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This bold Needles climbing route is about as much fun as any I can think of. Just don't think too much about the L-O-N-G runout at the top, and don't fall.
From the wide spot in the road along Needles Highway between the Custer State Park General Store and the Sylvan Lake Campground, hike towards Aquarium Rock. The trail through the grass ends near the base of the small tower that starts the route.
Gear up with 4 quick draws and climbing equipment to sling and build an anchor on the top. Since a football sized rock came off, you can place a small nut in the upper runout.
The first bolt at the top of the pillar is where the adventure begins, and getting off the top of the pillar is the first crux. As the last bolt gets far enough away from your feet that you would like to see and clip another bolt, the last crux is over and the run out begins to get interesting. Luckily the climbing is fairly easy. Follow the path of least resistance and test your holds well. The granite found in the Needles is generally very sound but a head sized chunk has fallen off here over the past few years.
Descent: From the belay, walk to the northeast corner of Aquarium Rock to get to the rappel chains. One 60M will get you down.
Warning: Rock Climbing can be dangerous. Use this information at your own risk.
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Needles Climbing 
