After more than a decade of silence following the devastating 2015 flash floods, one of Death Valley’s most iconic landmarks is finally welcoming visitors back—though with a “hard-hat” twist.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!While the site remains closed for general daily use, the National Park Service is offering limited-edition walking tours throughout the first quarter of 2026. This is a rare chance to see a $90 million restoration project in action before the site fully returns to its former glory.
Tour Snapshot
- The Experience: A two-hour guided walking tour focusing on the incredible engineering required to save the 1920s Spanish-Mediterranean mansion.
- The Schedule: Tours run every Sunday through March 29, 2026.
- Availability: Two tours per day (morning and afternoon), capped at 20 people per group.
- Pricing: $35 per person, with funds reinvested into the site’s preservation.
Why It’s a Big Deal
- See the Scars: View areas impacted by the 2015 flood and the 2021 fire.
- Learn the Lore: Hear the story of Walter “Death Valley Scotty” Scott and the wealthy Chicago couple who fell for his gold-mining ruse.
- Witness the Work: Observe the modern tech being used to protect the historic wood, tile, and metalwork from future climate events.
Pro-Tips for Visitors
Book Early: These tours are essentially “VIP access” and tickets vanish within hours of being released. Be Prepared: Because the site is still an active construction zone, you’ll need sturdy, closed-toe shoes. The castle is located in a remote northern section of the park, so ensure your gas tank is full before heading out.
