Hikes/United States/Colorado/Front Range

The Castle Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.5 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
409 m
User Ratings
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The Castle Hike is an exciting adventure up the steep, forested terrain to The Castle Rock. From atop the summit, hikers will be rewarded with incomparable views of the Wellington Lake and the Lost Creek Wilderness. If scrambling and summit hikes excite you, then add The Castle Hike to your adventure list.

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Route Description for The Castle Hike

The Castle Hike is an undeniably exciting adventure through the Lost Creek Wilderness. Scramble the steep, forested terrain up to the unique geological sculpture that is The Castle. Make sure your camera is charged because the vistas from the top are incredible and warrant photos. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are recommended to mitigate the chances of a rolled ankle on the rocky terrain. If you have knee or hip issues, then consider trekking poles to help you navigate the technical terrain.

Embark on your adventure up The Castle Hike from the trailhead along the shore of the Wellington Lake. Note the trail is not well marked, and even though someone has lined the path with pink ribbon, we recommend using the trail GPS. Ascend leftmost unmarked trail. Right off the bat, the path will be vertiginous. Hike the forested trail, navigating the boulders that line the path. The route will guide you west before curving you north up to the summit of The Castle.

From the summit of The Castle, enjoy the vertigo inducing views of the Wellington Lake and Lost Creek Wilderness below. Explore the large granite spires that compose The Castle, and when you are ready, carefully descend the mountain the way you came.

Getting to the The Castle Hike Trailhead

The Castle Hike departs from the trailhead off the Wellington Lake Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Dispersed Backcountry Camping Permitted, restrictions apply.

  • When to do

    June-September

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

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