Crestone Needle
14,203 ft | 1 trails | Colorado
14,203 ft
1 routes
Hard
About Crestone Needle
Crestone Needle is a 14,203-foot summit in Colorado. The Crestone Needle Trail is a 3.7-mile hike with about 1,362 feet of elevation gain. Nearby peaks include Crestone Peak, Kit Carson Mountain and Blanca Peak. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL); verify current conditions with the official land manager before you go.
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Check Current Conditions
Trail conditions change frequently. Check recent reports on AllTrails or NE Trail Conditions before your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Crestone Needle?
Hiking time varies by trail and fitness level. Most popular routes take 4-8 hours round trip. Check individual trail descriptions for specific estimates.
Is Crestone Needle hard to hike?
Difficulty varies by route. There are options ranging from moderate to strenuous. Beginners should start with easier trails and work up to more challenging routes.
Do I need a permit to hike Crestone Needle?
Most trails don't require permits for day hiking. Some trailheads may require a parking pass or fee. Check current regulations before your visit.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- Afternoon thunderstorms
- Dehydration risk
- UV exposure above treeline
Turn-Around Time
1:00 PM (2:00 PM summer)
Plan to reach the summit by this time to allow safe descent before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Nearby Peaks
Explore other mountains near Crestone Needle. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.
Crestone Peak
14,301 ft
Kit Carson Mountain
14,170 ft
Blanca Peak
14,350 ft
Tabeguache Peak
14,162 ft
Peak Bagging Tip
Crestone Peak is only 0.5 miles away. Consider combining these peaks for a bigger day or overnight trip!