The owners of Charles Mound (highpoint of Illinois) have announced the open access dates for 2009. They love Highpointers and welcome them on these dates (actually their dog does most of the welcoming), but due to certain circumstances they do not grant access on other dates. - John M.

June 6 & 7
July 4 & 5
August 1 & 2
September 5 & 6

My son and I are going to Charles Mound for July 4th.

So... when going should the "climbers" address the owners and make a point of thanking them for access? Or, should we be as unobtrusive as possible, peak bag and scamper off?

Is there a protocol here?

Please advise.

When we climbed Charles Mound the owners drove by in their car and seemed to ignore the numerous Highpointers in the area, but I have heard that they will stop and visit if in the yard near the HP. I sent them an email thanking them and also sent a nice thank you card with a mountain scene on it. The most important thing is to observe the access dates and to leave no trace and respect their privacy.

Jean & Wayne do not require you to contact them before visiting on the Open Access Dates, but they provide their phone number, if you feel like doing that. Refer to your annual directory for that number.

They love Highpointers and they very much enjoy our courteous visits and entertaining entries in the logbook. If you see them, feel free to wave and say hello. When I was there last, Wayne was on his riding mower and we had a nice chat.

Your concern about etiquette shows that you care and that you respect their wishes. Excellent. This is what gives Highpointers such a good reputation.

Note: As with many highpoint owners and managers, they read this forum occasionally.