The Creepiest Hike In Arizona Takes You Through The Ruins Of An Abandoned Mining Camp
Mystery and rumors surround the Lost Ranch Ruins in Phoenix, Arizona. What was this building? Who built it? Why is it in the middle of nowhere? And…what happened to it? Take this creepy hike at South Mountain Preserve and see if you can solve the mystery.
Your adventure starts on Pyramid Trail with a pleasant stroll through the desert.
The path dips down into a sandy wash and is easy to lose. Watch the opposite bank for the trail to pick up again. Once you come out of the wash, you'll continue on a dirt road.
You're now far from the road, and the only sound you're likely to hear is the wind whipping through the canyon.
Some think the Civilian Conservation Corps built it under President Roosevelt. The Corps did do many projects at South Mountain between 1933 and 1940; however, they kept meticulous records of their work, but records for this building have not been found.
There are plenty of places for criminally-minded entrepreneurs to hide out in the surrounding canyon.
Based on the slump block construction, it was probably constructed in the 1950s. Whatever the Lost Ranch was, it is now only a foundation and a spectacular fireplace.
Bring along your hiking poles to help you keep your balance on the loose rock.
Unfortunately, there are still more questions about the Lost Ranch Ruins. Head out on Lost Ranch Ruins Trail and find your own answers.
Address: Lost Ranch Ruins Trail, Phoenix, AZ 85045, USA