{"id":60749,"date":"2025-03-17T08:10:04","date_gmt":"2025-03-17T14:10:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=60749"},"modified":"2025-03-23T12:36:21","modified_gmt":"2025-03-23T18:36:21","slug":"mount-chester-henderson-ogilvie-mountains-tombstone-territorial-park-yukon-territory-canada-8-20-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=60749","title":{"rendered":"Mount Chester Henderson, Ogilvie Mountains, Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory, Canada (8-20-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Part 2 of Day 28 & Day 29 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-19-23, 1:39 PM<\/em> – As always, the relaxing drive up the Engineer Creek valley, over Windy Pass, and thence up the Blackstone River valley had been gorgeous.<\/p>\n

We’re getting close to the N end of Tombstone Territorial Park<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, Looper.\u00a0 Want to stop at Chapman Lake, and get out for a sniff?<\/em><\/p>\n

Will we be able to see Distincta Peak<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Doubt it.\u00a0 We’re too far S already, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Too bad, SPHP.\u00a0 I’m always ready for a sniff, though!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Chapman Lake<\/strong> near the N end of Tombstone Territorial Park<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-19-23, 2:15 PM, Dempster Highway<\/strong><\/span><\/a> near km 96<\/em> – The Chapman Lake sniff had been a short one, just enough to stretch a bit and have a look around.\u00a0 Now at the lower section of a roomy two-tier pullout on the E side of the highway, Lupe was going to get to stay here longer, yet the Carolina Dog seemed content resting on her pink blanket in the RAV4.<\/p>\n

Just going to lie there waiting for lunch, Loop?\u00a0 If you get out, I’ll throw a ball for you.<\/em><\/p>\n

What’s on the menu, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Dinty Moore chicken and dumplings.\u00a0 Won’t take long to heat them up.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sounds good!\u00a0 Make sure you save plenty for me, SPHP.\u00a0 I’m famished!<\/em><\/p>\n

After lunch, Lupe did get out to have a look at the bubbling pond and chase a ball.\u00a0 SPHP did some cleaning and straightening up of the RAV4.\u00a0 More than 2 hours had flown by the time Lupe hit the road S again.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Play ball! Rule No. 1<\/strong> – the Dingo always wins. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
By the bubbling pond<\/strong>, a traditional stop. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

On the way to North Fork Pass, SPHP stopped for a look at the beautiful upper East Blackstone River.\u00a0 After going over the pass, Lupe escaped the RAV4 at a big pullout with a famous view.\u00a0 Far in the distance, beyond the upper end of the North Klondike River valley, the sharp spire of Tombstone Mountain<\/span><\/a> (7,192 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> touched the clouds.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Upper East Blackstone River<\/strong> from the Dempster Highway<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Tombstone Mountain<\/strong> (Center) beyond the North Klondike River valley<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Much closer, another mountain of more immediate interest was in sight.<\/p>\n

See that big ridge to the SE, Loopster?\u00a0 That’s your objective tomorrow, Mount Chester Henderson<\/span><\/a> (6,300 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em>, also known as Discovery Ridge!<\/em><\/p>\n

Awesome, SPHP!\u00a0 What’s that pointy peak to the L?<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s Mount Robert Henderson<\/span><\/a> (6,998 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

It’s clearly higher, SPHP.\u00a0 We ought to climb it, too!<\/em><\/p>\n

I’d love to, Loop!\u00a0 If we’ve got time, we’ll take a stab at it.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> (Center) aka Discovery Ridge<\/strong>. Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (L) from the Tombstone Mountain pullout<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-19-23, 5:15 PM, Tombstone Interpretive Centre, km 71.5<\/em> –<\/p>\n

That was quick, SPHP.\u00a0 What did you find out?<\/em><\/p>\n

About what I expected, Looper.\u00a0 We shouldn’t have dilly-dallied so much.\u00a0 The Interpretive Centre closed at 5:00 PM.\u00a0 Think we know what we need to do, though.\u00a0 I’m going to use one of the picnic tables to heat up some chili for dinner, then we’ll go see if we can find the Charcoal Ridge trail.<\/em><\/p>\n

Both dinner and the reconnaisance mission were successful.\u00a0 The trail was right where it was supposed to be, on the S side of Charcoal Creek, a little N of the Interpretive Centre, directly across from the campground.<\/p>\n

