Located beside Phoenix Zoo, this desert park is beautiful, alluring, and well-maintained. Rangers ride through regularly checking on & assisting patrons, greeting park guests, and keeping things running safely and smoothly. The stunning mountains are clay orange and have large openings, hence these peaks' fitting name 'Hole in the Rock''.Fortunately, even novices can breach their heights as there are rear footpaths that make ascension doable. The cactus plants and other desert greenery catch the eye as do the beautiful golden sunbeams that are the crown and glory of this park. There are many trails to hike of varying intensity and wonderful backdrops, both the natural kind and the manmade kind, which make for great sightseeing and offer the best photo ops. There are also many natural artifacts resting all about (snakeskin, reptile remains, critter burrows, etc...) which point to the park's elusive wildlife. This is One amazing and picture-perfect desert park! indeed! We had a wonderful adventure here and will return soon!!! read more

See all

This is probably my favorite park to walk or hike. I say walk or hike cause this park leaves you the choice: it's not as steep as Camelback mountain so it's also a really good option for beginners like myself. It seems pretty small but in the end it's not. There are two major hills (one North one South) and in between there's McDowell road connecting Phoenix to Scottsdale. The view is amazing! Plenty of different kinds of trails, some of them will also lead you to the Phoenix Zoo, where it's possible to see a few animals like llamas even outside the zoo! The only negative thing I've noticed is the quantity of garbage you find here. Pretty sad indeed. Every step there's either a broken glass bottle or a plastic bag or some trash that is not biodegradable. I'm not complaining for myself but, being a biology student, this is very harmful to the local fauna. Here you can easily spot bunnies, birds and insects during the day, and I've seen some burrows so I'm sure there must be also rattle snakes and tarantulas at twilight! read more

Papago Park - Beautiful the Sonoran Desert - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

See all

Liked running through the park the day before a 140.6 triathlon in November 2018. Hole in the rock and tomb were both worth a visit. Nice water features as well as natural habitat for wild sheep and the like, maintained by a zoo. Sorry to say not many zoos are that careful about providing a natural setting for captive animals. Thankfully, no issues with trash or graffiti. read more

See all

Awesome place to visit for a nice walk! Beautiful desert landscape that makes you feel like you've stepped into a different planet. Highly recommend it if you're ever in Phoenix! read more

See all

Went on a Saturday. Luckily there was a lot of parking when we went. It's such a short hike, anyone can do it. I wouldn't even really consider it a hike. It took us about 5 minutes to get up there. Definitely worth it. read more

See all

An amazing park in Phoenix. This is where Hole-In-The-Rock Archaeological Site is located. If your in Phoenix you need to come here, take a short hike up it and watch a beautiful sunset. I will review Hole-In-The-Rock separately and post pictures for it. Come here and enjoy one of the most beautiful sights you will ever see! read more

This clean and beautiful hike located right in downtown tempe gives you a view that is absolutely worth the 5 minute hike to get to the top! This "hole in the rock" is quite literally the definition of this spot. You can view the city, zoo, and other beautiful attractions while standing in this covered rock. Very kid friendly as many were present. Highly recommend if you have even 10 quick minutes one day while you're in the area! read more

Papago Park - Back trail - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

See all

Such a beautiful place to go to. This place was much more than I was aspected. The place itself is very beautiful and peaceful. This was probably my favorite spot. Pictures just won't catch this beauty. I will definitely be going back! read more

See all

Spent hours here and had a lovely time, lots of wildlife to watch and the sunset was incredible (only warning is if you go to the hole in the rock there are lots of bees up there) read more

Every time I visit the Phoenix Zoo there's always a great view of the mountains and trails of the park. When I parked I drove all the way To the closest parking lot to the hole in the rock. The trail is pretty steep, but very short and an amazing view. At 7am the weather is just perfect. You are able to fish at the lake, there are bathrooms, wildlife, and also just up another small mountain is Hunts Tomb. It's great for a family day with picnic tables and horse shoe games. read more

See all

Beautiful dog friendly walking trails and mild hiking hills. It does get ridiculously crowded and I'm disappointed it's not regulated better, so much traffic is destroying its beauty and history. But overall it's a nice, peaceful, scenic place to enjoy. read more

See all

What a great find in Scottsdale! We arrived after 4 hours of driving with our 2 doggies that were ready to get out and hike! Good thing we saw this on the way to our Airbnb. Easy parking and entrance to the trailheads. You can definitely spend some time here and looking forward to coming back tomorrow for a morning hike! read more

