About
Length (round trip)6 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain500 ft up
Typical time3 hr 15 min
TrailheadElephant Hill trailhead, The Needles
SurfaceSlickrock, sand, rock steps
Best seasonSpring and autumn. Summer highs exceed 100F with no shade and no water on any trail.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 🌄 Big views

Discover stunning views of the sandstone spires that characterize the Needles. Roundtrip Distance : 5.8 mi (9.3 km) Time : 3-4 hrs Overall Elevation Change : 533 ft (162 m) Cumulative elevation gain on this route is much greater. Difficulty : Strenuous Hike Description : This popular trail leads to a pass overlooking a scenic expanse of desert grasses and shrubs surrounded by sandstone spires. Bring : Water (1 L per person, per hour), snacks, sturdy footwear, headlamp, map, and be prepared for, sun, rain, heat, or cold. Accessibility : This trail can be rough, uneven, and requires walking and scrambling on rocky slopes. It is not accessible to wheelchairs. In winter, there may be snow or icy conditions; we recommend traction devices for hikers. Dogs are not allowed on this trail . Service animals are allowed in national parks. What is a service animal?

Tips
The classic Needles day hike. The last mile winds between the spires themselves, which is the whole point.
Location

Elephant Hill trailhead, The Needles

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
Your Hikes

🔒 Login or create an account to record the trails you've done, rate them, and tie them to a trip.