Helena Ridge

Elevation gain 1500m
Distance 23km
Pace: Moderate (slower on the steep sections/ moderate on the downhills)

This trip will begin from the trail head near Castle Junction and Highway 1A. It winds through the forest for 8.4 kilometers to Rockbound Lake,which is on the back side of Castle Mountain. After a break, we will ascend a head wall of about 300 meters up to the Castle Mountain plateau. The views from here should be spectacular. Next we will ascend the remaining 362 meters to the top of Helena Ridge, elevation 2862 meters. This 'scramble' is rated easy by Alan Kane's scrambling guide. But expect very steep/rocky/ offtrail sections beyond Rockbound Lake. After this we will retrace our steps back to the parking lot.

This trip is best suited to experienced hikers or scramblers as this hike is advanced.
(Bob Spirko's Trip Report: Helena Ridge)

Required Items to Bring:
Hiking Boots
Warm Layers
Rain/Wind Gear
Lunch
Water 2L (or more in hot weather)
Bear Spray
Sunscreen/Insect Repellent
Personal First Aid Kit
$ for carpool