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Papago Park (Hole-in-the-Rock)

625 N Galvin Pkwy · Phoenix, AZ

Why you should go…

Papago Park's most famous formation, Hole-in-the-Rock, is a short scramble up eroded red sandstone to a natural opening framing the city below. The park also holds fishing ponds and easy walking trails, and neighbors the Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Zoo.

  • #hiking
  • #park
  • #views
  • #geology

Good to know

General sport & outdoor guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Weather calls the shots

    Check the forecast the morning of and keep an indoor backup in your pocket for the day it turns.

  • Shoes, water, sun cover

    The three things that decide whether you last the whole outing or cut it short after an hour.

  • Parking and launches fill early

    On a nice weekend, lots and trailheads are often full by mid-morning.

  • Daylight shrinks in shoulder season

    Spring and fall visits need an earlier start than the same trip in July.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Papago Park (Hole-in-the-Rock), ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Desert Botanical Garden

    $25–$50

    140 acres of cactus, wildflowers, and desert trails in the heart of Papago Park.

    Steps awayMore like this

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Phoenix Zoo

    $25–$50

    More than 3,000 animals across exhibits themed on four continents, run without public funding.

    0.6 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Museums
    Family Favorite

    Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting

    Under $25

    A large firefighting museum across from the Phoenix Zoo, with over 130 restored fire trucks, pumpers and gear.

    1.0 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Arizona Heritage Center at Papago Park

    Under $25

    State history museum at Papago Park covering Arizona from the frontier era through statehood.

    1.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Camelback Mountain

    Free

    Phoenix's signature red-rock peak and toughest close-in hike, with sweeping valley views from the top.

    3.6 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Outdoor Adventure

    South Mountain Park and Preserve

    Free

    One of the largest municipal parks in the country, laced with more than 50 miles of desert trails.

    12 mi awayMore like this