Razor Wire Installation Blocks Hikers at Arizona Trail’s Southern Terminus
The Arizona Trail Association (ATA) has confirmed that access to the southern terminus of the Arizona Trail (AZT) is now permanently closed. This closure follows the installation of razor wire by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which has blocked hikers from reaching Border Monument 102 at Coronado National Memorial. The monument has traditionally marked the start and end of AZT journeys.
Closure of Access
On November 6, 2025, the ATA announced via Instagram that contractors working for the DHS had erected concertina wire, effectively preventing hikers from approaching the monument. Matthew Nelson, the executive director of the ATA, expressed dismay over the situation, calling it “nothing less than desecration.”
Unexpected Installation
Nelson noted that the ATA had received no prior notification about the wire installation. The organization learned of the new fencing only through hikers and volunteers who reported the changes. According to Nelson, the wire likely went up between October 21 and November 3, 2025. As of the latest update, the DHS has not commented on the situation.
Background Construction and Future Plans
The area surrounding the monument is currently experiencing border wall construction, which may include auditory and visual disturbances for hikers. Plans are in place for additional border wall construction at the terminus itself by August 2026, and it is anticipated that trail closures will be necessary during this period. Nelson emphasized the bleak outlook for restoring access to Border Monument 102, stating, “Access to Border Monument 102 is a thing of the past.”
Historical Significance
Border Monument 102 has historic roots dating back to the Gadsden Purchase of 1854. This event marked the acquisition of southern Arizona and the New Mexico bootheel from Mexico. The AZT has been designated as a National Scenic Trail since 2009 and spans 800 miles through Arizona, showcasing diverse landscapes, including deserts and mountainous regions.
Future of the Southern Terminus
The ATA is collaborating with the National Park Service to establish a new trail terminus site north of the planned border wall. This site will feature a new monument, picnic tables, and shaded areas, but construction cannot begin until 2027. Despite efforts to reroute the border wall to preserve the original monument, the government has continued with its current plans.
Impact on Hikers
- Access to Border Monument 102 is permanently blocked.
- Hikers are advised against crossing the razor wire for safety reasons.
- The AZT remains a significant trail despite current restrictions.
- Future terminus construction is slated for 2027.
The ongoing changes reflect broader federal strategies aimed at enhancing border security. As a result, the closure of the Arizona Trail’s southern terminus serves as a poignant reminder of the impact such measures can have on historical trails and the communities that cherish them.
