Scorpion Gulch, Maricopa County Travel Guide

4.8 (277)

Explore the rustic charm of Scorpion Gulch in South Mountain Park, a historic landmark offering a glimpse into Phoenix's past.

Nestled in South Mountain Park, Scorpion Gulch offers a glimpse into Phoenix's past. The site features the remains of a 1930s trading post and residence built by William Lunsford, a local character known as 'Grandpa'. Visitors can explore the historic stone structures and enjoy the surrounding desert scenery.

A brief summary to Scorpion Gulch

30067007, Phoenix, South Mountain Village, AZ, 85042, US
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Monday 8 am-11 pm
Tuesday 8 am-11 pm
Wednesday 8 am-11 pm
Thursday 8 am-11 pm
Friday 8 am-11 pm
Saturday 8 am-11 pm
Sunday 8 am-11 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Scorpion Gulch.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, and to capture the best lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven ground and exploring the surrounding trails.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike any of the trails in South Mountain Park.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Dobbins Lookout for panoramic views of the Phoenix area.

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Explore Scorpion Gulch on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Scorpion Gulch, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Scorpion Gulch is located within South Mountain Park. From downtown Phoenix, take Central Avenue south. The park entrance is on the right. Follow the park road to the Scorpion Gulch parking area. Parking is free and plentiful. Note that the park's main entrance closes at 1 p.m. on July 4th.
Public Transport

To reach Scorpion Gulch by public transport from Tempe, start at the Tempe Transit Center and take the Valley Metro Light Rail towards Phoenix. Transfer to Bus Route 1 at the Central Ave/Roosevelt stop. Ride the bus south to the 'Baseline Rd & 24th St' stop. From there, walk south on 24th St for about half a mile to the South Mountain Park entrance, then follow signs to Scorpion Gulch, about a 15-minute walk. A single ride on Valley Metro is $2.

Discover more about Scorpion Gulch

Scorpion Gulch, located within South Mountain Park in Phoenix, Arizona, is a historical landmark that provides a window into the region's past. Built in 1936 by William Lunsford, the site originally served as his home and a trading post. Lunsford, affectionately known as 'Grandpa' by the local children, sold curios, Indigenous crafts, sodas, and candy. He was known for his generosity, often giving away more treats than he sold.After Lunsford's death, the building briefly became a bar in the 1970s before being abandoned. The City of Phoenix acquired the property and, in 2012, undertook a stabilization project to preserve the remaining structures. Today, visitors can freely explore the stone ruins, which are a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset.While the roofs of the buildings are mostly gone, the remaining walls offer a tangible connection to the past. Across the road from Scorpion Gulch is the trailhead for the Max Delta Trail, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding desert landscape. Scorpion Gulch provides a peaceful escape and a chance to reflect on the history of the area.