All Locations > California > Southern-Wester… > Southern Sierra… > Needles

Merlin Dome Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in Merlin Dome

L › R R › L A › Z

	Magic Flute T 5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c
	Middle Dihedral T 5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b

Order Wrong? Sort Routes

Explore this area in 3D

Use onX Backcountry to explore the terrain in 3D, view recent satellite imagery, and more. Now available in onX Backcountry Mobile apps! For more information see this post.

Elevation:	6,115 ft	1,864 m
GPS:	36.10548, -118.46534 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	5,941 total · 27/month
Shared By:	lars johnson on Mar 6, 2007
Admins:	Cory B, Matthew Fienup, Muscrat, Mike Morley, Adam Stackhouse, Salamanizer Ski, Justin Johnsen, Vicki Schwantes Page Updates (admin only)

See Weather Forecast

Description

Merlin Dome presents a nice mellow alternative to the steep cracks of other Needles climbs. This Northeast facing dome features less than vertical face climbs all moderate in the 5.8 to 5.9 range with adequate natural pro and [apparently] a few old bolts. Added pluses are afternoon shade, few, if any crowds, and an honest 10 minute approach. Granite is solid with wavy flakes and knob climbing prevailing. The first and last pitches are low angle with the steep stuff in the middle. Routes average 5 or 6 pitches.

Getting There

Merlin Dome is on the North side of the Needles ridge about a mile and 1/2 past Needlerock Creek on Kern River Road. The road passes below Demon Dome and then swings around a bend at the end of the ridge. There is a great overlook of the Kern River Valley several hundred feet below a turnout. Continuing North the road passes directly below the dome in a blasted out area. If you continue a few hundred yards further, a great overall view of the dome can be had. Park at any turnout below the dome and follow a creek bed on the left side up to the base. Total time 10 minutes!