Kendrick Peak Trail
Conquer Kendrick Peak for breathtaking panoramic views and a challenging hike through diverse Arizona ecosystems. Accessible year-round.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Kendrick Peak Trail
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer Kendrick Peak for breathtaking panoramic views and a challenging hike through diverse Arizona ecosystems. Accessible year-round.
"Spectacular views in all directions! Easy walking trail with parking lot and bathrooms."
👟 Wear sturdy hiking boots
Essential for the 9+ mile hike and varied terrain. Be prepared for snow in cooler months.
💧 Stay hydrated!
Crucial at high altitudes. Carry plenty of water to combat dehydration and altitude sickness.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Kendrick Peak Summit
Panoramic vistas of the surrounding wilderness and San Francisco Peaks. Absolutely breathtaking!
Fire Lookout Tower
Near the Summit
A historic fire tower offering unique perspectives and a glimpse into the past. Great photo op!
Diverse Ecosystems
Along the Trail
Experience changing landscapes from ponderosa pine forests to alpine meadows. Nature's artistry!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for High Altitude
Check the Weather & Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy hiking boots
Essential for the 9+ mile hike and varied terrain. Be prepared for snow in cooler months.
💧 Stay hydrated!
Crucial at high altitudes. Carry plenty of water to combat dehydration and altitude sickness.
☁️ Watch the weather
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes, especially afternoon storms.
🥾 Consider snowshoes
For winter hikes, snowshoes are a must to navigate snowy trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy hiking boots
Essential for the 9+ mile hike and varied terrain. Be prepared for snow in cooler months.
💧 Stay hydrated!
Crucial at high altitudes. Carry plenty of water to combat dehydration and altitude sickness.
☁️ Watch the weather
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes, especially afternoon storms.
🥾 Consider snowshoes
For winter hikes, snowshoes are a must to navigate snowy trails.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera! The panoramic vistas are spectacular and worth documenting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views from Kendrick Peak, calling them 'spectacular' and 'breathtaking.' The well-maintained trails, including an accessible paved option, and clean facilities are frequently praised. Many appreciate the diverse ecosystems and the opportunity for wildlife spotting. However, some find the hike challenging due to the high altitude and length.
"Easy to access pull off, all paved with plenty of space to turn around. Bathrooms are clean, and the area has two easy to follow trails with interpretive signs. There are multiple picnic tables.Great views in all directions!"
Aaron Leifheit
"Easy walking trail with parking lot and bathrooms. There is a short trail that is paved and accessible for strollers. If you’d like to walk further there is also another dirt trail that is not stroller friendly. We parked our stroller and came back for it later and it was undisturbed. We stopped and had a picnic and saw lots of squirrels, chipmunks and birds. My 4 year old was able to walk the entire dirt trail without any trouble. We went on a Friday around noon and only saw 5-6 other people."
Jenna
"We have been walking this trail for years. It is one of our favorites, especially when the kids were small and still in a stroller. The trail is about as easy as it gets and has some very scenic views. If you are with little ones, just starting on a healthy journey, or even a bit older with limited mobilty, you can probably still walk this path."
Olen Pepple
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kendrick Peak Trail is accessible via a paved road from Flagstaff, making it easy to reach by car. The trailhead parking lot is well-maintained and offers ample space.
Yes, the road leading to the Kendrick Peak Trailhead is paved, providing easy access for most vehicles.
Yes, clean bathrooms are available at the Kendrick Peak Trailhead, which is a convenient amenity for visitors.
Kendrick Peak Trail can be accessed in winter, but conditions can be challenging due to snow. Snowshoes are highly recommended for winter hiking.
Kendrick Peak stands at an elevation of 10,418 feet, so be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee required to access Kendrick Peak Trail. It's a free public access area.
Kendrick Peak Trail is open year-round, from dawn to dusk. However, always check weather and trail conditions before your visit.
No permit is required for day hiking on Kendrick Peak Trail. However, if you plan to backpack or camp, you may need a wilderness permit.
Dogs are generally allowed on Kendrick Peak Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be respectful of other hikers and the environment.
While there are no strict restrictions on group size for day hiking, it's advisable to keep groups small to minimize impact on the trail and wildlife.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Kendrick Peak Trail is rated as hard, covering over nine miles with nearly 2500 feet of elevation gain. It's a challenging but rewarding hike.
The main trail is approximately 1.5 miles long, but the full hike to the summit and back can be over nine miles.
Yes, there are interpretive signs along the trail that provide information about the local flora, fauna, and history of the area.
There is a short, paved trail that is stroller-friendly. The main dirt trail is not suitable for strollers.
You might spot squirrels, chipmunks, and various birds along the trail. Keep an eye out for other local wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, and the fire lookout tower provides a unique vantage point. The diverse ecosystems along the trail also offer great photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic and beautiful scenes. Sunrise and sunset from the summit are particularly stunning.
Drone usage may be restricted in wilderness areas. It's best to check with the local Forest Service office for current regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. Consider a telephoto lens for wildlife and a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The high altitude can affect battery life, so bring extra batteries. Also, be mindful of rapidly changing weather conditions that can impact visibility.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
+1 Many solo travelers appreciate the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the peak. It's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their plans, carry a reliable navigation device, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The diverse ecosystems and the fire lookout tower add points of interest for a fulfilling solo adventure. ❄️ Winter Enthusiasts
Hikers seeking a unique, serene experience can find solitude on the snow-laden trails. Proper gear is non-negotiable: snowshoes are essential, and warm, waterproof layers are a must. Be aware that trail conditions can be challenging, and checking avalanche reports is crucial for safety. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Kendrick Peak Trail
+1 It's crucial to be well-prepared, carrying ample water and snacks to sustain you throughout the trek. The trail winds through diverse ecosystems, offering a dynamic hiking experience. For those seeking a less strenuous experience, a shorter, paved trail is available near the trailhead, suitable for strollers and those with limited mobility.
+1 The trail is well-marked, but always have a map or navigation app handy, especially if venturing out in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Winter Wonders on Kendrick Peak
The solitude can be profound, with some hikers reporting having the entire trail and peak to themselves. However, winter conditions necessitate extra preparation. Snow can accumulate significantly, making the trail impassable without snowshoes or skis. It's essential to check weather forecasts and avalanche conditions before heading out. The high altitude means temperatures can drop drastically, and visibility can be poor due to snow or fog.
+1 Dressing in layers with waterproof and windproof outer gear is paramount. While challenging, a winter hike on Kendrick Peak offers a peaceful escape and stunning, snow-dusted vistas that are unlike the summer experience. Photography Opportunities
+1 The historic fire lookout tower also presents a unique architectural element against the natural backdrop, making for compelling shots. As you ascend, the trail passes through distinct ecological zones, from dense forests to open meadows, each offering its own photographic charm.
Early morning and late afternoon light, often referred to as the 'golden hours,' can cast a magical glow over the mountains, enhancing the visual appeal. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather, as dramatic cloud formations can add a dynamic element to your photographs. Remember to bring extra batteries, as the cold at high altitudes can drain them quickly, and consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit