The Trailblazers had another beautiful day as we climbed a scenic mountain! Most of the group met at the Target parking lot by 8:30 AM and then traveled north on the Snowbowl Road to FR 193 to the trailhead, about 40 minutes away.

Tom, Li, Vicki, Julia, Vicki, Jaimie and Mary were met by Ralph and Kevin at the trailhead. After reminders about social distancing, hydration, and rest, the group began the well-marked, moderate up slope trail, climbing 2,700+ feet over 5 miles through several riparian zones to reach the top, elevation of 10,418 feet. The group included about 6 who hiked faster and then 3 of us who held up the back. I like the idea of leading from behind.

Li at the cabin door.

The group rested at the end of one of the switchbacks before making the final ascent to the top which is marked by a fire tower (closed). It was breezy in the first few miles up Kendrick Peak, but after our rest stop as we approached the saddle, the wind gusts were quite strong. The saddle sits just below the top and is the site of an old Forest Service cabin no longer in use and locked. The Kendrick Peak trail meets up with the Bull Basin Trail near the cabin and is currently open. The Kendrick Peak fire in 2017 left a very burnt, scarred landscape on the back side.

Eight hikers made it to the top, though their fearless leader did not. I chose to stay by the cabin because I was simply too sleep-deprived, thanks to my new Irish Doodle puppy! The group reported it was especially windy at the top, but they enjoyed amazing views on all sides.

The pictures tell the story and demonstrate just how creative Trailblazers can be in posing for the group pictures. No one boring in this group!

While it usually helps to begin a mountain climb early in the morning, we began at around 9:15 AM and found that with a breeze and later wind, the temperatures were great! It took the group with rest stops, lunch, etc., about 5 hours total. The trail is well maintained and marked. I encourage anyone looking for a climb that is steady and tough, but with rewards of great views at the top to make the trip to the trailhead and climb Kendrick Peak!