Crestone Needle: Upper 4WD Trailhead

[alsy_88]

Hello all,

I am from out of state (Ohio), and super excited to take my 8 year old to Crestone Needle this weekend (camp Friday, climb Saturday via South Route). I Was curious if the upper 4WD trail head (9,900') is open, or can we only park at the 2WD trail head at 8,800'. If the 4WD is open, do you need a 4WD in the summer months or can a small compact (rental car) advance to the upper trail head?

I had asked these questions the Ranger station and they advised I ask on this board.

Thanks!

[TallGrass]

https://www.14ers.com/php14ers/trailhea ... hparm=sc03

[alsy_88]

Thanks! I feel foolish for not finding this detailed information that answers my question(s)!

Have a great day,

[Phill the Thrill]

Just a word of caution: Crestone Needle is a difficult climb, especially for an 8-year old coming from sea level. Perhaps your child has extensive climbing experience, but a great alternative is Humboldt Peak, from the same trailhead, which is a much easier climb, and fantastic views of the Crestones.

[JChitwood]

Wow, I wouldn't take my 11 year old son on Crestone Needle with a rope and a full coverage motorcycle helmet. All kids are different for sure, if a 13 year old can summit Everest guess an 8 year old can go up the Needle. Hope you both have some experience on similar peaks. If you go make sure his helmet is cinched tight lots of climbers on the route on a weekend and rocks can fall from above. Highly recommend Humboldt it is right there and a great hike with direct views of the Crestones across the valley.

[pfiore1]

Just a word of caution: Crestone Needle is a difficult climb, especially for an 8-year old coming from sea level. Perhaps your child has extensive climbing experience, but a great alternative is Humboldt Peak, from the same trailhead, which is a much easier climb, and fantastic views of the Crestones.

Yes and please per the last couple comments. Besides the technical difficulty and exposure, the descent's route finding is very difficult. We had a rescue Sunday night for a party off-route and another starting now for a party off-route during the descent. Even if your 8 year old is a bada** rock climber (which many kids are), safely climbing and descending the Needle takes much more than just rock skills.