighter and brighter to the SW.<\/p>\n

Well, I’ll be.\u00a0 Appears we’re going to drive out from under this enormous cloud, Looper.\u00a0 There actually is an end to it.<\/em><\/p>\n

Before that even happened, an electrifying scene appeared ahead.\u00a0 The entire Brooks Range was a glorious, pristine, winter white!\u00a0 Never in all her summer Dingo Vacations to Canada and Alaska, had Lupe ever seen so much new snow in any of the mountain ranges she’d visited.<\/p>\n

My gosh!\u00a0 Could be January, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Simply stunning!\u00a0 We’ve got to get some photos, Loop!<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe was soon leaping out of the RAV4 every few miles as one gorgeous scene after another appeared.<\/p>\n

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Approaching the Brooks Range<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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On the Dalton Highway<\/strong> shortly before driving out from under the cloud. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peak 4290<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Slope Mountain<\/strong> (L). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Toolik Lake<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After heading W for several miles, once Toolik Lake came into view, the Dalton Highway<\/strong><\/span><\/a> turned S again, straight into the Brooks Range.\u00a0 SPHP became transfixed by the sight of a gleaming white mountain towering above all others beneath the uncharacteristically clear Arctic sky.<\/p>\n

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Heading into the Brooks Range<\/strong>. Mount Kiev<\/strong> (R) beyond Lake 2892<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Oh, my gosh, Loop!\u00a0 That’s Mount Kiev<\/span><\/a> (7,775 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!<\/em><\/p>\n

Spectacular!\u00a0 I can’t remember ever seeing its summit before, SPHP.\u00a0 Have we?<\/em><\/p>\n

Perhaps a momentary glimpse among the clouds, Loopster, but never out in a clear blue sky like this before.\u00a0 Maybe we can climb it tomorrow?<\/em><\/p>\n

Tomorrow?\u00a0 What about today, SPHP?\u00a0 It’s perfect, we can’t let it go to waste.<\/em><\/p>\n

As slow as I am, Mount Kiev is a long way for us, Looper.\u00a0 It’ll take a 2, or maybe even 3 day backpacking trip, and today will be half shot before we can even set out.\u00a0 There’s another mountain on your list of possibilities that we still might be able to climb this afternoon, though.<\/em><\/p>\n

And which one is that, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Remember West Galbraith Peak<\/strong><\/span><\/a>\u00a0(4,560 ft.)<\/strong><\/span>, Loop?\u00a0 Peak<\/span> 4916<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, the high point of a long ridge on the edge of the North Slope, is NW of it.\u00a0 Ought to have some incredible views on a day like this.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sounds terrific!\u00a0 Let’s climb Peak 4916 today then, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Kiev<\/strong> (Center) and West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (R of Center) beyond Lake 2892<\/strong>. Peak 4916<\/strong> (R edge). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The plan had been to stay at the Galbraith Lake campground, if the tire pressure light didn’t come on again, and it hadn’t.\u00a0 Suddenly, given the opportunity presented by these totally unexpected amazing conditions, there was reason to get there as soon as possible.\u00a0 Even so, the views were so awesome, SPHP kept stopping along the road.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Galbraith Lake<\/strong> (L). Mount Kiev<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Kiev<\/strong> (Center), West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peak 4600<\/strong> (Center) and Peak 4916<\/strong> (R) from the airstrip and campground access road. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Mount Kiev<\/strong> (L) beyond West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It’s all incredibly beautiful, SPHP, but if we want to climb Peak 4916 today, we need to quit dinking around and get to the campground!<\/em><\/p>\n

I know.\u00a0 We’re almost there, Looper.\u00a0 Just a few more minutes.\u00a0 You’ll see.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Peak 5308<\/strong> (L of Center) and Peak 7090<\/strong> (R) from the campground entrance. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

1:41 PM, 49\u00baF, Galbraith Lake Campground –<\/em> After skipping breakfast, lunch was an absolute necessity before heading into the mountains.\u00a0 SPHP had heated up a can of Dinty Moore chicken & dumplings, a Lupe favorite, to share with the American Dingo.\u00a0 The afternoon had warmed up nicely, the sky remained crystal clear, and the pack was now ready.<\/p>\n

