OverviewCastle Crag is a large peak/cliff face set back in the Bitterroot Mountains West of Corvallis, MT. Although it appears to be 500' of vertical rock, the peak can be fairly easily climbed, and is classified at a class two scramble. Spectacular vistas can be had from the summit, as one can walk out to a cliff edge and look down 500' of vertical granite. The climb can be crammed into a long day, or could be a pleasant camp/climb opportunity.Getting ThereThe base of the climb is approximately eight miles from the Sheafman Creek Trailhead west of Corvallis, on well maintained trails.
To get to the trailhead, take Sheafman Creek road west from Highway 93. The turnoff is about two miles north of Corvallis. The road continues West for six miles and ends at a well marked trailhead.
The Sheafman Creek Trail continues West to Sheafman Lake, then Knaack lake. To access the base of the peak, one must continue W/SW across steep talus from Knaack Lake to a very small Aichele lake. The peak looms above Aichele Lake. From the lake, the easiest way up the mountain is to ascend the talus field leading up to the SE ridge, then follow the ridgeline or back face of the peak toward the summit. A more detailed description of the route can be found in the "Routes" section of this page.
Car to car, the climb can be 8-10 hours, which can either be done in one day, or easily split up into two days. There are plenty of great spots to camp at Sheafman and Knaack Lakes, along with a great ridge overlook North of Knaack Lake (looking into the Fred Burr drainage).
Red TapeThe raod to the Sheafman Creek trail is only open seasonally. It is open from June 15 to Oct 15. Plan on a lengthy approach if you plan to climb in the winter/spring. As about half of the trail is federally designagted wilderness, no bicycles are allowed. Keep up to date with current fire restrictions by contacting the Stevensville Ranger Station (406)777-5461.CampingGreat campsites exist at Sheafman and Knaack Lakes, along with potential camping in numerous meadows before the lakes. Camping is not allowed at the trailhead, but is allowed anywhere on the Bitterroot National Forest, through which the entire trail passes through.
For more information...Stevensville Ranger Station (406)777-7423
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