Ascent of Organ Needle on 2019-09-14| Date: | Saturday, September 14, 2019 | | Ascent Type: | Successful Summit Attained | | Peak: | Organ Needle | | Location: | USA-New Mexico | | Elevation: | 8980 ft / 2737 m |
Ascent Trip ReportAn excellent hike and a lot of fun. Start early to give yourself time to do the round trip and allow yourself to appreciate the experience and views. Not overly difficult in terms of skill needed for the climb and hike, however it will take time to complete. It is especially steep the last mile (just before Juniper Sadle) once you actually start ascending the mountain itself. That being the case you actually need to be in physical shape and have a level of endurance. Be cognizant of the terrain and mindful of the trail. There are cairns and ribbons that help mark the trail, but if you're not paying attention you might find yourself off course, especially where the trail is overgrown.
The very last section will require you scramble up a rock wall (Class III/IV), but there's a ledge like crack that you can shimmy across with help from holds to put your hand. Take your time to find them. Some patience and self confidence will go far here as it can be intimidating. You will need that same mentality going down it. If you make it up that section the rest is cake. Work your way to the summit from there and treat yourself to a spectacular view. There will be a register there for you to sign inside the ammo cans.
Also, wear pants. There are "grabby grabby, I love you" plants which are thorny plants that will grab you and draw blood if don't pause to unhook yourself, cactus, and up higher is stinging nettles. We did our best to clean up the trail and eliminate as much of the stinging nettles as possible (we carried machetes in anticipation), but without regular maintenance I doubt it'll stay clear for long.
Lastly, bring plenty of water, and do not hike alone.
Have fun and stay wild! |
| Summary Total Data | | Route Conditions: | Road Hike, Maintained Trail, Unmaintained Trail, Bushwhack, Scramble | | Ascent Statistics | | Distance: | 8.5 mi / 13.7 km | | Descent Statistics |
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