Needles Lookout

Climbing Needles Lookout along with Crag Peak, Dome Rock, and Worth Benchmark

When the Central and Northern Sierras are getting pounded by a late season snowstorm, the Southern Sierra beckons. A random wandering around the Eastern and Western side of the Souther Sierra.  The Needles Lookout Tower in Sequoia National Forest was built in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the lookout was used as a primary fire detection location and communication link for the Sequoia National Forest, until it was lost in a structure fire on July 28, 2011.
  • Trailhead:

    We couldn't drive all the way to the trailhead because of snow and then got stuck overnight in the snow - Oops!! From Quaking Aspen Campground, drive south for one mile on Western Divide Highway, and turn east on Forest Route 21S05. Drive 2.5 miles over this dirt road to the parking area at the trailhead. (36.1198, -118.5084)

  • Difficulty:

    Easy hike - the stairs are "proceed at your own risk"

  • Aesthetic Rating:

    Amazing views of the Southern Sierras

  • Distance:

    5 miles from the normal trailhead

  • Type:

    Dayhike

Other Sierra Peaks
Other Sierra Peaks
Other Sierra Peaks

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