{"id":60272,"date":"2025-02-27T08:10:33","date_gmt":"2025-02-27T15:10:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=60272"},"modified":"2025-03-06T13:11:48","modified_gmt":"2025-03-06T20:11:48","slug":"mount-hare-richardson-mountains-yukon-territory-canada-8-17-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=60272","title":{"rendered":"Mount Hare, Richardson Mountains, Yukon Territory, Canada (8-17-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

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

8-16-23, 10:40 AM, 52\u00baF<\/em> – It did seem a shame to leave the Land of the Pingos and the Arctic Ocean on the first sunny morning since Lupe had arrived, but her time in Tuktoyaktuk was over.\u00a0 Hwy 10 was dusty and bumpy as the RAV4 rolled S through low hills and a multitude of lakes on the way back to Inuvik.\u00a0 On her pink blanket, Lupe was bright-eyed and alert, watching the world go by.<\/p>\n

Will we be driving all day, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, most of it, Loopster.\u00a0 We’ll make a couple of quick stops for fuel and supplies in Inuvik.\u00a0 Among other things, I’m going to buy out the rest of their Allsorts licorice stock at North Mart!\u00a0 I like it!\u00a0 Then we have 2 more long drives to the ferries at the Mackenzie and Peel rivers.\u00a0 Should be back in the Richardson Mountains by this evening.\u00a0 If the weather’s decent, I’m hoping we can climb Peak<\/span> 1402M<\/span><\/a><\/strong>\u00a0tomorrow.<\/em><\/p>\n

We’ll pass the Tithegeh Chii Vitaii trail again S of Inuvik, SPHP.\u00a0 Can we at least stop there for a while?\u00a0 Last chance to see Campbell Lake, and I love doing that loop up to the ridge overlooking it.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, I don’t want to miss out on that, either, Looper.\u00a0 It will be a nice break.\u00a0 Besides, we’ve never seen Campbell Lake on a sunny day before.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-16-23, 3:12 PM, 55\u00baF<\/em> – So far the day had gone according to plan.\u00a0 Doing the loop trail counter-clockwise this time, the American Dingo was back on the bluff near the Tithegeh Chii Vitaii Loop High Point<\/span><\/a><\/strong> (385 ft.) <\/span><\/strong>with the best view of Campbell Lake.\u00a0 Fun being here again!\u00a0 Unfortunately, the Carolina Dog still hadn’t seen the big lake on a sunny day.\u00a0 Before reaching Inuvik, the sky had clouded over.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Campbell Lake<\/strong> from the Tithegeh Chii Vitaii Loop<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once back at the RAV4, the dusty drive S resumed, minus any further stops of consequence.\u00a0 Lupe mostly snoozed, but every now and then briefly peered out at the dull, flat road.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog reached the Mackenzie River just in time for SPHP to drive right aboard the free ferry<\/strong><\/span><\/a> moments before it took off.\u00a0 After crossing the big river, the Dempster Highway<\/span><\/a><\/strong> entered a somewhat more interesting region of lakes and a few low hills among the boreal forest.<\/p>\n

8-16-23, 6:53 PM, 56\u00baF<\/em> – After a second ferry crossing at the Peel River, an increasingly scenic drive SW to the Richardson Mountains began.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A glance back at the MV Abraham Francis ferry<\/strong> after crossing the Peel River<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beautiful, unspoiled territory as far as the eye could see, but as the RAV4 approached the Richardson Mountains, the darkly overcast sky was not at all encouraging.\u00a0 Without a major change for the better, prospects seemed equally dim for a decent shot at Peak 1402M.<\/p>\n

Not looking very good, SPHP.\u00a0 You never know, though!\u00a0 Might be sunny tomorrow.<\/em><\/p>\n

True enough, but I wouldn’t bet on it, Loop.\u00a0 We’ll see if we can find a spot to hang out for the night, though, up at the first pass.\u00a0 May as well be in position to take advantage, if we do get lucky.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-16-23, 7:55 PM, 52\u00baF<\/em> – Driving slowly as the RAV4 approached the Pass 770M<\/span><\/strong> region, what SPHP had been looking for materialized on the L (S).\u00a0 A wide dirt road led off to what appeared to be a highway maintenance yard where stacks of pipe, presumably for use as culverts, were visible.<\/p>\n

