The trail along East Elk Creek is New Castle’s hidden treasure. The first mile-and-a-half is along a jeep road, an easy hike in and out, with plenty of beautiful views of the creek. At the bridge that crosses the creek the real trail begins. So does the climbing.
The trail extends 18 miles to the top of the flattops. Assuming you’re not going that far, remember that when you turn around, you have to retrace the same distance you’ve already walked.
To reach the trail, take 7th Street/Midland, which becomes the Buford Road (CR 245). About 1.2 miles from Castle Valley Boulevard’s intersection with the Buford Road, take the right branch of the Y onto East Elk Road (CR 241). The road becomes progressively more primitive, but keep going about 4.3 miles until you reach the parking lot. If you keep driving, you’ll reach a gate after about one-tenth of a mile.
Be sure to close the gate to the trail behind you. You’ll walk or drive for a stretch that passes a fenced-in pasture. Once past the fence you can see the creek.
The 1.4 miles of jeep road from the parking lot to the bridge is ideal for snowshoeing in the winter. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for East Elk Creek Road, which is narrow and has some blind curves.
It’s a beautiful journey in all seasons.
