Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins

"I got to the park a bit later than planned, so I didn't get to do the whole (castle) trail, but the parts I did were great. Super-easy walk that gets you some fairly close up looks at some way-cool old castle ruins (although bummer that you aren't supposed to enter / explore at all within the walls). You can also take an offshoot right up to a pretty neat water tower, and make your way to several lovely viewpoints overlooking either the water or colorful arrays of trees, or both. I believe the part of the trail I didn't get to do is mostly a walk along the same body of water, and based on the view from the trailhead, that seems quite lovely as well. So short, easy hike(s) with lots of cool and/or pretty things to see = easy 5."

"Visiting the castle ruins, and the scenic overlook deck on the back (West) side of the castle, at Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of my three "must see" features in the park. There is a small parking lot approx. 100 yds. below the castle ruins that is the most convenient access but can be full, especially during busy weekend (and almost always holiday's) times. If that small uppermost lot is full, there is a larger parking lot downhill at the Castle Ruins Trailhead. If you have to park in the trailhead lot there is a paved walking path out the back of the lot that you can walk approx. 300 yds up to the castle ruins access (Note: the elevation gain walking up from the Castle Ruins Trailhead parking lot may be challenging for mobility-limited people. In that case, drop them off at the upper lot castle pathway access, then drive down to the trailhead parking lot and walk the paved trail up to meet your party). It's all worth the effort."

"The views there are amazing. Don’t know if it would be cooler to visit the ruins or if it were rebuilt. The land bridge is also very cool both to look at and the temperature is cooler down there as well."

"The castle, water tower, old mill site, and post office are all short hikes on paved or boardwalk trails. The natural bridge and balancing rock hikes are a little more rugged. Beautifully maintained with ample benches for resting and viewing."

"The views, the trails, the peace! In the early morning is the best time to go to beat the crowds and the heat. So many trails connect. The lake is nearby. All so beautiful ❤️ you could spend forever here."