Red Castle, Wyoming
Backpacking into Red Castle is one of the most rewarding and scenic places to camp in the Uintas. Round trip from China Meadows trailhead is 25 miles. If you hike to the upper lake tack on another mile and a half. Like most Uinta hikes you hike in then back out on the same trail. Expect epic sunsets, rain, and mosquitos. The Uinta wilderness is dog friendly making it a perfect hike for you and your best friend. Overall the climb is gradual with no steep passes and the elevation gain is roughly 3000ft.
Driving directions from Salt Lake City
– about 2 hours and 45 min:
- Travel east on i80 to exit 34 Fort Bridger
- Continue south on 219 for a few miles into Mountain View
- Turn south on 410 in Mountain view and continue south until the highway turns into 283
- Keep on keeping on, until you pass the Stateline Reservoir.
- The China Meadows trailhead is at the end of the road and we had to pay to park. I think it was $7 or $10. Regardless bring cash
The trail its self is not difficult it is just rocky and long. Add blisters the size of half dollars on the back of my heels and it was quite possibly the worst hike of my life. Note to the wise, never switch up your hiking routine with new footbeds. It was so painful I coudln’t even take photos.