A simple pullout would be better, Loop, but this ought to serve our purpose for the time being.\u00a0 You hungry?\u00a0 Getting to be about that time.<\/em><\/p>\n

Only the lower slopes of the mountains were in view, the mountaintops all draped in soft gray obscurity, as SPHP shared a tasty feast of piping hot chicken and dumplings with the Carolina Dog.\u00a0 Suddenly, Lupe quit eating.\u00a0 Staring W across the tundra, her hackles rose up.<\/p>\n

Glancing over that way, SPHP saw them, too.\u00a0 A large grizzly was leading two cubs along the base of a mountain.\u00a0 A moment later, they were lost in the veil of a fog that swept in from the E, hiding them from view.<\/p>\n

8-17-23, 8:33 AM, Pass 770M<\/span><\/strong> –<\/em> Fog repeatedly formed down in the valley to the W, then came sweeping up this way, but always dissipated before getting this far.\u00a0 Overhead, small patches of blue provided reason for hope amid a mostly cloudy sky.<\/p>\n

A narrow road Lupe had ventured over to during yesterday evening’s fog, was now in view on the opposite side of the Dempster Highway.\u00a0 High above this road, the microwave tower it went to was also in sight.<\/p>\n

I don’t know, Looper.\u00a0 A better situation than I expected, but too much of a long shot unless there’s further improvement.\u00a0 I’ll get the pack ready just in case, then work on the trip journal while we wait to see what develops.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-17-23, 10:36 AM, MDT, 48\u00baF, Pass 770M<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – Sniffing the cool, fresh air, Lupe stood on the road to the highway maintenance yard.\u00a0 Sadly, every last bit of blue sky had vanished long ago.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the road to the highway maintenance yard<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Pondering the situation at Pass 770M<\/strong>. Microwave tower<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

How much longer are we going to wait, SPHP?\u00a0 Can we at least take a walk?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure, Loop.\u00a0 Pack’s ready, but I really hesitate to set out for Peak 1402M in this.\u00a0 No point in it.\u00a0 Way too easy for the mountains to just get all socked in with fog again.<\/em><\/p>\n

Within minutes of setting out on a short walk, the first raindrops began to fall.\u00a0 Soon a steady rain set in.<\/p>\n

Back to the RAV4, Loopster!\u00a0 Hate to say it, but this isn’t going to work.\u00a0 No sense in hanging around any longer.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-17-23, 10:38 AM, PDT, 47\u00baF, Wright Pass – <\/em>During the drive here, Lupe had enjoyed seeing the Northwest Territories again as she had first found them back in 2018 – a land of great beauty and mystery, the sky full of big clouds with fog clinging to all the mountaintops, with a mix of both mist and sunshine moving over the lowlands below.\u00a0 No such mix here on the border with the Yukon.\u00a0 Wright Pass was socked in with dense fog.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back at Wright Pass<\/strong> on the Yukon\/Northwest Territories border<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Seems we’ve made the right decision in pressing on, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

We had a lot of fun in the Northwest Territories on this Dingo Vacation, SPHP.\u00a0 Sad to be leaving, but I’m glad we came.<\/em><\/p>\n

Next stop, the Arctic Circle, Looper, and beyond that, Eagle Plains.<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading S into the Yukon from Wright Pass, the RAV4 was soon below the fog shrouding the mountains.\u00a0 For a while, SPHP drove through light rain showers.\u00a0 Within half an hour, though, the rain was over.\u00a0 Starting to seem like just an ordinary cloudy day.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back in the Yukon<\/strong>! Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the drive continued, shafts of sunlight could be seen illuminating the tundra here and there over a wide area W of the Richardson Mountains.<\/p>\n

You know, Loop, I’m beginning to think that nothing’s going to happen here.\u00a0 Maybe these clouds are going to start breaking up?<\/em><\/p>\n

Are you thinking what I’m thinking, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

We’ll soon be coming to the turn for a peak we’ve wanting to visit for years, Loopster.\u00a0 Might have to abort, if I’m wrong about the weather, but this is our absolute last chance to climb a mountain in the Richardson Range on this Dingo Vacation.<\/em><\/p>\n

Mount Hare<\/span><\/a> (4,052 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, Mount Hare.<\/em><\/p>\n

