{"id":59584,"date":"2025-02-09T08:10:10","date_gmt":"2025-02-09T15:10:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=59584"},"modified":"2025-03-06T13:13:18","modified_gmt":"2025-03-06T20:13:18","slug":"tuktoyaktuk-land-of-the-pingos-the-arctic-ocean-northwest-territories-canada-8-14-23-to-8-16-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=59584","title":{"rendered":"Tuktoyaktuk – Land of the Pingos & The Arctic Ocean, Northwest Territories, Canada (8-14-23 to 8-16-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Part 2 of Day 24, Day 25 & Part 1 of Day 26 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-14-23, 3:00 PM<\/em> – After leaving Inuvik, the Mackenzie River delta was in sight off to the W, but before long the river and Hwy 10<\/span><\/strong><\/a> angled away from each other.\u00a0 As the RAV4 cruised along at a comfortable 35 to 40 mph, the mutual potato chip feast went on until Lupe didn’t want any more.\u00a0 SPHP then switched to orange juice and Allsorts licorice.<\/p>\n

Outside, the weather was a balmy 50\u00b0F, with low clouds hanging across the sky from horizon to horizon.\u00a0 Passing through a region of numerous lakes, Hwy 10 stayed up on the high ground, to the extent that there was any, as much as possible.\u00a0 A thin boreal forest soon vanished completely.\u00a0 Low bushes and tundra covered the land.<\/p>\n

Back in 2018, Lupe had seen many people picking berries in this region, but no one was out there today.\u00a0 Instead, the Carolina Dog saw groups of snowmobiles sitting alone on the tundra, their controls wrapped in tarps or plastic, apparently pre-positioned for winter’s eventual arrival.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The entire region from Inuvik<\/strong> to Tuktoyaktuk<\/strong> is a land of lakes and ponds.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We’re doing great, Loopster!\u00a0 Heard a lot of people complaining about how bad this highway was.\u00a0 So terribly washboardy and rough that some even turned around.\u00a0 Isn’t bad at all in the RAV4, though.\u00a0 Bumpy sections and potholes every now and then, but that’s true of most any gravel road.<\/em><\/p>\n

How far is it to Tuktoyaktuk from Inuvik, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, I’ve seen figures anywhere from 140 to nearly 150 km, Loop.\u00a0 Think I saw a sign as we left Inuvik that said 148.\u00a0 A couple of hours at this rate, and we’ll be there.<\/em><\/p>\n

As the journey N continued, the lakes visible in all directions tended to get larger and more numerous.\u00a0 Despite a fair amount of truck traffic, and lack of pullouts, SPHP parked briefly by the side of the road every now and then, so Lupe could get out to sniff the air and look around.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
One of countless unnamed lakes seen from Hwy 10.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A really big lake eventually appeared off to the E.<\/p>\n

Is that the ocean, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Technically, probably not, Looper.\u00a0 The maps show a string of big lakes called the Eskimo or Husky Lakes that are all interconnected.\u00a0 It appears they drain NE into Liverpool Bay, which is an arm of the Beaufort Sea.\u00a0 Even if they aren’t part of the ocean, they can’t be much above sea level.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
One of the Eskimo (Husky) lakes<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After a while, even the Eskimo Lakes were left behind.\u00a0 SPHP continued to stop briefly near lakes that had particularly interesting shapes.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Another series of lakes.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

When small hills began appearing in the distance, Lupe’s journey N was almost over.\u00a0 The American Dingo had reached the land of the pingos<\/span><\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

8-14-23, 5:10 PM<\/em> – The only pullout along Hwy 10 appeared roughly 10 km from Tuktoyaktuk.\u00a0 Lupe could already see Ibyuk Pingo<\/span><\/strong><\/a>, the second highest pingo on earth from here.\u00a0 Displays included a map, and a list of services available in Tuktoyaktuk.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Map<\/strong> of the Tuktoyaktuk region<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Tuktoyaktuk community resources<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The map was interesting.\u00a0 However, overcome by weariness after many long days of Lupe adventures, what SPHP needed most of all was not a map, but a nap.<\/p>\n

