2 Guns, Arizona, a desolate ghost town along the iconic Route 66, sits on the edge of Canyon Diablo in Coconino County, approximately 30 miles east of Flagstaff. Once a vibrant stop for travelers, this abandoned outpost is now a haunting collection of crumbling structures, steeped in tales of Native American tragedy, Wild West lawlessness, and Route 66 nostalgia. Known for the eerie Apache Death Cave, the historic 1915 Canyon Diablo Bridge, and remnants of a quirky mountain lion zoo, 2 Guns draws adventurers, photographers, and history enthusiasts to its windswept ruins. As of July 2025, the site’s graffiti-laden buildings, including a burned-out Shell station and forsaken KOA campground, amplify its reputation as a “cursed” relic of the American Southwest. This SEO-optimized article delves into the history, attractions, access, activities, and essential tips for visiting 2 Guns, ensuring a safe and captivating experience in this otherworldly ghost town.
History and Cultural Significance of 2 Guns
The story of 2 Guns begins long before Route 66, with archaeological evidence of Native American habitation from 1050 to 1600 A.D. The area’s most infamous chapter is the 1878 Apache Death Cave massacre, where Navajo warriors killed 42 Apaches hiding in a limestone cave by setting fires at its entrance, suffocating or shooting those who attempted escape. This tragedy, detailed in historical accounts, birthed legends of a curse that locals later tied to the town’s misfortunes.
In the 1880s, nearby Canyon Diablo, 3 miles north, became a lawless railroad town during the Santa Fe Railway’s construction. It gained notoriety for saloons, brothels, and a 1889 train robbery where outlaws stole over $100,000 in gold, silver, and currency—much of which remains unrecovered, fueling treasure-hunting lore. By 1907, the National Old Trails Highway (a precursor to Route 66) crossed Canyon Diablo, and in 1915, a concrete bridge, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was built to facilitate travel.
The modern era of 2 Guns began in the 1920s when Earle and Louise Cundiff established a trading post, gas station, and restaurant on 320 acres along Route 66. In 1925, Harry “Chief Crazy Thunder” Miller, a showman claiming Apache descent, leased land from the Cundiffs, renaming the site 2 Guns after silent film actor William S. Hart’s nickname, “Two Gun Bill.” Miller constructed a zoo featuring mountain lions, cougars, and Gila monsters, and morbidly turned the Apache Death Cave into a tourist attraction, complete with electric lights and “fake ruins,” selling skulls as souvenirs. In 1926, Miller shot and killed Earle Cundiff over a lease dispute but was acquitted, adding to the curse narrative. A 1929 fire destroyed Miller’s store, and he left in 1930. Louise Cundiff rebuilt, opening a Texaco station in 1934, which thrived until the 1970s when Interstate 40 bypassed Route 66. A 1971 fire gutted the Shell station, and by the 1980s, 2 Guns was largely abandoned, leaving behind a skeleton of its former self.
Location and Access
Geographic Details
- Location: 2 Guns, Coconino County, AZ, off I-40 exit 230, on the east rim of Canyon Diablo (GPS: 35.117500, -111.093333).
- Proximity: 30 miles east of Flagstaff, 24 miles west of Winslow, 7 miles west of Meteor Crater, and 11 miles east of Twin Arrows.
- Terrain: Arid high desert with limestone cliffs, sharp rocks, sandy washes, and sparse vegetation. Expect extreme temperatures (20°F nights, 90°F+ days).
Getting There
- By Car: From I-40, take exit 230 (Two Guns exit) to a gravel service road along old Route 66, southwest side. The ruins are visible from the highway, scattered across both sides of Canyon Diablo. Park near the abandoned Shell station or KOA campground. The dirt road is rough; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially after rain. Avoid driving heavy vehicles across the 1915 Canyon Diablo Bridge due to structural damage.
- From Flagstaff: Drive 30 miles east on I-40 (30–40 minutes). From Winslow: Drive 24 miles west (25–35 minutes).
- Public Transit: No direct public transit. Greyhound serves Flagstaff or Winslow; from there, use a rental car or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) to reach 2 Guns.
