Pumpkin Trail

Approach

Take I-40 east to the Parks Exit (#178). Turn left across the overpass, left again at the "T" intersection, and then turn right at the Union 76 onto FR 141. Continue north on FR 141 for about 11 miles; continue onto FR 144 and go about 2.5 miles to FR 171. Turn right onto FR 171 passing Moritz Lake; go 2.8 miles to the right-angle curve passing Pumpkin Center (Ranch), then turn left onto FR 149 just south of the curve, and continue for about one mile to the parking area at the trailhead. There are adquate signs along the way and it's relatively hard to get lost....

The trailhead is well-marked.

The trail is also accessable from Flagstaff via Highway 180.

Best times are April-October...

Route Description

I would consider this a medium-hard hike. The trailhead starts around 7200' and Kendrick peaks out at 10500'. It is more difficult than the Kendrick Trail which gradually rises to the top. The Pumpkin trail starts off with a steep hike up a westerly extension of Kendrick...about 1.5 miles you'll hit the (signed) Connector trail which you can take east to Bull Basin Trail, the third route to the top of Kendrick.

The Pumpkin continues gradually upward rising to the base of Kendrick proper. This stretch of land was used for sheep grazing in earlier years and there is the remains of an old rock cabin at the base of Kendrick proper; (Just a rock pile now with some odd antiquish scrap metal strewn about...)

The last .5 mile steeply switchbacks up the west end of Kendrick right to the Fire Tower...

The trail is generally easy to follow, but lack of vegetation from the fire has created dried and/or washed out places....cairns are noticible throughout the hike. You do pass through some fairly charred areas, but there are also still some nice, quiet semi-lush areas that are very pleasant.

Essential Gear

Sturdy boots would aid on the rocky, uneven trail.

Miscellaneous Info

Keep a watch out for frquently seen Deer, Antelope and Elk. I've also heard several reports of bear being spotted throughout the Kendrick area.

If you have information about this route that doesn't pertain to any of the other sections, please add it here.