Carey’s Castle Trail

Careys Castle Trail is a little used route starting at the southern border of Joshua Tree National Park. It is renowned for its seclusion, as it is one of the less trafficked trails within Joshua Tree National Park. Likewise, it is also considered to be a great place for both birdwatching and wildflower viewing, depending on the time of year you visit.
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Route Description for Carey’s Castle Trail
When doing Careys Castle Trail, it is important to keep in mind that sections of the route are poorly marked. As such, please ensure that both your skills and equipment are sufficient enough before attempting. Careys Castle Trail also requires some scrambling and boulder hopping, and therefore demands a certain physical ability.
Having arrived at the trailhead, make your way northwest across some relatively flat terrain and towards the mountains in the foreground. The trail will then veer to the northeast as it enters a valley. The valley walls will be large and steep as you continue northeast along it. Soon the elevation will start to incline, and the Careys Castle Trail will begin to require some scrambling and boulder hopping.
Having followed the valley for some time, gaining elevation as you go, the trail will begin to plateau as the valley walls taper off. You will soon arrive at the trail's end, where you should take some time to enjoy the views and have a break before turning around and backtracking your steps towards the trailhead.
Getting to the Carey’s Castle Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for Careys Castle Trail can be found at the end of a dirt road off of Hayfield Road.
Route Information
Carey’s Castle Trail Elevation Graph
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