CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK

DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

DISTANCE: APPROX 7 MILES

ELEVATION: APPROX 1400 FT CHANGE

SWEEP: TBD

The new Robert C. Kirkwood entrance is open, with 90 parking spaces and restrooms. The address is 15451 Skyline Blvd, about 1/4 mile north of the old dirt parking lot. The entrance fee is $10, payable at auto pay stations which accept cash (no change) or credit cards.

HIKE DESCRIPTION: On this hike we'll make an approximately 7 mile loop stating at the Saratoga Gap Trail from the main park headquarters. From there we'll continue on another 0.8 miles to Castle Rock Falls which is approximately 80 feet high and fed by the headwaters of Kings Creek. We'll then continue on the Saratoga Gap Trail passing through beautiful chaparral and superb views along the way. After the campsite snack stop, we'll connect to the Ridge Trail which will take us to a couple observation points and we will connect to Goat Rock Trail after Goat Rock Overlook and then connect to skyline trail after a short connection on HWY 35 and on to Summit Rock Loop Trail back to Skyline Trail back to the Castle Rock Parking lot. The total loop will take approximately 4 to 4.5 hours to do.

DIRECTIONS: from downtown Saratoga, take highway 9 up to the intersection/stop sign with highway 35 (Skyline). Turn left, and the new parking lot is approximately 2 miles on the right

Disclaimer: The South Bay Ramblers Hiking Group and its event organizers are not responsible for your safety. Outdoor activities are inherently dangerous. By signing up for these events, you agree to release the South Bay Ramblers Hiking Group and its event organizers from any responsibility, liability, or claim in law or in equity. If you don't agree to these terms, DO NOT join this meetup event. The South Bay Ramblers does not certify the expertise of its event organizers - we are all volunteers. You are responsible for yourself. Please come prepared with appropriate hiking shoes, gear and water.