Explore More: Castle Crag

Located along the windy roads of Northern California and nestled among the evergreens, you will find stunning castle-like rock formations at Castle Crag. With an hour and a half drive from Redding, Castle Crag State Park, boasts excellent hiking, a day-long getaway, and some necessary time off the grid.

While hiking in this area, I have become accustomed to wanting not-only a great view, a bit of adventure, but also to push myself physically. If I’m not sore the next day something has gone terribly wrong.

At Castle Crag, you will find every bit of adventure you’re looking for. With a 3 mile trail to the summit, you can continue to free climb up the boulders and domes until you reach the formation’s tallest peaks. It was so much fun and not for the faint of heart (or those scared of heights!). There may have been a few times when I reached a tall point looked down, and decided to hug the rock I was standing next to, as a few feet away was a complete drop off the cliff.


Sometimes when I share these adventure posts, I share with you a few deep thoughts, revelations, or beliefs that I have come from my times out in nature. This day wasn’t one of those. Instead it was just a great time with friends. Somedays you need days like these, where you aren’t worried about the next creative breakthrough, strategy, or ways to streamline systems. You are present with your friends, in a beautiful space, and just have fun. I hope you’ve found a few days like these on your summer adventures as well.

A few tips:
We hiked and climbed in the intense summer heat (100 degrees), so make sure to pack plenty of water, food, and some cash. The daily entrance fee to the park is $8. This was a hike that was physically demanding. There are other paved loops that are easy distances and handicap accessible with vistas within the park, but the summit is reserved for the die-hard, adventure-seeking types.

Where have you gone on adventures this summer? Know of any great local hikes and spots to check out? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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