Kendrick Mountain Wilderness

Kendrick Mountain Wilderness encompasses Kendrick Peak, one of the many peaks of the vast San Francisco mountain volcanic field located on the Coconino Plateau in north-central Arizona. Reaching an elevation of 10,418, the summit affords excellent views of the surrounding plateau, including the San Francisco Peaks to the east, the distant red rock of the Oak Creek/Sycamore Canyon country and Sitgreaves and Bill Williams Mountains to the south, Red Butte and distant views of the north rim of the Grand Canyon to the north. A fire lookout was first established on the summit in the early 1900's, and continues to be staffed to this day. In 2000 a majority of the wilderness was involved in a large wildfire. Dramatic vegetation patterns were created by burn intensities ranging from light to very severe, most evident on the west, north, and east slopes. On-going natural recovery processes may be observed, with early seral species becoming established in the severely burned areas. Characteristic montane coniferous forests, aspen stands, and high mountain meadow grasslands will re-establish with time. Unstable volcanic soils have undergone recurring severe erosion on the steeper slopes within burned areas, causing damage to the trails and access roads. Soils in the burn area will take many more years to re-stabilize.

Three maintained trails totaling 14 miles offer access to the wilderness. The Kendrick Mountain Trail, Pumpkin Trail, and Bull Basin Trail all lead hikers to the top of Kendrick Mountain and to the fire lookout tower. When the lookout tower is open during summer months, the lookout operator usually welcomes visitors to visit the top of the tower to enjoy the views.

There are no reliable water sources on the mountain, so pack in plenty. All of the trails are considered to be challenging due to the lack of water, impressive elevation gains, and the effects of the wildfire, including numerous fallen/falling snags and recurring trail erosion damage which can make route-finding difficult.

Access: From Flagstaff, drive north on Highway 180 to Forest Road 245 (milepost 230) and turn left. At the end of that road, (about 3 miles) make a right on FR 171.

Road Conditions: Once you turn off of Highway 180 onto FR 245, there are six miles of dirt road to the trailhead which is not suitable for passenger vehicles when wet or when snow-covered. This road may not be suitable for 4-wheel drive vehicles when covered with snow.

Note: Two-Thirds of Kendrick Mountain Wilderness is on the Kaibab National Forest.

• All designated Wilderness Areas in the United States are closed to bicycles and motorized vehicles.

Additional Source: The Wilderness Institute (a non-Forest Service site - this link will open in a new browser window)

For more information contact:
Peaks Ranger Station, 5075 N. Highway 89, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, (928) 526-0866