
Scorpion Gulch
Iconic 1930s trading post ruin at the base of South Mountain, offering rustic desert vibes and fantastic photo opportunities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring

Scorpion Gulch
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1930s trading post ruin at the base of South Mountain, offering rustic desert vibes and fantastic photo opportunities.
"A one-of-a-kind Western landmark and popular photo spot located right next to South Mountain!"

📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Scorpion Gulch is a photographer's dream! Capture those rustic desert vibes.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Trails
Combine your visit with a hike on South Mountain for a full day of adventure.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Trading Post Ruins
Base of South Mountain, Phoenix
Step back in time at this 1930s trading post, now an iconic ruin with rustic charm.

Desert Photo Opportunities
Scorpion Gulch
Capture moody desert pics with Insta-worthy backdrops that scream 'Wild West.'

South Mountain Trails
Near Scorpion Gulch
Explore nearby hiking trails for an adventurous addition to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Scorpion Gulch
What to Expect at Scorpion Gulch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Scorpion Gulch is a photographer's dream! Capture those rustic desert vibes.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Trails
Combine your visit with a hike on South Mountain for a full day of adventure.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Visit early on weekdays for the best light and fewer people.
🏜️ Embrace the History
Learn about its past as a trading post built in 1936.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Scorpion Gulch is a photographer's dream! Capture those rustic desert vibes.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Trails
Combine your visit with a hike on South Mountain for a full day of adventure.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Visit early on weekdays for the best light and fewer people.
🏜️ Embrace the History
Learn about its past as a trading post built in 1936.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Scorpion Gulch for its unique historical charm and incredible photo opportunities, calling it an 'Insta-worthy' desert landmark. Its rustic vibes and location at the base of South Mountain are frequently praised. Some visitors note that it's primarily a photo stop and can get crowded during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Scorpion Gulch is located at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip here with exploring the South Mountain Park and Preserve.
Yes, Scorpion Gulch is situated at the base of South Mountain and is often visited in conjunction with exploring the surrounding park and its numerous hiking trails.
For those looking for a scenic route, traveling through Scorpion Gulch is a viable option, especially if coming from areas like Goodsprings. It can be a strategic path to reach destinations further north.
Yes, you can drive to Scorpion Gulch. It's a popular destination for its accessibility and photo opportunities, located conveniently at the foot of South Mountain.
Public transport options directly to Scorpion Gulch might be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access. Check local transit schedules for routes near South Mountain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Scorpion Gulch is a historic landmark and a popular photo spot that is generally free to visit. There are no admission fees to explore the exterior ruins.
Scorpion Gulch is an outdoor historical site and is typically accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit when there's ample natural light for photos.
There is no entrance fee to visit Scorpion Gulch. It's a publicly accessible historical site, making it a great free activity for visitors.
The building at Scorpion Gulch is a historic ruin and is generally not accessible for interior exploration. Visitors can admire and photograph the exterior.
Yes, Scorpion Gulch is an outdoor historical site and is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, visiting during cooler months is recommended for comfort.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photos at Scorpion Gulch. Weekday mornings are also ideal to avoid crowds and capture the rustic charm.
Scorpion Gulch is perfect for desert-themed, rustic, and historical photos. Its unique architecture provides a moody backdrop for portraits and landscape shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the local authorities or park management for South Mountain Park regarding drone operation policies before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full structure and surrounding desert landscape. A prime lens can also be useful for detailed shots of the historic elements.
While casual photography is welcome, professional photoshoots might require permits. It's best to inquire with the relevant local authorities or park services beforehand.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Scorpion Gulch is primarily a historical site and a popular spot for photography. You can explore the exterior of the old trading post, take photos, and enjoy the desert scenery.
Yes, the area around Scorpion Gulch is suitable for walking. The ground is mostly flat, but wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring an outdoor historical site.
Restroom facilities may not be directly at Scorpion Gulch itself. It's advisable to use facilities at nearby park entrances or visitor centers before or after your visit.
Dress for the desert climate. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, and a hat and sunscreen are essential for sun protection.
While there aren't dedicated picnic facilities at Scorpion Gulch, you can bring a small picnic to enjoy in the surrounding desert areas of South Mountain Park, provided you clean up thoroughly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited. Consider a short, easy hike in South Mountain Park after visiting the Gulch. Ensure children wear hats and sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the dusty terrain.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for the golden hours for the best light. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scene and a prime lens for detail shots. Be mindful of the desert sun and stay hydrated.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Outdoor Adventurers
Hiking recommendations: Combine your visit with a hike to Dobbins Lookout for incredible city views, or tackle a section of the challenging National Trail. Always carry ample water, wear appropriate footwear, and check trail conditions before heading out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Scorpion Gulch
After its closure as a store, the building briefly transitioned into a bar before eventually being recognized for its historical significance. In 1990, it was listed on the Phoenix Historic Property Register, preserving its unique place in Arizona's heritage. Today, it stands as a beloved Western landmark and a popular destination for its rustic charm and photographic appeal.
Its location at the base of South Mountain adds to its allure, offering a glimpse into the past against a dramatic desert landscape. The structure itself, with its stone construction, evokes a sense of the old West, making it a compelling site for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Photography at Scorpion Gulch
To capture the best of Scorpion Gulch, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for soft, warm light that enhances the desert tones. Weekday mornings are also ideal for avoiding crowds, allowing for more creative freedom and unobstructed shots. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the full scope of the structure and its surroundings, while prime lenses can be used for focusing on the intricate details of the historic building.
Remember to dress appropriately for the desert climate, including sun protection and comfortable footwear, as you'll be exploring an outdoor site. While casual photography is encouraged, professional photoshoots may require permits, so it's wise to check with local authorities beforehand.
Exploring South Mountain Park
Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual walker, South Mountain Park has trails for all levels. Popular options include the Dobbins Lookout trail, which offers panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area, and the National Trail, a more challenging route for seasoned adventurers. The park is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching and enjoying the diverse desert flora and fauna.
When planning your visit to Scorpion Gulch and the surrounding park, it's essential to be prepared for the desert environment. Carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and check trail conditions, especially during warmer months. The park is generally accessible year-round, but visiting during the cooler fall and spring seasons is highly recommended for a more comfortable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit