Death Valley Will Offer Scotty's Castle Exterior Tours

The historic California site will host ranger-led walking tours while restoration work continues through 2027.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in National Parks

Death Valley Will Offer Scotty's Castle Exterior Tours

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Beginning October 10, 2026, Death Valley National Park will offer guided exterior tours of the historic Scotty's Castle. These tours allow visitors to view the grounds while the National Park Service continues multi-year restoration efforts following a 2015 flash flood.

Why it matters

The tours provide the public with access to a landmark property that has remained closed for over a decade due to extensive structural damage. Ongoing repairs aim to stabilize the 1920s-era estate, with a full reopening currently projected for late 2028.

Guided exterior tours are scheduled most Saturdays and Sundays from October 10, 2026, through April 17, 2027. Private weekday tours are available for small groups upon request.

The players

National Park Service

This federal agency is responsible for the ongoing repair and preservation of the historic site.

Death Valley Natural History Association

This organization partners with park rangers to lead guided tours for visitors at the site.

The details

Led by park rangers and members of the Death Valley Natural History Association, the tours focus on the exterior of the historic site. Visitors can explore the grounds while behind-the-scenes preservation efforts progress.

October 2015: A flash flood caused extensive damage to the site.
October 10, 2026: Exterior tours begin for the season.
April 17, 2027: The scheduled conclusion for the tour season.
2027: Construction begins on the parking lot, Longshed, and Gas Tank House.
November 2028: The earliest anticipated date for the site to fully reopen.

Travel Outlook

This news follows the long-term trajectory of historical sites recovering from extreme weather events. The phased opening reflects a shift from total closure to restricted access as National Park Service restoration efforts reach critical construction milestones.

Visitors must book tour tickets in advance through the official online portal to secure their spot during the designated season. Small groups interested in a more private experience can request weekday tours.

The takeaway

While the interior remains off-limits, the new exterior tour schedule offers a rare opportunity to engage with a landmark that has been inaccessible for years. Interested travelers should monitor official park communications for updates on the 2028 restoration completion.