Papago Park - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I hiked the loop trail which was a nice hike but there was a lot of dog poo. Way to much and to big to be wild animals. Some was even baggged and put on the side of the trail. Thherecwaa so Much that in a few sections you had to watch your step to avoid it. It was really a shame. read more

This was a nice park. It had. Playground, volleyball courts, picnic areas, a dog park, and mountain structure you can climb on. The playground area is pretty big, the equipment looks fairly new, and has a lot of trees surrounding the area for a cool breeze. Parking is close and easy, but it was a little busy today because there was a birthday party going on. There was a grass area for playing football of frisbee, and another section for smaller kids near back of the park. There is also a small trail that leads to the rough terrain bike path or hiking trail! The dog area was fenced off which is perfect if you have a child who is afraid of big dogs jumping on her like my little one. Will definitely come back when we are in the area! read more

See all

What an amazing park! Parking is tricky but plentiful. Initially i was stunned to see people in the hole but quickly figured out that its an easy hike up the backside. This would be a super place to visit early in the morning before the crowds rush in. read more

This review is for the dog park only. This park does not accommodate dogs that like to run. It's small. Maybe we've been spoiled with the bigger parks like Vista Paseo and Shawnee. Seems to be the place for an older crowd with smaller dogs. The dogs that are larger seem to just lay around and not play. The biggest dog here is a bully. Barks and growls at any dog that is larger than pint size. I wanted to like this place since the view is so beautiful but it's just not our type of crowd. We need fun, energetic, positive dogs and ppl. read more

Papago Park - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Can someone clean this place? my god. Glass, clothing, trash, and beer cans everywhere. I can only imagine the night life here. The pants and jean skirt indicate we have the finest of trailer park patrons having a great night out. The next morning comes the "hey where is my skirt" conversation. And maybe where is my dignity. I love the rocks, trails etc. but being next to the highway and the car noise kind of lowers the "nature" feel... read more

Papago Park Amphitheater. This old 3,500-seat amphitheater is located in Papago Park. It was constructed in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Stone and mortar. It is located next to McDowell. I don't sit at the top of the masonry seats in the shadows of Barnes Butte like I used to and the theater hasn't been used for over 50 years really. But when I have a moment and a guest I like to walk to the top and chat for a bit, enjoy the view of East Phoenix and Scottsdale while talking about yesterday. read more

Papago Park - Sup D - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Take Papago Park for what it is - a quick getaway in the middle of city life. Sure, it's close to the Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Heck, you could make an entire day of it - being outside, roaming, looking at interesting plant life. Only you can do so free of charge at Papago. Walk the paved trails or make your own. This is a perfect spot for a morning or mid-afternoon trek (as long as it's winter time) with somebody you like chatting with, like, let's say, a significant other. Or maybe you want to grab your bike and take it on some trails. That's cool, too. I've seen many bikes roam throughout the park, often dotting the landscape along with casual hikers, dogs, park wildlife (including strange birds and hares) and families. Truth be told, it's not what I think of when somebody says "park." You won't find swing sets or monkey bars here. But, the fun isn't had in man-made "toys." It's in mother nature. Besides, if you really need to climb on something metal, there are some old-time "exercise tasks" on the far West side of the park, past the golf course, near the condos off Van Burren. But, if you crack your skull open, don't say I didn't warn ya. read more

See all

Easy to get to. Easy to hike. Easy to get great photos. It's one of those places you can drive by 1000 times and fail to go in and explore. It's pretty darn cool. I recommend the 5K trail for an easy rolling hike or bike on a path. For a bit more fun, do the obligatory "Hole in the Rock" especially at sunset or go over to the Hunt's Tomb for a more unique photo opp. If you do Hole in the Rock right, you can get a killer shot that looks like you are surfing the rock... read more

Papago Park - What was the point of this again? - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

See all

Very nice park for a walk. Have been here plenty of times. Beautiful area to walk around and take pictures, the rocks are fun to climb, and it's right by the botanical garden and phoenix zoo. The only issue I have had was getting help for an injured corumant one day a friend and I were there. Weren't any resources available at the time at the park for help, had to find a rescue in the valley to call down. read more

Ok so honestly the Park itself is beautiful. Its a fabulous hike, especially for anyone who is just starting to hike, or people who are trying to lose a few pounds. For more advanced hikers there are a few small mountains ( or big rocks is probably a better description) that you can climb and have some fun. Here is the bad thing..trash, a lot of it and worse yet, a ton of broken glass! I was thankful I didnt bring a dog because I really would have been worried he would get cut. I mean there is a TON of broken glass all over the park! And if you have small children, well you may wanna skip this park. I really wanted to write a great review, a review with 5 stars....but I have never seen so much broken glass and trash on a hiking trail.....and I did the Appalachian Trail! I dont know if hikers just toss their glass bottles on the ground, if its homeless drinkers or why there is so much glass, but something needs to be done! Next time you go maybe pack some gloves and a trash bag and maybe we can get it cleaned up. But in the meantime you may wanna leave your dog and any small kids at home! read more