Let’s go for it, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-17-23, 12:14 PM, 56\u00baF<\/em> – The L turn off the Dempster Highway toward the Richardson Mountains that SPHP had been looking for appeared roughly 10 km S of Vadziah Kan Creek.\u00a0 A narrow side road went 0.6 km E to a gravel yard situated at the base of the mountains.\u00a0 Still mighty cloudy, but it hadn’t rained for a while, and whether prudent, or not, Lupe and SPHP were both eager to give Mount Hare a shot.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Parked among the bushes at the S end of the gravel yard<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A look at the gravel yard<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The pack was already prepared, so after a quick look at the very roomy gravel yard, it was time.<\/p>\n

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

Which way, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

SE, Loop!\u00a0 You probably can’t see it due to all these tall bushes, but there’s a hill not too far beyond them over that way that’s likely our best bet for getting to some firm ground without much vegetation fast.<\/em><\/p>\n

Easily finding a route through the bushes, Lupe quickly emerged in a small valley.\u00a0 This drainage was a little tussocky and overgrown, but the hill of light gray scree that SPHP had been referring to was just ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the first scree hill<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

An easy traipse up the scree, which really was a nice, firm surface, to the top of this first hill didn’t take long.\u00a0 Looking ENE, a dip led to a slightly higher similar hill that wasn’t far away at all.\u00a0 Glancing back at the RAV4 down at the gravel yard, it was surprising how much elevation the American Dingo had already gained.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the first scree hill<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A quick glance back at the RAV4<\/strong> (Center) down at the gravel yard<\/strong>. Dempster Highway<\/strong> beyond. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Heading for the next scree hill was the obvious choice.\u00a0 Once there, a fairly deep valley was ahead.\u00a0 Looking NNE, a relatively minor dip led to a beautiful slope and a high point promising access to a much higher ridge to the NE.<\/p>\n

That’s the way we want to go, SPHP.\u00a0 Follow me!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the second scree hill<\/strong> contemplating HP840M<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The trudge up to HP840M<\/span><\/strong> was fairly steep, especially near the end.\u00a0 On the way, Lupe ran into low bushes, and even an easily avoided stand of stunted trees.\u00a0 HP840M<\/span><\/strong> proved to be a very scenic, somewhat dramatic point.\u00a0 A 20 foot high escarpment of sharply slanting rock, consisting of many thin layers, featured a line of small cliffs facing E.<\/p>\n

Lupe went clear to the top of the HP840M<\/span><\/strong> ridge, which was only a few feet wide, and quite flat for 50 feet along its length.\u00a0 Tufts of tundra grew up here, which provided a comfy spot to take a short break.\u00a0 Views of the foothills of the Richardson Mountains, and the Dempster Highway off to the W, were already terrific.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On HP840M<\/strong>. HP860M<\/strong> (Center) ahead. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe on HP840M<\/strong>. Dempster Highway<\/strong> (R) in the distance. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow!\u00a0 If we did nothing else, this view alone is worth the effort, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

It’s tremendous, SPHP, but you’re not pooping out on me now.\u00a0 We’re going all the way to Mount Hare!<\/em><\/p>\n

After 15 awesome minutes on HP840M<\/span><\/strong>, SPHP was ready to continue.\u00a0 On an easy and interesting slope where foot high lines of the thin-layered rock broke the surface standing almost perfectly on end, Lupe headed N toward HP860M<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 However, the Carolina Dog didn’t have to go clear to the top.\u00a0 Getting fairly close to it, she then made a traverse NE, taking a shortcut to a saddle she was going to have to descend to, anyway.\u00a0 Beyond that saddle was the next big climb to HP990M<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A quick glance back at HP840M<\/strong> (Center) after leaving it. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading for HP860M<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the saddle<\/strong> (R) leading to HP990M<\/strong> (R), the next objective. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After losing 45 meters of elevation while gradually angling down a steep scree slope to the broad, rounded saddle E of HP860M<\/span><\/strong>, Lupe crossed the saddle and started up again.\u00a0 No obstacles at all, other than the steepness of the slope.\u00a0 The low tundra was gorgeous!\u00a0 Lupe soon came to a large patch of alpine bearberries that was turning red.\u00a0 Reaching the top of the rise above it, a short flat stretch led to a much steeper climb ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Among the alpine bearberries. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On the level stretch<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This next climb ultimately led to a second level stretch.\u00a0 Beyond it was the final steep climb to the top of HP990M<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Staying toward the S, in an attempt to avoid the steepest terrain, Lupe still had some distance to go when it began to rain hard enough to make SPHP to stop and put on the red rain jacket.<\/p>\n

