Sunday, August 30, 2009

Kendal Mountain (Silverton, Colorado)

Kendal Mountain overlooks the town of Silverton, Colorado. The town is at about 9,000 feet, so the mountain peak is probably over 12,000 feet. Regardless, the view is magnificent.


The view from the peak has more to offer than just a peek at the teeny tiny town. Here is a look in the opposite direction. Kinda desolate lookin', huh?


The trail to the peak passes by several old mines. This is no wonder, because these roadways were originally hacked out of the mountainsides over 120 years ago to allow access to the working mines. The feat is amazing if you consider that it was done by pick axe, dynamite, and mule power.


One of Silverton's most popular attractions is the Durango/Silverton narrow gauge railroad. It ferries passengers between Durango and Silverton three times daily during the summer tourist season. If you ever end up in Durango, allow yourself a day to take the unbelievably scenic trip. Although it is only 35 miles, it takes nearly 4 hours for the huffin' and puffin' train to make it up. The return trip is a bit faster.

1 comment:

carolie said...

Glad to see the Alps of America!
Carolie