8-14-23, 7:24 PM<\/em> – A couple hours of blissful unconsciousness had SPHP feeling much more alert.\u00a0 A mile or 2 past the only Hwy 10 pullout, Lupe was now at the “Welcome to Tuktoyaktuk – Land of the Pingos” sign for the first time in 5 years.\u00a0 Both Ibyuk Pingo and Split Pingo were in sight across Tareoknitok Lagoon.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Ibyuk Pingo<\/strong> (L of Center) and Split Pingo<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Ibyuk Pingo<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It’s great being back in the Land of the Pingos, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Absolutely, Loop!\u00a0 It’s a world that’s seldom seen.\u00a0 Shall we head into Tuk?<\/em><\/p>\n

As far N as we can go, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Pingo Canadian Landmark<\/strong><\/span><\/a> was just a bit farther.\u00a0 After another quick look at the pingos from the boat launch, Lupe’s next stop on the way into Tuktoyaktuk was more discouraging.\u00a0 Near the edge of the ocean, within view of the pingos, flocks of seagulls and ravens were busy picking through the unsightly discarded refuse of the human race.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A less than scintillating introduction to Tuktoyaktuk<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A worldwide problem with no easy solutions.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Ravens<\/strong> and seagulls<\/strong> seeking something of value amid the rubble.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Split Pingo<\/strong> (L).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Are you humans ever going to do anything about this, SPHP?\u00a0 It’s a really bad introduction to Tuktoyaktuk.\u00a0 Will it be this way forever?<\/em><\/p>\n

I don’t know, Loopster.\u00a0 The best that can be said about it is that at least we haven’t pitched it all in the ocean yet.\u00a0 Maybe it can still be cleaned up some fine day, but who knows when?<\/em><\/p>\n

The dump right by the ocean on the way into Tuktoyaktuk was nothing new.\u00a0 It had been here in 2018, too.\u00a0 During the drive through town, the rest of Tuk didn’t initially look much different, either.\u00a0 However, there were some changes.\u00a0 A new visitor center was on the R before entering the village, and the old one at the N end of Beaufort Road overlooking the Arctic Ocean had been removed to make room for more campsites.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The Arctic Ocean<\/strong> from the campground and day use area<\/strong> at the N end of Beaufort Road<\/strong> in Tuktoyaktuk<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Nunaryuam Qaangani Tariuq<\/strong> had been added since Lupe was here back in 2018. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-14-23, 8:01 PM, Tuktoyaktuk campground, N end of Beaufort Road –\u00a0<\/em> This was it, the end of the line!\u00a0 Parked near the group shelter, the RAV4 was as far N as the road went anywhere in Canada.\u00a0 Back in 2018, the year after Hwy 10 opened, camping or overnight parking here was free.\u00a0 Now it was a cool $63.00 CAN.<\/p>\n

Let’s have a look around Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

There were still benches, picnic tables, and campfire barrels overlooking the Arctic Ocean, but SPHP was surprised to see that the large amount of driftwood that had been here in 2018, carried in on the currents, winds, and waves from the Mackenzie River delta, had vanished.\u00a0 Other than a few big, weather-beaten logs, scarcely a stick left!<\/p>\n

Our Lady of Lourdes was still parked nearby, forlornly looking out over the Beaufort Sea which she had once plied, long, long ago.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Our Lady of Lourdes<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Of course, the Arctic Ocean was the main attraction, in truth, the entire reason Lupe had come so far.\u00a0 Enjoying the view ocean view from the dark rocks and concrete slabs of the seawall was a must!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Down by the seawall<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The Arctic Ocean<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So awesome just being here, Looper!<\/em><\/p>\n

Let’s do the walk along the beach, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-14-23, 9:20 PM, Tuktoyaktuk<\/em> – The best walk along the ocean started farther S.\u00a0 Could have easily walked to the N end from the campground, but instead SPHP drove down to Grandma’s Kitchen<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, parking the RAV4 near the S end of Lupe’s 2018 traditional stroll along the Arctic Ocean.<\/p>\n

No Dingo bans, access restrictions, or required guided tour fees here in Tuktoyaktuk, Canada like there were in Deadhorse, Alaska!\u00a0 At least, not yet.\u00a0 Lupe took full advantage.\u00a0 The entire walk along the beach was 0.8 mile one way.\u00a0 What a fabulous, rare treat!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe<\/strong> enjoying her traditional stroll<\/strong> along the Arctic Ocean<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