8-19-23, 8:59 PM<\/em> – A big pullout along the North Klondike River well S of the Interpretive Centre would do for the night.\u00a0 The evening sky was beautiful, raising great hopes for tomorrow.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Late evening at the pullout along the North Klondike River.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wow!\u00a0 I don’t think we’ve ever seen such wonderful weather in Tombstone Territorial Park before, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Believe you’re right, Loop.\u00a0 If tomorrow is anything like this, it’s going to be a fantastic day!\u00a0 We’re all set and well-positioned for it, too.\u00a0 We’ll hit the Charcoal Ridge trail bright and early.<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe we’ll make it to both Hendersons, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, I hope so, Looper.\u00a0 That would be above and beyond expectations.<\/em><\/p>\n

8-20-23, 7:57 AM, 46\u00baF, Tombstone Interpretive Centre, km 71.5 –<\/em> SPHP had already shared beef stew with Lupe, and had a vanilla Equate.\u00a0 Overcast this morning.\u00a0 Disappointing, but the clouds were high and light.\u00a0 Everything was ready, and the American Dingo was rarin’ to go.<\/p>\n

What’s the holdup, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t see my poles, Loop.\u00a0 Soon as I find them, we’ll be on our way.<\/em><\/p>\n

The poles weren’t in their usual spot.\u00a0 Where could they be?\u00a0 SPHP tore the back of the RAV4 apart.\u00a0 Nothing.<\/p>\n

Oh, my gosh!\u00a0 They aren’t here, Loop.\u00a0 The poles aren’t in the RAV4!<\/em><\/p>\n

Ridiculous, SPHP!\u00a0 You always bring them.\u00a0 Think back.\u00a0 Did you misplace them when you were cleaning the RAV4 at the bubbling pond?<\/em><\/p>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 No, I don’t remember seeing them there, Loopster, but I wasn’t looking for them, either.\u00a0 They were the last thing on my mind, since we weren’t going to use them there.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, come on!\u00a0 Where was the last place you remember having them, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

A logical and easy question to answer.\u00a0 It dawned on SPHP in a flash.<\/p>\n

Criminitly!\u00a0 Think I know where they are!\u00a0 Get in the RAV4, Looper.\u00a0 We’re heading back.<\/em><\/p>\n

Back where, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sapper Hill.<\/em><\/p>\n

What!\u00a0 You left them on the mountain, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

No.\u00a0 Not likely.\u00a0 You know how when we return from a trek, I often lean the poles up against the RAV4 before breaking them down and putting them in?\u00a0 Well, I bet I never did that.\u00a0 They were probably still leaning against the RAV4 yesterday when we just drove off and left them, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sapper Hill, that’s such a long way!\u00a0 How far back is that?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nearly 125 km one way, Loopster.\u00a0 So much for Robert Henderson today, maybe Chester, too!<\/em><\/p>\n

Even if you’re right, SPHP, someone may have found your poles and taken them by now.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah.\u00a0 Nothing we can do about that, Loop.\u00a0 I might have run over them backing out, too.\u00a0 We’ll see.<\/em><\/p>\n

A minute later, in an unexpected twist of fate, instead of setting out for Mount Chester Henderson, Lupe was back on her pink blanket in the RAV4 heading N.<\/p>\n

8-20-23, 10:27 AM, 56\u00baF<\/em> –\u00a0 Driving over the bridge over Engineer Creek, SPHP then turned R off the Dempster Highway into the parking area that had served as the trailhead for Sapper Hill<\/span><\/a> (3,084 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 Oh, joy!<\/p>\n

Luck of the Dingo!\u00a0 There they are, Loopster.\u00a0 My Leki poles!<\/em><\/p>\n

You didn’t run over them, either, SPHP.\u00a0 They look fine.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP ran out to grab the poles, put them in their customary place in the RAV4, and Lupe was on her way back S.<\/p>\n

8-20-23, 1:08 PM, 55\u00baF, Tombstone Interpretive Centre, km 71.5 – <\/em>SPHP parked the RAV4 at the empty overflow parking lot.<\/p>\n

We’ll stash the RAV4 here since we won’t be getting back until late, Loop.\u00a0 When I said we’d be getting an early start today, I never meant early in the afternoon, yet here we are.\u00a0 We’re still doing this today, right?<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe hopped out of the RAV4.\u00a0 The sky was more darkly overcast than it had been this morning.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Tombstone Interpretive Centre<\/strong> (L), Goldensides Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What’s the forecast for tomorrow, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

