DIRECTIONS:

From Crawford, CO head east out of town on Dogwood Ave. Dogwood turns into Needlerock Road. Head east towards the Needle to the parking area and trailhead.

HIKE DESCRIPTION:

Needle Rock is an iconic landmark visible from Highway 92 near the town of Crawford. The volcanic plug stands at the western edge of the West Elk Mountains rising 800 ft from the Gunnison River Valley. A short but steep hiking trail gets you up close and personal with the geologic wonder.

The trail climbs through juniper and sage brush along the eastern side of the monolith. As you climb, the views of the West Elk Mountains stretch out before you. The trail is steep and rocky and gets you close to the base of the rock but not all the way to the summit. As impressive as Needle Rock looks from a distance, it is equally as impressive from up close.

This is great hike to experience the icon as you drive through the Gunnison River Valley. Rather than just drive by and look out the car window, get out and hike it. You'll never look at it the same way again.