Dare to drive the challenging road to Kendall Peak in Colorado

Kendall Peak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 3.895m (12,778ft) above sea level, located in San Juan County, in the US state of Colorado. The road to the summit is precarious, offering the best in drop-offs and a boulder-lined roadbed. It's one of the highest roads in Colorado.

Kendall Peak

Is the road to Kendall Peak in Colorado unpaved?

Tucked away in the southwestern part of Colorado, the road to the summit is totally unpaved, gravel and bumpy with rocks. It’s called County Road 33 (also known as Kendall Mountain Road).

How long is the road to Kendall Peak?

It is recommended that beginner riders avoid this road. It’s an 11 km (7 miles) long drive starting from Silverton, suitable for high-clearance 4WD vehicles only. Make sure your cooling system is in order, as this is a very long trail to the top. If you do not like shelf roads with no passing places this is not for you. At around 12800 ft, there’s a saddle and the road becomes impassable for most vehicles but a trail will lead you to the summit.

Is the road to Kendall Peak in Colorado open in winter?

Set high in the San Juan Mountains, the weather can be unpredictable and extreme, with sudden thunderstorms in the summer and heavy snowfall in the winter. Accessibility is largely limited to the summer season due to weather conditions.

Is the road to Kendall Peak in Colorado worth the drive?

The views along the route are spectacular, looking out all around on the mountains of the San Juan and Rio Grande National Forests. From the top, you will get great views of Silverton, Route 550, and other local peaks.The trail offers a chance to see some otherwise seldom-visited areas.
Pic: Steven Fuller

 

 

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