Castle Creek Trail is 10.2 miles long and features Castle Rock Creek, a cold, clear stream which serves as one of the two major forks of the South Umpqua River.

The Castle Creek Trail begins in a timber cut unit and slowly descends to the bottom of Castle Creek Canyon. Along this section, the trail passes through old growth Douglas fir timber, much of which is tilted at angles by unstable land flows. Castle Creek can be heard rushing along below, but not seen for approximately 2 1/4 miles. At a rocky point, hikers get their first look at Castle Creek and Castle Creek Falls. Three miles from the trailhead lies Canyon Camp, an old camp beside the creek.

From Canyon Camp to Hummingbird Camp, a distance of three miles, the trail follows along Castle Creek. Two fords across Castle Creek are necessary to get to Hummingbird Camp.

From Hummingbird Camp to Windy Gap at the head of Fish Creek Valley, the trail is steep and poorly marked. Watch closely for the Forest Service standard double trail blazes on the trees along the trail. The top of the trail hits an old mining cat road. Follow this road to a large mountain meadow on the ridge top and bear left on the ridge to Windy Gap. This section of trail is not recommended for inexperienced trail users.

Directions: From Tiller, Travel northeast on County Road #46, which becomes South Umpqua Road #28. Continue on 28 to Road #2823. Follow Road #2823 to Road #2823-600 and follow Road #2823-600 to Castle Creek Trailhead, approximately 30 miles from Tiller. The trailhead is undeveloped with parking available for one to two vehicles maximum. Limited turn around for vehicles and none for trailers. Horse users are advised to use Road 2823, 2823-500 and 510 junctions for turn around and park along 2823 or back into 2823-600 where the trailhead is located. Two to four trailers can be accommodated this way.

Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet

Distance: 10.2 miles

Usage: Light to Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

Visitor Information

Contact Wildernet