Golden Wall, Castle Bridge, & Buckhorn Trails

Uses: Hike, Horse
Length: 4 miles one-way
Difficulty: Moderate
Time required: 2-4 hours
FS Trail #: 095, 096, & 037

Directions: Golden Wall/Castle Bridge Trail starts just west of the Red Canyon Visitor Center on the other side of the bike path. Parking is located at the large pullout on the south side of Highway 12. The Buckhorn Trail begins in the Red Canyon Campground near site 23.

Description: Although these trails were once separate, the Golden Wall Trail was extended so they now connect to make a nice loop that showcases the colors of the Claron Formation. The Golden Wall Trail, as its name suggests, winds through walls of golden colored limestone.

After a ½ mile, the short Castle Bridge Trail takes off and quickly climbs to a ridge overlooking the Golden Wall before descending back down to the main trail. For those with less time, this is a must-see hike with a guarantee of few people and spectacular views!

For those with more ambition, continue up the Golden Wall Trail as it climbs out of the yellowish-rocks and back into the orange and reddish rocks. A series of switchbacks takes you over a small ridge and back down to a wash.

More climbing ensues as you reach another narrow ridge and then descend a narrow stairway. One more climb and you reach the intersection with the Buckhorn Trail and a mile-long descent to the campground.