- Guided Tours: Limited Route 66 tours, such as Arizona Route 66 Adventures (arizonaroute66adventures.com), offer group excursions including 2 Guns, starting at $150–$200 per person.
Access Notes
- Private Property: 2 Guns is reportedly privately owned, with unconfirmed rumors of Russell Crowe’s involvement for a Westworld project. As of 2025, no “No Trespassing” signs are posted, and gates are often open or missing, but exercise caution and respect boundaries.
- Road Conditions: The gravel service road is passable by 2WD in dry conditions but becomes muddy and treacherous after rain. Check weather forecasts (NOAA or az511.com) before traveling.
Attractions and Activities at 2 Guns
Exploring the Ruins
2 Guns’ remnants offer a glimpse into its colorful past:
- Apache Death Cave: A limestone cave where the 1878 massacre occurred, accessible via a dilapidated footbridge. Miller’s 1920s additions, like electric lights and fake ruins, are faded but visible. Exercise caution due to collapse risks and potential hantavirus from rodent droppings.
- Canyon Diablo Bridge: A 1915 concrete arch bridge, part of old Route 66, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It features graffiti and structural cracks, making it unsafe for vehicles but walkable for photos.
- Mountain Lion Zoo: Stone cages built by Harry Miller in the 1920s, marked by a weathered “Mountain Lions” sign, once housed cougars, lynx, and reptiles. The ruins are a striking backdrop for exploration.
- KOA Campground and Shell Station: A 1970s campground with a collapsed, graffitied building and an abandoned pool, alongside a burned-out Shell station from a 1971 fire.
- Texaco Stations and Trading Post: Ruins of 1920s and 1934 stations, plus the original Cundiff trading post, now crumbling and covered in colorful graffiti.
- Water Towers: Two towers with faded murals, possibly depicting Miller and Cundiff, add to the site’s eerie aesthetic.
Photography
2 Guns is a haven for photographers, offering vibrant graffiti, stark desert landscapes, and clear night skies for astrophotography. The south-facing zoo cages, round Texaco station, and bridge are ideal for Milky Way shots due to minimal light pollution (Bortle Class 2). Use a wide-angle lens (16–35mm) for ruins and a tripod for long exposures. Daytime photography captures the contrast of orange sand against limestone cliffs, but watch for rattlesnakes when framing shots.
Treasure Hunting
The 1889 Canyon Diablo train robbery, where bandits stole over $100,000 in gold, silver, and currency, fuels speculation that unrecovered loot remains buried near the bridge or cave. Treasure hunters visit with metal detectors, though no verified finds are documented. Digging is discouraged to preserve the site’s historical integrity.
Historical Exploration
Walk the service road to trace Route 66’s path, imagining its 1920s–1960s heyday. The Apache Death Cave and bridge offer tangible links to Native American and Wild West history, while interpretive signs (if still intact) detail the area’s past.
Best Times to Visit
- Optimal Seasons: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer mild temperatures (50–75°F) and clear skies, ideal for exploration and photography. Winter (December–February) is feasible but cold (20–40°F), with occasional snow.
- Timing: Early morning (7–9 a.m.) for cooler weather, fewer visitors, and soft light. Sunset (6–7 p.m.) enhances ruin photography with dramatic shadows.
- Avoid: Summer (June–August) due to extreme heat (90–100°F+) and no shade. Monsoon season (July–August) brings thunderstorms and flash flood risks, making dirt roads impassable.
Preparation and Logistics
Permits and Fees
- Entry: Free, as 2 Guns is an unmanaged site on BLM land with no formal oversight. No permits are required for day visits.
- Camping: Not permitted on-site due to private property concerns and lack of facilities. Nearby options include Flagstaff KOA (28 miles west, flagstaffkoa.com, $40–$70/night) or Meteor Crater RV Park (7 miles east, $35–$50/night).
Essential Gear
- Exploration: High-top hiking boots for sharp limestone and rattlesnakes, long pants, 1–2 liters of water (e.g., CamelBak), sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. A walking stick aids stability on uneven terrain.
- Photography: Wide-angle lens (16–35mm), tripod, and flashlight for night shots or cave exploration. A drone is permitted but must stay below 400 feet per FAA rules.
