July 26th- Castle Mountain - Long Day hike - Easy Scramble

Please read the entire posting before RSVP'ing to be sure this hike/scramble is appropriate for you. Castle Mountain is one of the most distinctive mountains in the Banff area.

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Description: Day Scramble Distance: 28.4 kms return Roundtrip Time: 9+ hours est. Height gain: 1,400m A relatively easy scramble, starting along a well-maintained trail to Rockbound Lake, then a demanding hike and scramble to the plateau. It is a scramble on loose rock to the summit. This is not a difficult scramble but a DEMANDING and STRENUOUS hike.

Total hiking time: 7-11 hours

Hiking distance: about 28km

Elevation gain: 1400m

Driving time: about 1.75 hours each way

EQUIPMENT:
Mandatory - Hiking boots and post-hike sandals

Mandatory - Hiking poles( it's a long hike so if you get hurt the poles will help you get back to the parking lot) Banff Park Pass (if you have one) otherwise shared cost with the driver

Mandatory - Proper seasonal wear (dress in layers), rain jacket or something that helps to hike to the safety in rain

Mandatory - Lunch and water ( 3L)

Mandatory: No jeans

Optional - Helmet, Gaiters, Sun glasses, sunscreen, bug spray, camera

Optional- For your safety invest in a bear spray, it will last you 5 year for $40 but most importantly it will save your life when you encounter a bear.

Suggested passenger fare/costs: $20 for gas per person + park pass and in cash to your driver.

As with all my hikes, I will reschedule the event if weather is unfavorable or if an unforeseen conflict arises.

*Disclaimer: You are fully aware that organizers are not professional guides and you assume all responsibility for your safety and well-being. By attending this meetup, you agree that there are risks associated with the aforementioned activity, and you will in no way hold the organizer or this meetup group responsible for any accident or injury that may occur.