{"id":63234,"date":"2025-05-04T08:10:55","date_gmt":"2025-05-04T14:10:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=63234"},"modified":"2025-05-28T08:21:57","modified_gmt":"2025-05-28T14:21:57","slug":"black-hills-sd-expedition-no-342-peak-5508-crow-peak-3-13-25","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=63234","title":{"rendered":"Black Hills, SD Expedition No. 342 – Peak 5508 & Crow Peak (3-13-25)"},"content":{"rendered":"

10:04 AM, 52\u00baF, junction of Maitland Road & USFS Road No. 195.2A<\/em> – Last nice day of 4 or 5 unseasonably warm ones in a row in the Black Hills.\u00a0 Lupe was excited when she leapt out of the RAV4.<\/p>\n

We’ve been here before, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, you remember!\u00a0 Yes, back on Expedition No. 308<\/a><\/span><\/strong>, we climbed Peak<\/span> 5240<\/span><\/a><\/strong> and visited Tetro Rock<\/span><\/a> (5,546 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> from here, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

So, what’s the plan today, SPHP?\u00a0 Or is it a surprise?<\/em><\/p>\n

No deep, dark secret, Loopster.\u00a0 We’re here to climb the mountain right across Maitland Road.\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Does it have a name, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nope.\u00a0 Just Peak<\/span> 5508<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 It’s one of these new Lidar Data Set<\/strong><\/span><\/a> peaks with just a smidgen over 300 feet of prominence, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

Last time out, we finally had success at Peak<\/span> 5727<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, SPHP.\u00a0 Maybe this Lidar peak will work, too?<\/em><\/p>\n

I believe it will, Loop.\u00a0 It’s just a 1,000+ foot trudge higher from here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Let’s get at it then, SPHP.\u00a0 Which way?<\/em><\/p>\n

See that bridge along Maitland Road over False Bottom Creek, Loopster?\u00a0 Head that way!<\/em><\/p>\n

The bridge was only 150 feet away.\u00a0 Trotting over to it, Lupe didn’t even need this bridge.\u00a0 False Bottom Creek was bone dry.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Near the Maitland Road bridge<\/strong> (Center) over False Bottom Creek<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 Peak 5508 looks mighty steep here, Loop.\u00a0 Let’s follow the creek bed downstream a little way.<\/em><\/p>\n

Venturing N, the Carolina Dog didn’t get very far.\u00a0 The creek bed was rough, rocky, and partially blocked by deadfall and bushes.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Down in the False Bottom Creek drainage<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I don’t know about this, SPHP.\u00a0 How far downstream do we need to go?<\/em><\/p>\n

This really isn’t working out like I thought it would, Sweet Puppy.\u00a0 Forget the creek.\u00a0 Let’s try to climb out of here.<\/em><\/p>\n

The W bank of False Bottom Creek was very steep.\u00a0 Covered with bushes and loose pine needles, even Lupe was having trouble powering higher.\u00a0 Clinging to trees, SPHP barely managed to reach a less daunting slope.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Leading the way through a tangle of small bushes. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On a more reasonable slope. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing W, the climb remained fairly steep, but not nearly as bad as the initial scramble escaping False Bottom Creek.\u00a0 After gaining 150 feet of elevation, Lupe reached a reprieve, a nice flat stretch along a power line right-of-way.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the power line right-of-way<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Nice!\u00a0 At least this part will be easy, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP stood there panting hard for a couple of minutes.<\/p>\n

Not really.\u00a0 We just cross this service road, and keep climbing, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Up again, rather steeply, but at least it wasn’t far to a heavily-forested level region.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Continuing higher. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
In the flat forest<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Dare I say it?\u00a0 This looks better again, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

You haven’t jinxed us, Looper.\u00a0 The topo map does show a fairly nice level stretch along in here.\u00a0 Enjoy it while it lasts, though!<\/em><\/p>\n