Dang!\u00a0 We’ll try to wait it out here, Loop, but maybe this is it?<\/em><\/p>\n

And we were doing so well, too, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

I know, but I don’t dare go any farther if the weather’s turning against us, Loopster.\u00a0 Remember our prior trips to the Richardson Mountains?<\/em><\/p>\n

Monsoons and blizzards, SPHP!\u00a0 Even in August.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sitting huddled together in the rain, a deep valley was directly S.\u00a0 Across it, Peak 950M<\/span><\/strong> stood out as a sharp high point along the opposite ridge.\u00a0 It didn’t look all that much higher than where Lupe was now.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 950M<\/strong> (Center) across the deep valley<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

10 minutes.\u00a0 That’s all the longer the issue was in doubt.\u00a0 Happily, the rain quit.\u00a0 Just a shower!\u00a0 Lupe went on.\u00a0 A very steep climb N soon got easier.\u00a0 Turning NE, HP990M<\/span><\/strong> was directly ahead.<\/p>\n

8-17-23, 1:51 PM, HP990M<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – Her front paws on a damp, dark stone, the American Dingo stood near the sharp edge of a grassy summit.\u00a0 Beyond her, HP1070M<\/span><\/strong>, the next major objective along a long ridge was in view.\u00a0 In the distance, a higher ridge was partially hidden among the clouds.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On HP990M<\/strong>. HP1070M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Always something, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

What’s wrong, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Mount Hare.\u00a0 See that distant ridge?\u00a0 That’s got to be it, Looper.\u00a0 Summit is in the clouds.<\/em><\/p>\n

It quit raining.\u00a0 Maybe the sky will clear by the time we get there, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, I hope so!\u00a0 I really do, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

No thought of turning back at all.\u00a0 As long as it didn’t start raining again or threaten to get completely fogged in, the Carolina Dog was going for it.\u00a0 Lupe wasn’t going to get a jillion chances at a peak 3,000 miles from home, or whatever it was, and the weather right now was easily the best it had ever been on the rare occasions when she’d been in this area.<\/p>\n

One problem.\u00a0 While the enormous ridge ahead was clearly super easy terrain, the E side of HP990M<\/span><\/strong> was way steeper than the topo map would have one believe.\u00a0 Not all of it.\u00a0 The worst part was a bare, gritty scree slope maybe 40 feet in height.\u00a0 Descending to that lip, SPHP pondered the best route.\u00a0 Meanwhile, Lupe was already at the bottom looking back up.<\/p>\n

C’mon, SPHP!\u00a0 Nothing to it!<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe with 4 on the floor, Sweet Puppy, but I’d rather not take a tumble.<\/em><\/p>\n

Coming up this slope with poles wouldn’t even be an issue.\u00a0 Descending was different.\u00a0 Virtually nothing to cling to, and the poles weren’t long enough to help.\u00a0 SPHP finally chose a spot, sat down, and slid slowly, gripping whatever little bits of bedrock protruded at all.<\/p>\n

Good job, SPHP!\u00a0 Classic little girl technique!<\/em><\/p>\n

Hey, it worked, and who will ever know, unless a certain Dingo blabs it all over the internet?\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Once safely down to the giant, rounded ridge, the views were incredible, and the mood was one of elation.\u00a0 Progress couldn’t have been easier or faster as Lupe headed for HP1070M<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the gorgeous, super easy ridge walk to HP1070M<\/strong> (R).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Living large in the remote Richardson Mountains<\/strong>. Peak 1110M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Objective HP1070M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A glance back. Peak 950M<\/strong> (L), gravel yard<\/strong> (R of Center), HP840M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Reaching the short section of ridgeline N of HP1070M<\/span><\/strong> brought a much more sobering view of what was ahead.\u00a0 No insurmountable obstacles.\u00a0 Far from it!\u00a0 No real obstacles at all, but the cloud ceiling was dropping.\u00a0 Significantly less of Mount Hare was in sight.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hare<\/strong> (Center), or what little can be seen of it, from the ridge N of HP1070M<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Dingo feathers!\u00a0 It’s going the wrong way on us, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Nothing to be done about it.\u00a0 If the ceiling kept dropping, Mount Hare was still far enough so that the only sensible thing would be to turn back.\u00a0 For now, though, perseverance remained the order of the day.\u00a0 Lupe turned S, heading for HP1070M<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching HP1070M<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-17-23, 2:48 PM, HP1070M<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – A cairn was up here.\u00a0 Kind of unexpected.\u00a0 Not much change in the overall situation.\u00a0 At least, it wasn’t any worse.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On HP1070M<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Can we take a break, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