60% chance of rain, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

This looks good, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, kind of now or never, Looper.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

After heading over to the E side of the Dempster Highway, Lupe sniffed her way N in the ditch to Charcoal Creek.\u00a0 Picking up the trail along the S bank, the American Dingo followed it NE into a valley full of trees and tall bushes.\u00a0 Almost right away, a familiar sight was ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the Charcoal Creek Trail<\/strong>. Goldensides Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Goldensides Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,000 ft.<\/span><\/strong>)<\/span>!\u00a0 Remember being up there, Loop?<\/em><\/p>\n

Goldensides was a fun one, SPHP!\u00a0 The whole mountain lived up to its name that day!\u00a0 The fall colors were spectacular, and I really enjoyed the big scramble up the rocks on the S side of the mountain.<\/em><\/p>\n

Charcoal Creek was a small stream with decent flow.\u00a0 The trail never strayed far from it.\u00a0 Lupe came to many overgrown spots and large branches in the way along its banks, as well as some damp regions of soft, black mud.\u00a0 None of these obstacles were all that difficult to get by, although it was easy to see that some regions were prone to flooding.<\/p>\n

Off to the E, a hill was soon in sight.\u00a0 In order to reach the ridge leading to Mount Chester Henderson, Lupe was going to have to climb it.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
W end of the ridge<\/strong> (R) leading to Mount Chester Henderson. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
In a recently flooded region along Charcoal Creek<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After following Charcoal Creek for roughly 0.30 km, the trail veered off to the R, climbing a steep bank up into a region of tall bushes.\u00a0 The hill, which was the W end of Charcoal Ridge, was now directly E.<\/p>\n

Hopelessly lost down in a thickly overgrown jungle she couldn’t begin to see over, Lupe followed the often deeply rutted trail toward the hill.\u00a0 The trail was gooshy in many places, leaving SPHP trying to avoid frequent stretches of soft, slippery, black mud.\u00a0 Lupe had little choice but to plod right through them.<\/p>\n

Closing in on the base of the hill, the rate of climb increased.\u00a0 The bushes began getting shorter, allowing Lupe to finally catch glimpses what was ahead.\u00a0 The American Dingo soon reached a clearing that was very wet.\u00a0 Ripe blueberries were abundant in this region, slowing SPHP’s progress.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the W end of Charcoal Ridge<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the wet clearing<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe gained 200 feet of elevation before getting beyond the last of the wet regions, and more than twice that before the wild blueberries came to an end.\u00a0 The trail became very steep as it went directly up the hill.\u00a0 The bushes went on and on, SPHP sometimes using them for support.\u00a0 They didn’t start to thin out until the Carolina Dog had gained 800 feet of elevation.\u00a0 At this point, the trail began to switchback to some degree.<\/p>\n

By the time Lupe had gained 900 feet of elevation, she was in the alpine, above all the tall bushes on more open ground.\u00a0 Still lots of lower bushes around, but they were only a foot high.\u00a0 A mix of tundra and small scree completed the scene.\u00a0 The last 50 feet hadn’t been all that steep, but the big climb had been wearying.<\/p>\n

8-20-23, 2:55 PM, W end of Charcoal Ridge –<\/em> A couple of low hills capped by small rock outcroppings were now ahead.\u00a0 SPHP dropped the pack, and sat down on the tundra.<\/p>\n

Let’s take a short break, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe was happy to lie down next to SPHP.\u00a0 The views back to the W were already impressive.\u00a0 Way down in the North Klondike River valley, both the Tombstone Interpretive Centre and campground were clearly visible on the other side of the Dempster Highway.\u00a0 The bright blue RAV4, sitting alone in the overflow parking lot was easy to spot, too.\u00a0 Toward the SW, Peak 6246<\/span><\/strong>, a subpeak of Fold Mountain, towered above it all.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 6246<\/strong> (L). Tombstone Interpretive Centre<\/strong> (R of Center), campground<\/strong> (R), and Dempster Highway<\/strong> in the valley below. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Looks to me like we could climb Peak 6246<\/span><\/strong>, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

It does!\u00a0 Maybe someday we will, Loopster.\u00a0 I’ll try to remember to put it on your list of possibilities.<\/em><\/p>\n