No rush.\u00a0 Lupe sniffed here and there at will as little waves rippled ashore.\u00a0 Meanwhile, SPHP ambled along gathering a plastic grocery sack’s worth of trash, easily filling it long before the N end of the stroll was reached where the dark rocks of the seawall began.\u00a0 Once there, it was time to turn around and enjoy the incredible experience all over again on the way back to Grandma’s kitchen.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the dark rocks of the seawall<\/strong> near the N end of the stroll. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading back to Grandma’s Kitchen. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-14-23, 10:00 PM, Tuktoyaktuk<\/em> – Back at the campground, SPHP parked the RAV4 by some of the picnic tables.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back at the N end of Beaufort Road<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

C’mon, Loopster!\u00a0 Let’s hang around here for a while.\u00a0 Tide’s out!\u00a0 We can take the short walk out onto the spit where the locals like to fish.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Map of Tuktoyaktuk<\/strong> posted near the spit.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Near the end of the spit, a girl named Lydia was very happy.\u00a0 She had just caught the first fish that she’d ever caught in her life.\u00a0 She very kindly permitted an American Dingo to inspect her prize.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe<\/strong> inspects Lydia’s fresh catch<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sniffs strongly of the sea, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

I’d be surprised, if it didn’t, Looper.\u00a0 I’m sort of jealous.\u00a0 Bigger than any fish I’ve ever caught.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-15-23, 12:02 AM<\/em> – Back in 2018, Lupe had spent a cold evening under her little brown blanket in the RAV4 while SPHP burned driftwood in one of the campground fire barrels.\u00a0 What an incredible experience that had been, huddling by the fire in the twilight while watching the wood burn and staring out at the surf rolling in from the Arctic Ocean.<\/p>\n

Sadly, no driftwood around to burn now.\u00a0 Even so, the Carolina Dog hung around the campground until well past midnight.\u00a0 Mid-August, but still light out.\u00a0 Awesome!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Midnight<\/strong> at the Arctic Ocean<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-15-23, 7:19 AM, 49\u00baF<\/em> – A whole day to spend in Tuktoyaktuk!\u00a0 It began with a drive out to the Pingo Canadian Landmark<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.\u00a0 With the help of the telephoto lens, SPHP got a couple close ups of Ibyuk Pingo<\/span><\/a> (161 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Split Pingo from across the lagoon.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Ibyuk Pingo<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Split Pingo<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I was hoping for a sunnier day, Looper.\u00a0 The pingos look a bit drab with all these clouds around.<\/em><\/p>\n

Nothing to be done about that, SPHP.\u00a0 Let’s head back into Tuk.\u00a0 Time for my now traditional Tuktoyaktuk tour!<\/em><\/p>\n

Returning to Hwy 10, a huge bird was sitting on top of a very tall post.\u00a0 To SPHP’s surprise, it didn’t fly off at the American Dingo’s approach.<\/p>\n

Loopster!\u00a0 Come back!\u00a0 That bird means business!<\/em><\/p>\n

What kind of bird is it, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

A hawk, or maybe an eagle?\u00a0 I don’t know, Loop.\u00a0 Might even be an osprey.\u00a0 Some kind of a raptor, that’s for sure.\u00a0 One that eats fish, and …<\/em><\/p>\n

