Course Overview
The Kendall Mountain Run 12-Miler is a high-altitude out-and-back that starts in historic Silverton, Colorado at 9,318 feet and climbs jeep roads to the summit of Kendall Mountain at 13,066 feet. The route covers roughly 6 miles and 3,960 feet of climbing to reach the summit, where runners navigate a final 300-foot scramble before descending back to Memorial Park. With a 6-hour cutoff and aid stations at Deer Park (mile 3.3) and the Notch, the course can be shortened to the Notch turnaround if summit conditions deteriorate. Most of the climbing happens on wide jeep roads with consistent gradients, but the final push to the summit requires hands-on scrambling over loose rock. The altitude makes itself known early—you're already above 9,000 feet at the start, and the thin air at 13,000+ feet will slow even well-prepared runners. Weather can change quickly in the San Juans, and morning storms aren't uncommon in July. The descent offers expansive views of Silverton and the surrounding peaks, though the loose rock sections require careful footing. This race suits strong mountain runners comfortable with steep, sustained climbing and basic scrambling. The altitude will challenge anyone not acclimatized, and the final scramble can feel exposed for those uncomfortable with loose rock. Runners who thrive on grinding climbs and don't mind starting before dawn will find this a solid test of mountain running fitness.