How safe/ unsafe is Organ Pipe National Monument? (Tucson, Yuma: 2014, motel)

[mike1003]

We will be in Yuma in a few weeks and would like to spend a day at Organ Pipe. Last time we tried to go, large areas were said to be not safe because of drug traffic coming in from Mexico. In fact, could only get into park with armed Ranger escort. MrsM opted not to go.

How are conditions in the area now?

The website really leaves more questions than answers: http://www.nps.gov/orpi/learn/news/p...-increases.htm

[LordBalfor]

According to the National Park Service Visitor Use Statistics page, Organ Pipe had a little under a quarter of million recreational visitors last year (224,548) - up from 151,763 in 2012 - so it can't be THAT "unsafe".

I would guess that the greatest risks the park would pose have nothing to do with illegals or drug smuggling. While that stuff tends to get most of the press, realistically other things - such as the heat - pose a much greater danger to the average visitor.

Also keep in mind that no doubt some areas of the park are "riskier" than others in regards to drug smuggling etc. I'm sure the park rangers can tell you which areas are probably best avoided and which areas are probably safe.

https://irma.nps.gov/Stats/Reports/Park/ORPI

Ken

PS - Related article from 2014:

"The “most dangerous national park” has been largely closed to the public for the last 11 years. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, on the southern Arizona border, once saw a steady flow of immigrants – and drug runners – from Mexico. On Aug. 9, 2002, ranger Kris Eggle was shot and killed while chasing a cartel hit squad, prompting park officials to close nearly 70 percent of the monument in 2003. Some small areas were later reopened.

But on Sept. 15, all of Organ Pipe’s 517 square miles were once again opened to hikers, birders and desert lovers. Park officials believe that increased border security and patrols have made the park safe for visitors to get off the beaten path. "No more armed guards,” says Sue Walter, the monument’s chief of interpretation. “(The border) has surveillance towers, vehicle barriers, pedestrian fences. We’re educating visitors and they can make their own decisions about whether they feel comfortable (going into the backcountry).”..."

https://www.hcn.org/articles/after-1...nument-reopens

[jamies]

I've never had a problem.

I carry a .45 on my belt and an AR15 in the truck.

Yep, haven't had a problem, and if I do have a problem, well it's... no problem.

[rambrush]

I would not sweat them at all, We have been down on the border at Coronado Cave exploring all day and things in vehicle were just fine. Another trip south we stayed up in Ramsey Canyon for a weekend. We were well aware of the trail on the top of the mountain range that they used but they have other things on there mind.
Granted we were south of Tucson but still should be the same thing.

Not to start a hate battle but years ago there were bigger issues up the NE part of the state around Canyon De Chelly. We were warned before we went up there and sure enough you could see the local kids hiding in the bushes waiting for the tourists to depart down the trail out of sight and these folks would go get all the expensive touristy items out of the vehicle. We did what was advised and kept someone in the vehicle at all times to prevent this issue.

Sometimes it is easier to take all things with you and leave windows down and car unlocked to prevent damage.
So that was years and years ago and situation is possibly much improved up there.

[mike1003]

Thanks all

[azdr0710]

do not live in fear.....the Park is entirely open....

my biggest concern for you is the drive from Yuma to Organ Pipe....that'll take a few hours round-trip just for driving.....can you manage to catch a motel in Ajo or Gila Bend and make the trip more relaxing?

[jamies]

A motel in Ajo or Gila Bend?

Ah,ha,ha,ha,ha,ha....

Obviously you haven't been there.

I'd rather sleep in my car.

[FloppyRunner]

Originally Posted by jamies

I've never had a problem.

I carry a .45 on my belt and an AR15 in the truck.

Yep, haven't had a problem, and if I do have a problem, well it's... no problem.

I've got "the equipment" as well, but I assume that if it came down to that, they'd be better armed than I, wouldn't you agree? Hell, they've probably got fully automatic stuff.

It's probably all moot anyway; both parties would rather just avoid the other...

[curly5759]

I agree with andro710, I used to live in Yuma, its a long way to Organ pipe for a day trip. I have stayed in Ajo several times for Jeep related trips. I used to cross the El Camino el Diablo with my friends a couple of times a year and overnight out at Tule well (less than 4 miles to the border) or at Christmas pass. Never had a problem, never even saw anyone but BP or fellow 4 wheelers. We were also 'prepared', but never needed the equipment.
Sounds like you are a winter visitor. If you are, take your RV and stay in the park campgrounds.

Enjoy your trip.

curly

[jamies]

Originally Posted by FloppyRunner

I've got "the equipment" as well, but I assume that if it came down to that, they'd be better armed than I, wouldn't you agree? Hell, they've probably got fully automatic stuff.

It's probably all moot anyway; both parties would rather just avoid the other...

LOL - This is Arizona dude! Might be better armed than you, but when I say AR15, I mean full auto.