How to Explore the Barry M. Goldwater Range

The Barry M. Goldwater Range (BMGR) is one of the largest and most strategically significant military training areas in the United States. Spanning over 1.9 million acres across southwestern Arizona, it encompasses vast desert landscapes, rugged mountain ranges, and critical wildlife habitats. While primarily used by the U.S. Air Force and other branches for live-fire exercises, flight training, and advanced combat simulations, portions of the range are accessible to the public under strict guidelines. Exploring the Barry M. Goldwater Range offers a rare opportunity to experience untouched Sonoran Desert ecosystems, historical military sites, and remote wilderness rarely seen by civilian visitors. Understanding how to navigate this complex environment safely and legally is essentialnot only for personal safety but also for preserving the integrity of this nationally important training ground.

Unlike national parks or public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the BMGR operates under active military jurisdiction. This means access is conditional, regulated, and subject to sudden changes due to operational needs. Yet, for the adventurous hiker, off-road enthusiast, history buff, or ecological researcher, the rewards of a well-planned visit are immense. From ancient petroglyphs etched into desert boulders to abandoned radar installations and ghost towns nestled in the foothills, the range holds layers of cultural and natural history waiting to be discoveredby those who know how to approach it responsibly.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for exploring the Barry M. Goldwater Range legally, safely, and respectfully. Whether youre planning a solo backpacking trip, a four-wheel-drive expedition, or a guided wildlife survey, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge, tools, and best practices needed to turn curiosity into a meaningful and lawful adventure.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Structure and Zones of the Barry M. Goldwater Range

The Barry M. Goldwater Range is divided into two primary sections: the West Range and the East Range, separated by U.S. Highway 95. Each section contains multiple sub-areas with varying levels of public access. The West Range, located west of Highway 95, includes the main flight training corridors and active bombing ranges. The East Range, east of the highway, contains more accessible terrain, including the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge boundary and several designated public access points.

Public access is only permitted in specific zones, primarily along designated roads and trails that do not interfere with military operations. These include the Bouse Wash Road, the Gila River Road, and portions of the Ironwood Forest National Monument trail system. Before planning any route, consult the official BMGR public access map available through the U.S. Air Forces 56th Fighter Wing website. This map clearly delineates open areas, restricted zones, and temporary closures.

Its critical to recognize that open does not mean unmonitored. Surveillance drones, ground patrols, and electronic fencing are common. Violating restricted boundarieseven unintentionallycan result in serious legal consequences, including fines or arrest. Always assume any area without clear signage or public access markers is off-limits.

Step 2: Obtain Required Permits and Authorizations

While no general permit is required for driving on designated public roads within the BMGR, certain activities demand formal authorization. If you plan to hike, camp, conduct scientific research, or collect artifacts (including rocks, plants, or historical items), you must apply for a Special Use Permit through the 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office.

Applications are submitted online via the Air Force ePermit system. Required information includes:

• Full name and contact details
• Intended dates and times of visit
• Exact location(s) of planned activity
• Purpose of visit (recreational, educational, research, etc.)
• Number of people in group
• Vehicle type and license plate number

Processing times can take up to 14 business days, so apply at least three weeks in advance. For researchers and educators, additional documentation such as institutional affiliation letters or project proposals may be required. Even if youre only planning a day trip, submitting a permit request demonstrates respect for military operations and increases your chances of receiving real-time updates on range status.

Step 3: Check Real-Time Range Status

Active military training can shut down access with little notice. Bombing runs, drone exercises, and fighter jet sorties occur daily, often without public announcement. Therefore, checking the current status of the Barry M. Goldwater Range is non-negotiable.

Visit the official BMGR Public Access Status page (https://www.eielson.af.mil/About-Us/Barry-M.-Goldwater-Range/) before departure and again on the morning of your trip. The site displays color-coded alerts:

• Green Full public access allowed
• Yellow Limited access; avoid certain zones
• Red All access prohibited

Sign up for email or SMS alerts through the same portal. These notifications are sent when ranges activate or deactivate, often hours before changes take effect. Never rely on third-party apps or outdated forum postsonly the official Air Force source is authoritative.

Step 4: Plan Your Route Using Official Maps and GPS Tools

Standard GPS apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps do not reflect military restrictions. Use only approved cartographic resources:

• USGS Topographic Maps (1:24,000 scale)
• BLM Arizona Public Land Survey Maps
• BMGR Public Access Map (downloadable PDF from official site)

For navigation, load your route onto a dedicated GPS device (such as a Garmin inReach or Garmin GPSMAP 66i) with offline maps. Pre-download the BMGR boundary layers and ensure your device has a backup power source. Cell service is virtually nonexistent across most of the rangedo not depend on smartphones for navigation or emergency communication.

