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Southern Arizona has no shortage of abandoned mining towns, but few places let you experience multiple ghost towns in a single trip.
The Ghost Town Loop near Patagonia winds through rugged mountain roads, past long-forgotten settlements, and deep into the history of Arizona’s mining boom.
If you’re looking for a scenic drive that combines history, landscapes, and a touch of the Old West, this one is worth adding to your list.
What You’ll See on the Ghost Town Loop
This 45-mile loop takes you past five historic sites: Harshaw, Mowry, Washington Camp, Duquense, and Lochiel.
While most structures are on private land and not accessible for exploring, the drive itself is an experience.
Harshaw
The first stop on the loop, Harshaw, was once a booming silver mining town. Today, all that remains is a cemetery, a historic sign, and a single fenced-off building.
Mowry
A short side road leads to the ruins of Mowry, another silver mining town. Here, you’ll see remnants of old adobe and stone buildings slowly being reclaimed by the desert.
Washington Camp & Duquense
These two settlements are so close together that they feel like one. Scattered buildings remain, but most are on private property.
You’ll catch glimpses of abandoned structures through the trees as you drive past.
Lochiel
Unlike the mining towns, Lochiel served as a supply stop and border crossing. It’s the best-preserved site on the loop, with a schoolhouse, church, and an old customs station still standing.
A monument here marks the site of the first European expedition into what is now Arizona.
What to Know Before You Head Out
This is a remote drive with no services, no gas stations, and limited cell signal. Plan accordingly.
- Accessibility: Most ghost town structures are on private land, so you’ll only see them from the road.
- Road Conditions: Gravel road, usually passable in a two-wheel-drive vehicle, but rain or snow can make it tricky.
- Gas & Supplies: Fill up in Patagonia before starting. There are no fuel stops along the route.
- Border Considerations: Signs warn of immigration activity, but this area is mostly quiet ranchland. Expect to see cattle, ranchers, and an occasional Border Patrol vehicle.
How to Get There
- Starting Point: Patagonia, Arizona
- Directions: Turn left on Taylor Avenue by the high school, then follow Harshaw Avenue toward Lochiel.
- Total Distance: ~45 miles round trip
- Time Required: A couple of hours, plus stops
Is This Drive Worth It?
If you love scenic backroads, history, and the solitude of the Arizona borderlands, this drive is a good way to spend a few hours.
If you’re hoping for fully intact ghost towns you can explore up close, this route might not be what you’re looking for.
Either way, the landscapes alone make the trip worthwhile. Wide-open grasslands, mountain views, and a peaceful drive through Arizona’s past (without the crowds.)
If you’ve driven the Ghost Town Loop, let us know what you thought. Have another favorite Arizona backroad? We’re always looking for new routes to explore.
Still Here? You Must Be the Human Equivalent of Well-Seasoned Cast Iron Pan.
Most people tap out early like tourists who underestimate Arizona heat. But not you. You’re built different. So why not pull up a camping chair with us on Substack?
