- Region
- AZ, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm current permit requirements with t…
- Managed by
- U.S. Forest Service — Kaibab National Forest, Williams Ranger District, and Coconino National Forest
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Photos of Kendrick Mountain Wilderness
How to get there
Kendrick Mountain Wilderness is north of Flagstaff on the Coconino Plateau, along the eastern edge of Kaibab National Forest’s Williams Ranger District and the boundary with Coconino National Forest. Obtain current trailhead directions and road conditions from the managing forests before driving.
- Kendrick Mountain Trail trailhead
A named trailhead associated with the wilderness. Confirm its approach roads and current access conditions with the managing forests.
- Other maintained hiking-trail approaches
Three maintained trails provide wilderness access and lead to the summit. Confirm the names, locations, and conditions of the other approaches with the managing forests before choosing an entry point.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory · Wikipedia. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
AZ, USA · United States
- Hunting
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Backpacking
A high volcanic mountain north of Flagstaff
Kendrick Mountain Wilderness lies north of Flagstaff on the Coconino Plateau, spanning the boundary between Kaibab and Coconino national forests. Its slopes rise from just over 7,000 feet to the 10,418-foot summit of Kendrick Peak. The mountain is part of the San Francisco volcanic field, and the summit overlooks the surrounding plateau and volcanic landscape. A fire lookout was first established here in the early 1900s and continues to be staffed. Three maintained hiking trails provide access, all leading toward the top of the mountain. This is a destination for hikers prepared for substantial climbing at elevation, rather than an easy summit stroll. Plan around the mountain’s lack of reliable water and allow enough energy and daylight for the descent.
Forest, meadows, and a changing burn landscape
Elevation shapes the vegetation on Kendrick Mountain. Lower slopes support ponderosa pine mixed with Gambel oak, while spruce and fir grow near the summit. Wildflower meadows interrupt the forest, offering views and feeding areas for mule deer and elk. Old-growth stands on steep terrain provide habitat for Mexican spotted owls, bears, and northern goshawks. The Pumpkin Fire affected the wilderness in 2000, burning with widely varying intensity. More heavily burned ground is especially evident on the west, north, and east slopes, while mixed-conifer forest remains in unburned and lightly burned areas. Aspen and other early-succession plants are becoming established in severely burned places. Expect a patchwork of surviving forest and recovering vegetation, and observe wildlife without approaching or disrupting its movement.
Water, erosion, and trail judgment
The three maintained trails total 14 miles across the wilderness; that figure describes the trail network, not a single summit outing. All are considered challenging because of elevation gain, limited water, and continuing wildfire effects. There are no reliable water sources on the mountain, and potable water is not available at the site, so carry the full supply needed for the outing. Steep burned slopes have unstable volcanic soils and severe erosion. Falling trees and recurring trail erosion can complicate travel and make route-finding difficult. Carry navigation tools and be willing to turn around where the trail becomes unclear or conditions feel unsafe. Check current trail and access conditions with the managing forests before leaving, and pack layers suitable for the mountain’s elevation range.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Kendrick Mountain Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 35.4132, -111.8632
- Latitude (DMS)
- 35° 24′ 47.7″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 111° 51′ 47.6″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Kendrick Mountain Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
Kendrick Mountain Wilderness encompasses Kendrick Peak, one of the highest peaks in the vast San Francisco volcanic field located on the Coconino Plateau in north-central Arizona. Reaching an elevation...
Key takeaways
- Region: AZ, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 35.413, -111.863
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Kendrick Mountain Wilderness
- Hunting
Seasons, tags, and the units that hold animals.
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Wildlife Viewing
Best light, best season, and where animals move.
- Backpacking
Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.
Animals around Kendrick Mountain Wilderness
A high volcanic mountain north of Flagstaff
Kendrick Mountain Wilderness lies north of Flagstaff on the Coconino Plateau, spanning the boundary between Kaibab and Coconino national forests. Its slopes rise from just over 7,000 feet to the 10,418-foot summit of Kendrick Peak. The mountain is part of the San Francisco volcanic field, and the summit overlooks the surrounding plateau and volcanic landscape. A fire lookout was first established here in the early 1900s and continues to be staffed. Three maintained hiking trails provide access, all leading toward the top of the mountain. This is a destination for hikers prepared for substantial climbing at elevation, rather than an easy summit stroll. Plan around the mountain’s lack of reliable water and allow enough energy and daylight for the descent.
Forest, meadows, and a changing burn landscape
Elevation shapes the vegetation on Kendrick Mountain. Lower slopes support ponderosa pine mixed with Gambel oak, while spruce and fir grow near the summit. Wildflower meadows interrupt the forest, offering views and feeding areas for mule deer and elk. Old-growth stands on steep terrain provide habitat for Mexican spotted owls, bears, and northern goshawks. The Pumpkin Fire affected the wilderness in 2000, burning with widely varying intensity. More heavily burned ground is especially evident on the west, north, and east slopes, while mixed-conifer forest remains in unburned and lightly burned areas. Aspen and other early-succession plants are becoming established in severely burned places. Expect a patchwork of surviving forest and recovering vegetation, and observe wildlife without approaching or disrupting its movement.
Water, erosion, and trail judgment
The three maintained trails total 14 miles across the wilderness; that figure describes the trail network, not a single summit outing. All are considered challenging because of elevation gain, limited water, and continuing wildfire effects. There are no reliable water sources on the mountain, and potable water is not available at the site, so carry the full supply needed for the outing. Steep burned slopes have unstable volcanic soils and severe erosion. Falling trees and recurring trail erosion can complicate travel and make route-finding difficult. Carry navigation tools and be willing to turn around where the trail becomes unclear or conditions feel unsafe. Check current trail and access conditions with the managing forests before leaving, and pack layers suitable for the mountain’s elevation range.