- Safety: First-aid kit, snakebite kit, and offline maps (Gaia GPS, AllTrails) due to unreliable cell service (Verizon may connect intermittently). A satellite messenger (Garmin InReach) is recommended for emergencies.
- Vehicle: High-clearance vehicle (e.g., Subaru Outback, Jeep Wrangler) for the gravel service road. Carry a spare tire, shovel, and traction mats for sand or mud.
Safety Considerations
- Physical Hazards: Sharp rocks, broken glass, rusted nails, and rattlesnakes are common. The Apache Death Cave risks collapse and hantavirus; limit entry to a few meters and avoid touching surfaces.
- Structural Risks: Ruins, including the KOA building and bridge, are unstable. Avoid climbing or leaning on structures, as the campground collapsed by 2020.
- Isolation: No on-site services or caretakers; the nearest help is in Flagstaff (30 miles) or Winslow (24 miles). A 2022 Reddit post reported a suspicious tow truck, suggesting potential scams—park only in designated areas.
- Weather: Extreme heat (90°F+) in summer and cold (20°F) in winter. Monsoon storms (July–August) risk flash floods; check NOAA or az511.com for forecasts.
- Private Property: Unclear ownership may lead to trespassing issues. Stick to accessible ruins and avoid gated areas.
Environmental and Cultural Considerations
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, including food scraps, as litter (beer bottles, graffiti) is prevalent. Use wag bags for human waste if camping nearby, as the desert’s slow decomposition requires it.
- Conservation: Protect the fragile desert ecosystem by staying on existing paths to avoid crushing vegetation or cryptobiotic soil. Do not disturb artifacts or add graffiti to preserve historical integrity.
- Cultural Sensitivity: The Apache Death Cave holds significance for Navajo and Apache communities due to the 1878 massacre. Approach with respect, avoiding removal of bones or relics. Learn more at the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff (15 miles west).
- Community Support: Support Route 66 businesses like Galaxy Diner (Flagstaff) or La Posada Hotel (Winslow) to bolster local economies.
Benefits of Visiting 2 Guns
- Rich History: Spans Native American tragedy, Wild West outlaws, and Route 66’s golden era, offering a layered historical experience.
- Unique Aesthetic: Graffiti-covered ruins, a historic bridge, and the eerie Apache Death Cave create a surreal, post-apocalyptic vibe.
- Photography: Ideal for day and night photography, with vibrant colors and clear skies for Milky Way shots.
- Accessibility: Free entry off I-40 exit 230 makes it an easy stop on a Route 66 road trip.
- Adventure and Mystery: Legends of curses, hauntings, and buried treasure appeal to thrill-seekers and explorers.
Challenges and Risks
- Safety Hazards: Sharp debris, rattlesnakes, and unstable structures pose risks. The cave’s collapse danger and hantavirus potential limit safe exploration.
- Vandalism: Graffiti and arson (e.g., 1971 Shell station fire, 2020 KOA collapse) degrade the site’s historical value.
- Isolation: No cell service or services; emergencies require self-reliance or satellite communication.
- Navigation: No marked paths or signs; rely on GPS coordinates (35.117500, -111.093333) and offline maps.
- Property Status: Potential private ownership (unconfirmed) risks trespassing issues, though access remains open as of 2025.
Solutions to Enhance Your Visit
- Navigate Smartly: Download offline maps (Gaia GPS, AllTrails) with 2 Guns’ coordinates (35.117500, -111.093333). Carry a Garmin InReach for emergencies due to no cell service.
- Time Your Visit: Visit in spring or fall for mild weather (50–75°F). Start at 7–9 a.m. for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, or sunset for photography.
- Pack for Safety: Wear high-top boots, long pants, and bring 1–2 liters of water, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and a snakebite kit. Use a high-clearance vehicle with a spare tire and shovel.
- Respect the Site: Avoid adding graffiti or removing artifacts, especially in the Apache Death Cave, due to its cultural significance. Limit cave entry to avoid health risks.