And Dingoes, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Like I said, come back!\u00a0 We don’t want to find out.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The fearsome, unidentified raptor.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe’s tour of Tuktoyaktuk began with a look at some of the buildings seen along Hwy 10 on the way into town.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Some of the first buildings<\/strong> on the way into Tuktoyaktuk<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe had seen these same rusty pale blue tanks<\/strong> in 2018, too. Apparently the Tuk paint shortage still hadn’t been alleviated yet in 2023.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Tuk<\/strong> from the SE. Paniksak Pingo<\/span><\/a> (36 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After driving through the center of town back to the campground at the N end of Beaufort Road, SPHP parked the RAV4.\u00a0 Lupe’s walking tour of Tuktoyaktuk began at the Trans Canada Trail<\/strong><\/a><\/span> monument marking the trail’s N terminus.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the Trans Canada Trail monument<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Before heading S, a quick look at the facilities at the end of the road was in order.\u00a0 Wandering past the restrooms and group shelter, Lupe visited the kmpost marker and an old sled, both near the start of the fishing spit where Lydia caught her big fish last night.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
End of the road<\/strong> in Tuk<\/strong>. Restrooms<\/strong> (Center in dark blue) next to the group shelter<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Day use area<\/strong>. Fishing spit<\/strong> (R).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
An old sled<\/strong> at the start of the spit<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The fishing spit<\/strong> from the kmpost<\/strong>. At high tide, most of the spit is submerged.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The kmpost<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Satisfied without going clear out to the end of the spit, since the tide was coming in, the Carolina Dog now headed S along Beaufort Road, passing the campground sites overlooking the Arctic Ocean and Our Lady of Lourdes again.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back at Our Lady of Lourdes<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A L turn onto Centennial Road led to a couple of sod houses.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By a traditional sod house.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Can you image facing a long Arctic winter in that, Looper?\u00a0 Grim!<\/em><\/p>\n

Not as grim as not having a sod house, SPHP.\u00a0 I’ll take wintering in our house in the Black Hills over it any day, though.<\/em><\/p>\n

Continuing to wander the side streets of Tuktoyaktuk, near the end of Liusa Road, Lupe took a shortcut over a hill that may have been a small pingo.\u00a0 Up here, she made a new friend.\u00a0 A local dog with a sore L rear paw decided to join the tour.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe with her new friend. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Ibyuk Pingo<\/strong> (L) and Split Pingo<\/strong> (Center). Arctic Ocean<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As Lupe and her new friend continued to explore the side streets of Tuk, everywhere they went, they triggered a chorus of protest from dogs that wanted to join the tour, but were tied up or otherwise confined.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Exploring Tuktoyaktuk<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was getting to be a bit ridiculous.\u00a0 The American Dingo and her friend soon had all of Tuktoyaktuk howling in dismay.\u00a0 SPHP wasn’t entirely disappointed when this new friend finally decided it might be time to go back home, wherever that was, and Lupe reached the beach again near Grandma’s Kitchen<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Homes<\/strong> on Ocean View Road<\/strong> close to Grandma’s Kitchen<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Thankfully, back to the serenity of the beach<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As usual, the stroll along the tranquil, silvery sea was soothing, a treat for body and soul.\u00a0 This time, once Lupe got to the N end of the beach, she turned E to Beaufort Road before heading N past the cemetery.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Ibyuk Pingo<\/strong> (L), Split Pingo<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
By the Beaufort Sea<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Ibyuk Pingo<\/strong> (Center), Split Pingo<\/strong> (R). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Passing the cemetery<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-15-23, 2:40 PM, 55\u00baF<\/em> – The campground and day use area were almost empty when Lupe got back to the RAV4, which was parked at the highest spot facing the ocean.\u00a0 Watching the waves roll in while sharing sardines and Ritz crackers, the mood eventually turned more festive when a tour bus arrived.<\/p>\n

Moving to a picnic table, SPHP munched on trail mix and chatted with other tourists.\u00a0 Lupe spent her time searching in vain for a marmot that knew the ins and outs of the passages between the rocks of the seawall.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Up on one of the seawall’s concrete slabs.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-15-23, 5:00 PM<\/em> – SPHP woke from a pleasant hour long nap.<\/p>\n

Campground’s filling up, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I see that, Loop.\u00a0 Guess we better move or pay for a spot before they kick us out.<\/em><\/p>\n

Driving S out of Tuktoyaktuk to the new visitor center, SPHP came out with 2 certificates for Lupe.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s Certificate for traveling Highway 10, the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk highway.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s Certificate for dipping her paw in the Arctic Ocean at Tuktoyaktuk.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-15-23, 5:45 PM –<\/em> SPHP parked the RAV4 at the empty ballfield.<\/p>\n

Another stroll along the beach, Loop?\u00a0 Plenty of time for it.<\/em><\/p>\n

How often are we in Tuktoyaktuk, SPHP?\u00a0 We better enjoy it to the utmost while we can.<\/em><\/p>\n

Cutting over to the seawall rocks near the N end of the beach, the trek S to Grandma’s Kitchen began anew.<\/p>\n