Papago Park - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I wish I could give this park more than 3 stars but even 3 is a stretch on this one. It's amazing to me how disgusting people are with their trash, and the lack of any responsibility. A few PSA's here folks. Clean up after your dog. Don't rely on a park to have bags for you to use, bring your own. I saw plenty of garbage cans, use them. They aren't there to look pretty. And don't throw your food scraps in the ponds. How dense can you be? My heart broke watching the coots diving after food that I'm sure will not digest well with them, even soggy. Nonetheless, CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELVES! Broken glass and dog feces everywhere just don't scream "come home our trails!" to me. I just moved here from a large city, who has an enormous amount of street trash, I didn't expect to see that amount of garbage in the desert. Pros: plenty of places to hike, run, bike, etc. pretty views, and interesting scenery. Hole in the rock I'm sure has some great views at dawn and dusk. But I'll stick to some less populated parks for a while. I don't think I'll be back to this place for a while. Unless it's for a trash clean up event. read more

Always sunny and a very busy park for people and dogs. Many of the dog owners are not aware of the fact that the rest of us don't want to step into their dogs poop, so watch your step. It is an unfortunate fact of life in modern America that the majority of dog owners will not pick up after their dogs in spite of the efforts of the city to provide bags and plenty of signage reminding them to do so. However the park, play areas and restrooms are well-maintained. read more

What a beautiful park in the middle of the city! My friends and I were looking for some easy trails in the area. Papago Park was just a 10 min. Lyft ride from where were staying in Scottsdale. There are so many things to do inside the park. There's a west end trail that goes around two buttes or you could go to the east end and see the Hole in the Rock landmark, which we chose to do. The park also has a zoo, a desert botanical garden, and plenty of tables for picnicking. read more

Another one of my favorite things to do in Phoenix. My last visit here was Aug 2011, I took my 7yr old here and she absolutely loved it. Its an easy, quick hike to the "hole in the rock". Once you're up in it, its an awesome spot for photo ops. You have a spectacular view of the zoo, the desert, even some parts of the city. I was able to get some cool shots from up here. (see my pics) Only thing I didn't like, well it actually made me a bit sad- was that I picked up two empty cig packs and like 8 empty cans of beer. Why are people so lame? I'm not a anti-litter fanatic, but in a park? On a mountain trail? It is just sad that some people can't take two minutes to throw their OWN trash away. If you haven't been here, it's a must do and see. read more

Papago Park - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

See all

My second time coming to this park while I'm in Arizona and it was beautiful. It's family friendly if kids are willing to take a small hike. read more

See all

A wonderful spot to hike and relax! Very easy hiking trails and a lot of beautiful spots for photography. read more

Papago Park - Hole in Rock - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

See all

This past weekend, my oldest son asked if I wanted to go disc golfing. Hot or not, I'm game! My search for a nearby course led us to the southern edge of Papago Park near Mill and Curry. We literally found the park by accident. I pulled over to consult my phone for directions and realized we were there (see screenshot below). We are more accustomed to playing the excellent courses in Flagstaff where the challenge isn't hooking it around a tree. Rather, the challenge is just getting it between all the trees! We've played one other course in the valley near Metro Center. It was set in a park, which was nice, but confusing as hell to follow. Comparatively, we were in the desert scrub at Papago Park, and were able to follow the course much easier. At least the first nine... We enjoyed this course because it's wide open yet challenging. The few Palo Verde, Mesquite and Palm trees are great obstacles to navigate around. Plus, the partially running stream along the southern edge of the course has some steep drops and it's a disc magnet. Everyone who wants to play this course should be advised. I deducted one star because there is a very high homeless presence here. My son's disc flew off course on the fourth hole, hit a palm tree and landed in someone's camp. It wasn't easy to retrieve and luckily, we didn't disturb anyone. It's a shame, but I will not get all political here. Still a great course! read more

See all

This park is amazing. Hiking, fishing, beautiful scenery. read more

Papago Park - Fishing - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

See all

Beautiful views, path hikes, off path hikes. Next to the zoo and the botanical gardens can do 3 activities in one stop! Great for the family

