The Needles (Sequoia National Forest) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Needles |
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The Needles from Dome Rock
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 8,258 ft (2,517 m) NAVD 88 |
| Prominence | 454 ft (138 m) |
| Geography | |
 The Needles
Location in California
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| Parent range | Sierra Nevada |
| Topo map | USGS Durrwood Creek |
The Needles are a group of tall, pointy granite rock formations. They rise up from the North Fork of the Kern River. This area is in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains in California, USA.
These impressive rocks are a popular spot for adventurers. They offer amazing views of the surrounding wilderness. The nearest town is Johnsondale, California.
Exploring The Needles
The Needles are located about 2.5 miles off the Western Divide Highway. This highway is also known as State Route 190. You can find them about 10 miles north of Mountain Road 50.
The rocks are close to the meeting point of the Kern River and the Little Kern River. This makes the area great for exploring nature.
The Needles Lookout Tower
For many years, a special building called the Needles Lookout stood on top of one of the rock formations. It was built between 1937 and 1938. The Civilian Conservation Corps helped construct it. This group worked on many important projects during the Great Depression.
The lookout tower was very high up, at 8,245 feet (about 2,513 meters). From there, rangers could watch for wildfires. This helped keep the forests safe.
A Sad Day for The Lookout
Sadly, on July 28, 2011, the Needles Lookout tower was destroyed. A fire broke out and burned the structure. This was a big loss for the area. The tower had been an important landmark. It also helped protect the forests for many decades.
Even without the tower, The Needles remain a stunning natural wonder. People still visit to enjoy the views and the challenging climbs.
Images for kids
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Margee Kelly served as a Fire Lookout Ranger at The Needles for over 20 years.
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The Needles Lookout before the fire.
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A view looking northeast over the Golden Trout Wilderness Area. You can see Mount Whitney far away.
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Mount Whitney as seen from The Needles Lookout.
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A view looking southeast from The Needles Lookout.
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A view looking south towards the Kern Canyon from The Needles Lookout.