Sure enough, heading SW now, it all went well for a little way before the terrain began to slope higher.\u00a0 Got pretty steep again near some rock outcroppings, yet the American Dingo had no problem scrambling above them.\u00a0 A stretch of gently sloping forest littered with deadfall was ahead.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Starting to climb again. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Above the biggest rock outcropping. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Exploring the next easy stretch. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Most of the deadfall was small.\u00a0 Following a broad ridge, picking a way through it wasn’t all that difficult.\u00a0 As Lupe kept gaining elevation, more and more snow was visible in a valley to the NW.\u00a0 Soon it was spreading across the ridge the Carolina Dog was on.<\/p>\n

A little snow is a good thing, SPHP!\u00a0 I like it!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the first significant snow<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe chomped mouthfuls of the cold, white stuff.\u00a0 The snow got deeper.\u00a0 By the time a bluff appeared ahead, the snow was much deeper.\u00a0 While it generally supported the Dingo’s weight, SPHP was having quite a time post-holing with every step.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the bluff<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The gentlest slope leading to the top of the bluff was toward the W.<\/p>\n

Not sure I’d go that way, SPHP.\u00a0 We’ll be crossing a N slope to get there.\u00a0 The snow will be really deep.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yeah, but it’s not that far to where we ought to be able to climb out of it, Loop.\u00a0 Besides, I’m not so sure we can get up above that bluff from the E.<\/em><\/p>\n

Beneath a sunny sky, the snow was warming up fast.\u00a0 Going W turned into a ridiculous struggle.\u00a0 The snow was nearly 3 feet deep and full of unseen deadfall.\u00a0 Often breaking through the rapidly softening crust, Lupe thrashed around neck deep in snow.\u00a0 Repeatedly trapped by the hidden deadfall, SPHP could barely move.<\/p>\n

The American Dingo managed to extract herself.\u00a0 Exhausted, she settled down on the unreliable crust.<\/p>\n

You OK, Loopster?\u00a0 Your paw is bleeding!<\/em><\/p>\n

Who knows, SPHP?\u00a0 It’s frozen, I don’t feel a thing!<\/em><\/p>\n

Sheesh!\u00a0 60\u00baF, and it’s like our own private little Donner party<\/strong><\/a><\/span>, Looper.\u00a0 I’m freezing, too, stuck here between the snow and the deadfall.\u00a0 Whose idea was this, anyway?<\/em><\/p>\n

Got a mirror, SPHP?\u00a0 Try consulting it.<\/em><\/p>\n

Off-balance and half-frozen, SPHP snapped a photo of Lupe’s Donner party moment.\u00a0 The struggle went on.\u00a0 This slope was steeper than it looked.\u00a0 Plowing uphill through the snow, post-holing with every step wasn’t easy, especially with paws constantly getting hung up amid the buried deadfall.\u00a0 It took nearly 40 minutes to escape, and get up onto that dang little bluff.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Finally on the snow-free top of the bluff<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Is your paw badly frozen, Loopster?\u00a0 Let me feel it.<\/em><\/p>\n

See for yourself, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Stretching out her poor, frozen paw tinged with blood, Lupe let SPHP hold it.<\/p>\n

Frozen!\u00a0 This paw is like an oven!\u00a0 I should be so lucky!<\/em><\/p>\n

Dingoes have excellent circulation, SPHP.\u00a0 How did my Donner party photo turn out?<\/em><\/p>\n

SPHP checked the iPhone.<\/p>\n

Dingo feathers!\u00a0 My finger was in the way, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, shoot!\u00a0 Can you see me at all in the photo, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 Spot of blood on your paw and everything, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

Then keep it, SPHP.\u00a0 You can still use it.<\/em><\/p>\n

Really?\u00a0 My finger looks idiotic, like I have no idea what I’m doing, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, a documentary!\u00a0 Even better, SPHP.\u00a0 Go ahead and use it.\u00a0 I’m sure not going to reenact it for you.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s Peak 5508 Donner party moment<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From the top of the bluff, less than 200 feet of elevation gain remained to reach Peak 5508’s summit.\u00a0 Gaining half of it on a relatively short romp SW, Lupe turned S along Peak 5508’s E rim.<\/p>\n

