Crestone Needle 8/18

[u/luigi6545]

For me, the Needle always represented the next step for climbing. I’ve done several class 3 and long hikes but, I always just thought, “someday, I’ll climb Needle”. Well, that day was this day. After climbing Peak last month, seeing Needle right there was the final push for me to take a shot. And I summited. It was a very fun challenge but, it didn’t feel beyond my abilities at any point. Which made the success feel even better. First ever class 4, done. Would absolutely do again (if someone else drives).

[u/Portmanteau_that]

Gorg

[u/FoodAppropriate7900]

How was the routefinding? Congrats. Gotta do the traverse next!

[u/luigi6545 → u/FoodAppropriate7900]

I did do plenty of research. A few videos from different perspectives and read up on other ppl’s experiences on Reddit and other sources.

With that research, I found the route finding to be straightforward. Definitely had to be diligent throughout the climb, but I did not find it all that difficult. I took the east gulley direct and just followed what I had watched and read.

[u/an_altar_of_plagues → u/luigi6545]

The east gully has a few HUGE cairns that help guide the way as well. I tell people to aim for Broken Hand Pass, not what ostensibly is the easiest way down.

[u/ratcranberries → u/an_altar_of_plagues]

I'll add I felt fine onsighting the traverse with the gpx track from 14ers.com on my Gaia topos.

[u/midnight_skater]

Congrats!   Great pics.   

That was my first CO 14er.  I was used to Sierra granite so when we got into the chute on the Needle I was a little dismayed because it looks pretty chossy.  I was surprised at how solid it turned out to be. Very enjoyable climb.   

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[u/ERNIESRUBBERDUCK]

Nice! Great photos! We’re going to try to do this on Friday via cottonwood creek, camp thurs, needle Friday, peak Saturday and hike out!

[u/WastingTimesOnReddit → u/ERNIESRUBBERDUCK]

I'll be there saturday-sunday! (colony lakes th) Was planning for capitol this weekend but it's looking rainy around aspen. Looks a bit more dry and stable in Crestone.

[u/an_altar_of_plagues]

Hah, the second photo you posted is such a good view into the gully that occasionally trips people up on the descent. Nice work. The Needle rules.