Peak 7200<\/span><\/strong> and North Fork Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were also in view, over by the big bend where the North Klondike River sweeps down from its upper valley, where Lupe had seen Tombstone Mountain in the distance yesterday.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 7200<\/strong> (L of Center), North Fork Mountain<\/strong> (R). North Klondike River<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Plenty more to see from here.\u00a0 Goldensides Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was less than 3 km almost due N, and Lupe could see a long way S down the North Klondike River valley.\u00a0 However, the Carolina Dog still had a long way to go, and the fun, easy part of the journey was now ahead.\u00a0 After sharing beef jerky and water, Lupe was ready to move on.<\/p>\n

The first rocky rise to the E wasn’t far from the break spot.<\/p>\n

Might as well tag some of these high points along the way, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure!\u00a0 Go for it, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the first two high points<\/strong> (Center & R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The views from the first high point weren’t all that different.\u00a0 After a quick look, Lupe continued on to the second one.\u00a0 From here, she had an excellent view of Mount Chester Henderson<\/span><\/a> (6,300 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 The top of Mount Robert Henderson<\/span><\/a> (6,998 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was in sight, too.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Tombstone campground<\/strong> (L), Peak 7200<\/strong> (L of Center), North Klondike River<\/strong> (Center), North Fork Mountain<\/strong> (R) from the first high point<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the second high point<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
North Klondike River valley<\/strong> (Center) from the second high point<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> (Center), Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (L). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From this second high point, Lupe also had a better view of what was ahead.\u00a0 More hills were in sight along Charcoal Ridge, including HP5400<\/span><\/strong> at the far E end where Lupe would eventually turn SE toward Mount Chester Henderson.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Charcoal Ridge<\/strong> (L & Center) from the second high point<\/strong>. HP5400<\/strong> (R of Center) at the lower end of the ridge coming down from the R. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The third high point along Charcoal Ridge was bigger and farther away.\u00a0 The trail climbed NE toward it, eventually leveling out shortly before reaching a small cairn perched along a sharp edge.\u00a0 From this cairn, Blackcap Mountain<\/span> <\/a>(6,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was starting to come into view beyond Goldensides, and the upper regions of the Charcoal Creek valley were visible for the first time.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Blackcap Mountain<\/strong> (L), upper Charcoal Creek valley<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (L), Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> (R), Charcoal Ridge<\/strong> in the foreground. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The cairn wasn’t quite at the top of the third hill, but a little way from it.\u00a0 Going over to the high point, the view back to the W showed that Lupe had already gained substantial elevation since leaving the first two hills.\u00a0 Interesting, but what really mattered was what was ahead.\u00a0 Looking E, there were actually some dips along Charcoal Ridge on the way to HP<\/strong>5000<\/strong><\/span>, the fourth high point.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 6246<\/strong> (L), second high point<\/strong> (L of Center) below, first high point<\/strong> (beyond Lupe) way down near the W end of Charcoal Ridge<\/strong>, Peak 7200<\/strong> (R edge). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
HP5000<\/strong> (far L), Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (L), Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the American Dingo continued E along Charcoal Ridge, she hit all the high points.\u00a0 The trail was easy to follow and generally gained elevation, but with significant flat and downhill sections, too.\u00a0 The ridge narrowed as Lupe went along until it was only 10 feet wide, or even less in spots.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching HP5000<\/strong> (L of Center), Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A quick glance back from HP5000<\/strong>. Second high point<\/strong> (L) and third high point<\/strong> (Center) farther down the ridge. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Most of the time the trail ran right along the crest of the ridge.\u00a0 Beyond deep valleys on both sides, Lupe enjoyed increasingly spectacular views of Goldensides Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Blackcap Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> to the N, and Mount Chester Henderson<\/span><\/a> (6,300 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> to the SE.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Goldensides Mountain<\/strong> (L), Blackcap Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> aka Discovery Ridge<\/strong> from Charcoal Ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Heading for HP5400<\/strong> (L), Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (L of Center), Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Charcoal Ridge wasn’t scary or dangerous.\u00a0 Overall progress was as good as SPHP’s aerobic capacity would allow.\u00a0 Such a fun trek!\u00a0 Approaching the E end of the ridge, the trail curved SE, intersecting the ridge leading to Mount Chester Henderson without tagging HP5400<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Near a little knob<\/strong> on the way to HP5400<\/strong> (far L). Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (L), Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Skipping HP5400<\/span><\/strong> wasn’t going to do, though.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog had to visit this important point!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Peak 7200<\/strong> (L) and Goldensides Mountain<\/strong> (R) from HP5400<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-20-23, 4:49 PM, E end of Charcoal Ridge<\/em> – HP5400<\/span><\/strong> was a significant point along the journey.\u00a0 Lupe enjoyed new views here.\u00a0 Off to the NNE was a region of flat highlands and small mountains with higher peaks in the distance.\u00a0 One of the highest peaks was a real eye-catcher due to an unusual sawtooth summit ridge.<\/p>\n

