Castle Pass Trail #441

The Castle Creek Trail #441 begins at the intersection with the Low Line Trail #438 and ends at the intersection with the Cliff Creek Trail #840. The trail gradually ascends and follows a wide spruce covered ridge. At the base of Castle Pass there is a series of 14 switchbacks, all are passable, but could be hazardous when wet. It heads west along the South Prong of Cliff Creek as it descends and become steep and rocky. The whole trail is well marked and easy to follow. For the backpacker, this is the scenic trail of the West Elk Wilderness where Wilderness Regulations apply. The trail winds through open aspen and conifer stands, dotted with alpine meadows. Deer and elk can be seen feeding at the edges of parks.

General Information

Mid-June

Open to Hiking and Horseback.

Getting There

Elevation

11,050

Directions

From Paonia: Travel East on State Hwy 133 for approximately 15 miles to the junction with Gunnison County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road. Follow Gunnison County Road 12 for approximately 19 miles to the Cliff Creek Trail #840 Trailhead, across from Horse Ranch Park. Follow the Cliff Creek Trail #840 for approximately 5.5 miles to its intersection with the Castle Pass Trail #441.

From Crested Butte: Travel west on County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road, for approximately 11 miles. The Cliff Creek Trailhead is on the left just over the Ruby Anthracite Creek Bridge. Horse Ranch Park is on the right. Follow the Cliff Creek Trail #840 for approximately 5.5 miles to its intersection with the Castle Pass Trail #441.

From Gunnison: Follow State Hwy 135 north to Gunnison County Road 730, Ohio Creek Road. Follow County Road 730 approximately 18 miles to the Swampy Pass Trailhead. Follow the Swampy Pass Trail #439 until it intersects with the Lowline Trail #438. Follow the Lowline Trail #438 south for approximately 2.5 miles until it intersects with the Castle Pass Trail #441.