Off to the WSW, the big gap N of West Galbraith Peak<\/span><\/a> (4,560 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> leading into the valley S of Peak<\/span> 4916<\/span><\/a><\/strong> beckoned.<\/p>\n

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West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (L) from the Galbraith Lake Campground<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Time’s a-wasting!\u00a0 All set, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

You better believe it!\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Taking the loop road to the W side of the campground, Lupe then headed WSW across the tundra.\u00a0 After crossing the access road leading back to the Galbraith airstrip and Dalton Highway, the Carolina Dog ventured up a still colorful tundra slope toward the gap.<\/p>\n

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Heading for the gap<\/strong> (Center) N of West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What little snow was down at this elevation added a bright, white purity to the tundra, but was melting fast.\u00a0 Lupe ate mouthfuls of it.\u00a0 A gradual climb soon led to a flat region that dipped a little ahead.\u00a0 Beyond this plain, HP3500<\/span><\/strong>, a 100+ foot high ridge, divided the approach to the valley leading to Peak 4916 into 2 separate routes.<\/p>\n

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HP3500<\/strong> (L of Center). Lupe could go either L (S) or R (N) of it. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP’s initial inclination was to explore the lower route N of HP3500<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 However, the flat region proved to be boggy.\u00a0 Staying S, where the ground was slightly higher and drier, was better.\u00a0 As a result, Lupe wound up heading for Pass<\/strong><\/span> 3350<\/strong><\/span> between West Galbraith Peak and HP3500<\/span><\/strong>, since that pass was now closer.<\/p>\n

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Heading for Pass 3350<\/strong> (L) between West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (far L) and HP3500<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Along the way, the views were simply incredible!\u00a0 Lupe had explored this region once before.\u00a0 Exactly 2 years ago today, she’d climbed both West Galbraith Peak<\/span><\/a> (4,560 ft.<\/span><\/strong>)<\/span> and Peak<\/span> 5050<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 The new snow made everything even more beautiful now.<\/p>\n

Mount Kiev<\/span><\/a> (7,775 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was almost directly S.\u00a0 Peak 5305<\/span><\/strong> was SSE.\u00a0 The white monster much farther SE was Peak<\/span> 7090<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Meanwhile, nearly due E, Peak 5308<\/span><\/strong> loomed over the Atigun River valley.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Kiev<\/strong> (L), West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Kiev<\/strong> (L of Center) with help from the telephoto lens. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peak 5305<\/strong> (L), Mount Kiev<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peak 5308<\/strong> (L) and Peak 7090<\/strong> (R). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Skirting the S end of the boggy region, the American Dingo eventually had to start climbing again as she approached the pass.\u00a0 As Lupe gained elevation, Galbraith Lake started coming into view behind her.\u00a0 Beyond it, Lake Benchmark Mountain<\/span><\/a> (4,950 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was also in sight, a mountain she had climbed years ago on a day that had begun wonderfully clear like this, but turned foggy.<\/p>\n

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Getting closer to Pass 3350<\/strong> (R of Center). West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (L). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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On the way up. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Lake Benchmark Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Peak 5308<\/strong> (R of Center) beyond Galbraith Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Upon reaching Pass 3350<\/span><\/strong>, Peak 4500<\/span><\/strong> was in sight just beyond it.\u00a0 The pass was plenty wide and easy terrain, except that most of the center was soft and squishy wet.\u00a0 Trying to avoid sinking into mud, SPHP tried both sides of the pass, the N side first, then the S, which was better.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At Pass 3350<\/strong>. Peak 4500<\/strong> (L), HP3500<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once over Pass 3350<\/span><\/strong>, the terrain sloped gradually down to the valley W of West Galbraith Peak.\u00a0 Peak<\/span> 4916<\/span><\/a><\/strong> came into view along the way.<\/p>\n

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Starting down the SW side of Pass 3350<\/strong>. Peak 4500<\/strong> (L). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peak 4916<\/strong> (L of Center) beyond Lupe. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Upon reaching a small stream in the valley W of West Galbraith Peak, Lupe crossed it, then regained some elevation as she went around the end of Peak 4500’s NE ridge.\u00a0 This got her to the valley she intended to explore today.<\/p>\n