What mountain is that, SPHP?\u00a0 It doesn’t look like any of the others.<\/em><\/p>\n

I have no idea, Loop.\u00a0 Might not even have a name since those peaks aren’t that close to the highway.<\/em><\/p>\n

An easily recognizable peak like that ought to have a name, SPHP.\u00a0 Plenty of people must have seen it from here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, what do you suggest, Loopster?\u00a0 And no, it can’t be Squirrel Peak or Dingo Mountain, or anything like that.<\/em><\/p>\n

How about Serrated Mountain, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, I like that, Looper.\u00a0 Fits, and it’s an unusual name.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Serrated Mountain<\/strong> (L) in the distance. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A more complete view of Mount Robert Henderson was also available from the HP5400<\/span><\/strong> region.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (Center) from the E end of Charcoal Ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> from HP5400<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The weather hadn’t changed much.\u00a0 Still overcast with a 10 mph breeze.\u00a0 Encouragingly, not a drop of rain so far.\u00a0 From HP5400<\/span><\/strong>, another ridge ran SE directly toward Mount Chester Henderson<\/span><\/a> (6,300 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.\u00a0 While this ridge was no problem, exactly how to get to the summit wasn’t clear at all.\u00a0 Horizontal bands of rock ran all along a very steep upper rim.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the ridge leading to Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I don’t know, Looper.\u00a0 Sure looks like a line of cliffs up there!<\/em><\/p>\n

The trail keeps going, SPHP.\u00a0 Why don’t we just follow it?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, that did seem like the obvious thing to do.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Looking back down the Charcoal Creek valley<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Near the end of the approach, the increasingly faint trail left the top of the SE ridge to skirt along the W side of a hill of scree.\u00a0 Once around this hill, Lupe lost 40 feet of elevation on the way down to a broad saddle of tundra.\u00a0 Another scree slope was now ahead with more tundra above it.\u00a0 Hundreds of feet higher, the line of cliffs along the upper rim of Mount Chester Henderson towered above all.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Skirting the scree hill<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Down at the tundra saddle<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So far, so good, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

True, but this is where it starts getting interesting, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

What was left of the trail clearly went right on up the scree slope ahead.\u00a0 Following it, Lupe reached the region of tundra above the scree.\u00a0 As the American Dingo kept climbing, she crossed little streams trickling down the increasingly steep slope.<\/p>\n

Lupe was at about 5,800 feet when a choice had to be made.\u00a0 Impassable cliffs were directly ahead.<\/p>\n

We either have to go E or W around these cliffs, Loop.\u00a0 Any ideas?<\/em><\/p>\n

E, SPHP.\u00a0 The trail was trending that way when I last had a scent.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, I kind of thought E looked best, too, from a distance, Looper, but can’t see that territory now that we’re on this slope.\u00a0 The tundra extends even higher over toward the W.\u00a0 Looks a little like there might be a route up above it.\u00a0 Hard to say without climbing way up there.<\/em><\/p>\n

Check your map, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

I already did, Loop.\u00a0 Definitely some easier territory over to the E toward Mount Robert Henderson, if we can get to it.\u00a0 Not sure if we can.<\/em><\/p>\n

I vote E, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

It’s unanimous then, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Angling ESE while still climbing, Lupe left the cohesive security of the tundra.\u00a0 Nothing but steep slopes of loose rock ahead.\u00a0 Surprisingly deep and steep ravines were sometimes negotiable, and sometimes forced the Carolina Dog higher.\u00a0 At 6,000 feet, the base of the cliffs was still quite a bit higher.\u00a0 They weren’t that big, but didn’t have any breaks that looked like reasonable routes through them.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the increasingly steep slopes<\/strong>. Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (L). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe kept angling ESE.\u00a0 The steep loose slopes went on and on.\u00a0 Still no decent breaks in the cliff line above, and the L shoulder of the mountain still wasn’t in sight.\u00a0 SPHP was getting impatient.\u00a0 This cautious traverse while rocks clattered down the mountain was chewing up a bunch of time.\u00a0 Eventually, Lupe wasn’t that far from the base of the cliffs.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Near the base of the cliffs<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The cliffs eventually began to shrink.\u00a0 Short chutes where it looked like it might be fairly easy to scramble above them appeared.<\/p>\n