The first park I feel in love with. Actually I was hiking here alot in my early days after moving to Phoenix. This park is beautiful. Sonoran desert, cactus of every shap and size. Beautiful red rocks. A peaceful river with aquatic life. Lots of desert trees. Mesquite, Palo Verde, Ironwood's, Euchalytus, . If you need an escape from the concrete jungle. Papago Park is a good choice for that escape. If your going to go during the summer months go before 10am and wear a hat, and bring some water. They also have lots of gazeebos scattered throughout the park which can be used for picnics and parties. If you only have one day in Phoenix and you desire to see the desert. I recommend Papago Park. Close enough to every thing. But once your there you'll feel far away from all the stress of the city. read more

Not your typical run of the mill kite flying, rolling in the grass, ice cream man around the corner type of park. Papago Park is more of a "Desert Park," which you can expect from good ol' Arizona with its dead carcasses, I mean dry landscape. ;) + Recreational area for family parties + Playground with a giant snake and turtle to jump on + Easy "hiking" trails. (You can be in flip-flops and walk the trail.) + Plenty of dry shrub, cactus and botanicals. + Pond with ducks. + Great view, beautiful place to watch the sunrise or sunset. + Not too far from the city. Close enough to get dropped off/picked up by hotel shuttle. (I stayed at The Red Lion and they offered free shuttling services.) + Residents of the park includes the "Hole in the Rock," Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden and a pyramid shaped tomb of Arizona's first governor, George W.P. Hunt (1859-1934) and other family members. I don't understand how George W.P. Hunt was able to snag the best view of the park for a tomb site for him and his family AND years later (2009) somehow have it restored for $76,000... but good for them. Hopefully I can accomplish something like that with my family someday, but at Disneyland instead. I refuse to be buried anywhere else but Disneyland. If not, then be prepared to be haunted for the rest of your life. lol. jk. read more

See all

Great views of Phoenix and the surrounding area. Especially at sunset. Bring plenty of water if you hike the trails. read more

Papago Park - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

How amazing is it really to have in the City we live in. I guess I have always taken it for granted since it has always been here. But, When you see how really beautiful it is , and you drive by it all the time, or you can see it from the air when flying in. It is a truly amazing place. Lots of parking and it is easy to get to. RIght in between Phoenix and Scottsdale. For a beautiful ,peaceful day this is the place to go. Be smart, take water,and dress the part. Wear sunscreen and a hat. read more

The buttes look like a set created for the "Flintstones" movie back in the '90s and Universal just left them there. They just don't look real, but that's not say they aren't damned cool to look at and drive between. And let's not forget Hole-in-the-Rock and the Botanical Gardens. Arizona has one gorgeous desert and the BEST sunsets. Papago Park is just one hell of a great place to watch the sky as it turns red and gold with cactus silhouettes in the foreground. read more

LOVE this place! Have visited it both times I've been to the city. This last time I ran the 5k loop that they have nicely mapped out for you and thoroughly enjoyed it! The time before, my husband and I hiked up the rock face and looked over the city! Super beautiful place to come with your picnic and watch the sunset. Highly recommend. Only complaint is that there is no restroom for patrons :( What's a girl gotta do when nature calls? read more

Saw the hole in the rock! Was definitely worth my time, many people recommended I come here and I'm glad I trusted the locals, was not too strenuous and to my surprise there were steps! Overly crowded so that's a little annoying. The oasis was pretty and full of wildlife, very nice views and I also appreciated how kind the people I met here were! read more

Do you ever want to get away from it all, yet don't have time to leave the city? When you're at Papago Park it feels like you're in the middle of nowhere, yet you are sitting in between three cities. My favorite thing near sunrise or sunset is driving up to Hunt's Tomb, finding a seat and sitting in a spot that overlooks both the lake and the Phoenix Zoo's savanna exhibit. It's relaxing and reenergizing. If I bring someone here to show them my favorite Valley spot, it means I consider them a good friend. You can spend days exploring this park. That doesn't include visiting the Phoenix Zoo or Desert Botanical Garden. Just exploring the hiking trails and hills on the golf course side or sitting in the Hole in the Rock can take a lot of time. Just watch out for the geese. I know they're up to something sneaky and they're mean. read more

I live right down the street from Papago, so I love its close proximity to my place. Driving up Galvin Parkway (which goes through Papago Park) is a refreshing drive and makes me forget that I'm in the middle of Phoenix (you also miss a lot of traffic going to Old Town or Mill). There are some good, easy trails for fun hiking (nothing like Camelback or Squaw Peak). Also there are multiple rock formations you can climb up and see great views of Phoenix. It's especially fun to go there and watch the sunset! read more