Sunday, August 15, 2010

Kendrick Mountain, Flagstaff

On Saturday, I hiked the Kendrick Mountain Trail (#22) just outside of Flagstaff.

The trail ends at the fire tower (see arrow above)
After climbing for about 3 hours, we were treated with this gorgeous view.

Just steps away from the fire tower now.


I finally made it. (Humphrey's peak - last week's hike - is in the far background)



Trail Stats:

Distance Round Trip9 miles

Trailhead Elevation7700 feet

Elevation Gain2639 feet

Avg Time Round Trip4.5 hours

Sunday, August 08, 2010

Humphrey's Peak - Flagstaff, AZ

As the ultimate test to see whether I would survive the Borneo hike, I decided to do a training hike to Arizona's highest point, the summit of Humphrey's Peak. We met at the trail at 8 am, so it was a very early start from Phoenix.


Let's get going!

The trail started by crossing a meadow under Snowbowl's ski lift, and then entering a nice forested area.


The were several avalanche areas on the trails.
For the most part, the trail was well maintained and easy to find (although muddy in spots).






When we finally cleared the treeline, we could see this gorgeous view.


The last push through the forest was quite steep and I could really feel the elevation change. The group decided to take a break just above the tree line. From here, there's only about a mile left to go before reaching the summit.


The landscape changes dramatically above the tree line. It also got really cold and windy at this point.


The approach to the summit started with scrambling over boulders and rocks.

But then it gave way to smaller, looser lava rocks.

I had to cross several false summits before reaching the actual summit.





So close, yet so far away.

Finally arrived at the summit!!!

What a view.

I couldn't resist the urge to hold a metal pole in the air while standing on AZ's highest peak, with ominous storm clouds approaching.


Trail Stats:
  • Length: 4.8 miles (one way)
  • Rating: Strenuous
  • Hiking Time: 3 hours (one way)
  • Elevation: 9,300' to 12,633'