High on his list of recommendations are the trails that ascend Kendrick Mountain in the Kaibab National Forest west of Flagstaff. “My personal favorite is the counter-clockwise Pumpkin/Bull Basin Loop,” says the nimble hiker, whose nickname is a Cherokee word that means flying squirrel. “A spring near the top of the peak just a short way down the Bull Basin trail is a nice place to dip your hat, or bandana, to cool off a bit. During the summer months, you’ll find an ever-friendly fire lookout who [loves showing people] around the tower. Maybe it’s been a while since they talked to real people, but they’ll seem very excited to see you!”
Stivers, who frequently hikes with his two children, ages 9 and 10, has some sage advice about tackling difficult mountain trails. “One must know their limitations and hold responsible expectations for children on all trails, but if you have little ones who are hungry for hiking and have some experience with longer miles, this may be the place for them.”
Kendrick is also a mountain that demands respect. “You’ll want to avoid late-afternoon thunderstorms that can roll in at a moment’s notice bringing lightning to the peak. If you see any approaching dark clouds, get off the mountain, and seek shelter in your vehicle.”
— Mare Czinar
PUMPKIN-BULL BASIN TRAIL LOOP
LENGTH: 10.6 miles roundtrip
RATING: Difficult
ELEVATION: 7,240’-10,418’
GETTING THERE: From Flagstaff, go 17 miles north on US 180 to Forest Road 193. Turn left and continue 3.2 miles to Forest Road 171, turn right and go 7.8 miles to the Pumpkin Trailhead on the right.
NEXT MONTH: A hiker and equestrian gives us the lowdown on horsey White Mountains trails.
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