Crestone Needle sits on the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, about three hours southwest of Denver, and rises to 14,197 feet in elevation. The five mile road approaching the trailhead is rugged and slow and will push a stock vehicle to its limits. A high centerline, a short wheelbase, and a spotter will do you well, in addition to the obligatory 4-wheel drive. You’ll have to ford three creeks along this road, each one deeper than the last. Expect to spend a couple hours driving, or twice that if you choose to hike it.

Once on the trail, the hike through the San Isabel National Forest to the South Colony lakes is relaxing and enjoyable. The real hike begins as you ascend Broken Hand Pass. Once you’ve crossed the pass, the hike eases up again as you traverse your way to Crestone Needle. Many trail guides rate the ascent of the Needle at Class 4, and contain dire warnings about falling rocks, but I never found myself in need of a rope or a helmet. The “Crestone Conglomerate” is surprisingly stable.