The Needles / Kern River

The Needles, as viewed from Dome Rock

Description 

The upper Kern River Valley, in Sequoia National Forest, is a true outdoor paradise. The area is home to outstanding white water kayaking, fishing, mountain biking and hiking. Natural wonders include the "Grand Canyon of the Kern River" (a scenic waterway cut by the mighty Kern), the southern-most stand of old-growth Giant Sequoias and countless waterfalls, natural water slides, and plunge pools.

AND THEN THERE'S THE CLIMBING.

The area is home to the world famous Needles and several other truly outstanding formations, including Dome Rock and Elephant Knob. It has been said that the Needles themselves are home to the highest density of classic routes anywhere. This is not an overstatement. The overshadowed lesser formations are worthwhile destinations in their own right and should not be overlooked.

Getting There 

The Kern River Valley is quite large, so for directions see the description for the specific sub-area you wish to visit

The Classics

Featured Route For The Needles / Kern River

Welcome to Bald Eagle Peak 5.11-  CA : The Needles / Kern River : Bald Eagle Peak

Pitch One: 140 ft. Easy climbing to a bolt 25 feet up and just left of a small arete, then follow the bolts through weakness in roof to the anchors. Pitch Two: Climb right and up off the belay. The second pitch is in your face from the time you leave the belay and it doesn't let up for a long time. Each time you figure out a move and reach the next bolt there is another puzzle to work out. Probably one of the finest face pitches I have climbe...[more]   Browse More Classics in CA

Photos of The Needles / Kern River Slideshow

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Just past the crux. Anon.	Photo from inside the lookout showing the resupply...	My son Josh standing atop the Charlatan when he vi...
Josh and I standing atop the Charlatan, photo take...	Here I am at the Rectory...on a Herb Laeger route,...	secret swimming hole... (scan)
Northern Pacific Rattlesnake, spotted near the Fir...	Needles lookout sign	The Needles
Black Bears are a common sight throughout the Kern...	Horned Lizard--another of the extraordinary creatu...