Castle Rock Gulch
We were on a mission to see as much of the area as we could, so that meant that Castle Rock Gulch was on our list. It didn't look like it would be too exciting, and when we came off of Black Dumps we headed north. It would end up being a nice drive with a nearly perfect lunch spot.
We soon headed into tall and healthy pine trees. It felt like a true Colorado trail, though the road was well maintained and nice. There was even a ditch next to the road to control erosion.
The trail curved back and forth and the trees turned from pines to aspens. We saw the perfect collection of aspen trees with both red and yellow leaves, and there were ponds just past it. There were also interesting rock formations nearby. Luckily, there was a wide spot next to the road there so we stopped for lunch.
Most of us had seen 25 degrees and snow the day before, and it was really nice to be in the sunshine and temperatures in the 70s. We unpacked chairs and had lunch in some amazing scenery. We definitely didn't hurry, taking our time and enjoying each other's company. All good things must end, though, so we eventually packed up to go.
We were finally in Castle Rock Gulch, and the trail went by quickly until the end. When we got to the trailhead, Roger decided it was time for him to head for home so we said our goodbyes. The rest of us headed off for Aspen Ridge and still more amazing scenery.