I suppose, Loop.\u00a0 Guess there’s no real rush in heading up into the fog.<\/em><\/p>\n

After sharing beef jerky and water with Lupe, SPHP munched on trail mix and honey-roasted peanuts.\u00a0 A breeze was out of the W, and looking back that way, the sky was lighter.\u00a0 Far off, a few spots of sunlit terrain remained visible among the lowlands.\u00a0 Perhaps a reason for hope?<\/p>\n

Looking N, the summit of Peak 1110M<\/span><\/strong> not too far to the NNE remained in view, but some other peaks of similar height farther N were scraping the clouds.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 1110M<\/strong> (far R) from HP1070M<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I think it’s getting better over by Mount Hare, SPHP.\u00a0 I can see a little more of the ridge going to it than I could a few minutes ago.<\/em><\/p>\n

Huh.\u00a0 I believe you’re right, Loopster.\u00a0 Let’s keep going!<\/em><\/p>\n

From HP<\/strong>1070<\/strong><\/span>, a gradual loss of 80 meters of elevation led to a saddle along the ridge leading to Mount Hare.\u00a0 The American Dingo had only begun this descent when the improvement in the cloud ceiling started becoming more noticeable.\u00a0 Well before she got down to the saddle, the situation improved dramatically.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading down to the saddle<\/strong> (Center) along the ridge to Mount Hare<\/strong> (L). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Luck of the Dingo!\u00a0 Suddenly appears we’ve got a decent chance of arriving at the top of Mount Hare when it’s cloud-free, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

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

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hare<\/strong> (Center) nearly cloud-free! Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

HP1070M<\/span><\/strong> had only been about halfway to Mount Hare, but the romp down to the saddle was fast and super easy.\u00a0 Even SPHP was making great progress.\u00a0 Once down at the saddle, a long uphill march on a much narrower ridge was ahead.\u00a0 Nothing at all scary about it.\u00a0 No cliffs, big rock formations, or anything like that, and the ridge was always wide enough to keep trudging higher without having to give even a moment’s thought about the terrain.<\/p>\n

Two high points were visible ahead, one right at the upper end of the ridge Lupe was climbing, the other one not too far from it, more to the S or SE.\u00a0 For a long way, the high point at the end of the ridge appeared to be the true summit.\u00a0 However, according to the topo map, that was only HP1210M<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 The high point toward the R was actually the true summit.<\/p>\n

As the American Dingo headed up the ridge, progress was only limited by SPHP’s heart, leg, and lung capacity, and resulting frequent pauses to gasp for air.\u00a0 During these breathers, the views were most encouraging, especially toward the N where patches of sunshine were now moving across the mountains.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting up from the saddle<\/strong>. HP1210M<\/strong> (R of Center), true summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A look at Mount Hare’s SW ridge<\/strong>. HP1190M<\/span><\/strong> (L). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Making excellent progress! HP1210M<\/strong> (Center), true summit<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Sunshine<\/strong> to the N. Peak 1100M<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Getting there! HP1210M<\/strong> (far L), true summit<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As Lupe reached HP1210M<\/span><\/strong>, the news on the cloud front was excellent.\u00a0 Mount Hare’s nearby summit was now completely cloud-free, the ceiling 200 feet above it.\u00a0 However, while the air had previously been calm or limited to a light breeze before, at this elevation, the W wind was much more powerful.\u00a0 The American Dingo arrived at a small cairn of dark rock in a chilly 30 mph gale.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
In the wind at HP1210M<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Paws on the HP1210M cairn<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The views of the Richardson Mountains were amazing!\u00a0 It hardly seemed real or possible that Lupe was actually here.\u00a0 Yet only 0.33 km SSE along a gentle tundra-covered ridge, a long dreamed of success beckoned.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hare<\/strong> (Center) from HP1210M<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Shall we, Loopster?<\/em><\/p>\n

