| Castle Mountain | |
| Elevation: 2765m | Gain: 1400m | Difficulty level: Easy |
| Ascent time: 6 hours | Total trip time: 12+ hrs | Conditions: Dry |
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Parking area: Rockbound Lake Parking Lot (just east of Castle junction service station)
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How can a hike this spectacular inspire such thoughts as: "Never again", "Eeeevilll!", or "If I jump of this cliff, maybe the misery will end"? How can a hike which has a summit log full of praises end up in 'Evil Hikes of the Canadian Rockies'? The answer lies in the 14 km approach (8.5 km of which consists of an mind-numbing trudge through a limited visibility forest until reaching Rockbound Lake). Unfortunately, this hike would be a great hike if it started at Rockbound Lake. However, since it doesn't, it can be summarized in one word: evil |
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| ROUTE | |
| From the parking lot,
follow the well marked path to Rockbound Lake. For those who have done any
of the Little Elbow hikes (eg. Fullerton, Banded, Glasgow); increase the
length, lessen the grade, add lots of mosquitoes, and most importantly,
subtract your bike. For those who haven't had the 'enjoyment' of said
hikes, expect an 8.5 km forested approach with limited visibility of
anything other than trees.
Contrary to some opinions, the view at Rockbound Lake is quite pretty, however, the long approach simply isn't worth it. I pity the poor sods who actually came for the lake view alone. (PS: Bring DEET) |
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The standard route from Rockbound lake (solid line) is an easy hike up to a very wide plateau. The dotted line is much more direct but involves scrambles through two gulleys. They didn't look all that easy to ascend, but they would definitely be the preferred route back. |
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| Once at the plateau, continue in a counter-clockwise direction, gradually ascending in the direction of the main peak |  |
| The views from up top are spectacular; and you may very well find yourself taking a lengthy lunch. The summit log will no doubt be signed with enthusiasm, as the evil approach will have temporarily faded from your mind. | |
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Given the duration of this hike, the direct descent is preferred. If you stay right (near the ridge line), you will come across a steep gulley. This can be descended to a small meadow/plateau. You will then encounter a second steep gulley which will take you directly to the lake. At the top you might think there is a sharp drop off. Mid-way down there is some mighty fine scree skiing. |
| Once back at the lake, it becomes apparent you still have 8.5 km to go. With each passing km along the dreary path back, watch as your rating of this hike drops from outstanding to great to good to average to evil. | |
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