So far, only a few badly tree-broken distant views had been seen during the entire ascent, but along the E rim, several glimpses between the trees were at least somewhat better.\u00a0 Tetro Rock<\/span><\/a> (5,546 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was the first easily recognizable point.\u00a0 On the opposite side of the deep False Bottom Creek canyon, Tetro Rock didn’t really look like a prominent rock at all.\u00a0 From here, it was just another forested hill.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Along Peak 5508’s E rim<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Tetro Rock<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Having gained the vast majority of the elevation required, Lupe began her search for Peak 5508’s summit on much more gently sloping terrain.\u00a0 Except near the E edge, 4″ to 6″ of snow covered this flatter region.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Keeping cool on Peak 5508<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A second view of Tetro Rock appeared across the False Bottom Creek canyon.\u00a0 This time, Mount Theodore Roosevelt<\/span><\/a> (5,682 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was in sight beyond it.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Mount Theodore Roosevelt<\/strong> (L), Tetro Rock<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lupe was about as far S as the high ground went, but the mountain still rose toward the W.\u00a0 Heading that way, the American Dingo quickly came to a couple of rock formations that initially appeared to be true summit candidates.\u00a0 Both were a complete mess, covered with large deadfall.<\/p>\n

Continuing W beyond these rock formations, the forest contained less deadfall.\u00a0 Moderately higher ground soon became visible ahead.<\/p>\n

We’re getting close, Loopster!\u00a0 Can’t be much farther now.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching Peak 5508’s true summit<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

12:50 PM, 58\u00baF, Peak<\/span> 5508<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/em> – Lupe stood calmly on a rough, 50 foot long, rocky ridge protruding 10 feet above the surrounding forest.\u00a0 SPHP lifted the Carolina Dog a few feet so her front paws could tag the top of a fin of rock too narrow for her to stand on.<\/p>\n

Congratulations, Loopster!\u00a0 Another successful Lidar peak ascent!<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, yes, lovely, SPHP.\u00a0 Thanks for the boost.\u00a0 Now put me down, please!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the Peak 5508 summit ridge<\/strong>. True summit rock<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Scrambling around on the Peak 5508 summit ridge, a glimpse of snowy territory W of Burno Gulch was the only view.\u00a0 Pines hid everything else.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Exploring the summit ridge<\/strong>. High ground beyond Bruno Gulch<\/strong> (far R.) Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

These Lidar peaks aren’t much for views, are they, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

The ones we can’t get to the top of have splendid views, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

A fat lot of good that does us, SPHP.\u00a0 Say, did you happen to bring along a chocolate coconut bar?<\/em><\/p>\n

Two of them, Looper!<\/em><\/p>\n

Leaving the summit ridge, which was as lacking in comfort every bit as much as views, Lupe retreated to a better spot down in the forest.\u00a0 She enjoyed a glimpse of Spearfish Peak<\/span><\/a> (5,798 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> 1.5 miles NW, but it was nothing to write home about.\u00a0 The chocolate coconut bar SPHP split with the American Dingo was far more interesting.<\/p>\n

Want any water or Taste of the Wild, Loopster?<\/em><\/p>\n

I thought you said you brought 2 chocolate coconut bars, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

I did.\u00a0 Saving the last one for the next peak we climb, Sweet-Tooth Puppy.<\/em><\/p>\n

Are there more Lidar peaks around here, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

None nearby that we haven’t been to before Lidar was even a thing, Loop.\u00a0 I’d been thinking that we might continue on to Spearfish Peak, but with as much snow as there is around, and how steep getting down into and back out of Bruno Gulch would be, I’ve had a change of heart.<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh?\u00a0 So what mysterious next peak do you have in mind then, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Crow Peak<\/span><\/a> (5,781 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> W of Spearfish, Looper.\u00a0 A bit of a drive, but I think we’ve got enough time to get there and climb it before dark.\u00a0 Another long uphill grind, but at a much easier pace.<\/em><\/p>\n

And there’s a trail that goes all the way to the top, SPHP!\u00a0 I like it!\u00a0 We haven’t been to Crow Peak in ages.<\/em><\/p>\n

Great!\u00a0 Let’s finish up here then, Looper, and head back to the RAV4.<\/em><\/p>\n

First accepting some Taste of the Wild, nearly 40 minutes after arriving, Lupe returned to the Peak 5508 summit ridge.<\/p>\n

