Lost Ranch, Arizona: A Desert Walkabout on South Mountain
January 3rd, 2022
The Lost Ranch fireplace remains one of the best-preserved features of this mysterious South Mountain ruin.
Lost Ranch, Arizona: South Mountain Ruins and Hiking Guide
I've always felt a pull towards old places and things. Anything that's been sitting abandoned for years sends me wondering. Every old thing has a story, even if no one remembers it anymore. So when a lone fireplace appears in the middle of the desert, I'm going to spend some time traipsing around.
First views of the ruins from the trail.
Overlooking the Phoenix Valley in South Mountain Park stands a towering stone fireplace, a few rock walls, and a long-abandoned foundation. Who built it, and why has become something of a mystery. I've come across all kinds of theories while reading about it: a private retreat, a guest ranch, a speakeasy, a mining camp, even a nudist resort. The fun part is that nobody seems to know for sure. There's not much documented history, so if the mystery grabs you, have a look into it for yourself.
Whatever its original purpose, the desert has reclaimed everything except the stone.
The Lost Ranch trail winds through the Sonoran Desert with thousands of saguaros and panoramic views of Phoenix. One of my favorite things about Phoenix is how a hike can feel so remote although the city is sitting right below you.
Views of Phoenix, saguaro giants, and somehow the only photo I have of myself from the hike.
When the ruins finally come into view, it's desert drama at its finest. Built from what appears to be locally gathered stone, the fireplace still stands while the rest of the structure has long since been swallowed by the desert. The remaining rock walls and foundation immediately get my imagination going. I can't help but picture the rooms that once stood there and wonder what this place was like when it was still in use.
Maybe one day someone will uncover the real story behind Lost Ranch. Until then, it's just another good excuse to spend a little time wandering the desert.
P.S. One thing I couldn't figure out was how Lost Ranch got its name. Even with all the theories surrounding the place, there doesn't seem to be much written about that. I did come across references saying South Mountain Park rangers have called these ruins "The Lost Ranch" for years but nothing for certain. Looks like it’s just another part of the mystery…
✦ If You Go ✦
Please respect the ruins, leave everything as you found it.
Location: South Mountain Park and Preserve, Phoenix, Arizona
Trail: To reach the Lost Ranch ruins, you will start at the Bursera/Pyramid (Area 620) Trailhead.
Trailhead Location: 15441 S 19th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85045
Distance: Approximately 3-miles out-and-back.
Difficulty: Easy to low-moderate.
Hiking Time: Plan on 1–2 hours if you stop to explore the ruins and take photographs.
Cost: Free
Parking: Available at the Lost Ranch Trailhead.
Dogs: Allowed on a leash.
Restrooms: None
Best Time to Visit: October through April. Summer temperatures can become dangerous by mid-morning.
Bring: Plenty of water and sun protection.