I don’t know how you do it, Loopster.\u00a0 Way too rocky for me to go barepaw here, but do you mind if I find a spot along these rocks where I can take my boots and socks off and stand in the Arctic Ocean for a few minutes?<\/em><\/p>\n

Have at it, SPHP.\u00a0 You need to toughen those paws up.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe along the seawall rocks. Taken while SPHP was standing a foot deep in the Arctic Ocean! Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I’ve been picking up a new rock for your rock collection every time we take this stroll, Looper.\u00a0 Let me know if you see one you like as we go along.<\/em><\/p>\n

Good thinking, SPHP!\u00a0 Mind showing what you’ve got for me so far?<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The pebbles SPHP selected during the 2 prior strolls along the beach.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A closer look.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Two local girls made a couple of passes up and down the beach on an ATV.\u00a0 Other than that, the beach was deserted.\u00a0 The air was calm.\u00a0 Even the ocean barely had a ripple.\u00a0 Soft rays of light descended on the silver sea from weaknesses in the clouds.\u00a0 All too soon on this magical evening, Grandma’s Kitchen was in sight, and it was time to turn back again.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Grandma’s Kitchen<\/strong> is the blue-gray building<\/strong> at Center with the white addition<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A magical evening<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Halfway back to the N end of the beach, it was decision time.<\/p>\n

OK, Loop.\u00a0 I’ve got 5 candidates for your rock collection.\u00a0 We’ve only done our beach stroll 3 times, so you can pick the 3 rocks you want to keep, and we’ll leave the others.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
4 of the choices. New ones on the L, old ones on the R.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Do I have to keep the first 2 that you already showed me, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nope.\u00a0 Select the 3 you like best, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The entire group of 5 candidates.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

They’re all unique and different from each other, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s on purpose, Looper, so it’s a real choice.\u00a0 Made up your mind yet?<\/em><\/p>\n

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

And?<\/em><\/p>\n

Let’s keep them all, SPHP.\u00a0 It’s a nice set, an Arctic Ocean sampler!<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, why not?\u00a0 The price was right, and they were all just pebbles.\u00a0 Not like they were going to take up a lot of space, or weigh much.<\/p>\n

The rest of the evening was spent up at the campground.\u00a0 SPHP chatted with the other tourists.\u00a0 Lupe had 2 dogs to play with, Beans and Mason, but they were both gigantic.\u00a0 Instead, the Carolina Dog preferred her pink blanket in the RAV4, growling whenever Beans or Mason got too close during their 3 hour frolic and wrestling match.<\/p>\n

8-16-23, 8:15 AM, 46\u00baF<\/em> – Foggy and a bit breezy, as Lupe set out from the baseball diamond to head over to the beach.\u00a0 This would be her last stroll along the Arctic Ocean to Grandma’s Kitchen.\u00a0 The tide was out, and on the way back, change was in the air.\u00a0 The fog dissipated, and it even seemed like the clouds were starting to break up.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Arctic Ocean<\/strong> at low tide.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Blue sky, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Wow, you’re right, Loop!\u00a0 Is it possible we’ll get to see the sun before we leave Tuk?<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading back N during the final stroll<\/strong> along the Arctic Ocean<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Instead of returning to the RAV4 at the ball park when her final stroll along the Arctic Ocean was done, Lupe trotted N on Beaufort Road.\u00a0 Sure enough, the sun was shining by the time she passed the cemetery.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Sunshine at the cemetery.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Upon reaching the campground, Lupe went all the way to the end of the fishing spit.\u00a0 The clouds were gone!\u00a0 For the first time since arriving in Tuktoyaktuk, the American Dingo stood in bright sunshine.\u00a0 Instead of silver, the sea was blue.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the way out to the end of the spit.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After standing there a few minutes on this beautiful morning, admiring the sea and sky and village of Tuktoyaktuk, SPHP shook Lupe’s paw.<\/p>\n

Congratulations, Loopster, on making it back to Tuk and the Arctic Ocean!<\/em><\/p>\n

Thank you, SPHP!\u00a0 It’s been fun.\u00a0 Are we really going back S today?<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re at the end of the road N, Loop, and it’s time.<\/em><\/p>\n