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West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> from the little stream W of it. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Entering the valley SE of Peak 4916<\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Doing great, Loop!\u00a0 All we have to do now is head WSW up this big valley until we decide on the best place to begin our ascent.<\/em><\/p>\n

Staying on the S side, somewhat above the floor of the valley where the ground was firmer, Lupe made excellent progress traversing a relatively gentle slope.\u00a0 Before long, the Carolina Dog came to 2 tiny streams in wet washes, easily crossing both as she continued on her way.<\/p>\n

“Wet washes” are a thing, aren’t they, Looper?\u00a0 I’ve often heard the term “dry wash” used for a dry, eroded ravine or gully, but come to think of it, I don’t recall ever actually hearing anyone use the term wet wash before.<\/em><\/p>\n

I suppose they are, SPHP.\u00a0 Makes sense to me.\u00a0 A wet wash is just a dry wash that isn’t dry, right?\u00a0 Hardly a burning issue of social significance, though.\u00a0 Don’t think you need worry about it.\u00a0 Have you decided where we’re going to cross the valley and start up Peak 4916 yet?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not necessarily.\u00a0 Looks like multiple routes might work.\u00a0 Kind of steeper than I expected, though.\u00a0 Let’s stick with this traverse a little farther.\u00a0 See that high, level ridge on the other side of the valley with some snow on it?\u00a0 It’s SW of Peak 4916’s summit, so a somewhat longer route, but it doesn’t look very hard to get up there.\u00a0 Maybe we ought to try that approach?<\/em><\/p>\n

Exploring the scenic valley was fun, and there seemed to be adequate time left in the day yet, so why not?\u00a0 Lupe trotted along, happily sniffing and roaming at will, soon reaching a much larger dry wash.<\/p>\n

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Crossing the dry wash<\/strong>. Possible objective ridge with snow<\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peak 4916<\/strong> (Center) from the dry wash. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond the dry wash, the American Dingo came to a big rock.\u00a0 By now, several possible routes up Peak 4916 were in sight.\u00a0 Directly across the valley, a short route up the mountain’s SE ridge appeared feasible, but quite steep.\u00a0 Another one up the nearby S ridge looked similar.<\/p>\n

Getting up to that flat, snowy part of the SW ridge still looks easier.\u00a0 Mind if we go that way, Loop, even though it’s a longer route?<\/em><\/p>\n

More to explore is always fine with me, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Peak 4916<\/strong> (R) from the big rock. SE ridge<\/strong> (R), S ridge<\/strong> (Center) in front of the snowy SW ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

With a plan of action now decided upon, Lupe made a gradual descent through a bushy region down to the stream in the center of the valley.\u00a0 After crossing it, she followed the streambed upstream.\u00a0 Coming to other small channels, all were easily crossed.\u00a0 Soon it was time to start angling WNW up the other side of the valley.<\/p>\n

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Down by the stream. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A march through another region of bushes and bogginess led to a second dry wash.\u00a0 Beyond it, Lupe climbed a gentle slope to an area with some tundra.\u00a0 This spot had a terrific view of a short side valley immediately S of Peak 4916, as well as farther up the main valley.<\/p>\n

4:17 PM, 0.5 mile S of the Peak 4916 summit –<\/em><\/p>\n

This is a great spot, SPHP!\u00a0 Might not come to another one, once we begin our ascent.\u00a0 I’m getting hungry again, too.\u00a0 Mind if we take a break here?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure, but only a short one, Loop, since we got off to kind of a late start.<\/em><\/p>\n

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At the break spot<\/strong>. Peak 4916’s S ridge<\/strong> (R), SW ridge<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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A glance back at Peak 4500<\/strong> (R of Center). Lupe came up the valley from the L. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After having some Taste of the Wild and a piece of duck jerky, Lupe sat for a few minutes staring SSW farther up the main valley.\u00a0 The N end of Peak<\/span> 5050<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, which she’d climbed exactly 2 years ago today by a different route, was right across the valley.\u00a0 Exploring farther up the main valley toward an even higher snowy peak at the far end looked like fun.<\/p>\n