We shall, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

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

Despite the wild west wind, a brief, ecstatic journey of joy ensued.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hare true summit<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-17-24, 4:09 PM, Mount Hare<\/span><\/a> (4,052 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> <\/em>– At a small collection of loose gray rocks that may have once been a cairn, Lupe stood bracing herself against a gale from out of the W on the high point of a gently rounded, tundra-covered hill that was slightly elongated N\/S.\u00a0 Not far above her, big clouds with dark gray bottoms raced E across the sky.\u00a0 An actual small cairn at equal elevation was another 30 feet S.<\/p>\n

SPHP shook Lupe’s outstretched paw.<\/p>\n

Oh, my gosh!\u00a0 It’s a dream come true, Loop!\u00a0 Mount Hare!\u00a0 We’re here!\u00a0 Can you you believe it?\u00a0 Congratulations, Sweet Puppy!<\/em><\/p>\n

This brutal wind does tend to make it seem pretty real, SPHP.\u00a0 Only one thing lacking.\u00a0 If only a chocolate coconut bar would somehow magically materialize, that would be proof positive that this isn’t just a dream!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
HP1210M<\/strong> (R of Center) from Mount Hare’s summit<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I’ll take care of that right now.\u00a0 C’mon, Looper.\u00a0 Let’s get out of this wind.\u00a0 It’s cold!<\/em><\/p>\n

Retreating 10 feet down the slope immediately E of the summit, SPHP sat down in a slight depression.\u00a0 Still mighty breezy, but better than being exposed to the wind’s full force.\u00a0 After sharing the reality confirming chocolate coconut bar, Lupe curled up on SPHP’s lap, and SPHP threw a jacket over her.<\/p>\n

Mount Hare was clearly the highest peak in this part of the Richardson Mountains.\u00a0 Facing E, away from the wind, sunlight frequently played across a region of lower highlands devoid of any sharp summits.\u00a0 Many peaks were visible to the S where the sky was darker and even cloudier, but none higher than Mount Hare were that way.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Facing the sun-dappled highlands<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The grandest views were to the N where countless peaks stretched away along the spine of the Richardson Mountains, connected by a maze of ridges separated by deep valleys.\u00a0 When in shadow, exposed rocks made the mountains look black.\u00a0 In sunlight, they were silver.<\/p>\n

Two mountains higher than Mount Hare were on the far horizon, one due N, and the other NNE.<\/p>\n

Wonder if either one of them is Mount Sittichinli<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

I was speculating about that, too, Loop.\u00a0 Maybe, but I rather doubt we can see Mount Sittichinli<\/span><\/a> (5,165 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> from here.\u00a0 It’s a long way off.\u00a0 I really don’t know what peaks they are.\u00a0 North Wright Pass Mountain<\/strong><\/span><\/a> might make more sense.\u00a0 It’s closer.<\/em><\/p>\n

For a while, the sky tended to clear.\u00a0 Patches of blue sailed by, sunlight brightening the land below.\u00a0 SPHP shared water and beef jerky with the Carolina Dog, then munched on honey nut peanuts and trail mix.\u00a0 The relentless wind discouraged any movement from this at least somewhat protected spot.\u00a0 At one point, nearly half of the sky turned blue!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
More highlands<\/strong>, lesser peaks<\/strong>, and finally some blue sky<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After sitting there enjoying the splendid remote panoramas for half an hour, the inevitable moment arrived.<\/p>\n

Loopster, we’ve got to move!<\/em><\/p>\n

Picture time, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

It better be.\u00a0 My R leg is numb.\u00a0 You’ve got to get off my lap!<\/em><\/p>\n

Unfortunately, the W wind hadn’t abated.\u00a0 Nevertheless, Lupe returned to the summit to survey the views in that direction, which hadn’t been in sight during the rest break.\u00a0 Beyond the Richardson Mountains, a vast territory of long ridges and lowlands stretched away to an indefinite horizon.\u00a0 Toward the SW, part of the Dempster Highway was in sight.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back on the windy summit<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hare’s S Ridge<\/strong> (foreground). Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
By the little cairn<\/strong> at Mount Hare’s summit<\/strong>, HP1210M<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As Lupe’s traditional summit hour drew to a close, for the first time, Mount Hare basked in sunshine for more than just occasional fleeting moments.\u00a0 The day brightened along with the landscapes and the mood.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The rolling highlands<\/strong> in sunshine. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Looking W from the cairn<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
The long ridge Lupe had come up<\/strong> (foreground). HP1070M<\/strong> (far L). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
HP1210M<\/strong> (R of Center) in sunshine from Mount Hare’s summit<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What a day, SPHP!\u00a0 It’s like the Richardson Mountains are wishing us well, knowing that we’ll be gone tomorrow.<\/em><\/p>\n

