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- Spanish Needle
7,871 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Spanish Needle
Spanish Needle is a 7,871 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Northeast Slope and Ridge: 13 mi, 2,520 ft of gain, Class 3.
Spanish Needle at a glance
- Elevation7,871 ft2,399 m
- RouteNortheast Slope and RidgeClass 3
- Distance13 mi2,520 ft gain
- Time10 – 12 hrsHard effort
- SeasonApr – Jun
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Northeast Slope and Ridge
From CA 178 west of Walker Pass, drive north on graded Canebrake Road to Chimney Creek Campground and park there, since the PCT crossing just south has no lot. Follow the PCT south past Lamont Point to the broad saddle north of the peak, then leave the trail and traverse south across loose, brushy chutes to a big talus gully and the crest. The final stretch is exposed Class 3 on ledges and a slab below the north summit, which is the high point; some parties bring a short rope. Wear long pants for the brush and carry all water.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (35–55 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
- Steep exposure
- Loose rock
- Route-finding difficulty
- Dry conditions
Quests with Spanish Needle
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Spanish Needle?
Spanish Needle is 7,871 feet (2,399 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Spanish Needle?
The Northeast Slope and Ridge is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 13 miles with 2,520 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Spanish Needle?
Most people take 10 – 12 hours round trip on the Northeast Slope and Ridge, covering 13 miles with 2,520 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Spanish Needle dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and tricky route-finding. 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 Spanish Needle?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Northeast Slope and Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
When is the best time to climb Spanish Needle?
The usual climbing window is April to June. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Spanish Needle 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