Let’s head up here, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP soon regretted that decision.\u00a0 The cliffs bands were taller than they looked.\u00a0 Although there was some solid exposed bedrock, lots of the rock was rotten.\u00a0 The scramble got scary.\u00a0 It looked like there were plenty of pawholds, but big chunks that appeared well-anchored crumbled away and went crashing down the mountain.<\/p>\n

Halfway up a near vertical section, nothing was solid.\u00a0 It all wanted to move.\u00a0 Somehow Lupe scrambled up to a dangerous little shelf above and to the R of SPHP.\u00a0 The American Dingo stood there on the brink of destruction smiling down on SPHP like everything was cool.<\/p>\n

Stay put, Loop!\u00a0 Don’t move!\u00a0 Just stay right there!\u00a0 You’re in a terrible spot, and this whole chunk of the mountain I’m clinging to feels like it’s about to give way.\u00a0 If it starts to go, climb if you can, or you’ll go with me!<\/em><\/p>\n

Heart racing, very carefully and gently, oh so gently, testing everything, SPHP managed to creep above the worst spot.<\/p>\n

Didn’t listen to a word I said, did you, Looper?\u00a0 How did you get up there?<\/em><\/p>\n

Still smiling, Lupe was higher yet, still above SPHP, but now to the L.\u00a0 A sense of relief flooded in over SPHP.\u00a0 She was at a much better spot.\u00a0 The top appeared to be only a few feet above the Carolina Mountain Goat.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Scrambling to safety! Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

You’ve got it made now, Loop.\u00a0 Just go to the top!\u00a0 I’ll join you shortly.<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe vanished above the rim.\u00a0 Not the top.\u00a0 The cliff bands extended 40 or 50 feet higher.\u00a0 Fortunately, none were as steep, loose, or dangerous as what had already been negotiated.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Just below the top. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-20-23, 6:33 PM<\/em> – As the tilt of the cliff bands suggested, Lupe now stood on a gentle, tundra-covered slope above them, a grand panorama of an enormous valley before her with many ridges and mountains beyond it.\u00a0 The sky was no longer completely overcast, and regions of sunshine drifted over the scene.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The grand panorama<\/strong> above the cliffs. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This is the side of the mountain we should have come up, SPHP.\u00a0 So easy!<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe we’ll be going back this way, Loopster.\u00a0 We’re sure not descending the same way we just came up.\u00a0 C’mon, the summit’s in sight<\/em> off to the SW.\u00a0 Let’s get to the top of this beast!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for Mount Chester Henderson’s true summit<\/strong> (L). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The true summit was a hill of talus, both farther back from the cliff line and farther SW than SPHP expected.\u00a0 Descending 50 feet on tundra to minimize the amount talus Lupe would have to cross to get there, the rest of the trek was a gradual ascent along tundra-covered slopes.<\/p>\n

The summit hill proved to be an easy walkup.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Closing in on the true summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8-20-23, 6:53 PM, 46\u00baF, Mount Chester Henderson<\/a><\/span> (6,300 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> –\u00a0 In a chilly 15 mph SW breeze beneath a partly cloudy sky, Lupe stood on the highest rock of a true summit region roughly 25 feet in diameter.\u00a0 This area was about as flat as it could be covered by big rocks.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At Mount Chester Henderson’s true summit<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP shook Lupe’s paw.<\/p>\n

Congratulations, Loop!\u00a0 We made it!\u00a0 I must commend your fearlessness and tremendous scrambling skills.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, Ye of little faith!\u00a0 Was there ever any doubt, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

For a few minutes on those rotten cliffs, yes, I had serious doubts!<\/em><\/p>\n

All the more reason to celebrate with a chocolate coconut bar, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Certainly, but first, a look around.\u00a0 With so many clouds present, I don’t want to take a chance on the weather deteriorating and hiding everything.<\/em><\/p>\n

