Bishop Castle, Sangre De Cristo Mountains Travel Guide

4.7 (6833)

Explore a towering, hand-built castle in the Colorado mountains, a testament to one man's vision and relentless dedication.

Bishop Castle is a unique roadside attraction in Rye, Colorado, a towering, intricate structure built by one man, Jim Bishop. Begun in 1969, this castle, constructed from stone and iron, has become a symbol of individual passion and determination, drawing visitors with its unconventional architecture and the stunning views it offers of the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Bishop Castle

12705 CO-165, Rye, Colorado, 81069, US
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Monday 9 am-6 pm
Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
Thursday 9 am-6 pm
Friday 9 am-6 pm
Saturday 9 am-6 pm
Sunday 9 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bishop Castle.

Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven surfaces if you plan to explore the castle's interior.
Exercise extreme caution when exploring the upper levels, as there are unprotected heights and no safety rails.
Bring water and sun protection, as the castle is located at a high altitude and offers little shade.

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Explore Bishop Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bishop Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Bishop Castle is located on CO-165, southwest of Pueblo, Colorado. From Pueblo, take I-25 south to exit 74 for Colorado City. Follow CO-165 west for approximately 20 miles. The castle will be visible on the right side of the highway. Parking is available along the shoulder of the road. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season. There are no fees for parking.

Discover more about Bishop Castle

Bishop Castle is an awe-inspiring, albeit unconventional, roadside attraction located in the Wet Mountains of Southern Colorado. This towering structure, the lifelong project of Jim Bishop, stands as a testament to one man's vision and tireless effort.Construction began in 1969, originally intended as a family cottage, but soon evolved into the elaborate castle that stands today. Bishop used primarily stone and iron to create the castle, which features soaring towers, intricate walkways, and stained-glass windows, all crafted by his own hands. The castle's main tower rises over 160 feet, offering panoramic views of the surrounding San Isabel National Forest.Visitors are free to explore the castle, but are advised to exercise caution, as the structure is not fully up to code and contains open, unprotected heights. Despite its unfinished nature, Bishop Castle remains a captivating and inspiring destination, drawing thousands of visitors each year who marvel at its creator's ambition and the sheer scale of his creation.