California · Hiking

Needles Lookout

4.0 mi
round trip
714 ft
climb
8,177 ft
high point
Out and back
route

Is Needles Lookout open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Sequoia National Forest. It doesn't name Needles Lookout, so check the source for the area it covers (2 listed).

As of · Source: USFS · Sequoia National Forest. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

Needles Lookout is a moderate hike of about 4 miles on a natural-surface trail in the Western Divide Ranger District of Sequoia National Forest, managed by the Forest Service. The route is an out-and-back that climbs roughly 714 feet from a low point of about 7,760 feet to a high of about 8,177 feet. Bikes are allowed on this trail, which makes it a practical choice for riders as well as hikers. The climb is a steady one over the course of the hike, with no single stretch that stands out as especially steep. The lookout sits close to a cluster of climbing areas, including Needles, The about a mile away and Magician, The about 1.5 miles off. Quaking Aspen campground and the Freeman Creek hike are each about 2 miles from the trailhead.

Local outfitters

Not on Roamze yet. Their page has how to reach them.