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N ridge of Peak 5050<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Maybe someday.\u00a0 While SPHP sat munching on sunflower seeds, Lupe put her head down on the soft tundra, closed her eyes, and snoozed.<\/p>\n

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Catching 10 winks.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

4:43 PM<\/em> – A mighty short nap, but the Carolina Dog did appear to be at least somewhat refreshed.<\/p>\n

Ready, Loopster?\u00a0 Not sure how this is going to go.\u00a0 Once we make it up onto the SW ridge, I’m seeing some gnarly-looking rock bands and minor cliffs that we’ll face on the way to the summit.\u00a0 Can’t tell from down here if we’ll be able to get around them, or not.<\/em><\/p>\n

Only way to find out is to start climbing, SPHP.\u00a0 Unless you’ve changed your mind and want to try some other route?<\/em><\/p>\n

Having come this far, Peak 4916’s S ridge was now the only other route close by, and it was steeper, nearly all rock, and had some questionable rock formations along the ridgeline, too.\u00a0 Might work, but the tundra slope leading up to the SW ridge looked a lot easier.<\/p>\n

Naw.\u00a0 Let’s just head up to the SW ridge, and take our chances, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

The SW ridge was 1,000 feet above the break spot.\u00a0 Heading W, then NW, Lupe began her ascent, showing surprising enthusiasm and energy.\u00a0 The mostly tundra and scree-covered slopes weren’t uniform.\u00a0 Steep most of the way, but with short, significantly easier stretches, too.<\/p>\n

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Heading up to Peak 4916’s SW ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

During frequent pauses to gasp for air, SPHP kept an eye on the route Lupe would have to take after reaching the ridgeline.\u00a0 Most of it looked fine, but without rock climbing skills, it wouldn’t take that much to hit an insurmountable obstacle.\u00a0 Success wasn’t nearly as certain as SPHP had originally assumed it would be.<\/p>\n

Halfway up, at the 4,000 foot level, Lupe came to the brink of a sudden, unexpected drop.\u00a0 This near vertical drop was a mere 10 or 15 feet, but immediately raised concern.\u00a0 Fortunately, the American Dingo quickly discovered a safe spot to scramble down without having to backtrack.<\/p>\n

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Lupe at the edge of the dip<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

That dip was the only real obstacle encountered on the way up to the SW ridge.\u00a0 Once beyond it, Lupe gained a few hundred feet of elevation on fairly steep terrain before coming to an easier stretch, a gentler slope where tundra extended the rest of the way to the ridgeline.<\/p>\n

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Easy slope leading to the SW ridge<\/strong> (far L). Peak 4916<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

5:42 PM –<\/em> Lupe reached the SW ridge at broad, rounded saddle.\u00a0 It was a different world up here.\u00a0 Miniature snowdrifts covered an enticing route leading to a higher point farther SW, unfortunately the wrong direction.\u00a0 A NW breeze sweeping over the ridge made SPHP shiver.\u00a0 Suddenly, the sun seemed lower.<\/p>\n

For the first time, the Carolina Dog could now see the territory N of the ridge she was on.\u00a0 The view was amazing, but not what SPHP expected.<\/p>\n

Shoot!\u00a0 Thought we would have a grand view of Alaska’s North Slope from up here, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Might want to take a look at your topo map once in a while, SPHP.\u00a0 I can’t believe it doesn’t show this.<\/em><\/p>\n

Directly N, where SPHP had expected the North Slope to be, a nearby ridge blocked the view.\u00a0 Looking W, a series of distant mountains and ridges extended from the N edge of the Brooks Range toward a narrow view of the North Slope.<\/p>\n

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Peak 4916’s NW ridge<\/strong>, which blocked the view of the North Slope. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
N edge of the Brooks Range<\/strong> (Center), glimpse of the North Slope<\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

While the view N was unexpected, the view to the S was electrifying!\u00a0 Flanked by many snow-clad peaks, beyond Peak<\/span> 5050<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, Mount Kiev<\/span><\/a> (7,775 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> soared into the blue.<\/p>\n

