Kendall Gulch

Kendall Gulch in Silverton, Colorado, provides a great historical view of Colorado history. Many times you can view the historic trains that pass by while you descend the canyon. An old cabin on the exit is also a reminder of the pioneers who inhabited this area. The views and scenery in this area is spectacular. With a short approach, easy side of stream walking, back to back series of quality rappels, and a short walk out (with car shuttle), Kendall Gulch is a recommended descent, however the exit up the slope between Kendall Gulch and Deer Park Creek is steep. This waterfall is a confirmed nesting site for the Black Swift, listed as a Species of Special Concern by the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The swifts migrate from Brazil annually to occupy this site from late May until late September, raising a single chick. The swifts are susceptible to disturbance from human activities near their nests, including noise and movement, direct disturbance or destruction of their nests, and trampling of vegetation. Canyoneering/climbing at this waterfall during the Black Swift nesting season (late May - late September/first frost) is likely to cause direct damage to nests, eggs, and young, and disturb adult swifts enough to cause them to abandon their nest and offspring. Click here for more information on the Black Swift.

From County Road 33, descend 5min to the creek via the start of a strong game trail at the waypoint listed.

Easy next-to-stream walking abounds. Suit up when the walls narrow. R1=50' Tree CR R2=70' Tree CR - R2 is the lower angle access to the anchor at the top of R3 R3=120' Tree CR R4=45' Tree CL R5=80' Tree CR R6=140' Tree CL R7=20' Tree CR R1: R2: R3: R4: R5: R6:

Caution: Pay attention to the train schedule for trains arriving into and departing from Silverton: http://www.durangotrain.com/round-trip-silverton-train-tour Do not walk on the tracks. Also beware of the small powered cart that is the fire extinguisher that follows 5-15 min behind the train. After exiting Kendall Gulch, walk next to the tracks to the south. Start uphill just after another small gulch half way to Deer Park Creek. The steepness reduces on top of the rock band in the pine and aspen forest. Cross Kendall Gulch at the top to intersect and retrace the approach path.