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- Needham Mountain
12,466 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Needham Mountain
Needham Mountain is a 12,466 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the South Slope from Soda Creek: 15 mi, 7,410 ft of gain, Class 3.
Needham Mountain at a glance
- Elevation12,466 ft3,799 m
- RouteSouth Slope from Soda CreekClass 3
- Distance15 mi7,410 ft gain
- Time2 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the South Slope from Soda Creek
From Three Rivers on CA 198, drive Mineral King Road about 25 miles to the Sawtooth Pass trailhead (open late May to October). Take the trail to Monarch Lakes and over Sawtooth Pass, drop into the basin on the Soda Creek side, and climb Needham's sandy south slope, using boulder bands for better footing. The ridge leads to an exposed summit block with a few Class 3 moves. Many parties camp at Monarch Lakes and add Sawtooth Peak. A Sequoia and Kings Canyon wilderness permit is required to camp; reserve up to six months out.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (55–75 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
Helmet
What to watch for
- High altitude
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Steep exposure
Quests with Needham Mountain
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Needham Mountain
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Needham Mountain?
Needham Mountain is 12,466 feet (3,799 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Needham Mountain?
The South Slope from Soda Creek is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 15 miles with 7,410 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Needham Mountain?
Most climbers plan 2 days for the South Slope from Soda Creek, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Needham Mountain dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a helmet for Needham Mountain?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the South Slope from Soda Creek, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Needham Mountain?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Needham Mountain reaches 12,466 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.
When is the best time to climb Needham Mountain?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Needham Mountain with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list