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Mount Kiev<\/strong> (R of Center) beyond Peak 5050<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow, stunning, SPHP!\u00a0 Even if we never make it to the top of Peak 4916, this view alone has been worth the trip.<\/em><\/p>\n

True enough, but the news was good.\u00a0 Immediately to the NE was a tall rock wall that had been a concern visible from below.\u00a0 Although clearly impassable across most of the ridge, the American Dingo could easily get around its lower NW end.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Near the NW end<\/strong> (L) of the first rock wall<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Another wall, which had been of even greater concern, was beyond the first one, but Lupe found the same situation here.\u00a0 Impassable toward the SE, she could easily go around the NW end, where the wall simply melted into the mountain.<\/p>\n

Beyond this second wall, a steep slope of somewhat loose scree led up to a high point at the junction of Peak 4916’s NW and SW ridges.\u00a0 While SPHP wasn’t crazy about it, Lupe clearly enjoyed the scramble.<\/p>\n

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Junction of the NW & SW ridges<\/strong> (L), second rock wall<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Near the top of a fun scramble<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The junction of Peak 4916’s NW & SW ridges wasn’t real big, but at least it was flat with room enough to move around a bit.\u00a0 From here, Lupe did have a grand view of Alaska’s North Slope.\u00a0 Far beyond a region of small lakes, Imnavait Mountain<\/span><\/a> (3,702 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Slope Mountain<\/span><\/a> (4,010 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were both in sight.<\/p>\n

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Imnavait Mountain<\/strong> (Center) & Slope Mountain<\/strong> (far R) on the horizon. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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More of the North Slope<\/strong> (Center & R). Peak 4916’s NW ridge<\/strong> (far L). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Back to the SW, the scene was one of rugged splendor, where the high ridge comprising Three Sisters Summit<\/span><\/a> (7,386 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> rose beyond jagged peaks.\u00a0 Naturally, the view of Mount Kiev remained an eye-catcher, too.<\/p>\n

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Three Sisters Summit<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on Mount Kiev<\/strong> (Center). Peak 5050<\/strong> (R foreground). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As magnificent and awe-inspiring as it all was, one view above all others was now of utmost importance.\u00a0 What was the rest of the ridge leading to Peak 4916 like?\u00a0 Was Lupe going to be able to reach the summit?<\/p>\n

The double-topped summit region was now in sight, farther E than SPHP expected.\u00a0 A single massive rock formation halfway along the otherwise simple ridge appeared to be the only obstacle.\u00a0 Was it a show-stopper?<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 4916 summit<\/strong> (L of Center). Peak 7090<\/strong> (R) in the distance. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Only one way to find out, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Let’s do it, Sweet Puppy!<\/em><\/p>\n

After venturing down a dip along the ridgeline, Lupe started up toward the final obstacle ahead, soon reaching a 10 foot high wall of rock cutting diagonally across the ridge.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 4916 true summit<\/strong> (Center) beyond the third rock wall<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As expected, too vertical to scramble over it.\u00a0 A quick check of the snowy slope on the N side was scary steep.\u00a0 Most of the S slope was pretty steep, too, but along the R side of the wall of rock, a ramp that wasn’t bad at all extended clear down to the bottom of the wall.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
About to head down to the R along the base of the wall<\/strong>. Peak 4916 SW summit<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This way, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

If the Carolina Dog could make it back to the ridgeline beyond that next corner, SPHP knew she’d be golden.<\/p>\n

Yikes!\u00a0 At the corner, a very steep, somewhat loose scree slope greeted Lupe.\u00a0 Sort of scary, but only for 20 feet.\u00a0 Gotta do it!\u00a0 Trivial for any real mountaineer.\u00a0 A shower of scree clattered down as Lupe went first.<\/p>\n

Made it!\u00a0 Not at the ridgeline yet, but she was above the worst of it.<\/p>\n

Great job, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

C’mon, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Dicey, but even SPHP managed it.<\/p>\n

