Hike among the red butte formations in Papago Park

Introduction

Key Highlight: Papago Park is just minutes from downtown Phoenix, making it a popular place for a hike that's not too far from the city. Additionally, trails here are mostly flat with little to no elevation gain, making them accessible to most travelers.

Overview of Papago Park

Home to the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo, Papago Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike due to its proximity to downtown Phoenix (less than 10 miles east) and its massive red butte formations. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities suitable for all fitness levels, from west side trails to east side trails and the widely popular Hole-in-the-Rock trail. Moreover, dogs are welcome to join in the fun.

Historical Background

Before becoming a park, this land was used for various purposes. It served as a reservation for Indigenous tribes, a fish hatchery during the Great Depression, a prisoner-of-war camp during World War II, and a veterans' affairs hospital.

Activities and Amenities

Papago Park offers ample parking and well-maintained trails. Besides hiking, visitors can fish in stocked fishing lagoons, have a picnic, and visit Hunt's Tomb—a pyramid-shaped tomb that serves as the final resting place for Arizona's first governor, George W.P. Hunt. Note that crowds typically gather after early morning, so plan your visit accordingly.

Hours

Papago Park’s gated roadways and parking areas have varying opening hours, but the trails are open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit the city’s Papago Park website.