How’s this for a final dramatic shot, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Terrific!\u00a0 About as good as it’s going to get here, Loopster.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Final moments atop Peak 5508<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Retracing her Peak 5508 ascent route, Lupe’s descent was a breeze.\u00a0 So much faster and easier going downhill!\u00a0 (End 2:55 PM, 64\u00baF)<\/em><\/p>\n

3:41 PM, 61\u00baF, Higgins Gulch<\/em> – Crusty snow and ice crunched beneath the RAV4’s tires as SPHP pulled into the Crow Peak trailhead parking lot.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A small part of the Crow Peak trailhead<\/strong> in Higgins Gulch<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sun is already sinking, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

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

Passing through a metal gate in a wood rail fence, trail information was posted just a short distance into the forest.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
By the Crow Peak trail information display<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Posted trail map and description<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Crow Peak trail started out winding SW.\u00a0 Despite a gradual rate of climb, this first section was slow due to ice and mud.\u00a0 Progress improved greatly once Lupe got around to S-facing slopes where the trail was dry.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
An icy start<\/strong> along the Crow Peak Trail<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
On the first dry stretch<\/strong>. Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Even though most of the trail was easy, even including some fairly long flat sections, there were steeper areas where SPHP frequently paused.<\/p>\n

We need to keep going, SPHP, if we want to reach the summit before dark.<\/em><\/p>\n

I know, Loop.\u00a0 Just give me a minute.\u00a0 Peak 5508 took more out of me than I thought.<\/em><\/p>\n

The Crow Peak trail began curving W, but with significant forays in other directions, too.\u00a0 First came a climb NNE, followed a little later on by two short stints N.\u00a0 During the second one, big rock formations were visible hundreds of feet above.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Along an almost level section<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the first turn N<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Second turn N<\/strong>. Photo look N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After the second turn N, the Crow Peak trail began climbing SW.\u00a0 Until now, the forest usually hadn’t been all that dense.\u00a0 In fact, part of it had burned years ago.\u00a0 As a result, there’d been some views of the hills and ridges to the S and W.\u00a0 However, Lupe now entered a forest thick enough to hide all views.\u00a0 The trail turned NW for a while, eventually curving E around the end of a hill.<\/p>\n

Heading E, the trail leveled out.\u00a0 A sign saying “Crow Peak summit 1.8” appeared almost immediately after another curve N.\u00a0 At this sign, a faint trail on the L disappeared into the forest.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
At the “Crow Peak summit 1.8” sign<\/strong> and trail junction<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Wonder where this spur goes, SPHP?\u00a0 We’ve never explored it before.<\/em><\/p>\n

I always used to wonder about that, too, Loopster.\u00a0 The map posted at the trailhead says this spur trail goes 0.5 mile to Beaver Ridge.<\/em><\/p>\n

What’s at Beaver Ridge, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Heh.\u00a0 No telling, Looper.\u00a0 Beavers?\u00a0 Seems unlikely.\u00a0 In any case, we don’t have time to check it out today.\u00a0 Onward!<\/em><\/p>\n

Climbing steadily again, the Crow Peak trail ran NNW.\u00a0 A ridge capped by some big rock formations soon appeared off to the L.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
The ridge off to the L<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I remember that ridge, SPHP!\u00a0 We climbed it once, didn’t we?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes, I believe so, Loopster.\u00a0 A long time ago.<\/em><\/p>\n

Unfortunately, no time to make that a tradition.\u00a0 Lupe went on.\u00a0 After passing the N end of the ridge, the Crow Peak trail began making long switchbacks higher, working its way E.\u00a0 Rocky stretches appeared where there were no trees.\u00a0 For the first time, the Carolina Dog now had some distant views.<\/p>\n

