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    Papago Park Trails

    4.5 (81 reviews)
    Open 5:00 am - 11:00 pm
    Updated 1 month ago

    Papago Park Trails Photos

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    Kitty A.

    Had a great time hiking to the Hole in the Rock. The view was amazing. The hike was short. Would definitely do it again! Not much to say because it's just dirt and rocks, but once you get to the top, it's definitely worth walking in the heat.

    Making ripples
    Monty D.

    For a non-grass and playground park, Papago has a lot going for it. We really enjoy the scenic beauty of the rugged southwest desert: the shades of earth-tone colors, the various green succulents and cacti against the reddish desert sand stone and the desert ponds. There is plenty of room to walk, wonder and be amazed. We happened upon several birds (see pics) - all of which were going about their business and putting on a show for us. We saw a shy pond turtle, which provided us with a quick visit. There was sufficient parking. With a little bit more effort, you can hike up to Hole-in-the-Rock cave. This is well worth the effort (check out the Yelp reviews for it). I hope to see you on the trail.

    Blake M.

    Really great park right in the middle of Phoenix which is pretty cool! Has a lot of trails , hiking opportunities and mountains to climb. There are also several lakes and streams throughout the park as well as a zoo. One of the mountains has a neat carvers out keyhole feature that's Quite popular at sunset to sit on & look out at the ambiance. There are also several other MTNS with pretty steep elevations that you are able to hike on the northern side of the park as well. Overall a really great park especially for nature enthusiasts and hiking lovers. And not a far drive being right in the city. A really interesting destination to check out when you visit!

    Monica R.

    We didn't have time to hike there, but we had to check out because I read about very well. But, the view is incredible beautiful! Close to there are the zoo and botanical garden. Also, a golf area beside the park. If you have time, spend an afternoon there. Next time my husband and I will do.

    Leilani G.

    Papago Park has so many trails to choose from, everything from paved walkways, to light hiking/rock scrambling. There's even a beautiful amphitheater where you can relax and enjoy the views of the city. My favorite trail is the 5k loop, it's great for an early morning walk or trail run and if you visit right when the sun is coming up you might even have the whole park to yourself! Highly recommend to any outdoor enthusiast or Phoenix visitor looking to enjoy some desertscapes!

    Rebecca M.

    Papago is one of my two favorite places I've ever visited (I live in Ohio)! I've been to Arizona a few times and I always, always make a stop at Papago. This was the first time visiting this specific trail and I really enjoyed it! I brought along my 3 year old and husband; my kiddo LOVED it. She just wanted to keep climbing and climbing. We actually made it almost to the very top, so it's certainly a kid-friendly area, with caution. We came twice on our most recent stay, both times around 7:30am in March. It was perfect! We were able to shed our jackets by the end of the hike and enjoy the little fishing pond at the base of the trails. Swooning to go back to Papago on our next trip and take this trail!

    Michelle L.

    Papago Park is a beautiful place to visit. Just a quick easy hike with a gorgeous view. Would recommend going during the week because the weekends can get busy.

    Laura G.

    My husband and I took a quick hike in Papago Park. We chose it because of the beautiful buttes throughout the park. There is lots of wildlife to look at and it's a relaxing setting. The trails are interlaced and relatively easy especially if you are just looking for an early evening stroll. The park also has a lagoon for fishing, baseball & softball field, golf course and more. The park opens at sunrise as closes at sunset. The trails open at 5 am. There are picnic areas that can be reserved for larger gatherings or family outings. You have to get a permit if you want to drink, have loud music and set up party rental equipment.

    Cloudy day
    Jennifer P.

    I visit Papago Park every week. Sometimes I'm climbing the buttes and other times just walking through. It's a beautiful place. Gentle enough to bring the family and even have a little picnic. The zoo is next door which makes for a fun day.

    Madeleine L.

    Love this place. Usually do the 5K trail. Great scenery, easy to follow trail. Parking has never been a problem when I have gone and it is easy to get in and out of.

    Mountains in the distance
    Alexis C.

    This is absolutely, by far the place to be in December! A family hike and it's been 76° all day; which is considered cold in Arizona (LOL). I wish this was my backyard. The trail we took had no noticeable incline and was very, very wheelchair accessible especially for those of us who like to push ourselves! Be sure to bring your camera

    Hole in the Rock
    Nicolette M.

    Hubby and I decided to start hiking on our days off, and this was a great small beginning for us. Nothing to intense that anyone couldn't climb, and it provided some very picturesque scenery. We went fairly early when there weren't too many people there. Did notice quite a bit of broken glass along the trail - so just use caution with small children and dogs.

    Travis T.

    I came here recently to run a virtual 5K on the West side of the park. They have a 5K trail that is already mapped out for you with signs that guide you. As an AZ native, I have lots of memories of this park. I rappelled off the butte during my ROTC days. I will admit I even took a couple girls here at night back when I was a crazy high schooler to do some star gazing. There is a picnic table with shading near the parking lot. Papago Park is surrounded by lots of cactus, dessert plants and little critters that run around. The Papago golf course is just west of the trailhead. The parking lot is gated and closes in the evening but the trailhead stays open pretty late (I think 11pm). On the East side of Galvin Parkway is the Zoo, Botanical Garden, Hole in the Rock, a small fishing lake and Governor Hunt's tomb. If you are going to do this trail in the late afternoon or in the middle of the summer, make sure you bring water (especially you out-of-town folks). And please pick up your dog crap too if bringing a dog. Those of us that like to run the trailhead appreciate it!

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    6 months ago

    Beautiful trail! Would recommend. Captures a good view of what Arizona is truly about

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    Easy 2.3 mile loop. Light incline. Bring a snack if you'd like to rest at the amphitheater.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Papago Park Trails

    How's the Parking?

    There's a parking lot open from sunrise to sunset. They will tow when the sun goes down!! If you plan on being there at night time just Uber

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    Review Highlights - Papago Park Trails

    Across the street is a lake and the hole-in-the-rock which is a fairly easy climb.

    Mentioned in 3 reviews

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    Papago Park Trails - hiking - Updated May 2026

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