Indian Spring, Castella, CA

## Overview Indian Spring is a natural spring located within Castle Crags State Park near Castella, California, in Shasta County. Nestled among the dramatic granite spires and rugged mountain terrain of the Castle Crags — ancient formations estimated to be around 170 million years old — this spring offers hikers a rewarding destination deep in the backcountry. The water has been reported by visitors to be clean, refreshing, and pleasant-tasting, though water quality can vary depending on conditions and season. Castle Crags State Park sits along the upper Sacramento River canyon and is renowned for its towering crags of ancient granite, which rise sharply to over 6,000 feet. The park encompasses more than 4,300 acres of wilderness, and Indian Spring is one of several natural water sources found along the mountain trails. The spring water seeps and cascades from the rocky mountainside and can be encountered at multiple points along the route, though the true source higher up is the ultimate goal for dedicated hikers. The park is open to the public, though a California State Parks day-use fee applies at the entrance. The spring itself is accessible 24 hours a day once you are inside the park. ## Directions **Updated GPS coordinates:** 41.16707, -122.32331 (within Castle Crags State Park) 1. From Castella, head north on Interstate 5. 2. Take the Castle Creek Road exit (located near the Chevron gas station on the left side of the highway). 3. Turn left (west) onto **Castle Creek Road** and follow it into **Castle Crags State Park**. 4. Pay the day-use fee at the park entrance and continue to the trailhead parking area. 5. From the trailhead, follow the trail signs toward Indian Spring. The hike is long and strenuous — expect several hours of hiking each way through mountainous terrain. 6. Signboards are posted at various points along the trail indicating your distance from the spring. *Note: These directions are based on the original user submission and have not been independently verified. It is recommended to confirm the route with the Castle Crags State Park visitor center or current trail maps before setting out.* ## What to Expect **The Hike:** This is a demanding, full-day hike through rugged mountain terrain. The trail climbs steadily through forested slopes and rocky outcrops, with the Castle Crags' iconic granite spires visible along the way. Plan for several hours of hiking in each direction. There are no overnight camping facilities along this particular route, so you will need to complete the round trip in a single day. **The Spring:** Indian Spring water drips and flows from the mountainside and can be found at several points along the trail. Hikers typically aim for the spring's source higher up the mountain for the freshest flow. While the water has been described as pure and refreshing by visitors, its safety for drinking cannot be guaranteed — conditions can change with weather and season. **Practical Tips:** - Purchase a full-day parking pass at the park entrance, as the hike will take most of the day. - Bring plenty of water, food, and supplies — this is a long, physically demanding trek with no services along the trail. - Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers; temperatures can vary significantly with elevation. - Start early in the morning to allow ample daylight for the return trip. - The trail is best attempted in late spring through early fall when conditions are most favorable and trails are clear of snow. **Scenery:** The surrounding landscape is spectacular. The Castle Crags are a geologically significant formation of ancient granite that predates the nearby volcanic Cascade Range. On clear days, views of Mount Shasta to the north add to the dramatic backdrop. Wildlife, wildflowers, and old-growth forest make the journey as rewarding as the destination.