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 Trip	9 miles
	Trailhead Elevation	7700 feet
	Elevation Gain	2639 feet
	Avg Time Round Trip	4.5 hours

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'
  

Hiking the Kachina Trail, Flagstaff, AZ

It rained most of the drive up to Flagstaff, but by the time the group arrived and assembled at the parking lot for the Kachina Trail, there were just light sprinkles.

Let's go! (I'm in the red poncho with the walking stick).

The hike took us through ferns and aspen.

There were a few rocks blocking the path that we needed to scramble over.

The fog gave an eerie feel to the forest.

We reached a nice rocky overcropping. This was a nice place for the group to all catch up. It also gave us a chance to stash away our rain gear and have a little snack.

Time to get moving!

Leaving the forest, we entered a beautiful alpine meadow.

The fog continued to roll in and out, but the rain held off.

After another climb, the group reassembled for another break (and another snack).

When the clouds moved, there was a spectacular view.

The sun actually came out in time for lunch. We all lined up like turtles on logs and sunned ourselves while enjoying lunch. I was even able to take off my fleece sweatshirt briefly!

Then we heard thunder in the distance and decided it was time to turn back. We didn't want to be caught on the mountain in a thunderstorm.

Despite what this looks like, I did not hold up the group while I put my gloves back on!

We headed back down a little faster than we climbed up ... trying to beat the storm.

Almost done and still alive and smiling!

About 5 minutes later, just as I was reaching the parking lot, the sky opened up and started pouring. I was able to get my poncho on and run to the car without getting too wet. The people about 10 minutes behind me weren't so lucky!

Trail Stats:

	Distance One Way	5 miles
	Trailhead Elevation	9500 feet
	Elevation Gain	-700 feet
	Avg Time One Way	5 - 6 hours