Mill Castle #450

The Mill Castle Trail #450 begins at the trailhead at the end of Mill Creek Road, FSR #727 and ends at its intersection with the Lowline Trail #438.  With the exception of the first mile from the trailhead, the trail is within the West Elk Wilderness where Wilderness Regulations apply.  The trail crosses Mill Creek just before the wilderness boundary.  This crossing may be treacherous during the runoff or heavy thunderstorms.  It then meanders west from Mill Creek Road where, at approximately 5 miles, you reach a series of steep rocky switchbacks which can be slippery during inclement weather.  It then turns north over Strom Pass which is very steep on both sides and then continues east to Castle Creek.  Although this trail goes through rugged terrain, it is one of the most scenic trails in the West Elk Wilderness.