Spectacular, awe inspiring, beautiful, majestic is how you may hear climbers explaining The Needles. You may also hear the term spooky, scary, intimidating, and deeply spiritual, mystical, maybe even supernatural they may also get called "Above ones pay grade..." However you may view these amazing formations we can guarantee you one thing that they will be rewarding, life changing and definitely spook you.

The Needles attract climbers from around the world looking to sample some of the spectacular climbs found here. The rock is unglaciated granite of excellent quality, as if it were made to be climbed! One of the most popular and interesting features at The Needles is the USFS Fire Lookout. Situated on top of the Magician Needle, the Lookout provides majestic views of the Golden Trout Wilderness, the Kern River Canyon and the High Sierra, including Mt. Whitney.

"Climb Well!"

KCAdventure.com

The fire road access to The Needles (from the fire lookout tower side) has been a yearly topic that leaves the community with anticipation, frustration and questions. Year to year the open and closure date can fluctuate and reliability of info from the forest service or ranger station is hopeful at best. This can be especially frustrating for out of towers trying to find out the truth.

Be aware there is no water or toilets beyond the trail head. This area is subject to High Winds, Road Closure, Runouts and possible Route Closure because of the beautiful and protected Peregrine Falcon.

For Directions please click the view map link and select this area for directions just enter your location you may drag the line around to choose alternative routes.

We have created a forum to help keep access posted year to year. Here is the link to the Road Status. Please feel free to comment and add personal knowledge of up to date beta about the gate and road access. The ranger station number is also listed here.

Quaking Aspen, Upper Peppermint Creek, Lower Peppermint are the most popular. Permits are required for fires outside of campsites. Permits and fee′s camping may vary.

Upper Trail: You may also choose to hike the fire road which adds approximately 3 miles (each way) to the hike that is already 2.5 mile (each way).

Lower Trail: You may also access The Needles from the lower side via Voodoo Dome. This is done from the Lower Peppermint Creek Area

The Needles early explorers were the likes of Fred Beckey amongst others in the early 70′s. In the late 70′s the area was further developed by Tony Yaniro, Randy Levitt locals Dick Leversee, Herb Leager and E.C Joe.