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

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the SW summit<\/strong> (R of Center). True summit<\/strong> (L). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6:55 PM, 36\u00baF, Peak<\/span> 4916<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/em> – The final trudge up to the SW summit amid the slanting rays of the early evening sun was a journey of great joy and exhilaration!\u00a0 Upon reaching the top, SPHP shook Lupe’s paw.<\/p>\n

Congratulations, Loopster!\u00a0 Can’t be too many Dingoes who have ever been here!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the SW summit<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Their huge loss, SPHP!\u00a0 Glad we made it!<\/em><\/p>\n

The marginally higher true summit was another 125 feet NE, but rocky.\u00a0 Time enough for that in a bit.\u00a0 The gently-rounded SW summit featured some thin tundra Lupe could relax on, so she immediately laid down.\u00a0 SPHP sat beside her.\u00a0 A light N breeze felt cold.\u00a0 Mount Kiev<\/span><\/a> (7,775 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> tomorrow?\u00a0 How much more frigid would that be?\u00a0 Suddenly, that notion seemed dangerous.<\/p>\n

Chocolate coconut bar time, SPHP.\u00a0 Earned it, didn’t we?<\/em><\/p>\n

Most certainly, Sweet Puppy.\u00a0 Just a moment.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP produced the expected reward and more.\u00a0 Taste of the Wild and a duck jerky for the American Dingo, sunflower seeds for SPHP.\u00a0 Water for all, of course.\u00a0 When it all vanished, nothing more to do except sit there, surrounded by glory in all directions.\u00a0 So much to see!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Imnavait Mountain<\/strong> (L) out on the North Slope<\/strong>. True summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
NE extension of Peak 4916’s NW ridge<\/strong> (Center) with Itigaknit Mountain<\/span><\/a> (3,293 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> beyond on the far horizon. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Another look at Alaska’s North Slope<\/strong>. Peak 4916’s NW ridge<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Junction of Peak 4916’s SW & NW ridges<\/strong> (L), which was along Lupe’s route up. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Three Sisters Summit<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Three Sisters Summit<\/strong> with help from the telephoto lens. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
S end of Galbraith Lake<\/strong> (L), Peak 7090<\/strong> (L of Center), West Galbraith Peak<\/strong> (Center), Peak 4500<\/strong> (far R) with Mount Kiev<\/strong> beyond. Valley Lupe traveled up<\/strong> (below). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Of course, this wasn’t the first time Lupe had seen these views.\u00a0 Exactly 2 years ago, she’d been on West Galbraith Peak<\/span><\/a> (4,560 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> & Peak<\/span> 5050<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Both were incredible vantage points.\u00a0 However, with a sweeping view of Alaska’s North Slope, and all of the new snow on the mountains today, Peak<\/span> 4916<\/span><\/a><\/strong> was even better.<\/p>\n

Incredible being back among these splendid, wild peaks on the N side of the Brooks Range again, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re so lucky, Looper, so, so lucky!<\/em><\/p>\n

7:24 PM<\/em> – Late August.\u00a0 The Arctic sun was sinking.\u00a0 Half an hour had flown, and it wasn’t getting any warmer.\u00a0 Lupe stood poised on the SW summit, waiting.\u00a0 SPHP took the shot.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Final moments on Peak 4916’s SW summit<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Fabulous!\u00a0 Got it, Looper!\u00a0 Thank you!<\/em><\/p>\n

The Carolina Dog came running.\u00a0 One more thing to do up here.\u00a0 Time to tag the true summit!\u00a0 125 feet along the easy connecting summit ridge, and Lupe was there.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Tagging Peak 4916’s true summit<\/strong>. Lake Benchmark Mountain<\/strong> (R) beyond Galbraith Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On Peak 4916<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After tagging the true summit, Lupe looked tired.\u00a0 She laid down on the snow next to the highest rocks and closed her eyes, trying to absorb a bit of warmth from the weak Arctic sun.\u00a0 SPHP let her be.\u00a0 More than 13.67 years old, and here was Lupe, SPHP’s greatest and ever-faithful friend, still climbing mountains on the N side of the Brooks Range in Alaska.<\/p>\n

May it always be so!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Resting on Peak 4916<\/strong>. Lake Benchmark Mountain<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

