The Pumpkin Trail offers the visitor a long hike from a valley of pine and junipers up through mountain meadows and forests of mixed conifer, aspen, and fir to the summit of Kendrick Peak. All of the hike is within the Kendrick Mountain Wilderness. The upper three-quarters of it follow an old sheepherder route used up to 40 years ago. The remains of an old sheepherder's cabin still stands alongside the trail about 1/4 mile below the lookout tower. Note that there are no reliable springs along the trail and no water at the top of the mountain.
Trail Layout
Initially, this trail follows an old road then rises along a steep canyon. After passing through a gate, the trail ascends a ridge, gradually turning southeast. The trail follows a ridge through meadows, aspen, and conifer stand from here to the top of Kendrick Mountain. Rock cairns often show the way. All of the trail is within the Kendrick Mountain Wilderness. It is possible to link up with the Bull Basin Trail via the Connector Trail for an 11-mile hike.
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Length
5.5 miles one-way
Hiking Time
About 5 to 6 hours round trip.
Rating
Moderate
Trailhead Location
Trailhead at 7260 feet. The trail starts at the parking area off Forest Road 154.
Recommended Season
Late spring to early fall.
Use Restrictions
No motorized or mechanized vehicles (e.g., mountain bikes). Hiking and horseback riding only.
Gate Policy: If a gate is closed upon arrival, leave it closed after you go through. If it is open, leave it open. Leaving a closed gate open may put cattle in danger. Closing an open gate may cut them off from water. Please be respectful, leave gates as found. The exception is signage on the gate directing you otherwise.
When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Permit $$
None
Directions
Road
FR / Dirt Road / Gravel - Car Okay
To hike From Williams go east on I-40 to the Parks exit #178. Turn left across the overpass. Then left again at the intersection. Turn right onto FR141 at the Parks Store. Follow FR141 north for approximately 11 miles. Continue onto FR144 another 2.5 miles to FR171. Turn right onto FR177 and follow 2.8 miles to FR149. Hang a left onto FR149 and follow approximately 1 mile to the trailhead.
Access: From Williams, 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 Parks store 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; go 2.8 miles to the right-angle curve in the road, then turn left onto FR 149 just south of the curve, and continue for about one mile to the parking area at the trailhead.
Travel Time: About 1 hour from Williams to the Trailhead.
Road Condition: Paved road, all-weather graveled road, and a few miles of unsurfaced road that is suitable for sedans only when the weather is dry.
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