Plan multiple route alternatives. If a road is closed due to training, you must have a viable detour. Popular entry points include:

• North: Bouse Wash Road off Highway 95 (near Quartzsite)
• South: Gila River Road near the Cabeza Prieta NWR boundary
• East: Ironwood Forest National Monument trailheads

Always note the nearest military checkpoint or ranger station location. In case of emergency, you may need to report your position to Air Force security personnel.

Step 5: Prepare for Extreme Environmental Conditions

The Sonoran Desert is one of the harshest environments in North America. Summer temperatures routinely exceed 115F (46C), while winter nights can dip below freezing. Water scarcity, flash floods, and venomous wildlife are constant threats.

Essential gear includes:

• One gallon of water per person per day (minimum)
• Water purification tablets or filter
• High-sodium electrolyte supplements
• Full-spectrum sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen)
• Long-sleeve, light-colored clothing
• Sturdy, closed-toe footwear with ankle support
• Emergency blanket and whistle
• First-aid kit with snakebite kit and epinephrine auto-injector (if allergic)

Travel during cooler months (OctoberApril) whenever possible. Avoid midday hikes during summer. If you must travel in summer, start before dawn and finish by 10 a.m.

Step 6: Notify Someone of Your Plans

Always inform a trusted contact of your itinerary. Provide:

• Exact route and waypoints
• Expected return time
• Vehicle description and license plate
• Emergency contact numbers

Set a check-in alarm on your phone or GPS device to remind you to update your contact if you change plans. If you dont check in within 24 hours of your scheduled return, your contact should notify local authorities and the 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office. This protocol significantly reduces search-and-rescue response time.

Step 7: Respect Military Operations and Observe Safety Protocols

If you hear aircraft overhead, see flares, or observe military vehicles on the road, immediately stop and remain in your vehicle. Do not approach. Do not attempt to photograph or film active operations. Military aircraft fly at low altitudes and high speedsmany are supersonic. The sonic boom can be deafening and disorienting.

If you encounter a military patrol, remain calm, stay inside your vehicle, and roll down your window. Politely state your name, purpose, and permit status. Follow all instructions without argument. Do not exit your vehicle unless explicitly directed to do so.

Never attempt to enter restricted areas marked by yellow and black DangerActive Range signs. These are not suggestionsthey are federal law enforcement boundaries.

Step 8: Leave No Trace and Respect Cultural Resources

The Barry M. Goldwater Range is not just a military training groundit is a sacred landscape for Indigenous communities and a repository of over 10,000 years of human history. Petroglyphs, grinding stones, and ancient trade routes are protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA).

Follow strict Leave No Trace principles:

• Do not touch, climb on, or mark any rock art or structures
• Do not remove any artifacts, shells, plants, or rocks
• Pack out all trashincluding food wrappers, toilet paper, and batteries
• Use designated rest areas; dig catholes at least 200 feet from water sources
• Do not feed or approach wildlife

If you discover an artifact or unmarked structure, photograph it from a distance, note the GPS coordinates, and report it to the 56th Fighter Wing Cultural Resources Office. Do not disturb it.

Step 9: Know Emergency Procedures

In the event of a breakdown, injury, or getting lost:

1. Stay with your vehicle. It is easier to spot than a person on foot.
2. Use your GPS emergency beacon (inReach, Garmin, or SPOT device) to send a distress signal.
3. If no beacon is available, use a mirror or brightly colored cloth to signal aircraft.
4. Do not attempt to hike out unless you are certain of your location and have sufficient water.
5. Call 911 only if you have a satellite phone or emergency signal capability. Local law enforcement cannot respond without coordination with the Air Force.

Always carry a satellite communicator. Cell phones are useless in most of the range. The inReach Mini 2 or Garmin inReach Explorer+ are highly recommended for their two-way messaging and SOS features.

Step 10: Debrief and Report Your Experience

After your visit, consider submitting a brief report to the 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office. Include:

• Dates and locations visited
• Conditions encountered
• Any hazards or signage issues observed
• Photos (non-military areas only)

This feedback helps improve public access management and ensures the range remains viable for future visitors. Many recreational users become advocates by sharing their experiences responsibly through blogs, photography exhibitions, or local conservation groups.

Best Practices

Travel in Groups, Not Alone

While solo exploration is tempting, it is strongly discouraged in the Barry M. Goldwater Range. At least two people should travel together, with one person capable of handling emergencies. If you must go solo, ensure your satellite communicator is fully charged and tested before departure. Never underestimate the isolation of this environment.

Use Only Designated Roads

Off-road driving outside of established routes is prohibited and environmentally destructive. Sand dunes, desert pavement, and cryptobiotic soil crusts take decades to recover from a single tire track. Stick to graded dirt roads marked on official maps. High-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended but not always requireddepending on the season and recent weather.

