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Hike Date 02/25/06 - Elevation 4880' - 1st recorded ascent was by the legendary Howard Booth (yes, of course he did the Summit Block!)
Castle Peak is another infamous Las Vegas "Obscure Peaks Section" (OPS) peak.
Click here for Beta Picture of Castle Tower or above images for Tracks and GPS Map.
For Harlan's Pictures & GPS Tracks (different route tracks) Click Camera.
Summit Block is exposed 4th Class - Use GPS Map & Tracks at your own risk - As always, come prepared & be carefull of loose rock
*Additional information on the Highland Range south of Las Vegas and Boulder City at bottom of this page.
Only a few miles off Highway 95 off of a power line road, the Highland Range doesn’t seem on paper like an obvious destination for a hike. One look at its profile rising jagged against the sky, however, will change your mind. Its multicolored volcanic rocks, scattered yucca, cholla, huge barrel cacti, and solitude among the rock formations make it a great area to hike and explore a mysterious and beautifull area in Southern Nevada. Vehicle: HC or 4WD as of 02/06 Road could be done in almost any vehicle with descent clearance as road was in great shape.
Additionally, the Highland Range offers opportunities for the more adventurous to explore the jagged rock formations, arches, and peaks of the area by longer hikes and rock scrambles. Always think “Safety First,” know your limitations and respect the rugged terrain.
Necessities: The Highland Range is in the desert and you need to bring plenty of water. Sunscreen is also highly recommended. Be prepared for cool temperatures, especially once the sun goes down, so bring appropriate clothing. (Not recomended in summer heat)
The best time of year to explore the Highland Range is from late October through April (spring is best when the wildflowers and cacti are in bloom).
Maps: Nevada Atlas & Gazetteer by DeLorme Boulder City (1: 100 000 scale) USGS Mesquite Lake (1: 100 000 scale)
USGS Status: The Highland Range currently has no official designation or protection. It is listed as a “Crucial Bighorn Habitat Area.” It is an area that the Nevada Wilderness Coalition has proposed for Wilderness designation.
Additional FREE HIKING INFORMATION links to other websites for Hikes near Las Vegas, Nevada
One touch of nature makes the whole world kin. - William Shakespeare