- Check Conditions: Monitor weather (NOAA, az511.com) to avoid monsoon floods or muddy roads. Call Coconino County Sheriff (928-774-4523) for road status if unsure.
- Combine Stops: Pair 2 Guns with Meteor Crater (7 miles east), Canyon Diablo ghost town (4 miles north), or Twin Arrows (11 miles west) for a full Route 66 adventure.
Nearby Attractions and Logistics
- Meteor Crater: 7 miles east (exit 233), a 50,000-year-old impact site ($18–$27 admission, meteorcrater.com).
- Canyon Diablo Ghost Town: 4 miles north, with a railway bridge, cemetery, and abandoned trading post.
- Twin Arrows: 11 miles west, a Route 66 ghost town with trading post ruins and giant arrows.
- Flagstaff: 30 miles west, offering lodging (Hotel Monte Vista, $100–$150/night), dining (Galaxy Diner), and the Museum of Northern Arizona for Native history.
- Winslow: 24 miles east, home to La Posada Hotel and the “Standin’ on the Corner” statue from the Eagles’ song.
Why Visit 2 Guns in 2025
2 Guns, Arizona, is a haunting snapshot of Route 66’s rise and fall, blending Native American history, Wild West drama, and roadside kitsch. Its Apache Death Cave, 1915 Canyon Diablo Bridge, and quirky zoo ruins offer a unique adventure for those drawn to the abandoned and eerie. Accessible for free off I-40 exit 230, it’s a perfect stop for Route 66 road trippers, photographers, and history buffs. As of July 2025, 2 Guns remains a raw, unpolished gem, but visitors must prepare for hazards like rattlesnakes, unstable ruins, and isolation. Respect the site’s cultural weight, pack wisely, and explore with caution to uncover the mystique of this “cursed” ghost town.
Conclusion
2 Guns, Arizona, is a Route 66 ghost town frozen in time, its ruins echoing tales of Apache tragedy, outlaw heists, and tourist boom-and-bust cycles. From the chilling Apache Death Cave to the graffiti-covered Shell station and historic Canyon Diablo Bridge, this Coconino County relic captivates with its eerie charm. Located 30 miles east of Flagstaff, it’s a free, accessible stop for adventurers willing to navigate its challenges. Bring sturdy gear, offline maps, and respect for its history to safely explore this Wild West outpost. Whether chasing ghosts, treasure, or photos, 2 Guns delivers an unforgettable journey. Share your 2 Guns adventure or tips in the comments to inspire fellow explorers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is 2 Guns, Arizona, and why is it considered a ghost town?
2 Guns is an abandoned Route 66 stop in Coconino County, 30 miles east of Flagstaff, with ruins like the Apache Death Cave, a 1915 bridge, and a mountain lion zoo. It’s a ghost town due to its decline after I-40 bypassed Route 66 in the 1970s, leaving structures like the Shell station and KOA campground deserted.
2. What is the Apache Death Cave, and can I safely visit it?
The Apache Death Cave is a limestone cave where 42 Apaches were killed by Navajos in 1878. It’s accessible via a damaged footbridge but poses risks of collapse, hantavirus, and rattlesnakes. Limit exploration to a few meters, avoid touching surfaces, and never enter alone.
3. How do I get to 2 Guns, and what vehicle is recommended?
Take I-40 to exit 230, southwest side, onto a gravel service road (old Route 66). A high-clearance vehicle (e.g., Jeep, Subaru Outback) is recommended for rough terrain; avoid heavy vehicles on the 1915 bridge. The site is 30 miles from Flagstaff, 24 miles from Winslow.
4. What can I do at 2 Guns, Arizona?
Explore ruins like the Apache Death Cave, Canyon Diablo Bridge, mountain lion zoo, and graffitied KOA campground. Photography (day or Milky Way shots) and treasure hunting for 1889 train robbery loot are popular, but watch for rattlesnakes and debris.
5. Is 2 Guns safe to visit, and what precautions should I take?
Hazards include sharp rocks, broken glass, rattlesnakes, and unstable ruins. Wear high-top boots, long pants, and bring 1–2 liters of water, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and offline maps (no cell service). Avoid deep cave entry, respect private property, and check weather to avoid flash floods.