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Trail Description: The trail follows the road as it heads mostly north towards Round Valley. The trail is not steep, but climbs steadily for three and a half miles through pine and fir forest. For beginners, just heading out and back on the road might be enough of a tour, but for intermediate or above skiers, continue on past where the road ends. The road ends at a steep headwall where the trail switchbacks up a steep section until it intersects the ridge at Castle Pass. Turning north, it is less than a mile to Round Valley and the Peter Grubb Hut. This is an easy spot to get lost. Be sure not to head down slope into the Lower Castle Creek drainage. Instead, head east of north, contouring along the mountain. As you leave the forest and enter the open valley, Castle Peak to the east begs to be climbed. Its broad, 25-30 degree slopes make perfect terrain for intermediate telemarkers to practice their turns. Shutes that drop off the summit provide challenging skiing for advanced and expert skiers as well. Environmental Concerns: There is a drop toilet maintained by the Sierra Club next to the Grubb Hut. Please be sure to use this facility to avoid adding waste to this highly used area. Advisory: Avalanche conditions can exist around Castle Peak so be sure to check the avalanche forecast before heading out. |
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