This Dingo Vacation has been by far your best ever in this region, Loop.\u00a0 You did a lot!\u00a0 Before this trip, the weather had always been ghastly.\u00a0 Was starting to think that we’d never get to see the world from any peak in the Richardson Mountains, but we got to almost every one on your list of possibilities.<\/em><\/p>\n

All true, and Mount Hare<\/span><\/a> (4,052 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> had been the icing on the cake.\u00a0 Back in the fog at Wright Pass this morning, all hope had been lost for this moment on this Dingo Vacation, yet now, only hours later, Lupe was here.\u00a0 What a glorious experience it had been!<\/p>\n

While bathed in sunlight at the true summit, SPHP shook the Carolina Dog’s paw once more.<\/p>\n

Congratulations on your perseverance and grand success, Loopster!\u00a0 Stay here!\u00a0 I want to get one last photo of you up here in the sunshine before we head down.<\/em><\/p>\n

Going only a little way down the NNE slope toward HP1210M<\/span><\/strong>, SPHP turned around.\u00a0 It wasn’t to be.\u00a0 At that very moment a shadow passed over the mountain.\u00a0 SPHP laughed, and took the shot, anyway.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Final moments on Mount Hare<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

C’mon, Loopster!\u00a0 That’s life.\u00a0 Can’t have everything.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

The American Dingo came running.<\/p>\n

Why not, SPHP?\u00a0 We do have everything, don’t we?<\/em><\/p>\n

Guess you’re right, Looper.\u00a0 Everything we need, or as close to it as anyone ever comes.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-17-23, 5:15 PM<\/em> – Eh, could have waited a few minutes to take that shot.\u00a0 In the short time it took to get to HP1210M<\/span><\/strong> again, the light was back.\u00a0 Oh, well!\u00a0 This was almost as good.<\/p>\n

Maybe even better, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hare<\/strong> (L) from HP1210M<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Most of the return was windier than the ascent had been, but such a happy time.\u00a0 Retracing her earlier route winding along the big ridges, Lupe roamed at will having an absolute blast, while SPHP enjoyed the splendid isolation, admiring the untouched wilderness in all directions.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading down from HP1210M<\/strong>. HP1070M<\/strong> (L). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-17-23, 6:18 PM<\/em>, HP1070M <\/span><\/strong>– While still at close to the same elevation of most surrounding peaks, SPHP called a halt.<\/p>\n

Take a break, Loop.\u00a0 Just want to spend a few minutes appreciating where we are before we go on.<\/em><\/p>\n

And catch your breath, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, that too.<\/em><\/p>\n

Such a beautiful evening it turned out to be!\u00a0 Innumerable peaks along the spine of the Richardson Mountains marched away to the N.\u00a0 Back to the E, Mount Hare was lit up against a blue and white sky.<\/p>\n

We were there once, Looper, not so long ago.<\/em><\/p>\n

Mount Hare was fabulous, SPHP, but are we reminiscing already?\u00a0 It’s only been an hour!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, but why not, Loop?\u00a0 If only for a moment while it’s still so fresh, real, and in view, the way we’ll always want to remember Mount Hare.<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe looked carefully one last time, then sitting by the cairn, she closed her eyes as if meditating, committing it all to memory, every moment of hope and despair on the way to Mount Hare, and the wind-blown joy of actually being there.\u00a0 (End 7:50 PM)<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Hare<\/strong> from HP1070M<\/strong>, Richardson Mountains, Yukon Territory, Canada 8-17-23<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s GPS Track<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

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

The Dempster Highway Travelogue<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/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 25 & Day 26 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 8-16-23, 10:40 AM, 52\u00baF – It did seem a shame to leave the Land of the Pingos and the Arctic Ocean on the first sunny morning since Lupe had arrived, but her time in Tuktoyaktuk … Continue reading Mount Hare, Richardson Mountains, Yukon Territory, Canada (8-17-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":60263,"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":[105,30,106,1083,26,104,1752,1728,708],"class_list":["post-60272","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-hare","tag-richardson-mountains","tag-yukon"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_2372-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\/60272","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=60272"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/60272\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":62454,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/60272\/revisions\/62454"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/60263"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=60272"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=60272"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=60272"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}