Great Papago Escape Tunnel

tpolakis (Atlas Obscura User)

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During World War II, 25 German prisoners of war escaped from an American facility during an event known as the Great Papago Escape. The prisoners dug a tunnel from Camp Papago Park to a canal that leads to the Salt River. They built a raft but discovered upon reaching the river that it was nearly devoid of water. They fled to the surrounding desert, some of them making it within miles of the Mexican border. All of them were caught within a month of their escape.

The exit of the tunnel is memorialized today with a marker that’s largely ignored by the many bicyclists and joggers who use the path.

Know Before You Go

There isn't really an address for the unimposing monument in the dirt next to the canal. It is indicated on Google Maps, at this address. Access the canal where Oak Street dead ends then walk two-blocks north along the wide path.