Wow!\u00a0 We can see clear into Wyoming, SPHP!\u00a0 The high point of that long ridge must be Warren Peaks<\/span><\/a> (6,661 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s right, Loop.\u00a0 The small peak is Sundance Mountain<\/span><\/a> (5,832 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On the first significant rocky stretch<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Sundance Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Warren Peaks<\/strong> (R) on the horizon. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing up the switchbacks, the American Dingo soon enjoyed other views, as well.\u00a0 Far to the SW, Cement Ridge<\/span><\/a> (6,669 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was discernable on the horizon beyond many other hills.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Cement Ridge<\/strong> (L) on the far horizon. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The switchbacks ended at a sharp turn E.\u00a0 Now on a N slope where a shattered forest stood, suddenly the trail ahead was covered with snow.\u00a0 Crow Peak’s summit ridge was in view beyond it.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Crow Peak’s summit<\/strong> (R). Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We’re almost there, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Won’t be long now, Looper!<\/em><\/p>\n

Took longer than it looked like it should have.\u00a0 SPHP exercised caution on the slippery slope, poles providing invaluable assistance.\u00a0 Once over to the base of the summit region, the trail made one more long foray N.\u00a0 This entire region was the best and most beautiful part of the trail.\u00a0 If it took a little while, so what?<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Along the base of the summit ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
A quick glance back. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Near the end of the push N, a big rock formation appeared ahead.\u00a0 The trail headed straight for it, then promptly ran into an 8 foot tall wall of solid rock immediately to the R of the rock formation.\u00a0 A dead end?\u00a0 No!\u00a0 Lupe had been here before.\u00a0 A quick scramble to the top of this wall was all that was required to get to where the trail continued beyond it.<\/p>\n

Dingo’s play!\u00a0 Really nothing to it, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Approaching the big rock formation<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the little rock wall scramble<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Another 5 minutes, and the Crow Peak trail curved up onto the N end of the Crow Peak summit ridge.\u00a0 All Lupe had to do now was follow it S.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Near the N end of the summit ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Big snowdrifts still clung to the upper E side of the Crow Peak summit ridge.\u00a0 Even most of the trail on top of the ridge was buried under deep snow.\u00a0 However, staying along the largely snow-free W slope, Lupe had little trouble on her journey S.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading S. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Carolina Dog didn’t have much farther to go when she ventured up onto the summit ridge at a snow-free spot.\u00a0 Several boulders provided excellent perches from which to survey spectacular views N far out onto the prairies of western South Dakota.\u00a0 What little remained of the ascent and a view of Terry Peak<\/span><\/a> (7,069 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were in the opposite direction.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
A sweeping view of the prairies from Crow Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Terry Peak<\/strong> (L) on the horizon. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Fantastic views, SPHP!\u00a0 Let’s finish this!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Heading for the summit<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6:25 PM, 55\u00baF, Crow Peak<\/span><\/a> (5,781 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – Basking in the glow of a rapidly sinking sun, a big Ponderosa pine stood at the very top of the mountain.\u00a0 Beyond gleaming white snowdrifts and that pine, Lupe could already see a weather-beaten old sign she had first stood next to nearly 10 years ago.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Crow Peak summit<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The best view of Terry Peak is over there.\u00a0 C’mon, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Terry Peak<\/strong> (Center) from Crow Peak<\/strong>. Photo looks SSE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I’m glad you thought of Crow Peak, SPHP.\u00a0 What an awesome view!\u00a0 How long has it been since the last time we were here?<\/em><\/p>\n

Nearly 6 years, Looper.<\/em><\/p>\n

Way too long, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

No argument there!\u00a0 SPHP shook Lupe’s paw, congratulating her on this long overdue third ascent.\u00a0 Returning to the big pine at the true summit, Lupe and SPHP were both ready for a long break.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Admiring the prairie view<\/strong> (R) on the way back to the big pine<\/strong> (far L). Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Relaxing on Crow Peak<\/strong>. Lookout Peak<\/strong> (R) just beyond Spearfish<\/strong>. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A 10 mph breeze was coming out of the W, and the day was cooling off fast as Lupe relaxed on a layer of pine needles between the rocks.\u00a0 SPHP provided first water, then Taste of the Wild in her silver bowl, and even added a couple of bacon and cheese flavor Canine Carryouts.<\/p>\n

Thanks, SPHP.\u00a0 Very tasty!\u00a0 But you do realize that I haven’t forgotten about that second chocolate coconut bar, right?<\/em><\/p>\n

You’ve got a mind like a steel chocolate coconut bar trap, Loopster.\u00a0 Hang on.\u00a0 You earned it.<\/em><\/p>\n

