Castle Peak

This prominent fourteener located between Aspen and Crested Butte is the highest summit of the Elk Mountains and the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

Castle Peak (14,279') is often climbed in combination with Conundrum Peak (14,040'). See the Castle Peak and Conundrum Peak TH Route & Place.  The two summits straddle the boundary: between White River National Forest (east side) and Gunnison National Forest (west side).  Trailheads typically on the White River NF side via Castle Creek Road (Forest Road 102), falling under the Aspen–Sopris Ranger District.  Approaches from the west side fall under the Gunnison Ranger District.

14'ers.com lists numerous routes and combinations, including couloirs, most likely requiring an overnight stay at or near the trailhead.  A 4wd with high clearance is helpful to get higher up road. 

Please read the restrictions associated with the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

Alternate titles. These and others described at 14'ers.com:

The Northeast Ridge in one standard route, starting at the Castle Creek TH, 13.5 miles, 4600' gain.

The North Face Couloir is 13 miles, 4600' gain.

  • 14,279 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area, Aspen Ranger District (WRNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • 14'ers.com
  • CoTrex
  • AllTrails
  • AllTrails
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Castle Peak - NE Ridge
  • Castle Peak - North Face Couloir
Resources

There are no resources for this route/place. Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.