Attraction Guide: Scotty's Castle (Grapevine Canyon), Death Valley, United States

Scotty's Castle (Grapevine Canyon) Guide

Scotty's Castle: An Oasis of Opulence in the Heart of Death Valley Guide

Prepare to be amazed by Scotty's Castle, also known as Death Valley Ranch, a stunning architectural marvel incongruously located in the harsh landscape of Death Valley National Park. This isn't a castle in the traditional sense, but rather a lavish vacation home built in the 1920s by Albert Johnson, a wealthy Chicago businessman, and Walter Scott, a charismatic prospector and con man known as "Death Valley Scotty." The story behind the castle is as captivating as the building itself. The history of Scotty's Castle is a tale of friendship, deception, and enduring mystery. Walter Scott convinced Albert Johnson that he had struck gold in Death Valley and needed Johnson's financial backing. Johnson, intrigued by Scott's stories and drawn to the adventure, invested heavily in the supposed gold mine. While the mine never produced any significant wealth, a strong bond formed between the two men. When Johnson fell ill, he decided to build a grand vacation home in Grapevine Canyon, and Scotty's Castle was born. The castle was never fully completed due to financial difficulties and, later, Scotty's death. While Scotty's Castle is currently closed due to significant damage from flooding in 2015, when it reopens, visitors will be able to take guided tours of the castle, exploring its opulent interiors and learning about the fascinating history of Walter Scott and Albert Johnson. You can wander the grounds, admiring the unique architecture and the stunning views of Grapevine Canyon. The castle also features a working hydroelectric generator and a complex system of underground tunnels, which you can explore on the tour. Check the National Park Service website for updates on reopening and tour availability.