PNOA Markhor–Needle Peak–Flatiron Day Hike Recap

Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area | July 12, 2025

On July 12, 2025, 14 PNOA members ventured into the spectacular alpine terrain of the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area for a challenging and rewarding summer hike. Divided into two teams, participants took on distinct routes—each with its own demanding climbs, technical elements, and stunning views.

Group A:

Led by Lao Wan and Jason, this group completed the full Markhor Peak to Needle Peak loop — a rugged alpine scramble linking two iconic peaks. The route included three crux sections, demanding both physical endurance and technical confidence:

1. The most intense crux came midway up Needle from the saddle — about 30 feet of exposed, loose rock. If attempting this route in reverse (descending Needle), bringing a rope to rappel is highly advised.
2. The second crux appeared halfway down from Markhor. A rope had been thoughtfully fixed to assist climbers, but didn’t cover the full 40-foot rock face and added another thin rope attached to it.
3. The third crux lay between two knobs in the saddle — about 15 feet of narrow, exposed terrain that required cautious navigation.

While physically demanding, the loop rewarded hikers with breathtaking 360° views, alpine ridgelines, and a true sense of adventure.

Group B:

Meanwhile, a second group led by Stone ascended Needle Peak first, tackling its steep switchbacks and rugged ridgeline before continuing on to Flatiron Peak, where they paused to enjoy the shimmering alpine tarn and expansive mountain views.

Though less technical, this route presented its own challenges. The initial ascent (1.5–2 km) was a real leg burner, and the descent was slow and punishing, with knee-jarring sections filled with roots and rocks. Some lingering snow patches remained past the lake, but they didn’t prevent safe passage.

Both teams overcame their respective challenges with grit, teamwork, and good spirits—and were rewarded with wildflowers in full bloom, pristine mountain air, and unforgettable memories under the summer sun.

Special thanks to Jason and Susan for their leadership and support, helping make this amazing trip possible!

PNOA 羚羊峰–針峰–鐵板峰 夏日健行回顧

Coquihalla Summit 休閒區 | 2025年7月12日

2025年7月12日，14位PNOA會員組成健行小隊，前往壯麗的Coquihalla Summit高山區展開一場夏日挑戰。當天大家分成兩組，各自走上不同但同樣精彩的路線。

A組：

由老萬與Jason帶領，成功挑戰了 羚羊峰（Markhor Peak）至針峰（Needle Peak）的環線穿越。這是一條崎嶇的高山路線，融合了體力消耗與技術攀爬，沿途經過了 三個關鍵難點：

1. 最具挑戰的路段 是從鞍部攀登針峰中途的一段約30英尺的碎石陡壁，地勢暴露且岩石鬆動。若從針峰下撤建議攜帶繩索進行繩降。
2. 第二個難點 出現在從羚羊峰下撤時，有熱心人士留下一段繩索協助攀爬，但未覆蓋整個40英尺的光滑岩面，所以下面又連了一條細繩.
3. 第三個挑戰點 位於兩個小山頭之間的鞍部，大約15英尺長，一側暴露感強，需要謹慎移動。

雖然困難重重，但這條環線帶來了 壯闊山景與冒險感十足的體驗，是一次值得回味的高山探險。

B組：

在石头的帶領下，B組選擇的是 先登針峰（Needle Peak），再前往鐵板峰（Flatiron Peak） 的路線。從森林陡坡一路登頂針峰，再延伸至鐵板峰，沿途可俯瞰高山湖泊與連綿群山，風景令人屏息。

雖然技術難度較低，但此路線依然不容小覷。前段 1.5至2公里的上升段相當陡峭，下山時路徑遍布樹根與岩石，對膝蓋是極大考驗。湖區之後仍有部分殘雪，但不影響通行。

無論是哪一條路線，大家都在挑戰中突破自我，在陽光下的高山環境中，收穫了壯麗景色、盛開野花、以及難忘的友情與回憶。

特別感謝Jason與Susan的支持與領導，讓這次難忘的健行之旅得以圓滿完成！

Video Courtesy of Yuki