Crestone Needle

Located in the Rockies of southern Colorado, Crestone Needle is in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo (Blood of Christ) range. It ranks 20th in the state and is one of Colorado's 54 fourteen-thousand foot mountains. The Needle was first climbed by Albert Ellingwood and Eleanor Davis on July 24, 1916 via the Crestone Peak/Needle Traverse.

Climbing the Needle is more difficult and dangerous than most Colorado 14ers. It needs 4WD to get to the upper trailhead on a bad road, longer distance, and more gain if you park at the 2WD lot. Usually done with camp at lake.

See the link for complete details: https://www.14ers.com/peaks/10019/crestone-needle?o=m

• Difficulty: Class 4

• Suitable Activities: Hiking
• Seasons: June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Length: 12.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 4,400 ft
• High Point: 14,197 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area, Saguache Ranger District (RGNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12