2025-12-26T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...A portion of central California, including the following areas, Bakersfield, Buena Vista, Buttonwillow - Lost Hills - I5, Caruthers - San Joaquin - Selma, Coalinga - Avenal, Delano-Wasco-Shafter, Frazier Mountain Communities, Fresno-Clovis, Fresno-Tulare Foothills, Fresno-Tulare Lower Sierra, Grant Grove Area, Grapevine, Hanford - Corcoran - Lemoore, Indian Wells Valley, Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge, Kern River Valley, Kings Canyon NP, Los Banos - Dos Palos, Mariposa Madera Foothills, Merced - Madera - Mendota, Mojave Desert, Mojave Desert Slopes, Piute Walker Basin, Planada - Le Grand - Snelling, Sequoia NP, South End San Joaquin Valley, South End Sierra Foothills, South End of the Lower Sierra, South End of the Upper Sierra, Southeast San Joaquin Valley, Tehachapi, Visalia - Porterville - Reedley, West Side Mountains South of 198, West Side Mountains north of 198 and West Side of Fresno and Kings Counties. * WHEN...From Tuesday afternoon through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Marginal Risk of Excessive Rainfall. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
Standing at approximately 14,240 feet (4,342 meters) in elevation, it is an iconic destination for mountaineers seeking challenging ascents and breathtaking views. This granite spire is characterized by its slender and needle-like shape, making it a notable feature of the region's skyline.
During the winter season, the snowpack on Keeler Needle can vary significantly depending on weather patterns and precipitation levels. The Pacific Ranges receive ample snowfall, and this mountain is no exception. Snowpack depths can reach several feet, creating ideal conditions for winter mountaineering activities such as ice climbing and backcountry skiing.
Keeler Needle contributes to the hydrology of the surrounding region, with several creeks and rivers receiving runoff from its slopes. These waterways, including the Owens River and various tributaries, are vital sources of freshwater for the local ecosystems and communities downstream.
Regarding its name and historical significance, Keeler Needle was named after James Keeler, a renowned American astronomer who played a significant role in the development of astrophysics in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name serves as a tribute to his contributions to scientific exploration and discovery. While no specific legends or lore are associated with Keeler Needle, its striking appearance and challenging nature attract adventurers from around the world, leaving their own storied experiences on its remarkable slopes.
flat rocks campsite (4-5 tents)
creek side campsite (3-4 tents)
the annex campsite (2-3 tents)
woodsy campsite (4-5 tents)
high-back campsite (2-3 tents)
vista campsite (1-2 tents)
Lower Boy Scout Lake
Consultation Lake
Mirror Lake
Lone Pine Lake
North Fork Lone Pine Creek