Entry No. 51 — the Phoenix file — filed under: ghost town

Del Pasco Mine

Discovered on July 4, 1870, the Del Pasco Mine was one of the earliest and richest gold strikes in the Bradshaw Mountains. Active sporadically into the mid-20th century, the site now features a collection of fascinating relics including a rusted 1950s dump truck, a derelict school bus, and collapsed wooden structures. The surrounding 15-acre area is currently managed by the Prescott National Forest, which has initiated environmental cleanup efforts to address heavy metal tailings.

The move: Embark on the Towers Mountain/Del Pasco Mine Loop trail via a high-clearance 4WD vehicle or a scenic hike, stopping safely outside the mine perimeter to photograph the iconic decaying yellow school bus and vintage mining equipment.

📍 Before you go The mine is located within the Prescott National Forest and is accessible via a public off-road trail, but the physical site contains hazardous open shafts, unstable collapsed buildings, and toxic heavy metal tailings undergoing environmental cleanup.

• 📍 Crown King
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: Crown King, AZ 86343, USA

Hours: Added 2026-07-20 — confirm current access before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: azoffroad.net · knau.org · ghosttowns.com

last checked: 2026-07-20