Apocalypse Needles

At this point, my information about these formations all come from a climbing guide, so there is language below referring to climbing these formations. I am not recommending this, and even if it is legal to climb these rocks, remember they are technical climbs on cruddy rock and should only be attempted by experienced rock climbers with appropriate protection.

Tim Olson, Gorge Classic Climbs: Historical Summits and Adventures

This cluster of small spires is located 5 3/4 miles wast of Highway 197 overpass at the east end of The Dalles. The Apocalypse Needles are difficult to see because they tend to blend into the band of cliffs behind them.

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Park on the south shoulder of the freeway at a railroad access pullout 1/2 mile prior to the Apocalypse Needles, or at another pullout 1/2 mile beyond... If approaching from the west pullout, walk east along the road then storm up the steep sandy slope to the pinnacle of your choice.

The best time to climb here is when the weather is cooler (such as winter) because it is generally free of ticks and rattlesnakes at that time of year. An ice axe is recommended to negotiate the steep approaches to the pinnacles. Historically, this area has attracted climbers since the 1950s and possibly earlier.

Tottering Tower

The western most pinnacle is the Tottering Tower, a thin pencil of rock that swayed when the first party of climbers Tyrolean traversed across on a rope tied to the wall above. It probably still sways today. (Olson 39)

Upper, Middle & Lower Sore Thumb

Immediately east of a scoured rock gully and west of Apollo Column... (Olson 39)

Apollo Column

First climbed in 1963 Apollo Column is the largest pinnacle in the group... Located immediately east of the Sore Thumbs, this column is approximately 80' tall on the shorter side. (Olson 39-40)

The Bump

The pinnacle is located further east on a gravel bench by a bulldozer. There are several climbs available on this 60' pinnacle. (Olson 40)

Fire Spire

Located 1/4 mile east of The Bump is a unique 50' pinnacle called Fire Spire. The top point is unstable, but fear not, because a stiff Gorge wind is likely to send it rolling soon. (Olson 40)

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