Nestled deep in the canyons of the southeast section of Joshua Tree National Park is a little-known prospector’s castle call Carey’s Castle. Unknown to many, our very own Scott Connelly knows the way where so many have failed to find this elusive gem of the Joshua Tree National Park. Estimated to have been built in the 1940’s, based on magazines found within, this was the home of an unknown prospector using mortar and rocks to fill in the gaps between boulder walls. The castle is complete with a door, steps, screen windows and a chimney. Inside are still many of the furnishings used by the former resident.
This is NOT an easy hike either in terrain or how to get there. Using GPS coordinates, we will start up an alluvial slope with scrub and cactus working our way up a twisting canyon with Yuccas and boulders. There will be lots of climbing and boulder scrambling as we go. This hike requires agility, flexibility and some scrambling experience to negotiate the boulders and vegetation that crowd sections of this remote canyon.
Exploration of the castle will hopefully be worth the effort of the trip.
If you are interested in learning navigation by GPS and you have a GPS device, bring it, as both the leader and co-leader have considerable experience navigating remote hikes using GPS coordinates.
- Trail Length: 9 miles
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 1400 feet
- Difficulty Rating: Strenuous +
- Trail Type: Out and back.
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Departure Time: 8:00 AM (Please arrive early a few minutes early for briefing and any ride share.
- Departure Location: Walmart Supercenter in Palm Springs at 5601 E. Ramon Road, cross street; meet at the north/east corner parking lot across from PetSmart between 7:45 and 8:00 a.m. Map click here
Driving distance stance to trailhead is 53 miles.
To register for this hike, Join the Waitlist and you will be contacted to complete and confirm the registration.
Bring: Ten Essentials, water (4 liters recommended), lunch (at Carey’s Castle)/ snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.
Hiking Requirements: The length and nature of the trail requires all participants be in excellent physical condition. Click here for more information.
Carpooling: Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation or ride share.
Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.
Contact hike leaders: Scott Connelly Email click here
or Beth Schneider Email click here
Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.
Unless otherwise noted, registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here
Health Problems/Allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete the hike.
