Kendrick Mountain Trail

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Features Birding · Fall Colors · Historical Significance · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Kendrick Mountain (also known as Kendrick Peak or Mount Kendrick) is Northern Arizona's second-tallest behind the San Francisco Peaks. From its 10,418-foot summit you can see all the other mountains in the area and to the Grand Canyon in the north. In fact, you can see the Grand Canyon even better from here than from Humphrey's Peak. Kendrick's summit is topped with a fire tower, which is manned all summer and normally not open to the public. Next to the tower is a concrete helipad which doubles as a nice viewing platform for hikers.

Except for a little rolling terrain right at the beginning, the trail is all uphill. On a sunny day, expect it to be hot. There is no water at the trailhead or anywhere along the trail, so come prepared. There is a pit toilet and a sign kiosk at the trailhead but no other amenities.

Kendrick Mountain Trail (#22) makes a steady, switchbacking climb through many forest types, from a starting point around 7,000 feet elevation to the very top of Kendrick Peak at 10,418 feet. The hike goes through some burned areas that grant some big views, making it very clear how far you've climbed as you go along. There are also stretches of thicker forest that provide shade.

You'll know you're nearing the top when you enter a broad meadow and see an old building. This is the historic lookout cabin, built in 1912. It's on the National Register of Historic Places, and was narrowly saved by firefighters during a large wildfire in 2000.

After crossing the meadow, the final stretch to the summit is especially steep and rocky, but it's relatively short. Once on top, you can walk around the base of the fire tower to find the concrete pad. This is the perfect place to stretch out, have a snack, and take in the surroundings.

Summer haze may obscure the Grand Canyon, but on a clear day you can make out many cliff bands of the North Rim and see the topography of the Kaibab Plateau beyond. Come in the fall for the clearest air, most comfortable hiking weather, and beautiful colors.

You'll begin from ponderosa pine forest at the bottom, then go up through oak and aspen, and finally into subalpine spruce and fir at the upper elevations.