Death Valley News: Scotty’s Castle Exterior Tours Return While Full Reopening Remains Years Away

DEATH VALLEY NEWS | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | OCTOBER 2026

Scotty’s Castle is offering a limited way to experience its historic grounds while a long restoration continues. In an October 8, 2026 announcement, Death Valley National Park said guided exterior tours would be available on most weekends during the new season, even though the complex is not open for ordinary independent visits.

What the limited tours include

The park announced guided exterior tours most Saturdays and Sundays between October 10 and April 17, with private weekday options for small groups by arrangement. Guides from the National Park Service and Death Valley Natural History Association explain the site and the preservation work. Tickets are handled through the association, and visitors should check exact availability before traveling.

Why the castle remains closed

A destructive flash flood in October 2015 damaged buildings, roads, utilities and the historic landscape. The site has required multiple stages of repairs; opening an exterior tour is not equivalent to restoring access to interior rooms or the surrounding closed area. Visitors without tour tickets should not enter restricted portions of Grapevine Canyon.

The next phase of restoration

The park says another construction phase is expected to begin in 2027, including the parking lot, historic Longshed and Gas Tank House. One of those buildings is planned as a small visitor contact station. Curatorial staff would return furnishings and collections after additional work, before interiors could welcome regular tours again.

How to read the 2028 timeline

The National Park Service currently identifies November 2028 as the earliest anticipated date for full reopening, not a firm promise. Flood risk, contracting, preservation work and further assessments can all influence schedules. Travelers interested in history should look for officially announced tours rather than treating the property as a fully accessible attraction.

Official sources and verification

Editorial note: This original Death Valley News report distinguishes confirmed 2026 agency announcements from later developments that require independent verification. Check official notices before relying on road or facility access information.

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