After splitting the last chocolate coconut bar with the insistent Carolina Dog, SPHP sat munching an apple.\u00a0 For a while, hopes were entertained for a colorful sunset, but the sun ultimately sank into a bank of clouds on the W horizon and was gone.\u00a0 Not even a hint of a rosy display.<\/p>\n

Shucks.\u00a0 And we were so well-positioned for a spectacular end, too, Loop.<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s the way the chocolate coconut bar crumbles, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

With the sun down, the light would soon be fading fast.\u00a0 Lupe revisited both ends of Crow Peak’s upper summit ridge for another look.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Upper summit ridge<\/strong> from the big pine. Terry Peak<\/strong> (L) in the distance. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Terry Peak<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks SSE with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
At the N end of the upper section of the summit ridge<\/strong>. Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As her traditional summit hour began coming to an end, Lupe returned to the pine needles below the big pine, watching the lights of Spearfish starting to glow off to the ENE.\u00a0 Lookout Peak<\/span><\/a> (4,483 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was in sight just beyond the heart of the city.\u00a0 More directly E, and quite a bit farther away, Bear Butte<\/span><\/a> (4,431 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was still visible, looming on the horizon amid the growing gloom.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Lights of Spearfish<\/strong> from Crow Peak<\/strong>. Lookout Peak<\/strong> (R of Center), Bear Butte<\/strong> (R) on the horizon. Photo looks ENE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7:29 PM, Crow Peak<\/em> – Standing up, SPHP hoisted the pack after digging the little flashlight out of it.<\/p>\n

Summit hour’s over, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sadly, come and gone, Loopster.\u00a0 Just like us!\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 Puppy, ho!<\/em><\/p>\n

Heading N down the now firmer snow drifts already partially packed by other paws, Lupe paused for a final look once she reached the viewpoint with the big boulders.\u00a0 The lights of Spearfish were brighter than ever, a trend no doubt destined to continue as dusk turned to night.<\/p>\n

Can the iPhone still see me, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Yes.\u00a0 Barely.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Spearfish at dusk<\/strong>. Photo looks ENE with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Nearly all downhill, the dark, winding return was fun.\u00a0 By the time a tired American Dingo reached the RAV4 in Higgins Gulch, a few silver stars were shining between the clouds overhead.\u00a0 (9:23 PM, 37\u00baF)<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
On Crow Peak<\/strong>, Black Hills of South Dakota, 3-13-25<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s Peak 5508 GPS Track<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"\"<\/a>
Lupe’s Crow Peak GPS Track<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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

Next Black Hills Expedition<\/span><\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Prior Black Hills Expedition<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Lupe’s Scrollable Peak 5508 GPS Track & Ascent Statistics<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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

Black Hills, SD Expedition No. 170 – Kirk Hill, Tetro Rock & Custer Peak (5-1-16)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Black Hills, SD Expedition No. 217 – Peak 4400, Peak 4420 & Lookout Peak (11-26-17)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Want more Lupe adventures?\u00a0 Choose from Lupe’s Black Hills, SD & WY\u00a0Expeditions\u00a0Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a>, <\/em>Master Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/a>, or subscribe free to new Lupe adventures<\/span><\/strong><\/a>!<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

10:04 AM, 52\u00baF, junction of Maitland Road & USFS Road No. 195.2A – Last nice day of 4 or 5 unseasonably warm ones in a row in the Black Hills.\u00a0 Lupe was excited when she leapt out of the RAV4. We’ve been here before, SPHP! Oh, you remember!\u00a0 Yes, back on Expedition No. 308, we … Continue reading Black Hills, SD Expedition No. 342 – Peak 5508 & Crow Peak (3-13-25)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":63224,"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":[6],"tags":[105,9,106,63,104,1775,304],"class_list":["post-63234","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-black-hills","tag-american-dingo","tag-black-hills-expeditions","tag-carolina-dog","tag-crow-peak","tag-lupe","tag-peak-5508","tag-south-dakota"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/IMG_7380-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\/63234","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=63234"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63234\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":64823,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63234\/revisions\/64823"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/63224"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=63234"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=63234"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=63234"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}