Life blossoms in the desert

Located between Arizona's Ajo Mountains and the Mexico border, about 100 miles west of Tucson, Organ Pipe is the only place in the United States that you'll find the organ pipe cactus — so named because of the many limbs branching out from its base. Along with its namesake cactus, the monument hosts 25 other varieties, including the familiar saguaro. In the spring, visitors will enjoy both milder temperatures and incredible desert color — the wildflower bloom of golden poppies, blue lupines, pink owl clover paints the landscape following a wet winter. From May through July, the tender, lavender-white flowers of the organ pipe blossom — opening their petals after the day's heat fades.

The desert awaits

Much of the flora and fauna that resides here hides out until sunset. Elf owls, kangaroo rats, snakes, and jackrabbits are all creatures of the night, and even those animals that remain active during the day prefer to seek shade during the hottest hours. Take a lesson from these desert dwellers: All travelers in Organ Pipe's unforgiving desert must come prepared. Don't let this keep you from experiencing its awe-inspiring beauty; just as desert wanderers did in times past, Organ Pipe visitors must be aware of thirst and heat (not to mention rattlesnakes), finding ways to safely enjoy the desert on its own terms.

Move on to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument Index

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