Organ Pipe Cactus

Stretches of endless desert in between the Ajo and Puerto Blanco mountains, some within views over the border of Mexico, offer many areas of exploration.

Thousands of years of desert history exist in the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. There are three main sources of trails: the visitor’s center, Ajo Mountain, and Puerto Blanco Mountain. Trails as long as eight miles and as little as 0.1 miles weave through pastures, canyons, and, of course, dry, flat desert. Sunsets are one of the most photographed scenes in this park, but views of Mexico and various rocky landscapes are also enjoyed by many hikers.

Campgrounds are located throughout, but backcountry camping is also permitted. Various mines and springs can be seen from the country road known as Highway 95. In the summer, children can accompany park rangers on short expeditions to learn more about the general outdoor safety, history, plant, and wildlife in the area.