Kendrick Peak | Kendrick Mountain
Kendrick Peak, a prominent mountain located in the state of Arizona, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Situated in the picturesque San Francisco Peaks volcanic field, Kendrick Peak boasts an impressive elevation of 10,425 feet, making it the twelfth highest summit in Arizona. This geological marvel is nestled within the Coconino National Forest and Kaibab National Forest boundaries, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The adventure to Kendrick Peak begins with a hike through one of three well-maintained trails: Kendrick Mountain Trail, Pumpkin Trail, or Bull Basin Trail. Each trail offers a unique and exhilarating experience as hikers traverse through the varying terrains of lush meadows, dense forests, and high-altitude alpine environments. Along the way, hikers can expect to encounter diverse wildlife species such as elk, deer, and various birds that call this region their home.
At the summit of Kendrick Peak, visitors are rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of the Grand Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon, and the Painted Desert. The historic Kendrick Peak Lookout Tower, constructed in 1911 and still operational today, allows for an even more elevated view of the surrounding beauty. Additionally, the area surrounding Kendrick Peak offers ample opportunities for camping, picnicking, and photography to capture the unforgettable memories.
Kendrick Peak in Arizona is an exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse terrain and captivating scenery that this region has to offer. The combination of well-maintained trails, rich biodiversity, and stunning panoramic views make Kendrick Peak a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the beautiful state of Arizona.
Fast Facts
Country: United States
State/Province: Arizona
County/Region: Coconino
City/Town: north of Flagstaff
Mountain Range: Flagstaff Area
Parents: Flagstaff Area
Elevation: 10,425 feet / 3,178 meters
Prominence: 2,478 feet / 755 meters
Isolation: 9.52 miles / 15.32 kilometers
Nearest Higher Neighbor (NHN): Humphreys Peak
Flora and Fauna
Kendrick Peak is a prominent landmark that boasts a diverse and fascinating range of flora and fauna. With an elevation of approximately 10,425 feet, this mountain is part of the San Francisco Peaks volcanic range and serves as an essential habitat for various plants and animals. The biodiversity found in this region is attributed to its varied topography, climatic conditions, and location within the transition zone between the Colorado Plateau and Basin and Range Province.
The flora of Kendrick Peak consists of a diverse array of plant species that have adapted to the harsh environmental conditions in the area. The lower elevations of the mountain are dominated by ponderosa pine forests, which provide habitat for various understory plants such as Gambel oak, New Mexico locust, and mountain mahogany. As one moves higher up in elevation, the vegetation shifts towards mixed conifer forests consisting of Engelmann spruce, white fir, and subalpine fir. The higher elevations also support a variety of wildflowers, including lupines, asters, and Indian paintbrushes.
The fauna found in Kendrick Peak is equally diverse and includes numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Among the mammals inhabiting this area are elk, mule deer, black bears, and mountain lions. Smaller mammals such as squirrels, chipmunks, bats, and rabbits are also common. The diverse bird population consists of species like the northern goshawk, Mexican spotted owl, red-tailed hawk, and various songbirds like the western tanager and mountain bluebird. Reptiles like horned lizards, rattlesnakes, and garter snakes can also be found in the region.
Kendrick Peak in Arizona is home to an astonishing array of flora and fauna that are adapted to thrive in this unique environment. The combination of varied topography, climatic conditions, and geographic location contributes to the richness and diversity of plants and animals found in this area. This valuable ecosystem not only serves as an essential habitat for numerous species but also offers a unique opportunity for researchers, nature enthusiasts, and tourists to experience and appreciate the beauty and complexity of nature.
Trails
Kendrick Peak, located in Northern Arizona, is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. Known for its breathtaking views and diverse plant life, the trails that wind their way up the 10,425-foot tall mountain offer an unparalleled experience for visitors. The peak is part of the Kendrick Mountain Wilderness Area, which encompasses over 6,500 acres of pristine wilderness. This area is managed by the United States Forest Service and provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.
The trails leading to the summit of Kendrick Peak provide a variety of hiking experiences for individuals of all skill levels. There are three main trails that hikers can choose from: Pumpkin Trail, Bull Basin Trail, and Kendrick Mountain Trail. Each trail offers a unique experience with varying degrees of difficulty and distance.
Pumpkin Trail is a moderately strenuous 8.6-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of 2,700 feet. This trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, as well as glimpses of the remnants of the 2000 Pumpkin Fire that swept through the area.
Bull Basin Trail is a slightly more challenging 9-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of 2,900 feet. This trail takes hikers through dense forests and meadows before reaching the summit, where they are rewarded with stunning views of Arizona’s iconic landscapes.
Kendrick Mountain Trail is the shortest and most popular route to the summit, covering 4 miles each way with an elevation gain of 2,640 feet. This well-maintained trail passes through lush forests and offers glimpses of the area’s vibrant wildflowers during spring and summer months.
Regardless of which trail you choose to explore, Kendrick Peak offers a memorable hiking experience amidst the beauty of Northern Arizona’s wilderness. With its diverse flora and fauna, captivating views, and well-maintained trails, Kendrick Peak is a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
