Kendall Mountain Recreation Area - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Kendall Mountain Recreation Area is a great place to enjoy the outdoors in San Juan County, Colorado. There are plenty of things to do here, including hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. The recreation area is located near the town of Silverton, so it's easy to get to. There are also several hotels and restaurants nearby if you need a break from the outdoors. And, of course, there are plenty of stunning views to take in while you're here. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing picnic spot, Kendall Mountain Recreation Area is sure to have something for you.

Kendall Mountain Recreation Area is located in San Juan County, Colorado. The recreation area was established in 1976 and is named after George W. Kendall, who was a pioneer in the development of the area. Kendall Mountain is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and picnicking. There are several trails that wind through the recreation area, and the views from the top of Kendall Mountain are stunning. In addition to the beautiful scenery, the recreation area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the many lakes and streams that are located within the recreation area. With its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife, Kendall Mountain Recreation Area is a perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors.

The best time to visit Kendall Mountain Recreation Area in San Juan County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June through August, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for hiking, biking, and picnicking. The area also comes alive during this time of year, with wildflowers blooming and wildlife out and about.

1. Make sure you have the proper gear. hiking boots, a sunscreen, insect repellent, and water.
2. For an easier hike, take the Kendall Mtn Trail. It is 1.5 miles to the top of the mountain and has an elevation gain of 1,149 feet. Start early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
3. For a more challenging hike, try the Pass Creek Trail. It is 4 miles to the top of the mountain and has an elevation gain of 2,087 feet. This trail is more difficult due to its longer length and higher elevation gain. Again, start early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
4. Be sure to hike back down the mountain before dusk as there are no lights on the trails and it can be difficult to see in the dark.
5. If you see any wildlife while you're hiking, don't approach them as they may be fearful of humans and become aggressive. Instead, enjoy watching them from a distance and snap some photos if possible.
6. Respect closure signs. Certain areas of Kendall Mountain may be closed for safety reasons or to protect wildlife habitat - please respect these closures and only hike on designated trails.

1. Kendall Mountain Recreation Area is located in San Juan County, Colorado. The recreation area is situated on a mesa top and offers views of the nearby mountains and valleys. 
2.  In the winter, the recreation area is popular for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. 
3. Kendall Mountain was originally used as a mining site in the late 1800s. 
4.  In the 1970s, Kendall Mountain was designated as a recreation area by the U.S Forest Service. 
5. One of the most popular trails is the 1-mile hike to Lower Amethyst Lake, which takes hikers through a field of colorful wildflowers in early summer. 
6. In September, the recreation area hosts the Annual San Juan Mtn Bike Festival, which includes races and rides for all levels of cyclists. 

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the amount of time needed to explore Kendall Mountain Recreation Area will vary depending on your interests and goals. However, a reasonable amount of time to allocate would be 3-4 hours. This will give you enough time to hike to the summit of Kendall Mountain and enjoy the panoramic views, as well as explore the surrounding area. 

To reach Kendall Mountain Recreation Area, take Highway 550 north from Durango. The turn-off for Kendall Mountain Road is located approximately 12 miles from Durango. Follow Kendall Mountain Road for 2 miles to the top of the mesa. Please be aware that the road is unpaved and may be difficult to navigate in wet weather.

No, there is no entrance fee to explore Kendall Mountain Recreation Area. However, there are fees for camping and picnicking.

Kendall Mountain Recreation Area is open year-round from dawn to dusk.