Goldfield Ghost Town Day Trip: Apache Junction, Arizona

Goldfield Ghost Town, situated in Apache Junction, Arizona, is an excellent destination for a day trip, combining Old West charm with family-friendly activities. This historic town, founded in 1893 after gold was discovered in the area, is situated in the shadow of the Superstition Mountains. This reconstructed 1890s mining town provides a glimpse into Arizona’s Wild West history, with a background of stunning desert landscape.

A Brief Overview of Goldfield’s History

Goldfield boasted a population of around 4,000 at the height of the gold rush. Like many other gold rush towns, the population diminished when the gold ore was depleted, leaving the buildings to decay under the desert sun. In the early 1940s, a fire destroyed most of the town’s structures, with only a few original foundations remaining as evidence of the once-thriving community.
Goldfield Ghost Town Restoration

In mid-1983, partners purchased the gold mine and the Goldfield townsite. They spent the next five years recreating the 1890s gold rush town as a tourist attraction. Goldfield has numerous buildings today, including a mercantile building, jailhouse, Saloon, and Arizona’s only working narrow-gauge railroad.

Things to Do Goldfield Ghost Town

Admission and parking to Ghost Town are free; however, many activities incur an extra charge. Here’s a rundown of popular activities for a day trip:

Gold Mine Tour: Visitors are taken underground for a guided tour of the town’s mine. Learn about the history of the mine, see some actual mining equipment, and expirence what it was like to be a gold miner in the 1890s. The mine lasts about 25 minutes.

Superstition Narrow Gauge Railroad: The train ride is highly recommended. An old diesel locomotive pulls a passenger car and a caboose on a 1.5-mile route around the ghost town. During the trip, a narration provides insights while offering panoramic views of the Superstition Mountains.

Goldfield Gunfighters: Catch a free, staged shootout on weekends (usually hourly from noon to 4 p.m.). It’s loud and theatrical, with crowds gathering along the boardwalks.

Superstition Zipline: The Superstition Zipline is an up-and-back ride. There is no need to climb up to a starting point. Riders sit double, are pulled up to 115 feet in the air, and then slide back down, reaching about 30 miles per hour.

Mystery Shack: A quirky, gravity-defying experience that is disorienting and fun but might not suit those prone to dizziness.

Shopping & Eats: Main Street has gift shops selling turquoise jewelry, fudge, and souvenirs. Grab a burger or steak at the Mammoth Saloon, ice cream at the parlor, or coffee at the cantina. The Saloon’s rustic decor—think cowboy boots hanging from the rafters—adds to the vibe.

How Much Will It Cost

Expect to spend around $30 to $50 per person if you plan to visit a few paid attractions, as costs can add up quickly for families. Allocate 3 to 5 hours to see the highlights. Aim to arrive late to enjoy the gunfights and avoid the midday heat, particularly during summer. Parking and entrance is free.

Getting to Goldfield, Arizona

Goldfield Ghost Town is 4.5 miles northeast of Apache Junction, Arizona, along the historic Apache Trail (SR-88). The address is 4650 N. Mammoth Mine Road, Apache Junction, Arizona. Nearby, the Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum is also worth visiting during your trip to Goldfield. Visit the Ghost Town website for details and pricing.

Summary: Visiting Goldfield Ghost Town

Goldfield Ghost Town blends history, entertainment, and natural beauty without feeling overly commercialized. It’s ideal for families, history buffs, or anyone craving a taste of the Old West. The views of jagged peaks and sprawling desert are worth the drive. Whether panning for gold or sipping a sarsaparilla, it’s a laid-back, memorable escape from the city.

Check Out Our List of Ghost Towns in the West

While some of these towns require a four-wheel drive to access, most can be explored in any vehicle. Visiting these ghost towns is an exciting adventure that offers an opportunity to learn about history.