About This Race
The Kendall Mountain Run stands as one of Colorado's most accessible high-altitude mountain races, offering runners a taste of genuine alpine terrain without the commitment of a full ultra. Starting in the historic mining town of Silverton at 9,318 feet, this race challenges participants with a sustained climb to the 13,066-foot summit of Kendall Mountain, followed by a technical descent through varied terrain back to town. What sets this race apart is the final 250-foot scramble to the summit, requiring runners to use hands as well as feet to tag the true peak. The views from Kendall's summit encompass the entire San Juan Mountains range, providing a worthy reward for the effort invested. The race combines jeep road running with genuine mountaineering elements, making it an excellent introduction to high-altitude racing for runners looking to test themselves above treeline. With over two decades of history, the Kendall Mountain Run has become a cornerstone of Colorado's mountain running calendar. The race attracts a mix of local Colorado runners and destination participants drawn to Silverton's mining heritage and the San Juans' dramatic alpine environment. The combination of significant elevation gain, high-altitude challenges, and technical terrain makes this a legitimate test of mountain running skills in a relatively compact distance.
The course begins in downtown Silverton's Memorial Park and immediately heads upward on jeep roads, gaining nearly 4,000 feet of elevation over the first portion of the race. The route follows established mining roads through alpine terrain, with the grade becoming increasingly steep as runners approach treeline. The defining feature comes in the final 250 feet to Kendall Mountain's 13,066-foot summit, where the jeep road ends and runners must scramble over rocks and boulders to tag the true peak.
The descent follows a different route down the backside of Kendall Mountain, eventually reconnecting with the jeep road system for the return to Silverton. This loop configuration provides varied scenery throughout the race while avoiding the monotony of a simple out-and-back route. The terrain ranges from packed dirt roads to loose rock scrambling, requiring runners to adapt their technique throughout the race.
Practical Info
Mid-July conditions typically feature warm valley temperatures with potential afternoon thunderstorms and significantly cooler conditions at altitude.
DRO - Durango-La Plata County Airport
Silverton offers limited lodging options; many participants stay in Durango and drive to the race start.
Best For
Notable Features
The race's signature element is the final 250-foot scramble to Kendall Mountain's true summit at 13,066 feet, requiring runners to use both hands and feet to navigate the rocky terrain. Starting in the historic mining town of Silverton, participants experience genuine Colorado high-country racing with panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains from the summit. The loop course design provides varied scenery and terrain, from jeep roads to technical scrambling, all set against the dramatic backdrop of one of Colorado's most scenic mountain regions.