Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Discover
Places to see
Natural Monuments
United States
California
Contra Costa County

Castle Rock Recreation Area

Highlight • Climb

Castle Rock Recreation Area

Hiking

5.0

(4)

Running

5.0

(2)

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Mount Diablo State Park

Save

Share

  • More

  • Location: Contra Costa County, California, United States

    Save

    Share

  • More

  • Take Me There

    Tips

    September 16, 2023

    Hiking

    The Castle Rock formations are a popular destination for local rock climbers in this scenic canyon along Pine Creek, with Mammoth Rock the largest. The prominent sandstone amid the oak woodlands is a beautiful contrast and a fantastic place to have lunch at one of the many picnic tables. The site is closed annually from February 1 to August 1 to protect nesting peregrine falcons that inhabit the area, so plan accordingly if you wish to explore more here.
    guide_signup

    In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

    Sign up for free

    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Castle Rock Recreation Area

    placeholder

    4.7

    (3)

    14

    hikers

    #1.

    Diablo Summit Long Loop: Stage, Burma, Summit, and Wall Point

    31.8km

    10:01

    1,240m

    1,230m

    Hike the challenging 19.8-mile Diablo Summit Long Loop in Mount Diablo State Park for panoramic views and diverse terrain.

    Navigate with device

    Send to Phone

    Hard
    placeholder

    8

    hikers

    24.7km

    07:58

    1,030m

    1,030m

    This difficult 15.4-mile loop in Mount Diablo State Park offers strenuous climbs, diverse terrain, and expansive views to the summit.

    Hard
    placeholder

    6

    hikers

    The Wall Point and Stage Road Loop is a demanding yet incredibly scenic hike that immerses you in the diverse landscapes of Diablo Foothills Regional Park. You'll journey through rolling green hills dotted with ancient oak trees, past striking sandstone formations like Sentinel Rock, and along varied terrain from wide fire roads to narrow, steep singletrack. The route offers expansive vistas of Mount Diablo and the surrounding valleys, providing a true sense of accomplishment over its 16.2 miles (26.0 km) and 2402 feet (732 metres) of elevation gain.

    Planning your visit to this difficult trail, which typically takes around 7 hours and 41 minutes, should start with the Macedo Ranch staging area. Remember that a parking permit is usually required, so have that sorted before you arrive. Conditions can range from dry and dusty to streams that are a foot deep after rain, so be prepared for varied footing. Spring is particularly rewarding for the vibrant display of wildflowers.

    This loop is notable for its constantly changing scenery and geological features, including the fascinating Wind Caves and other sandstone formations with holes. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Contra Costa County, offering glimpses of climbers on Pagoda Rock and the prominent Castle Rock Recreation Area. The trail's varied elevation changes and diverse ecosystems make it a standout option for experienced hikers in the region.

    Hard

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 140 m

    Weather

    Powered by Foreca

    Today

    Thursday 25 June

    26°C

    12°C

    0 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h

    Most visited during

    January

    February

    March

    April

    May

    June

    July

    August

    September

    October

    November

    December

    Location: Contra Costa County, California, United States

    Other Popular Places to Check Out

    Sandstone Formations With Holes, Diablo Foothills Regional Park

    Explore
    RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
    Download the app
    Follow Us on Socials

    © komoot GmbH

    Privacy Policy