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I've heard about the north ridge route on Kit Carson for a while, and have been interested in trying it. After having done the Crestones traverse last weekend, I found the upper half of the summit crux pitch up the Needle to be a bit more intense than I was expecting--for a 4th class route, it seemed to have pretty small and difficult holds for a few dozen feet. I was wondering if anyone who's done both routes could compare this section to the toughest parts of KC's route, or even the overall difficulties of both routes. Thanks in advance!

The up-climb on the final stretch to the Needle (when doing the traverse from the Peak) is comparable to the N ridge on Kit, imo.
The N ridge route is probably more sustained, exposed scrambling, but slightly less of an angle than the crux pitch on the Needle.
The N ridge is also equal in rock quality.

Edited for additional comment.

I agree with Darin's assessment. Spot on.

The N Ridge of KC is easier and way more fun!

Thanks, guys. I actually had the same question, and came upon this thread. I might try the N Ridge of Kit Carson for practice before I attempt the Crestones traverse.