Route options
- Summit hikeChallenging
Choose a maintained trail to the 10,418-foot summit of Kendrick Peak for views across the Coconino Plateau and San Francisco volcanic field. Prepare for substantial elevation gain, no reliable water, and possible erosion or falling trees. Confirm the individual trail’s mileage before committing.
- Partial out-and-back on a maintained trail
For an outing without a summit commitment, follow part of a maintained approach and return along the same trail. Set the turnaround according to conditions, water supply, and remaining daylight; a shorter outing does not eliminate erosion, navigation difficulties, or falling-tree hazards.
Sample itineraries
- Kendrick Peak Summit Day · 1 day
Choose one of the three maintained trails for a challenging hike toward the 10,418-foot summit. All three lead to the top, with views across the Coconino Plateau and San Francisco volcanic field. Carry all needed water and allow time for erosion, fallen trees, and route-finding.
- Forest and Meadow Day · 1 day
Plan a shorter out-and-back on a maintained trail rather than committing to the summit. Look for changes from ponderosa pine and Gambel oak toward higher-elevation conifers, with meadow breaks for viewing wildlife. Set the turnaround by energy, water supply, and trail conditions; none of the trails is rated easy.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; conditions vary with elevation
With terrain rising from just over 7,000 feet to 10,418 feet, do not assume lower-slope conditions match the summit. Check mountain weather and trail conditions before choosing a summit objective. Water must be carried.
Summer
Summer; plan around the day's weather
Long climbs and a lack of reliable water make hydration planning important. Forest cover is interrupted by meadows and burned areas. Carry sun protection and layers, and reassess summit plans if weather deteriorates.
Fall
Fall; foliage timing varies
Aspens add fall color along the mountain's flanks. Pack warm layers for the high summit and leave enough daylight for slow travel through eroded or tree-obstructed sections. Reliable water remains unavailable.
Winter
Winter; confirm conditions before departure
Treat this high-elevation mountain as a cold-weather objective. Confirm access and trail conditions rather than assuming summer hiking plans still apply. Match clothing, equipment, and turnaround decisions to the forecast and actual footing.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; conditions vary with elevation | With terrain rising from just over 7,000 feet to 10,418 feet, do not assume lower-slope conditions match the summit. Check mountain weather and trail conditions before choosing a summit objective. Water must be carried. |
| Summer | Summer; plan around the day's weather | Long climbs and a lack of reliable water make hydration planning important. Forest cover is interrupted by meadows and burned areas. Carry sun protection and layers, and reassess summit plans if weather deteriorates. |
| Fall | Fall; foliage timing varies | Aspens add fall color along the mountain's flanks. Pack warm layers for the high summit and leave enough daylight for slow travel through eroded or tree-obstructed sections. Reliable water remains unavailable. |
| Winter | Winter; confirm conditions before departure | Treat this high-elevation mountain as a cold-weather objective. Confirm access and trail conditions rather than assuming summer hiking plans still apply. Match clothing, equipment, and turnaround decisions to the forecast and actual footing. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm current permit requirements with the Kaibab or Coconino National Forest before visiting.
Official source: Kaibab National Forest | Kendrick Mountain Wilderness · Verified November 1, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- No reliable water sources are available on the mountain, and potable water is not provided. Carry enough for the full outing and delays.
- Large elevation gains and a summit at 10,418 feet make all three trails challenging. Pace conservatively and turn around if the climb exceeds your capacity.
- Fire-damaged trees continue to fall. Stay alert around standing dead trees and avoid lingering beneath them.
- Unstable volcanic soils and severe erosion affect steep burned slopes. Avoid shortcuts and assess footing carefully.
- Recurring trail erosion and fallen trees can obscure the route. Carry navigation tools and turn back rather than pushing into uncertain terrain.
What to pack for Kendrick Mountain Wilderness
- Water for the entire hike plus a delay margin
- Water containers with enough carrying capacity
- Trail food and extra snacks
- Topographic map and compass
- Offline navigation with backup power
- Headlamp
- First-aid kit
- Supportive hiking footwear
- Trekking poles for steep, eroded ground
- Warm layers and a weatherproof shell
- Sun hat and sunscreen
Kendrick Mountain Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Kendrick Mountain Wilderness?
- It lies north of Flagstaff on Arizona's Coconino Plateau, spanning the Kaibab and Coconino National Forests. On the Kaibab side, it occupies the eastern edge of the Williams Ranger District.
- How many trails reach the summit?
- Three maintained trails provide access, and all lead to the summit. Their combined length is 14 miles; that is not the distance of a single summit hike. All are considered challenging.
- Can water be collected along the way?
- Do not plan on it. There are no reliable water sources on the mountain and no potable water at the site. Carry your full supply.
- How has wildfire affected hiking?
- The 2000 Pumpkin Fire affected the wilderness, with more intensely burned areas on the west, north, and east slopes. Regrowth includes aspens, but falling trees, unstable soils, and recurring erosion still complicate travel and route-finding.
- What is at the summit?
- Kendrick Peak reaches 10,418 feet and has a staffed fire lookout. Views extend over the surrounding plateau and volcanic field. Do not assume the lookout itself is open to visitors.
- Is this a good choice for an easy walk?
- All three trails are considered challenging because of elevation gain, lack of water, and wildfire effects. A shorter out-and-back can reduce the day's commitment, but it does not eliminate rough footing or navigation concerns.