Kendall Mountain Recreation Area – Silverton, CO

Kendall Mountain is a tiny ski hill located in the old mining town of Silverton. The ski runs are geared towards beginners and families.

The Grand Imperial Hotel opened the resort in the early 1960s. It was discovered in 1983 to be operating without a permit, so it closed until the late 1990s. Today, Kendall Mountain Recreational Area serves the local community with a great place to take a few turns and learn the sport.

Terrain

Image of Kendall Mountain Ski Area in Silverton, Colorado — A family skiing on the slopes. Photo: Kendall Mountain Ski Area

There are four trails at Kendall Mountain Ski Area, plus some tree runs. A small terrain park features some jumps and rails. One double chair lift serves the ski area. There isn’t much vertical, but the tickets are very affordable. If you’re an advanced skier or rider, head over to nearby Silverton Mountain for some of the most serious skiing in Colorado.

Basic ski and snowboard rentals are offered, while more specialized alpine touring ski and snowboard rentals are offered at San Juan Expeditions’ storefront, located at 1303 Greene Street. Lessons are also available. Other activities in Silverton include cross country skiing, ice skating rink, snowshoeing trails, and sledding hills. Rental equipment is available for all these activities.

Village

The town of Silverton isn’t huge, but it has all the amenities necessary and an authentic western feel. You’ll find shopping, lodging, restaurants, and saloons.

In this part of southwest Colorado, numerous hot springs and other winter activities are close by. Ouray is a mere thirty-minute drive to the north and is known as the “Little Switzerland of America”. Durango lies an hour south.