Scotty’s Castle California Is A Must See In Death Valley

Scotty’s Castle is a historic landmark located in Death Valley National Park, California. It is a popular tourist attraction known for its unique architecture and fascinating history. The castle is named after Walter Scott, also known as “Death Valley Scotty,” a colorful character who claimed to have discovered a massive gold mine in the area.

History of Scotty’s Castle

Scotty’s Castle was built in the 1920s by Albert Johnson, a wealthy insurance executive from Chicago. Johnson first visited Death Valley in 1913 and was impressed by the region’s natural beauty. He returned several times over the years and eventually purchased a ranch in Grapevine Canyon, near the northern edge of the park.

In 1922, Johnson met Walter Scott, who had become a local legend for his tall tales and claims of a secret gold mine. Scotty convinced Johnson to invest in a new tourist attraction – a lavish mansion in the middle of the desert. The two men became friends and partners, and work began on the castle in 1922.

The castle was designed by architect Albert Frey in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, with stucco walls, red-tile roofs, and ornate wrought-iron details. The interior was furnished with antiques and art from around the world, creating a luxurious oasis in the middle of the desert.

Construction was halted in 1929 due to the Great Depression, and the castle was never completed as originally planned. Johnson and Scotty continued to visit the property, however, and used it as a vacation home and entertaining space.

Visiting Scotty’s Castle

Today, Scotty’s Castle is open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, including a music room, library, and billiards room, as well as the surrounding gardens and grounds. The tours offer a glimpse into the lives of Johnson and Scotty, as well as the history of the castle and its unique architecture.

The castle is located in Grapevine Canyon, about an hour’s drive from Furnace Creek, the main visitor center in Death Valley National Park. The canyon itself is worth exploring, with towering rock formations and a seasonal waterfall that can be seen from the castle’s front porch.

Guided tours of Scotty’s Castle are offered daily, and reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. The tours last about an hour and a half and cover the history and architecture of the castle, as well as the stories of Johnson and Scotty.

Other Attractions in the Area

While Scotty’s Castle is the main attraction in Grapevine Canyon, there are several other points of interest in the area that are worth checking out. These include:

1. Ubehebe Crater: A massive volcanic crater located about 30 miles from Scotty’s Castle. The crater is over half a mile wide and 600 feet deep, and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert.
2. Racetrack Playa: A remote area of the park known for its mysterious moving rocks. The rocks appear to move across the dry lake bed on their own, leaving behind long tracks in the sand.
3. Stovepipe Wells: A small town located near the center of the park. The town offers lodging, dining, and other amenities, as well as access to several hiking trails and other attractions.
4. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: A popular spot for hiking and photography, the sand dunes offer a unique and surreal landscape.

Conclusion

Scotty’s Castle is a fascinating and unique attraction in Death Valley National Park. Its history and architecture make it a must-see for anyone visiting the park, and the surrounding area offers a range of other attractions and activities for visitors to explore.