While Scotty's Castle continues to be closed during rehabilitation efforts dating back two years, a "virtual tour" of the castle will be offered this coming weekend at Death Valley National Park/Kurt Repanshek file

Death Valley National Park will be hosting Scotty’s Castle Days this coming weekend. Everyone is invited to attend this free two-day event at the park's Furnace Creek Visitor Center. The event will feature Virtual Reality Tours of Scotty’s Castle and will include ranger programs and children’s activities.

Scotty’s Castle has been closed since a flash flood heavily damaged the area in October 2015. Cleanup and removal of mud and flood debris has been completed and planning is underway to repair damaged roads, utilities, and buildings with the goal of reopening Scotty’s Castle in 2020.

The event will feature an opportunity to “visit” Scotty’s Castle through a Virtual Reality experience.

“Shortly after the flood, Gold Creek Films developed a Virtual Reality tour of Scotty’s Castle with funding from the Death Valley Conservancy,” said Superintendent Mike Reynolds. “Visitors will have an opportunity to put on the goggles and travel through the Castle in simulated three-dimensions. I’ve taken the tour myself, and it’s an incredible experience.”

Rangers will be on hand to tell tales of Scotty’s Castle, describe the incredible flood event that closed the castle, and provide updates on repairs and restoration work. Ranger talks begin at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The public will have an opportunity to provide comments on Environmental Assessments for the Bonnie Clare Road Reconstruction and the Scotty’s Castle Flood Rehabilitation plans. 

A photo booth will provide visitors the opportunity to take a selfie with a Scotty’s Castle backdrop, and children’s activities will be available.