Leaving the spit, Lupe went back to the massive concrete slabs of the sea wall for a last look at the open sea.\u00a0 Heading S didn’t seem right.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back on the concrete slabs of the seawall. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The Arctic Ocean<\/strong> in blue. Photo looks NE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A morning like this is made for great deeds, SPHP!\u00a0 We ought to be setting out for Baffin Island<\/strong><\/span><\/a>\u00a0to see Mount Thor<\/strong><\/span><\/a>!<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP smiled.<\/p>\n

We think alike, Sweet Puppy!\u00a0 If only, but your next great deeds are S.\u00a0 Fear not!\u00a0 We’ll have a fantastic time.\u00a0 Promise!<\/em><\/p>\n

Passing the campground, SPHP bid farewell to some of the other tourists met over the past couple of days, who were just beginning to stir before heading S themselves.\u00a0 Lupe then proceeded S on Beaufort Road to the RAV4 still waiting at the baseball diamond.<\/p>\n

8-16-23, 10:04 AM, 51\u00baF<\/em> – Instead of driving S, SPHP turned the RAV4 N.<\/p>\n

One more look from the Arctic Ocean sign?\u00a0 What do you say, Loopster?<\/em><\/p>\n

The Carolina Dog’s answer was a foregone conclusion.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
To the Arctic Ocean<\/strong> at Tuktoyaktuk<\/strong>! What a grand adventure it had been!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Next to the Arctic Ocean sign, Lupe and the RAV4 were both pointed S.\u00a0 SPHP took the shot.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Final moments at the Arctic Ocean<\/strong>!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Great pose, Looper!\u00a0 Thank you.\u00a0 It’s time.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-16-23, 10:15 AM<\/em> – RAV4 purring smoothly, Lupe left Tuktoyaktuk.\u00a0 Not done here quite yet, though.\u00a0 5 miles out of town, a last stop was ahead.<\/p>\n

8-16-23, 10:27 AM –<\/em> Across Tareoknitok Lagoon, illuminated by sunshine, both Ibyuk Pingo<\/span><\/a> (161 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, second tallest in the world, and Split Pingo were seen more clearly than before.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Ibyuk Pingo<\/strong> (L), Split Pingo<\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Ibyuk Pingo<\/strong> (Center) beyond Tareoknitok Lagoon<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Baffin Island!\u00a0 Silly us, SPHP.\u00a0 We haven’t even made it across Tareoknitok Lagoon!<\/em><\/p>\n

I know.\u00a0 We’re just a couple of dreamers, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Dreams are fine, SPHP.\u00a0 It all starts with a dream, but dreams rarely amount to much without action.<\/em><\/p>\n

True enough, Looper.\u00a0 Speaking of which, our time for action has arrived.\u00a0 Say good-bye to the Land of the Pingos.<\/em><\/p>\n

A final lingering look, and Lupe was back on her pink blanket in the RAV4, rolling S to whatever next great adventure was in store.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
In the Land of the Pingos<\/strong>, Tuktoyaktuk<\/strong>, Northwest Territories, Canada 8-16-23<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

Lupe’s Arctic Ocean beach GPS Track<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Lupe’s Tuktoyaktuk fishing spit GPS Track<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway No. 10<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Lupe’s Stay at the Arctic Ocean, Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, Canada (8-20-18 & 8-21-18)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

To the Arctic Ocean on the New All-Season Road from Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, Canada (8-19-18)<\/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 2 of Day 24, Day 25 & Part 1 of Day 26 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 8-14-23, 3:00 PM – After leaving Inuvik, the Mackenzie River delta was in sight off to the W, but before long the river and Hwy 10 angled away from each … Continue reading Tuktoyaktuk – Land of the Pingos & The Arctic Ocean, Northwest Territories, Canada (8-14-23 to 8-16-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":59566,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"nf_dc_page":"","_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1659],"tags":[105,926,925,30,106,26,1745,104,1088,1097],"class_list":["post-59584","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1659","tag-american-dingo","tag-arctic-ocean","tag-beaufort-sea","tag-canada","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-highway-10","tag-lupe","tag-northwest-territories","tag-tuktoyaktuk"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_2306-scaled.jpg?fit=1651%2C1238&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/59584","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=59584"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/59584\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":62455,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/59584\/revisions\/62455"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/59566"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=59584"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=59584"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=59584"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}