Richardson Mountains, Traverse. In August, we completed the traverse of the Richardson Mountains above the 68th parallel. Peak 5,550' at the western rim of the mesa highlands was our mountaineering focal point. Our route proceeds from the Mackenzie River southeast of Mt. Gifford to the Bell River headwaters and across the western perimeter ridge to Bonnet Lake above the Porcupine Flats. Dioramic displays of tundra wildlife were witnessed, with wolves and grizzlies in extraordinary abundance. An impressive natural arch was found and explored above the Almstrom headwaters.

Dennis Schmitt