While very similar, the views and focus here were a bit different.\u00a0 Beyond Lupe, Peak 4916’s long NE ridge was now in sight, snaking away toward Galbraith Lake, more of which was visible from this end of the summit ridge.\u00a0 Quite a bit of snow had melted, rendering the mountains in this direction less dramatic than they had been earlier in the day.<\/p>\n

As Lupe dozed, SPHP’s gaze was increasingly drawn toward Alaska’s still sunlit North Slope, and especially Imnavait Mountain<\/a><\/span> (3,702 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Slope Mountain<\/span><\/a><\/strong>\u00a0(4,010 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, seen on the horizon, both sites of former, fondly remembered, adventures.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 4916’s NE ridge<\/strong> (Center). Galbraith Lake<\/strong> (R) with Lake Benchmark Mountain<\/strong> beyond. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Imnavait Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Slope Mountain<\/strong> (R) out on the North Slope<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7:42 PM, Peak<\/span> 4916<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/em> – Another very short nap had once again done the American Dingo some good.\u00a0 SPHP stood at the true summit, looking back at Lupe, who was now bright-eyed and raring to go again, the SW summit, and an unforgettable scene beyond her.\u00a0 Sadly, the inevitable moment had come.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
SW summit<\/strong> (far L), NW ridge<\/strong> (R). True summit rock<\/strong> (lower R). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Final moments on Peak 4916<\/strong>. Three Sisters Summit<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

Would have been fun to explore the long NE ridge, but an initial drop getting down to it looked daunting.\u00a0 Instead, displaying great energy and enthusiasm again, the Carolina Dog led the way down the SE ridge.\u00a0 Very rocky and steep for a long way, but it worked.\u00a0 Once back down to the valley, Lupe had a blast roaming at will during the rest of the return as she retraced her original route with relatively minor variations.<\/p>\n

11:02 PM, 31\u00baF, Galbraith Lake campground<\/em> – The sun was long gone, and virtually all light now, too.\u00a0 Tired and hungry, as Lupe and SPHP reached the RAV4 at the end of this long and fabulous day, a sudden, unexpected change occurred.\u00a0 Fog swept in from the N slope.\u00a0 In less than a minute, the dim, dark silhouettes of the mountains vanished entirely.<\/p>\n

Back in the nick of time, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Going to be a long, cold night, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

I’m famished!\u00a0 What’s for dinner, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Salmon.<\/em><\/p>\n

That sounded good – another Lupe favorite!\u00a0 Too bad the Ritz crackers to go with it were all gone.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On Peak 4916<\/strong>, Brooks Range, Alaska 8-30-24<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s GPS Track<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

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

Dalton Highway Visitor Guide<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Slope Mountain & Highlights of the Dalton Highway Revisited, Alaska (8-22-17 & 8-23-17)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Lake Benchmark Mountain, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-29-17)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Imnavait Mountain, North Slope, Alaska (8-26-22)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

West Galbraith Peak, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-30-22)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Peak 5050, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-30-22)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Want more Lupe adventures?\u00a0\u00a0Choose from Lupe’s Summer of 2024 Dingo Vacations to Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Canada & Alaska Adventure Index<\/strong><\/span><\/em>, Dingo Vacations Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a> or Master Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0Or subscribe free\u00a0to\u00a0new Lupe adventures<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Day 30 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2024 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 12:08 AM – Despite the low clouds reflecting the lights of Deadhorse that were spitting light rain, and a chill W wind, Lupe wanted out.\u00a0 SPHP joined the Carolina Dog while she sniffed around in the darkness. Probably the last time … Continue reading Peak 4916, Brooks Range, Alaska (8-30-24)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":58611,"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":[1703],"tags":[704,105,723,106,915,920,104,1732],"class_list":["post-58634","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1703","tag-alaska","tag-american-dingo","tag-brooks-range","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dalton-highway","tag-galbraith-lake","tag-lupe","tag-peak-4916"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_6092-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\/58634","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=58634"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/58634\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":58854,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/58634\/revisions\/58854"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/58611"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=58634"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=58634"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=58634"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}