Mount Thielsen Summit Pinnacle Climb 8/23/14

The West Ridge route finishes on a ledge (sometimes called Chicken Ledge for obvious reasons) at the base of the 80 foot summit pinnacle. Ratings for the pinnacle range from class 3 to low 5th depending on the individual and the exact variation of the route, however a class 4 rating seems to be the most common.
The easiest route begins on the far right side of the pinnacle in a short chimney. Alternatively one can begin on the rightmost spine of the pinnacle, this option has better holds, but a fall here would result in a non stop ride to the Lathrop Glacier (in fact the most recent fatality on this peak came when a gust of wind knocked someone off this route). From here the route trends left through a series of ledges. Key hand holds have been polished by the many other climbers that came through, when in doubt, look for these to tell if you're on route. The climbing gets easier higher up, the last few moves are less exposed. Compared to the rest of the mountain the rock quality on the pinnacle is quite solid. Still this is the Oregon Cascades and caution should be exercised. All holds should be thoroughly tested.
It seems the majority of people who attempt Thielsen do not even attempt the pinnacle. Most seem content to make it to chicken ledge. Most that do climb the pinnacle do not protect it, this is however a matter of personal comfort, and a fall here would not end well.