Mount Chester Henderson’s summit was an amazing place!\u00a0 Far to the WSW, Mount Frank Rae<\/span><\/a> (7,700 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Mount Monolith<\/span><\/a> (7,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>,<\/span> and even the tip of Tombstone Mountain<\/strong><\/span><\/a> (7,192 ft.)<\/strong><\/span> were all in sight, yet SPHP didn’t recognize them amid the gloom in that direction.<\/p>\n

4.5 km NW, very easily recognizable, the American Dingo looked down on Goldensides Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, a summit where she had once been.\u00a0 Blackcap Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was NE of Goldensides.\u00a0 Beyond these two, both Angelcomb Peak<\/span><\/a> (6,300 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Trapper Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,627 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were visible in the distance.\u00a0 Serrated Mountain was NNE.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Goldensides<\/strong> (Center), Angelcomb Peak<\/strong> (by Lupe’s ear), Trapper Mountain<\/strong> (R) above her back. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Serrated Mountain<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Zoomed in on Serrated Mountain<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The view of Mount Robert Henderson<\/span><\/a> (6,998 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, only 3 km back to the ENE, was both awesome and discouraging.<\/p>\n

Looks like could get pretty high, but realistically, I doubt Robert will ever be in the cards for us, Loopster.\u00a0 Appears beyond our capabilities.<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t give up so easy, SPHP.\u00a0 The back side might not be that bad.<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, maybe.\u00a0 The topo map seems to agree with you, Looper, but, in any case, we don’t have time to check it out today.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (R of Center). Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Countless more mountains were to the S, none of which SPHP had any clue about.\u00a0 Looking down Mount Chester Henderson’s long SW ridge, the North Klondike River valley was flanked on both sides by some of these mountains as the stream flowed away to its eventual rendezvous with the Yukon River at Dawson City.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
North Klondike River valley<\/strong> (L of Center), Mount Chester Henderson’s SW ridge<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Enough already, SPHP!\u00a0 How about that chocolate coconut bar?<\/em><\/p>\n

Fine!\u00a0 Chilly up here in the wind, anyway.\u00a0 Please stay just another minute or two, Loop, then I’ll call you down, and we’ll take a break.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Atop Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong>, waiting for the signal. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

That’s good, Loop!\u00a0 Come on down!<\/em><\/p>\n

8-20-23, 7:10 PM<\/em> – NE of the summit and 30 feet lower, Lupe rested on the tundra somewhat sheltered from the wind, enjoying a moment of sunshine until the next cloud would sweep by.\u00a0 SPHP shared not only a chocolate coconut bar, but beef jerky and water with the Carolina Dog, then let her polish off the rest of the Taste of the Wild.<\/p>\n

While Lupe crunched away, SPHP munched on the last of the trail mix.\u00a0 Back to the NE, much of the region above the cliffs Lupe had crossed on the way here was in view, also in sunshine.\u00a0 Mount Robert Henderson was in shadow, but overall, the sky seemed to be clearing somewhat.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Resting a little NE of the summit<\/strong>. Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Have you decided yet how were going to get down, SPHP?\u00a0 Are we going to explore the valley to the SE?\u00a0 Looks beautiful and easy.\u00a0 No cliffs that way!<\/em><\/p>\n

If we have to, we will, Loop.\u00a0 I checked the map.\u00a0 We wouldn’t have to ford the North Klondike River in order to get back to the Dempster Highway, but I’m afraid that once we got low enough, we’d wind up in an atrocious wilderness bushwhack.<\/em><\/p>\n

What else can we do, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

We’re going to go back the way we came, Loopster, but farther E toward Mount Robert Henderson.\u00a0 I want to see if we can just go around the E end of the cliffs, and still get back to the Charcoal Ridge Trail.<\/em><\/p>\n

The views were magnificent.\u00a0 The time flew.\u00a0 Too bad about the fiasco with the poles.\u00a0 Lupe should have had hours to roam around exploring up here.\u00a0 However, as things stood, the sun was sinking, and it was a long way back.<\/p>\n

45 minutes after arriving, Lupe returned to the summit.\u00a0 The chill SW breeze was still blowing, but it was sunnier now.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Back at the summit<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