Never Bring Pets

Dogs and other animals are not permitted within the Barry M. Goldwater Range. The combination of extreme heat, toxic plants, venomous wildlife, and active military operations creates an environment too dangerous for pets. Even leashed animals are banned to prevent interference with training exercises and wildlife conservation efforts.

Carry a Physical Map and Compass

Electronics fail. Batteries die. GPS signals can be disrupted by terrain or military jamming. Always carry a paper map of the area and know how to use a compass. Learn basic land navigation skills before entering the range.

Respect Wildlife and Habitat

The BMGR is home to endangered species including the Sonoran Desert tortoise, desert bighorn sheep, and the Gila monster. Many of these animals are protected under federal law. Observe from a distance. Do not attempt to photograph or interact. Your presence alone can disrupt feeding, mating, and migration patterns.

Plan for Communication Blackouts

There is no cell coverage across 95% of the range. Assume you will be completely disconnected. Use satellite-based communication tools. Inform your contacts of this limitation before departure.

Understand the Legal Consequences of Violations

Entering restricted areas, interfering with military operations, or removing artifacts can result in fines up to $100,000 and imprisonment under 18 U.S.C. 1382 and ARPA. Military police have full law enforcement authority on the range. There is no ignorance is bliss defense.

Minimize Noise and Light Pollution

Excessive noise from radios, generators, or loud music can interfere with sensitive training exercises. Use headphones. Turn off all non-essential lights at night. The darkness of the BMGR is among the clearest in the continental U.S.preserve it.

Know the Difference Between Public Access and Public Land

Just because land appears open and unoccupied does not mean it is public. Much of the BMGR is federal property under exclusive military control. Always verify boundaries using official maps. If in doubt, turn back.

Support Conservation Efforts

Consider donating to organizations that work with the Air Force to preserve the ranges ecological and cultural resources, such as the Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society or the Archaeological Conservancy. Your support helps maintain access for future generations.

Tools and Resources

Official Websites

• Barry M. Goldwater Range Public Access https://www.eielson.af.mil/About-Us/Barry-M.-Goldwater-Range/
• 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs https://www.eielson.af.mil/About-Us/Contact-Us/
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Cabeza Prieta NWR https://www.fws.gov/refuge/cabeza_prieta
• Ironwood Forest National Monument https://www.blm.gov/visit/ironwood-forest-national-monument
• USGS Topographic Maps https://apps.nationalmap.gov/viewer/

Navigation and Communication Devices

• Garmin inReach Mini 2 Two-way satellite communicator with SOS and GPS tracking
• Garmin GPSMAP 66i Handheld GPS with preloaded topographic maps and satellite messaging
• DeLorme inReach Explorer+ Rugged, long-battery-life device for extended trips
• Garmin GPSmap 64sx Reliable, affordable GPS with barometric altimeter

Maps and Publications

• Barry M. Goldwater Range Public Access Map (PDF) Available for download from official Air Force site
• Arizona Road & Recreation Atlas (Benchmark Maps) Detailed road network including desert access routes
• Desert Hiking Arizona by Jeff Richards Includes routes near BMGR boundaries
• The Sonoran Desert: A Natural History by Charles H. Lowe Essential reading on flora, fauna, and ecology

Mobile Apps (Use with Caution)

While offline maps can be helpful, do not rely on apps alone:

• AllTrails Limited coverage; verify routes with official maps
• Gaia GPS Can load custom BMGR boundary layers (requires subscription)
• Topo Maps+ Download USGS maps for offline use

Emergency Contacts

In case of emergency, contact:

• 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs (520) 533-4055 (during business hours)
• Yuma Proving Ground Emergency (928) 782-8000 (covers adjacent areas)
• Local Sheriff (La Paz County) (928) 669-6700

Always report your location and situation clearly. Provide your permit number if you have one.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Desert Botanists Expedition

In March 2022, Dr. Elena Ruiz, a botanist from the University of Arizona, applied for a Special Use Permit to study rare desert wildflowers in the eastern BMGR. She submitted detailed research objectives, a map of her sampling grid, and her institutional affiliation. After approval, she traveled with two assistants in a high-clearance truck equipped with satellite communication.

They followed designated roads, collected only small leaf samples (with permits), and documented over 17 previously unrecorded plant populations. Their findings contributed to a peer-reviewed paper on climate adaptation in Sonoran Desert flora. Dr. Ruiz later submitted a post-trip report, which helped the Air Force adjust future training schedules to avoid peak bloom periods.

Example 2: The Off-Roaders Mistake

In July 2021, a group of four off-road enthusiasts ignored the Red range status alert and entered the West Range via an unmarked dirt track near the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. They were unaware that a live-fire exercise was scheduled for that day. A training jet passed overhead at low altitude, triggering a panic. One vehicle veered off-road, damaging protected desert pavement.

