Nevada · Hiking

Castle Loop

5.2 mi
loop
613 ft
climb
7,260 ft
high point
Loop
route
May–Jun, Aug–Oct
best months

Castle Loop is a 5.2-mile loop hike on Forest Service land in Nevada, set about 0.3 miles from the town of Austin. It rises from 6,481 feet to 7,260 feet, a total gain of 613 feet, and is rated moderate. The trail is a natural-surface loop, and bikes are allowed. The weather station in Austin, at a similar elevation, sits about 480 feet lower than the loop's high point, so temperatures on the loop run a little cooler. Summer is the warmest stretch. Typical averages from the nearby Austin #2 weather station put July highs around 86°F and September highs near 75°F, with few wet days. Winter brings highs in the low 40s and snow on several days a month from December through February. The hike takes about two hours. Other trails start close by, including Cahill Canyon Run at 0.4 miles and Gold Venture Loop at 1 mile. Bob Scott Campground is about 4.2 miles away.