One more look, and we better go, Loop.\u00a0 If we end up bushwhacking, I don’t want to be doing it in the dark.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Looking S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was all so beautiful!\u00a0 The most meaningful view, though, was to the NW where at least two peaks Lupe had been to years ago were in sight, Goldensides Mountain<\/span><\/a> (6,000 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Angelcomb Peak<\/span><\/a> (6,300 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

That ridge in the distance, is that Surfbird Mountain<\/span><\/a> (5,300 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe, but it’s too far away, Loop.\u00a0 I can’t tell for sure.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Goldensides Mountain<\/strong> (L), Angelcomb Peak<\/strong> (Center), Blackcap Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center), Trapper Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In the end, going farther ENE toward Mount Robert Henderson worked.\u00a0 Lupe avoided the cliffs, forced only to make a longer traverse along the steep loose slopes below them before rejoining the Charcoal Ridge Trail.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Contemplating Mount Robert Henderson<\/strong> (R) before heading over the edge and off to the L. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sun was still up, and virtually all of Charcoal Ridge was in view as Lupe headed back to HP5400<\/span><\/strong> where she would turn W and follow it.\u00a0 And then, the strangest thing happened.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Returning to Charcoal Ridge<\/strong> (foreground). Peak 7200<\/strong> (L), Goldensides Mountain<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Approaching HP5400<\/strong> (Center). Goldensides Mountain<\/strong> (L), Blackcap Mountain<\/strong> (R), with Angelcomb<\/strong> Peak<\/strong> between them. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Without the least warning, or any precedent for it, the Carolina Dog was suddenly seized by a powerful sneezing fit.<\/p>\n

What’s wrong, Loopster?\u00a0 Did you sniff something that got stuck in your nose?\u00a0 Come, let me take a look.<\/em><\/p>\n

Lupe cooperated with an examination.<\/p>\n

ACHOOO!\u00a0 Do you see anything in my nose, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

No.\u00a0 I don’t, but then it’s a long nose, and I can’t see far up it at all, Loop.\u00a0 Does it feel like you’ve got something stuck in there, or do you suddenly have allergies?<\/em><\/p>\n

ACHOOO!\u00a0 I don’t know, SPHP.\u00a0 What are .. ACHOOO, allergies?\u00a0 ACHOOO, ACHOOO!<\/em><\/p>\n

An instant onset of a formerly unknown allergy seemed unlikely, but SPHP had no way of seeing, much less removing, whatever had flown up the American Dingo’s nose.\u00a0 No amount of sneezing, no matter how Dingo-shaking seemed capable of dislodging the culprit, either.<\/p>\n

Lupe shook her head violently after each mighty ACHOOO to no effect, which surely must have detracted from her enjoyment of the gorgeous trek down Charcoal Ridge.\u00a0 (End, 11:20 PM, 49\u00baF)<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the true summit<\/strong> of Mount Chester Henderson<\/strong> aka Discovery Ridge<\/strong>, Ogilvie Mountains, Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory, Canada 8-20-23<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s GPS Track<\/strong> (ascent only)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

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

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

Tombstone Territorial Park<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Tombstone Territorial Park Map<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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

Goldensides, Ogilvie Range, Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory, Canada (9-5-17)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Angelcomb Peak, Tombstone Territorial Park & the Midnight Dome, Dawson City, Yukon Territory, Canada (8-23-18)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Surfbird Mountain, Ogilvie Range, Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory, Canada (9-4-17)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

On the Grizzly Ridge Trail to Grizzly Lake & Views of Mount Monolith, Tombstone Territorial Park, Canada (9-6-17)<\/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 28 & Day 29 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 8-19-23, 1:39 PM – As always, the relaxing drive up the Engineer Creek valley, over Windy Pass, and thence up the Blackstone River valley had been gorgeous. We’re getting close to the N end of … Continue reading Mount Chester Henderson, Ogilvie Mountains, Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory, Canada (8-20-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":60735,"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":[105,30,106,1757,26,1756,104,1755,1086,964,774],"class_list":["post-60749","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1659","tag-american-dingo","tag-canada","tag-carolina-dog","tag-charcoal-creek-trail","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-discovery-ridge","tag-lupe","tag-mount-chester-henderson","tag-ogilvie-mountains","tag-tombstone-territorial-park","tag-yukon-territory"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_2490-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\/60749","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=60749"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/60749\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":63239,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/60749\/revisions\/63239"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/60735"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=60749"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=60749"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=60749"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}