They were intercepted by Air Force security personnel, fined $15,000 collectively, and banned from the range for five years. Their GPS data, which recorded their exact path, was used as evidence. This case is now cited in Air Force outreach materials as a cautionary example.

Example 3: The History Buffs Discovery

In November 2020, amateur historian Marcus Lee visited the BMGRs East Range with a permit to photograph abandoned Cold War radar installations. He used a handheld compass and USGS map to locate a derelict AN/FPS-24 search radar site, long forgotten by most records.

He photographed the structure from a distance, noted its coordinates, and reported the site to the 56th Fighter Wings Cultural Resources Office. The Air Force later confirmed the sites historical significance and initiated a preservation survey. Marcuss photos were included in a public exhibit at the Pima Air & Space Museum.

Example 4: The Solo Hikers Rescue

In April 2023, a solo hiker ventured into the BMGR without a permit or communication device. He became disoriented during a sudden sandstorm and wandered for 18 hours. His family, having been informed of his plans, contacted authorities when he didnt return.

Using his last known GPS location from a pre-trip check-in, the Air Force coordinated a search with a drone equipped with thermal imaging. He was found unconscious near an old mining shaft, suffering from heat exhaustion. He was airlifted to a hospital and later fined $5,000 for unauthorized entry. His story was featured in an Air Force safety video distributed to all public access applicants.

FAQs

Can I camp overnight in the Barry M. Goldwater Range?

Overnight camping is permitted only in designated areas with a Special Use Permit. There are no developed campgrounds. You must practice dispersed camping with Leave No Trace principles. Check the official map for approved zones. Fires are prohibited.

Is it safe to drive a regular passenger car on BMGR roads?

Many public roads are graded dirt and can become impassable after rain. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. Two-wheel-drive vehicles may be able to access some routes in dry conditions, but tire damage and getting stuck are common. Never attempt to drive through washes after rainflash floods are deadly.

Can I bring a drone to photograph the range?

No. Drone use is strictly prohibited within the Barry M. Goldwater Range without explicit written authorization from the 56th Fighter Wing. This includes recreational, commercial, and research drones. Violations can result in federal charges under FAA and DoD regulations.

Are there guided tours available?

There are no commercial guided tours of the BMGR. However, some nonprofit organizations, such as the Arizona Trail Association and the Ironwood Forest Conservancy, occasionally host educational hikes on the perimeter. Contact them directly for scheduled events.

Can I collect rocks, fossils, or artifacts?

No. All natural and cultural resources are protected by federal law. Removing anythingwhether a rock, shell, or piece of metalis illegal and punishable by fine or imprisonment.

What should I do if I see military personnel approaching me?

Remain calm and stay in your vehicle. Roll down your window and be prepared to show your permit and identification. Answer questions honestly and briefly. Do not argue or attempt to take photos. Follow their instructions without delay.

Is the range open during holidays?

Access is not guaranteed during holidays. Military operations often increase during federal holidays. Always check the official status page before traveling, even on Christmas or Thanksgiving.

Can I bring a firearm for self-defense?

Carrying firearms is not prohibited by the Air Force, but you must comply with Arizona state law and federal regulations. However, displaying or using a firearm near military personnel or training areas can be interpreted as a threat. It is strongly advised to leave firearms at home.

Whats the best time of year to visit?

October through April offers the safest and most comfortable conditions. Winter temperatures are mild, and wildflowers bloom in March and April. Avoid May through September due to extreme heat and monsoon storms.

Do I need a permit for photography?

Recreational photography from public roads and open areas does not require a permit. However, commercial photography, drone use, or access to restricted areas does. Always disclose your intent when applying for access.

Conclusion

Exploring the Barry M. Goldwater Range is not a casual outingit is a privilege granted by the U.S. Air Force to those who demonstrate responsibility, preparation, and respect. This vast, silent desert landscape holds secrets of nature, history, and national defense that few ever witness. But with privilege comes obligation.

Every step you take, every road you drive, and every photograph you capture must honor the dual purpose of this land: to serve as a training ground for those who protect our nation and as a sanctuary for the fragile life that survives in its harsh embrace. The rules are not arbitrary. They exist to protect you, the environment, and the mission.

By following the steps outlined in this guidechecking real-time status, obtaining permits, using proper equipment, respecting boundaries, and leaving no traceyou become part of a small but vital community of stewards. You help ensure that future generations can walk these same trails, see the same stars, and feel the same solitude that defines the Barry M. Goldwater Range.

There is no greater reward than witnessing the untouched beauty of the Sonoran Desert under a star-filled sky, knowing you did so without disruption, without damage, and with full respect for the land and those who guard it. That is the true spirit of exploration.