How long does it take to climb Crestone Needle?
Table of Contents
7 h 26 min
Experience this 11.20 mile, out and back trail near Crestone, Colorado. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 26 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and fishing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
How difficult is Crestone Needle?
Crestone Needle is generally recognized as being in the top 5 in climbing difficulty of all the Colorado 14ers. It is characterized by sustained Class 3 rock climbing (for hours) although on rock that is unusually climber-friendly.

How do you climb a Crestone Needle?
Approach the pass, which may hold snow late into the summer. Bring crampons and an ice axe if you expect this may be the case. If dry, follow cairns and a faint trail up the crux to reach the pass. The pass is a good place to look at the route ahead and check the weather before you continue climbing Crestone Needle.
What is the most difficult 14er in Colorado?
Here are the 7 most difficult 14ers in Colorado:

- Capitol Peak – Class 4 (Most Difficult)
- Little Bear Peak – Class 4 (Most Difficult)
- Pyramid Peak – Class 4 (Most Difficult)
- Maroon Peak – Class 4 (Most Difficult)
- Mount Wilson – Class 4 (Most Difficult)
- Crestone Needle – Class 3 (Most Difficult)
How tall is Crestone Needle?
14,203′Crestone Needle / Elevation
How long does it take to hike Humboldt Peak?
Check out this 10.70 mile, out and back trail near Westcliffe, Colorado. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 10 min to complete.
What class is Crestone Peak?
Class 3
Difficulty: | Class 3 Ski/Board: Extreme, D13 / R3 / IV |
---|---|
Start: | 9,900 feet |
Summit: | 14,294 feet |
Total Gain: | 5,700 feet starting at upper 4wd TH (9,900) 6,850 feet starting at lower 2wd TH (8,800) |
RT Length: | 14 miles starting at upper 4wd TH (9,900) 20 miles starting at lower 2wd TH (8,800) |